Our Top Cycling gloves for the summer of 2023
We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.
Read more about us.
Table of Contents
Top Picks
Cycling Gloves
Cycling gloves are often overlooked as a necessary accessory, but they play a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable and safe ride. Whether you’re a road cyclist or a mountain biker, having the right pair of gloves can make a significant difference to your riding experience.
With a wide range of options available, it can be difficult to determine which gloves are the best for you. To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top 7 best cycling gloves available on the market, including some of our top brands. No matter your needs, there is a glove in this list that you will love.
The Right Glove
Choosing the right cycling glove is crucial to ensure a comfortable and safe ride. There are a few key factors to consider when making your decision. Firstly, consider the type of riding you’ll be doing and the weather conditions you’ll be facing.
We have the best gloves with gel padding for added comfort, to the best gloves with ventilation for a cool ride.
For road cyclists, a lightweight and breathable glove is a must, while mountain bikers may require gloves with more protection and grip.
Secondly, consider the fit and sizing of the gloves. A good fit will ensure that the gloves stay in place, providing maximum comfort and control.
Finally, consider the materials and construction of the gloves. Durable materials and well-constructed gloves will ensure that your gloves last for multiple seasons and withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Find more about picking the perfect glove at our guide to choosing the right glove.
What are some of the benefits of wearing gloves while cycling?
Wearing gloves while cycling provides a range of benefits, including protection for the hands, improved grip and control, reduced hand fatigue, and increased comfort. Gloves can help to prevent injuries such as scrapes, bruises, and cuts, as well as reduce the risk of blisters and hand numbness.
Additionally, gloves can help to absorb road vibrations and improve grip, making it easier to control the bike and ride more comfortably. Wearing gloves while cycling can also help reduce hand fatigue, making it easier to ride for extended periods.
View other gear that can make the ride better in our Guide To Essential Mountain Bike Gear.
Top Cycling Gloves
Best for On and Off Road
What We Like:
Durable construction: The Pearl Izumi gloves are made with a high-quality synthetic leather palm and a 4-way stretch, breathable back of hand, ensuring they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Comfortable fit: The gloves feature a compression fit design and a low-profile Velcro closure for a comfortable and secure fit during rides.
Improved grip: The gloves feature a reinforced thumb and palm with a non-slip grip, making them ideal for both road cycling and mountain biking.
Good breathability: The gloves are designed with perforated fingers and a breathable back of hand, helping to keep your hands cool and dry during rides.
What We Don't Like:
- Minimal padding: The gloves have minimal padding in the palm area, which may not provide adequate protection during high-impact crashes. This could result in more pressure being absorbed by the hands, leading to pain and discomfort during long rides.
Overall
The Pearl Izumi gloves are the perfect choice for serious cyclists who demand both comfort and performance from their gloves. Made with high-quality materials and construction techniques, these gloves are designed to last through multiple seasons of regular use. The ergonomic palm design and adjustable cuffs ensure a comfortable fit that stays in place, no matter how intense your rides get. The textured palm design provides excellent grip, making the gloves ideal for both road cycling and mountain biking. With a range of styles and designs, you can be sure to find a pair of Pearl Izumi gloves that are perfect for your specific riding conditions, from cool and damp to hot and sunny.
Best Mountain Biking Glove
What We Like:
Superior grip: The Giro DND gloves feature a molded and reinforced Clarino synthetic leather palm for a secure grip on the handlebars.
Lightweight and breathable: The gloves are made with a four-way stretch, breathable mesh material that is both lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Easy to use: The gloves feature a low-profile Velcro closure for quick and easy adjustment.
What We Don't Like:
- Limited protection: Some customers have reported that the gloves offer limited protection compared to other gloves specifically designed for mountain biking, lacking features such as reinforced fingertips and extra padding.
Reduced breathability: Some customers have reported that the gloves can become warm and sweaty during extended rides, with limited ventilation and breathability.
Overall
The Giro DND MTB Glove is an affordable and versatile option for mountain bikers looking for a comfortable and reliable glove. With its durable grip, cyclists can maintain control of their bikes even in challenging conditions. The backhand of the Giro DND is designed with ventilation in mind, ensuring that hands stay cool and dry during intense rides. The palm is padded for added comfort, and the gloves are available in a variety of styles to suit every taste. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, the Giro DND MTB Glove is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality cycling glove that won’t break the bank.
