Cycling Glove Information

Cycling gloves have several functions: they dampen road vibrations, protect from cold, give you a good grip on the handlebars, and provide a convenient spot for wiping your nose. Road cycling gloves usually have short fingers and are breathable for summer riding. They come in padded and unpadded versions, and most have a terry cloth panel on the thumb for wiping sweat off the face. Gel cycling gloves have padding made of dense gel and are extremely comfortable on long rides. They are ideal for bike touring. Some road riders prefer wearing lightweight full finger gloves year-round because they offer the most protection against road rash in a fall. Mountain biking gloves have full fingers to protect the hands from crashes on the trail, and they also come in padded and non-padded versions. Cold weather gloves feature windproof or water resistant panels and have varying amounts of insulation. Some of the warmest winter cycling gloves are a cross between a glove and a mitten. Shaped like a lobster claw, these keep your fingers warm while allowing for enough dexterity to shift. The most important factor in choosing a pair of gloves is fit. If they are too large, they will get in the way of shifting. If too small, the gloves will hinder circulation and your fingers will be too cold or hot. All cycling gloves are made to grip the bars and shift gears. Many brands of gloves feature reflective accents so cars can better see your hand signals in low light conditions. Gloves come in a plethora of colors and styles to match any cycling jersey or full kit.