Getting Ready for Quebrantahuesos 2025: Gear & Training Tips

june 18, 2025

PREPARING FOR THE QUEBRANTAHUESOS 2025: ADVICES AND CLOTHING TIPS

Everything you need to know to reach to the finish line

The Quebrantahuesos is one of the most iconic and demanding cycling rallies in Europe. Taking part in it is a challenge that requires a good physical, mental and technical preparation, but also a proper planning of your equipment to face the weather and the hours on the bike. 200 kilometres, four mythical mountain passes, thousands of cyclists... and a personal challenge that goes beyond the stopwatch.

Tips for gran fondo: the quebrantahuesos

Plan your training in advance

To begin with, it's essential to plan your training over time. The Quebrantahuesos demands endurance and strength—especially on the climbs. In the months leading up to the event, make sure to combine long-distance rides with more targeted sessions on varied terrain, including plenty of elevation. Just as important as your training is your recovery. Prioritising rest will help prevent injuries and ensure you arrive at the start line feeling fresh and ready.

Nutrition and hydration

Fueling your body correctly before and during the ride is crucial. Use your training rides to test different energy gels, bars, and isotonic drinks to see what works best for you. On race day, bring enough water and electrolytes—especially if high temperatures are expected. Take advantage of the feed zones along the route, but don’t depend on them entirely. Being self-sufficient is key in long-distance events like the QH.

Clothing tips for the QH

When it comes to clothing, the right gear can make a big difference in both comfort and performance. A high-quality bib short with a chamois designed for long hours in the saddle will help prevent chafing and discomfort. “Second-skin” bib shorts are ideal for endurance events like the QH.

Choose bib shorts with a top-tier chamois. The Orhi Dinamic, featuring the Adi chamois, is built for long-distance rides. It features minimal seams and a compressive fit that helps reduce muscle fatigue. For those who prefer a more classic option with the same high performance, the Orhi with the Urraki chamois is a favourite among professional cyclists.

Tip: Never wear brand-new gear on the day of the event. Ride in your chosen bib shorts a few times beforehand to ensure a perfect fit. And if you're between two sizes, go with the tighter option—it will feel better on the bike.

On the other hand, a technical jersey with excellent breathability and temperature regulation will help you stay comfortable throughout the ride. Etxeondo offers several high-performance options suited for this kind of challenge, including the Mendi, Trama, and Gara models.

All three offer excellent breathability, but each one brings something unique: Mendi is light, comfortable and very versatile, ideal for those looking for a balance between performance and comfort.

Trama and Gara, with their honeycomb-structured fabric, provide enhanced ventilation and a second-skin fit, making them perfect for hot conditions or for cyclists focused on lightness and top-tier performance.

Also, don’t overlook lightweight layers to manage the temperature changes throughout the day. For example, Goxo arm warmers and a lightweight vest like the Busti are ideal for the early hours when it's still cool. These pieces are especially useful on long descents, where you can get quite cold even under the sun, and they’re easy to stow away once the temperature rises.

Don’t forget your hands either: if the weather is mild, short gloves like the Uki or Neku will do the job. But if the temperature drops, long gloves such as the Uki Long or Thermo will keep your hands warm and protected for the entire ride.

For added comfort and performance, technical socks like the Aero model will keep your feet dry and supported, while a well-ventilated helmet and a good pair of cycling sunglasses are essential for protection and safety during the whole course.

Other practical tips

Finally, check your bike before the day of the race. A thorough maintenance will avoid unpleasant surprises on the route. Study the route to know the passes, the refreshment points and the areas most exposed to the wind. And remember to rest well the night before to arrive with energy.

Preparing for the Quebrantahuesos is a true challenge, but with a solid training plan and the right equipment, you’ll be ready to enjoy the experience to the fullest. Remember: comfort and confidence in your technical gear are just as important as strength and endurance. With Etxeondo apparel—designed and crafted in the Basque Country to the highest standards—you can count on performance, durability, and comfort from the first kilometre to the finish line.

Etxeondo stand at the Quebrantahuesos

This year, beyond taking part in the ride, we’ll also be at the Quebrantahuesos with our own stand, ready to connect with the cycling community.

It will be a space created to share our heritage, values and love for cycling—from our passion for craftsmanship and materials to our deep roots in the textile tradition. At the stand, you’ll be able to discover how our garments are made, try on and purchase items, ask us questions about gear, or simply chat about cycling.

We want it to be a place to feel the race atmosphere, support riders, and celebrate everything that makes the Quebrantahuesos so special.

We’ll be waiting for you with some surprises and a very special talk you won’t want to miss.

TRAMA JERSEY

$208.50

LUX

JERSEYS

32771

Etxeondo Microsystem PerformanceEtxeondo MicroSystemAirplus SPF 30+ (UVA)Long zip with lockThree back pocketsAnti-slip waist bandSPF 50+ (UVA)

Disponible

ALDE L/S JERSEY

$223.50

PRO

JERSEYS

36424

Microsystem Performance fabric Vinyl logo Full length zip with lock Free cut technology, seamless cuffs Three back pockets Green Pocket ecological pocket Reflective rear detail Non-slip waistband SPF 50+ (UVA)

Price reduced

Disponible

ALDE METALIC JERSEY

$149.47 $238.50

PRO

JERSEYS

32768

Price reduced

Disponible

MENDI JERSEY

$164.47 $253.50

PRO

JERSEYS

32767

Etxeondo MicroSystem Performance Etxeondo MicroSystem Air Mesh panels Stamped vinyl Long zip with lock Three back pockets Anti-slip waist band Eco friendly Green pocket SPF 50+ (UVA)

Disponible

GARA JERSEY

$208.50

ESSENTIALS

JERSEYS

32770

Etxeondo Microsystem PerformanceEtxeondo MicroSystemAirplus SPF 30+ (UVA)Long zip with lockThree back pocketsAnti-slip waist bandSPF 50+ (UVA)

Price reduced

Disponible

ONDAR JERSEY

$134.47 $223.50

ENDURANCE

JERSEYS

32769

Microsystem Endurance fabric Full-length zip with lock Four back pockets, one packable pocket Rear reflective Non-slip waistband SPF 50+ (UVA)

Price reduced

Disponible

ALDE 110LW JERSEY

$170.77 $223.50

PRO

JERSEYS

32761

Microsystem Performance LW fabric Vinyl logo Full length zip with lock Free cut technology, seamless cuffs Three back pockets Green Pocket ecological pocket Reflective rear detail Non-slip waistband SPF 50+ (UVA)