Best Road Cycling Glove
What We Like:
- Comfortable fit: The Louis Garneau Nimbus Gel Glove features a pre-curved, ergonomic fit that is designed to minimize hand fatigue and provide a comfortable fit.
- Gel padding: The gloves feature gel padding in the palms that helps to absorb shock and reduce hand fatigue during long rides.
- Breathable and moisture-wicking: The gloves are made with a moisture-wicking and breathable material that helps to keep your hands cool and dry during rides.
What We Don't Like:
No reinforced fingertips: The gloves do not feature reinforced fingertips, which can protect the fingers during crashes and improve durability. This could result in faster wear and tear of the gloves, especially if you frequently use them for mountain biking.
No adjustable closure: The gloves do not have an adjustable closure, which can make it difficult to achieve a secure and comfortable fit. This could result in slippage and reduced grip on the handlebars, especially during intense rides.
Overall
The Louis Garneau Men’s Nimbus Gel Glove is the ultimate choice for cyclists looking for both comfort and durability on their rides. With its innovative gel padding, the gloves help to reduce pressure on the nerves in the hands and provide a comfortable fit during even the longest rides. The gloves also boast excellent ventilation, keeping hands cool and dry, even in the heat of intense rides. Constructed with high-quality materials, the gloves are built to last and offer a non-slip grip for improved control.
Best Lightweight MTB Glove
What We Like:
Durable construction: The gloves are made with durable materials, including a synthetic leather palm and reinforced fingertips, which can improve their lifespan and protect your hands during crashes.
Good grip: The gloves feature a silicon-printed palm, which can provide a secure grip on the handlebars and improve control during intense rides.
Breathable design: The gloves have a mesh back panel, which can improve ventilation and keep your hands cool and comfortable during hot weather rides.
Secure fit: The gloves have an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, which can help to achieve a secure and comfortable fit.
What We Don't Like:
- Minimal padding: The gloves have minimal padding in the palm area, which may not provide adequate protection during high-impact crashes. This could result in more pressure being absorbed by the hands, leading to pain and discomfort during long rides.
Overall
The Troy Lee Designs Ace 2.0 gloves are a must-have for serious cyclists who want to take their riding experience to the next level. These gloves are made with durable and high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance, even through the toughest rides. With a pre-curved design and secure wrist closure, you can be sure that the gloves will provide a comfortable and snug fit, staying in place as you take on the trails. The silicone-printed palm provides improved grip, giving you better control of the handlebars, while the breathable materials and lightweight construction keep your hands cool and comfortable, no matter the weather.
Best For on and Off Road
What We Like:
Durable construction: The Endura Xtract Cycling Mitt Glove II is made with a durable synthetic leather palm, which is reinforced with strategically placed gel padding for added protection.
Comfortable fit: The gloves feature a soft, breathable back of hand with a Velcro closure for a secure and comfortable fit during rides.
Improved grip: The gloves feature a silicone print on the fingertips and palm for added grip, making them ideal for both road cycling and mountain biking.
- Versatile: The gloves are suitable for a wide range of riding conditions, from cool and damp to hot and sunny, and can be used for both road cycling and mountain biking.
What We Don't Like:
Reduced breathability: Some customers have reported that the gloves can become warm and sweaty during extended rides, with limited ventilation and breathability.
- Limited protection: Some customers have reported that the gloves offer limited protection compared to other gloves specifically designed for mountain biking, lacking features such as reinforced fingertips and extra padding.
Overall
The Endura Xtract Cycling Mitt Glove II is the perfect choice for cyclists who want a versatile and comfortable glove that can handle both road and mountain biking. With a soft and breathable backhand and a padded palm, the Xtract Cycling Mitt Glove II ensures comfort during even the longest rides. The silicone grip pattern on the palm provides improved grip and control on the handlebars, while the ventilation design keeps hands cool and dry. Available at an affordable price, the Xtract Cycling Mitt Glove II is accessible to a wide range of cyclists. Whether you’re a recreational rider or a seasoned pro, this glove is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable cycling glove.
What We Like:
- Durable construction: The Dakine Covert Bike Gloves are made with a high-quality synthetic leather palm and four-way stretch backhand, ensuring they are built to last.
- Comfortable fit: The gloves feature a pre-curved design and adjustable hook-and-loop closure cuffs, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit during rides.
