10 Best Cycling Gloves Compared & Fully Reviewed
By Stacey O'Connor
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Every dedicated athlete understands the need for the proper gear. This is everything that you wear and the accessories that are necessary to make your sport happen. Having the right equipment can enhance your performance, improve your stamina, and increase your comfort level. No one knows this better than cyclists. Sitting on a bike and flying down the trail at an excessive rate of speed requires a specific type of protection. Not only do you need an excellent bike, you also need to gear that allows you to ride it safely.
Cycling is a sport that can take you all over the world. It’s easy to overlook some of the simpler accessories that can make or break your workout routine. One of the most important tools of any cyclist’s arsenal are their gloves. Cycling gloves protect you from friction from the handlebars and increase your dexterity. This is about safety, control, and comfort. No one wants to walk away from their bike with hands that are covered in blisters or lose their grip while steering because their palms have gotten sweaty.
Cycling gloves are an essential part of any cyclist’s outfit. They need to be durable, fit well, and have the proper amount of padding. If they are too thin, it defeats the entire purpose. If they’re too thick, it can interfere with your grip and make it difficult to control the handlebars. You need to be able to move your hands freely to steer and to protect yourself in case of a fall. Wearing the right gloves can prevent severe accidents and improve your reaction time.
There are so many products out there that can be difficult to know what to choose. We researched cycling gloves from every corner of the Internet and look at reviews and their specifications. The gloves included on this list are all a superior quality and have a great reputation with veteran cyclists.
- Zookki Cycling (Half Finger) Gloves
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Our rating - breathable/Warm Weather Gloves
- Price: See Here
- Pearl Izumi Select Mens Glove
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Our rating - Good ventilation
- Price: See Here
- Castelli Lightness
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Our rating - Made with Thermaflex
- Price: See Here
Best 10 Cycling Gloves
Zookki Cycling (Half Finger) Gloves
These gloves are perfect for warmer weather.
Fit
These gloves provide you with a breathable, comfortable, and perfect fit. It's gel-padding and skip proof fabric will reduce hand numbness, absorb shock, and reduce palm fatigue
Material
These gloves are made with Lycra spandex, Gel Silicon and Elastic knitted mesh
Features
These moisture-wicking gloves provide you with a cooling factor while keeping your hands during warm days. The palm's fabric is skip proof, which improves shock absorption and reduces had numbness on long rides. The Gel padding used reduces hand fatigue and keeps increase comfort levels.
- Comfortable and Breathable
- Gel padding
- Low cost
- Only one color option
- Sizes run small
Pearl Izumi Select Mens Glove
With the cut finger design, these gloves are definitely better for warmer weather.
Fit
The half finger look that is designed to give superior grip and control.
Material
This glove is made of polyamide, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, and spanex.
Features
These gloves come in several different color options, equipped with gel padding, and is both comfortable and breathable.
- Several color options
- Gel padding
- Affordable price
- Comfortable and breathable material
- Half finger design makes them unsuitable for colder weather.
Castelli Lightness
This glove is suggested for cooler weather cycling. Cyclists loved it for fall rides.
Fit
The Castelli Lightness gloves makes putting this glove on an off a breeze. It features a slip on design. Cyclists loved that there is are no velcro or straps to deal with.
Material
This glove is made using an innovative material that is a mix between Lycra and Spandex. This ensures a personalized fit for each cyclist. The fit is snug and secure and leaves no room for unwanted friction. This glove uses Thermaflex and Clarino which are top quality materials to ensure these gloves last as long as you.
Features
This glove is designed to be soft and durable. The palms are thinner to ensure premier grip with little to no interference with the handlebar grip. This glove is offered in 6 sizes so cyclists can find their perfect fit.
- Thinner palms for better handlebar handling
- Thermaflex and Clarino materials
- Great fall glove
- Only one color option
Fox Racing Ranger
The quality and materials used for making this glove mean that you get a product which will last for a long time.
