Bike Gloves Buying Guide

Riding a bike is a great way to exercise, commute, or simply enjoy the great outdoors. However, as much fun as biking can be, it can also result in some uncomfortable and painful experiences if you're not properly outfitted. One crucial piece of equipment that every cyclist should have is a good pair of bike gloves. They not only provide comfort and protection, but also improve your grip on the handlebar, making your ride more enjoyable and safe.

Why do you need bike gloves?

Bike gloves are not just another accessory; they are essential equipment for cyclists. Here are some reasons why:

• Comfort: Biking for long hours can put a lot of strain on your hands, and cause blisters, calluses, or soreness. Gloves can act as a cushion, providing a layer of protection between your hands and the handlebar. They also wick away sweat, keeping your hands dry and comfortable.
• Protection: In case of an accident, your hands are one of the first body parts to hit the ground. Gloves can reduce the risk of road rash or cuts, and prevent debris or dirt from getting into your wounds.
• Grip: Sweaty or slippery hands can be dangerous when riding, especially in wet or cold weather. Gloves with textured or grippy palms can enhance your grip and control over the handlebar, reducing the risk of slipping or losing control.
• Style: Apart from their functional benefits, bike gloves can also add a touch of style and personality to your biking outfit. With a wide range of colors, designs, and materials, you can choose gloves that match your bike, jersey, or helmet, or make a statement with a bold or funky pair.

What are the types of bike gloves?

Just like shoes or helmets, bike gloves come in various types and styles, each designed for a specific purpose or preference. Here are some common types of bike gloves you may encounter:

• Fingerless gloves: As the name suggests, these gloves have no fingers, leaving your fingertips exposed for greater dexterity and touch sensation. They are popular among road cyclists or warm-weather riders, as they provide some protection and grip without overheating your hands.
• Full-finger gloves: These gloves cover your entire fingers, providing more protection and warmth than fingerless gloves. They are suitable for colder weather or off-road biking, where your hands may encounter rough or sharp terrain.
• Padded gloves: These gloves have extra padding or gel inserts on the palms, which absorb shock and vibrations, and reduce pressure on your hands. They are ideal for long rides or bumpy roads, where hand fatigue or discomfort can be a problem.
• Racing gloves: These gloves are designed for speed and performance, with a minimalist and aerodynamic design. They often have a snug fit, lightweight materials, and no padding or extra features. They are suitable for competitive or high-speed riding.
• Winter gloves: These gloves are made for cold or wet weather, with insulation, waterproofing, or windproofing features. They are essential for preventing frostbite or numbness in your fingers, and maintaining your grip on the handlebar.
• Casual gloves: These gloves are more fashion-oriented, with a casual or everyday look that can be worn both on and off the bike. They may have features such as touch screen compatibility, reflective accents, or adjustable cuffs. They are suitable for urban or commuter biking, or for those who want to ride in style.

What are the key features to look for in bike gloves?

When choosing bike gloves, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the right fit, style, and functionality. Here are some key features to look for:

• Size and fit: Bike gloves should fit snugly but not too tight, and allow room for your fingers to move freely. Look for gloves with a size chart or measurement guide, and try them on if possible before buying. Keep in mind that different brands or models may have slightly different sizing, so it's best to compare and measure.
• Material: Bike gloves can be made of various materials, such as leather, synthetic, mesh, or fleece. Each material has its own pros and cons in terms of durability, breathability, insulation, or waterproofing. Decide which features are important for your specific biking needs and climate, and choose the appropriate material.
• Padding: If you plan to ride for long hours or on rough terrain, look for gloves with padded palms or gel inserts. These can reduce pressure and vibrations on your hands, and provide extra cushioning. However, keep in mind that too much padding can also affect your grip and control.
• Grip: Look for gloves with textured or grippy palms that can enhance your grip on the handlebar, especially in wet or slippery conditions. However, make sure that the grip doesn't feel too rough or abrasive, as it may cause discomfort or blisters over time.
• Closure: Bike gloves can have various types of closures, such as Velcro, zippers, or elastic bands. Choose a closure that feels secure and adjustable, and doesn't restrict your movement or circulation. If you have a preference for one type of closure over another, take that into account.
• Breathability: If you tend to sweat a lot or ride in hot weather, look for gloves with breathable or ventilated materials that allow air to circulate and prevent overheating. Mesh or perforated fabrics are good options for this. However, keep in mind that too much ventilation may not be suitable for colder weather.
• Visibility: If you ride at night or in low-light conditions, look for gloves with reflective accents or bright colors that can increase your visibility and safety. Some gloves also have built-in lights or strips that can be activated by motion or touch.
• Compatibility: If you use a smartphone or GPS device while riding, look for gloves with touch screen compatibility that allow you to operate the device without taking off the gloves. Some gloves have special pads or materials on the fingertips that are sensitive to touch.

What are some recommended bike gloves on the market?

There are countless brands and models of bike gloves available, each with its own features, prices, and popularity. Here are some of the most recommended bike gloves on the market:

• Pearl Izumi Elite Gel Glove: These gloves have a gel padding on the palm that absorbs vibrations and reduces fatigue, as well as a soft and durable synthetic leather that provides grip and comfort. They also have Velcro closure and reflective elements for added visibility. They are suitable for road biking and long-distance rides.
• Giro DND Gloves: These gloves have a 4-way stretch breathable mesh that allows air to flow and wicks away sweat, as well as a Super Fit engineered tongue that hugs your fingers and enhances your grip. They also have silicone fingertips that improve your control and touch screen compatibility. They are suitable for mountain biking and trail riding.
• Castelli Rosso Corsa Espresso Glove: These gloves have a minimalist aerodynamic design that reduces drag and improves performance, as well as a Pittards leather that provides grip and durability. They also have a Velcro closure and reflective elements for added visibility. They are suitable for racing and high-speed riding.
• Fox Head Women's Ripley Gel Short Glove: These gloves have gel padding on the palm that cushions your hands and absorbs vibrations, as well as a 4-way stretch polyester that allows flexibility and breathability. They also have a conductive thread on the thumb and index finger that enables touch screen control. They are suitable for women's biking and recreational riding.

Conclusion

Bike gloves may seem like a minor detail, but they can make a big difference in your biking experience. By providing comfort, protection, grip, and style, they enhance your performance and safety, and make your ride more enjoyable. When choosing bike gloves, consider your size, material, padding, grip, closure, breathability, visibility, and compatibility, and pick a pair that suits your biking needs and preferences. With the right bike gloves, you can ride with confidence and comfort, and enjoy the freedom of two wheels.