- Excellent grip: The gloves feature a textured palm design and silicone print for improved grip and control, making them ideal for both road cycling and mountain biking.
What We Don't Like:
Limited protection: The gloves are not as protective as some other gloves specifically designed for mountain biking, lacking features such as reinforced fingertips and extra padding.
Higher price point: The Dakine Covert Bike Gloves are at a higher price point compared to other gloves on the market.
Overall
The Dakine Covert Bike Glove is a top-performing glove that offers both comfort and protection for riders of all levels. With its durable construction, the gloves can handle the wear and tear of frequent use, making them a great choice for both casual and serious riders. The gloves feature a perforated synthetic leather palm, providing enhanced grip and control over the handlebars. The gloves also feature a terry cloth sweat wipe, allowing you to keep your hands dry and cool during intense rides. The adjustable wrist closure provides a secure and comfortable fit, ensuring that the gloves stay in place throughout your ride. Whether you’re cruising through the city or tackling challenging mountain trails, the Dakine Covert Bike Glove is an excellent choice for riders looking for a high-quality, dependable cycling glove.
What We Like:
- Durability: The Giro Bravo Gel gloves feature reinforced palm materials that are designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular riding, ensuring long-lasting performance and protection.
- Comfort: These gloves feature a breathable, 4-way stretch upper and a Supratac palm that provides a comfortable, snug fit. The synthetic leather palm is perforated, allowing for maximum breathability and comfort during extended rides.
- Gel padding: The gloves are equipped with Giro’s Super-Fit engineered gel padding that helps absorb vibrations and impacts, providing excellent protection for your hands.
- Versatility: The Gloves are available in both full finger and short styles.
What We Don't Like:
- Limited ventilation: Although the gloves have perforated synthetic leather palms, they may not provide enough ventilation for hot and humid weather, causing your hands to sweat.
- No touchscreen compatibility: These gloves do not have touch-sensitive fingertips, making it difficult to use a smartphone or GPS device without removing the gloves.
Overall
The Giro Bravo Gel gloves are a top choice for cyclists looking for comfort and performance. These gloves feature a lightweight and breathable design, perfect for long rides on the road or trails. The gel padding in the palm helps to absorb shock and reduce hand fatigue, ensuring that you can ride for longer without discomfort. The gloves also feature a secure fit, with a adjustable closure that ensures a snug and comfortable fit, and a synthetic leather palm for durability. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking on a challenging mountain trail, the Giro Bravo Gel gloves are the perfect choice for any cyclist looking for a high-quality and reliable glove.
What We Like:
- Durability: The Ranger MTB gloves are made from a durable and abrasion-resistant material that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. This makes them well-suited for off-road riding and other high-impact activities.
- Comfort: The gloves feature a soft and flexible material that provides excellent comfort and mobility. The gloves are designed to fit snugly, which helps to reduce fatigue and improve grip.
- Protection: The gloves are designed to protect the rider’s hands from impacts, scrapes, and other types of trauma that can occur during off-road riding. This can help to reduce the risk of injury and improve the overall riding experience.
What We Don't Like:
- Price: The Ranger MTB gloves may be more expensive than other youth-specific riding gloves on the market. This could make them a less attractive option for families who are looking for an affordable option.
Overall
The Fox Racing Youth Ranger MTB gloves are the perfect choice for young off-road riders. Made from durable and abrasion-resistant material, these gloves can withstand the rigors of mountain biking, BMX riding, and other high-impact activities. The soft and flexible material provides excellent comfort and mobility, and the gloves are designed to fit snugly to reduce fatigue and improve grip. With protection against impacts, scrapes, and other types of trauma, the Ranger MTB gloves are designed to keep young riders safe while they ride. And with touch-screen compatibility, riders can use their smartphones and other touch-screen devices without having to remove their gloves.
FAQ Guides
What are cycling gloves used for?
Cycling gloves are specially designed gloves worn by cyclists to provide a range of benefits while riding. They provide protection to the hands from impacts, scrapes, and other types of trauma that can occur during a ride. Additionally, they help to reduce hand fatigue and prevent blisters, which can be especially problematic for cyclists who spend long hours on the road or trail. Cycling gloves are also designed to improve grip on the handlebars, making it easier to control the bike and increasing safety while riding.
