Choosing the Right Cycling Gloves: A Complete Guide

Why Are Cycling Gloves Important?

Cycling gloves protect your hands while riding a bike and offer reassurance in case of a fall. Whether you prefer to cycle in warm weather, or year-round and brave the cold, bike gloves provide warmth and breathability needed for a successful ride. With strategically placed padding, cycling gloves improve grip and comfort on the handlebars, preventing blisters, chafing, and any discomfort that comes with being in a cycling position for an extended time. Whether you're a mountain biker or riding on the road, every cyclist can benefit from a quality pair of gloves for their bike activities.

Highlights:

• Prevent blisters, chafing & discomfort

• Improves handlebar grip & control

• Offer lightweight breathability

• Additional padding provides comfort & shock absorption

How to Choose Cycling Gloves

There are several factors to consider when investing in a quality pair of cycling gloves, these decisions will vary for each cyclist.

1. Riding Style: Where you choose to ride will heavily influence the type of gloves you need. Road bikers will typically go for lightweight, breathable gloves, while mountain bikers need more protection and durability on trails.

2. Weather: If you're a year-round biker, consider investing in durable waterproof or weatherproof gloves. Those who live where the weather is more mild-tempered don't need as rugged technology and will benefit from a lightweight pair.

3. Grip & Handlebar Control: Cycling gloves will naturally elevate your grip and control, but, some gloves feature more traction than others.

4. Size & Fit: For the best support and comfort, your gloves should fit snugly so that there isn't gaping material, but just loose enough that you can easily make a fist with your hand.

5. Material: Finding the right durability and materials is important for comfortability and protection. Cycling gloves are breathable, but different styles feature various materials to maximize your time on the bike.

6. Padding: While all cycling gloves have some padding, certain styles will have more than others. The most common padding is gel or foam, which absorbs vibrations and prevents blisters and chafing.

Types of Cycling Gloves

There is a range of cycling gloves to suit everyone's preference with options tailored to weather, riding style, and comfort level. Understanding the difference allows you to find the right pair for your needs.

Fingerless Cycling Gloves

Fingerless gloves, or cycling mitts, leave your fingers glove-free. These gloves are predominantly used for warm-weather rides as they are breathable and lightweight. A benefit of fingerless gloves is enhanced mobility, from braking easier to using your phone or bike ride tracker, or reaching for your water bottle. These gloves usually feature adjustable hook-and-loop fabric on the wrist and optimal padding on the palm, though it's important to remember that your fingers will not be protected in the case of a fall or inclement weather.

Best for:

• Road biking

• Warm weather

• Enhanced dexterity

Full-Finger Cycling Gloves

For optimal coverage, full-finger cycling gloves will be best for you. Full-finger gloves cover from wrist to fingertips and are ideal for cyclists in colder or rainy climates. These cycling gloves are versatile and can be utilized by road and casual bikers, but are most commonly used by mountain bikers as they offer rugged protection from brush and debris. Full-finger gloves provide essential grip, gel or foam padding, and are often constructed of touchscreen-compatible, waterproof, and breathable materials. These gloves range in material and insulation, so you're able to find the right pair based on the protection, warmth, and technology you need for your riding style.

Best for:

• Cold weather

• Mountain biking

• Versatile to suit every cyclist

Choosing the right pair of cycling gloves is important for improving your biking experience. Understanding the different types and considering key factors like padding, riding style, and weather will help you find the best fit and glove for your journey. If you have additional questions, contact or stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Bike Expert.