This glove is designed to perform in mountain environments and this translates into a glove which will keep out the biting cold wind, if the sun is hot it will protect your hands against sunburn. The glove is highly protective against abrasion if you do fall off your bike, no painful scraped skin on the hand. Resistive to penetration from mist and rain to ensure dry comfort from a high performing glove.
FIT
Built from flexible materials with a good palm grip, when you put on this glove it shapes and adapts to your hand while allowing continued flexibility.
Materials
An impressive material construction consisting of polyester at 10%, Nylon at 40%, polyamide at 50% and polyvinyl chloride. The thumb chamber is made from a micro-suede material for grip, absorbent and durability.
Features
The wrist tab is a low profile closure, The fingertips are silicone for grip and protection, and comfort/durability are achieved through the palm areas being double layered clarino.
Double layered palm protection
Silicon fingertips
A light flexible glove
Protective
Comfortable
Weather protective
Flexible/FIT
Some bike riders prefer half finger chambers
Andyshi
This is a glove that is perfect for the colder rides on your calendar. They are designed for warmth.
Fit
One of the key features of these gloves is their unique zipper detail. This protects the wrist from wind and the elements while also providing a superior fit. Runners loved the high level of comfort they found in these gloves.
Materials
The Andyshi Men's Winter Outdoor Cycling Glove is made from materials that are wind proof, water resistant, fast drying, and breathable. The shell of the glove is nylon but the insulation of the glove is made from materials that ensure the comfort and protection of the cyclists.
Features
The side zipper features is a key element to this glove. This is also a highly durable glove and runners reported that even after extended wear in tough weather, the glove kept its shape and kept them warm. This glove also features tech compatible finger tips. No need to take these gloves off to access your smart phone.
- Very durable
- Great for cold rides
- Technology compatabile
- Very affordable
- Only one color option
- Too warm for spring or summer rides
Craft Siberian Split Finger
This glove is designed to be bulkier than some its warmer weather counterparts. Since this is a glove for extreme conditions, the design is also extreme. The fit consists of two fingers that ensure that the hands stay warm and still allow for maximum grip on the handlebars. It also comes with adjustable velcro flaps to around the wrist to give the rider the perfect fit and protect the hand from wind and rain.
Materials
The outside of these gloves is made from a shell that is both waterproof and wind proof. The inside of the glove is fleece lined for added comfort and warmth.
Features
The key features of this glove is the innovative design. Additionally, the inside is lined with soft fleece for maximum warm and comfortable. Also, even though these are thicker gloves, they still have touch screen capabilities.
- Very warm
- Grips along the palms
- Fleece lining
- Touch screen capabilities
- Pricey
- Not suitable for warmer weather
Fox Dirtpaw
These gloves are three season gloves. Due to their breathability and comfort, racers loved them for the spring, summer, and fall months. However, they don't add too much extra warmth, so they are not best for winter.
Fit
These gloves are designed to be snug and eliminated unwanted distractions due to the fit of the glove. They include gripping materials on the palms and fingers and the are designed with a TPR Hook & Loop Wrist Closure to customize the fit for each cyclist.
Material
These gloves use some of the best, most durable materials available. They are made using Clarino and the fingers of the gloves are lined with silicone padding for added grip. This brand is used to creating products for riders who are really interacting with the elements, so it is no surprise that this product is very durable and perfect for deflecting road debris. Cyclists reported that they loved the debris deflecting material provided by this glove.
Features
This glove features graphics and logos that are made of injected rubber for extra durability and to protect the glove from wear and tear. Riders loved the TPR Hook & Loop Wrist Closure that ensures a snug, secure fit for every hand and wrist size.
- Bright color options
- Interesting logo design
- Superior fit
- High level of flexibility and durability
- Not good for winter riding
- Mid to high price
Zackees Turn Signal
Inbike 5mm Gel
Due to the half finger design, these gloves are designed for fall, spring, or summer riding. They do come in a full fingered model too, but warmth is still not the primary concern. This is not a glove who's primary concern is warmth, rather, it is more about control and comfort for these gloves.