What are the different types of cycling gloves?
There are several different types of cycling gloves available to suit different cycling needs and styles. Some of the most common types of gloves include road cycling gloves, mountain biking gloves, winter gloves, and gloves designed for BMX riding and other high-impact activities. Road cycling gloves are typically lighter and more flexible than other types of gloves, and are designed for maximum comfort and grip on the handlebars. Mountain biking gloves often feature extra padding and protection in high-impact areas, making them ideal for off-road riding. Winter gloves are designed to keep hands warm during cold weather rides, while BMX and high-impact gloves are built to withstand the rigors of extreme riding.
What are the key features to look for in a good pair of cycling gloves?
When choosing a cycling glove, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that you find a pair of gloves that meet your needs and provide the best possible experience while riding.
First, consider the level of protection you need. If you’re planning on riding off-road, you’ll want gloves that provide ample protection against impacts, scrapes, and other types of trauma that can occur during a ride. Look for gloves that feature padding or reinforcement in high-impact areas like the palm.
Next, consider comfort. Cycling gloves that fit snugly and are made from flexible, breathable material will help to reduce fatigue and improve grip. Look for gloves that feature adjustable cuffs or straps to help ensure a customized and secure fit.
Another important factor to consider is grip. Make sure the gloves you choose have a non-slip surface on the palm, as this will help to prevent your hands from slipping on the handlebars, even when they are sweaty.
Finally, consider the type of cycling you will be doing. If you’re planning on riding in cold weather, look for gloves that feature insulation to keep your hands warm. If you’ll be riding in wet conditions, look for gloves that are water-resistant or waterproof.
Overall, choosing a cycling glove requires careful consideration of your needs and preferences. Look for gloves that offer protection, comfort, grip, and versatility, and take the time to try on different gloves and determine which pair provides the best fit and feel.
How do I determine the right size of cycling gloves?
Determining the right size of cycling gloves is an important step in ensuring a comfortable and secure fit while riding. To determine your size, measure the circumference of your hand around the knuckles, excluding your thumb. Most gloves are sold in sizes based on this measurement, and it’s important to choose gloves that fit snugly without being too tight. Some gloves may also feature different sizes for men and women, or different sizes for different parts of the hand, such as the fingers or palm, to provide a better fit.
Can cycling gloves help to prevent hand numbness and tingling?
Yes, cycling gloves can help to prevent hand numbness and tingling by reducing pressure on the nerves and improving blood flow to the hands. This can be especially important for cyclists who spend long hours on the road or trail, as hand numbness and tingling can be uncomfortable and even painful. Look for gloves with a secure fit, flexible material, and padding in high-impact areas, as these features can help to reduce pressure on the nerves and improve blood flow to the hands. Additionally, consider gloves with an ergonomic design that allows for a natural grip on the handlebars, as this can help to reduce stress on the hands and prevent numbness and tingling. Additionally, if you’re experiencing persistent numbness or tingling, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor or specialist to determine the cause and find the best course of treatment.
Are there any special considerations for women when choosing cycling gloves?
Yes, women may have different considerations when choosing cycling gloves, such as smaller hand sizes, different hand shapes, or different riding styles. Women’s cycling gloves are often designed with these differences in mind, featuring smaller sizes, different shapes, and additional padding or protection in areas specific to women’s hands. Additionally, women may also prefer gloves in different colors or styles, or with additional features such as touchscreen compatibility. When choosing cycling gloves for women, consider these special considerations and find gloves that are designed to fit and protect women’s hands.
Welcome to our Outdoor Adventure Blog, where we share our passion for exploring the great outdoors and discovering new and exciting ways to experience nature. Our team of experienced adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and insights to help inspire others to embark on their own thrilling journeys.
From hiking and camping to kayaking and rock climbing, our blog covers a wide range of outdoor activities, providing tips, advice, and gear recommendations for those looking to take their adventure to the next level. We also delve into the cultural and historical aspects of each activity, offering a unique and immersive experience for our readers.
Our about page provides a closer look at our team and the mission behind our blog. We believe that adventure hobbies have the power to bring people together and create lasting memories, and we’re on a mission to inspire and encourage others to embrace the great outdoors.
So what are you waiting for? Join us now and start your own outdoor adventure journey. Visit our homepage and about page to learn more about us and the world of outdoor adventure hobbies.