Fit
The fit of the glove is snug and supportive especially in the palm and around the wrist. The wrist features a strap that can be used to tighten or loosen depending on the needs of the cyclist.
Material
The palm of these gloves feature an EVA foam for added padding and comfort for the runner. This reduces irritation and blisters. Additionally, the thumb features a terry cloth material for superior sweat wiping. The entire glove is made from a combination of very stretchy elastic lycra and a knitted breathable mesh.
Features
The key features of this glove are a padded palm support and the terry cloth thumb wiper. In addition to these features, the Inbike 5mm Gel Pad Cycling Gloves features an easy to latch fastener around the wrist for added support and protection.
- Multiple colors
- Full and half finger sytle options
- Breathable
- Stretchy material for superior fit
- Not suitable for winter
Giro Bravo
This is a glove that is focused more on grip and comfort than it is on warmth. This a good glove for the warmer months and seasons.
Fit
The Giro brand is serious about providing a comfortable, unique fit to its athletes. This product offers a simple half finger style and a Velcro grip around the wrist for a customizable fit.
Material
Cyclists loved the breathable material of this product. They reported that because of the micro fiber wicking material their hands stay dry and cool. Additionally, the Clarino synthetic leather that is used adds durability to this product. Cyclists reported that these gloves lasted much longer than they were anticipating and even after many many miles, they still did not need to be replaced.
Features
This product comes in a variety of fun color options for the athlete that likes colorful options. The adjustable wrist strap is a great feature to guarantee the perfect fit.
- Colorful options
- Breathable materail
- Durable Clarion material
- Affordable
- Not suitable for colder weather
- Less padding through palms
Louis Garneau Flare
This product is designed for the warmer months. This product is not designed for warmth, instead, it is designed to protect the grip of the rider. It absorbs harmful vibrations from the handlebars.
Fit
The design of this glove is simple. It slides on and is built to protect the rider from friction and potential blisters.
Material
The primary material of this glove is Spandex which is where it gets its snug, slip on fit from. Additionally, this product features Biogel with added padding and comfort. Finally, the X-Vent of the glove provides superior breathability and quick drying capabilities.
Features
One of the key features of this product is the X-Vent design. This design element allows the glove to maintain maximum airflow while still protecting the palm from friction and discomfort. The slip on style keeps it simple and provides a snug fit.
- Slip on design
- Colorful options
- Breathable
- Moisture wicking
- Less affordable product than others on our list
The Metrics We Used to Find the Best Cycling Gloves
When we make our review list, we search high and low for different products based on very specific criteria. This allows us to find quality cycling gloves that have been tried and tested by a wide range of different cyclists with different preferences. This means that every product on this list has the qualities necessary to stand up to professional level cycling and to impress even the most seasoned athletes. We looked at things like fit, durability, and the way that the gloves are going to be used. No one wants to wear a product that isn’t going to be comfortable and functional. Cycling gloves have a very specific purpose, and the products on this list were made to fulfill that.
Fit
When you’re just starting out cycling, you may not be sure what type of cycling gloves you need yet. They come in a number of different sizes and styles. Some can even be adjusted for comfort. The fasteners are usually made with Velcro or a pull through fastener that circles the wrist. Then, there are other models that forgo a fastener altogether. These slip on but need to fit precisely. Having gloves that are too loose can result in additional friction. This can mean the development of blisters in spite of protection. Gloves that are too tight can restrict circulation and limit your mobility. You need to be able to move your hands in a full range of motion and this can improve your performance. It also allows you to react faster in case of an emergency, and to better steer.
Finger design is also a key element. Some gloves have individual cut outs for each finger to increase grip and dexterity. Others cover the entire hand. The preference will really be up to the cyclist, and they’ll need to choose the model that works for them. Some cyclists like to switch between different gloves depending on the terrain and type of weather. These are all things that we took into consideration when choosing our recommended products.
Material
The material of the cycling glove can determine the breathability and durability of the product. You want it to have a little bit of give, but too much can become a problem. Synthetic materials like spandex, Lycra, and Gore-Tex all help with breathability. They have moisture wicking properties that keep the hands dry in spite of the activity level. Some gloves use separate materials on the interior than what’s used on the exterior. This improves durability, waterproofing, and keeps the hand comfortable. We chose the cycling gloves with the best user reviews and the most durable materials
Features
Each pair of cycling gloves is different and each particular brand has something unique that they have to offer that set it apart from the competition. Some of the features we looked at were the wipe guard on the thumb. This is unusual, but the useful feature should be a soft and absorbent material on the thumb in order to wipe your running nose or sweat from your face. Another feature we looked at was the colors and styles offered by the product. Some cyclists pride themselves on their ensemble and it is important to them to find a product that can look good on them as well as feel good to them. We also looked at the padding offered in the palms, how compatible they are with technology, and how weather proof they are.
Other Things To Consider When Choosing the Best Cycling Gloves
Value
Each athlete should know their budget and work to stay within it. We featured gloves on our list for those that are really trying to stick to a tight budget and for those that have a little more flexibility in their budget. The prices on our gloves run from just over $10 all the way up to close to $100. Whatever your budget is, you can find a glove on our list that will fit it. Additionally, some products come with warranties while others don’t. This can be an important feature for the cyclist who is looking for a longer lasting product.
Weather
Not all cycling gloves are made for all weather. If you are looking for a cycling glove that will keep your hands cool in the summer or a glove that will keep your hands warm in the cold weather, you need to know that going into your buying process.
FAQ
Q: I’m new to cycling. Do I need a pair of cycling gloves?
A: Whether you are just starting out, or have been with the sport for years, you don’t need to purchase a pair of cycling gloves to take a bike ride. A cyclist who wears gloves says they are best for longer rides, for training, and for individuals who are looking for added cushioning and protection against friction and blisters.
Q: I am particular about my style. Can I find a cycling glove in fun colors?
A: Yes! Many of the brands on our list, but not all, feature their products in a wide variety of color choices.
Q: What is the deal with this ‘thumb wiper’ I’ve been hearing about?
A: Let’s face it, sometimes extreme sports can get messy. Many good cycling gloves are designed with a particularly soft and absorbent piece of material on the thumb of the gloves. This is to serve as a portable hanky when you can’t easily reach a tissue.
Q: I’m noticing that not all cycling gloves offer a padding in the palms. Is that bad?
A: Not necessarily. Each cyclist who purchases a pair of gloves does so for different reasons. The two main reasons that a glove with include padding the palm is to absorb the vibrations of the handlebars and to protect the rider in case they fall from the bike their hands come into contact with the pavement. Not all cyclists are racing and going the long distance so they do not feel like they need the extra padding. Also, so runners simply don’t like the added cushioning and bulk that the padding provides. It’s all about personal preference.
Q: Is there any point for wearing gloves on hot days?
A: The temptation on a hot sunny day is to forget about wearing gloves while we cycle, after all, it is not cold, the hands will not get uncomfortably numb. There are a sound number of reasons to wear gloves during hot sunny weather. Firstly, while riding a bike your hands are exposed to a constant flow of warm summer air which can dry out the skin on the upper side of the hand. This increases the amount of potentially painful sunburn, gloves will protect your hands very well in hot weather.
Falling from a bike can be painful, especially if your fingers and knuckles get dragged over a rough tarmac/trail surface, the gloves will give good protection.
Sources
- , Review: The Best Cycling Gloves of 2016, Review,
- , Best summer cycling mitts: a buyer’s guide, Best of List, Jun 08, 2017
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