Gloves in Cycling

Introduction

Gloves are part of the essential basic equipment for every ambitious cyclist. They offer much more than just protection in crashes: they improve grip on the handlebars, reduce vibrations, prevent blisters, and protect hands from weather conditions. The right choice of gloves can be crucial for riding comfort and performance – whether during training, long rides, or competition.

Why gloves are indispensable in cycling

Protection function in crashes

In a crash, the hands are usually the first body parts to hit the ground. High-quality cycling gloves with reinforced palms minimize abrasions and can prevent more serious injuries to the heel of the hand and fingers. Especially at higher speeds, this protection is essential.

Vibration damping and comfort

During long rides, vibrations from the road surface are transmitted directly to the hands through the handlebars and grips. This can lead to fatigue, numbness, and long-term complaints such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Padding at strategic points effectively dampens these vibrations.

Improved grip

Sweat on the palms significantly reduces grip security. Modern gloves use special materials and structures that ensure optimal hold even when wet. This is particularly crucial on technically demanding descents or in sprints.

Weather protection

Depending on the season, gloves protect against cold, wind, rain, or intense sunlight. Winter gloves keep fingers warm and mobile, while summer gloves provide optimal ventilation and UV protection.

Types of cycling gloves

Short-finger gloves (Mitts)

The classic summer gloves without fingertips are the most popular choice for warm conditions. They offer excellent ventilation, good grip, and sufficient padding, while the free fingertips allow maximum dexterity – important for operating gears, brakes, and bike computers.

Application area:

• Temperature range from 15°C upwards
• Road cycling and mountain biking
• Training and competition in warm months

Full-finger gloves

This variant offers complete protection for all fingers and is ideal for cooler temperatures or challenging terrain. Mountain bikers often prefer full-finger gloves due to the additional protection against branches, thorns, and scratches.

Application area:

• Temperature range between 5°C and 20°C
• Mountain biking in dense terrain
• Cyclocross and gravel racing
• Transition periods (spring/autumn)

Winter gloves

Special winter gloves with insulating materials, windproof membranes, and often additional fleece lining keep hands warm even at temperatures below freezing. Some models feature integrated heating pads or are equipped with touchscreen-compatible fingertips.

Application area:

• Temperature range below 5°C
• Winter training
• Winter commuters

Time trial and triathlon gloves

These extremely minimalist gloves focus on aerodynamics and weight savings. They usually offer only minimal padding and are optimized for the special grip position on aerobars.

Track cycling gloves

Gloves specifically developed for track cycling with minimal profile and maximum grip on the handlebars at high speeds. Often without padding, as on the track no vibrations from the road surface need to be dampened.

Materials and technologies

Palm materials

Synthetic leather (Amara, Clarino):

These materials offer excellent durability, good grip, and are easy to care for. They are breathable, dry quickly, and maintain their shape even after many washes.

Genuine leather:

Traditional and high-quality, adapts perfectly to the hand shape. However, more expensive and requires more care than synthetic alternatives.

Silicone grips:

Strategically placed silicone pads on the palm and fingers significantly improve grip, especially when wet. They are usually located at the contact points with the handlebars.

Back-of-hand materials

Mesh and perforated fabrics:

Provide maximum ventilation in summer gloves. Modern mesh fabrics actively wick away moisture and dry extremely quickly.

Lycra and elastane:

Offer perfect fit through their stretchability. They conform to the hand shape without restricting freedom of movement.

Softshell and windstopper membranes:

In transition and winter gloves, these materials protect against wind and light rain while remaining breathable.

Padding technologies

Gel pads:

Dampen point pressure particularly effectively. Ideal for long rides and uneven surfaces.

Foam pads:

Lighter than gel, offer good damping at lower weight. Often layered in multiple density grades.

Strategic placement:

High-quality gloves feature padding exactly where the most pressure load occurs: at the heel of the hand (thenar) and at the little finger heel (hypothenar).

Finding the right fit

Size determination

Glove size is determined by hand circumference. Measure with a tape measure around the widest part of the hand (over the knuckles, excluding thumb). Most manufacturers offer size charts that translate these measurements into S, M, L, XL, etc.

What to look for when trying on

Finger length:

For short-finger gloves, the fingertips should reach to the seam, not beyond. For full-finger gloves, the fingers must be completely filled without excess fabric impairing dexterity.

Wrist closure:

The Velcro closure or elastic cuff must sit securely without constricting. It should ensure a secure fit but not impair circulation.

Grip test:

Simulate the handlebar grip position. The glove must not create wrinkles that could lead to pressure points. The padding must be exactly at the contact points with the handlebars.

Freedom of movement:

Close your hand into a fist and spread your fingers. The glove should follow all movements without stretching or slipping.

Buying criteria and quality features

Workmanship quality

Seams:

High-quality gloves feature flat or outward-facing seams that do not cause pressure points. Especially on the palms, clean seams are crucial for comfort.

Velcro closures:

They should grip well, even after many wash cycles. High-quality models use reinforced Velcro straps with large contact area.

Reinforcements:

At particularly stressed areas (heel of hand, between thumb and index finger) additional reinforcements should be present.

Additional features

Touchscreen compatibility:

Many modern gloves have conductive fingertips that enable operation of smartphones and bike computers without removing them.

Sweat wiper:

A soft terry material on the thumb allows wiping sweat or cleaning the nose without having to remove the gloves.

Reflective elements:

For rides at dusk or at night, reflective details increase visibility.

Pull-off aids:

Small tabs on the fingertips make removing the gloves significantly easier.

Care and maintenance

Washing

Cycling gloves should be washed after every intense ride to prevent bacterial growth and odor development. Best by hand wash in lukewarm water with mild detergent. For machine washing, use a laundry bag and choose the gentle cycle at maximum 30°C.

Drying

Always air dry gloves, never in the dryer or on a radiator. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can stretch materials and fade colors. Lay flat to dry or hang over a glove stretcher.

Storage

Store in a dry, well-ventilated place. Do not leave crumpled in the jersey pocket, as this promotes wrinkles and material fatigue. Store winter gloves lying flat in a box over the summer.

Extending lifespan

• Use multiple pairs in rotation
• Dry particularly thoroughly after rainy rides
• Repair damaged seams early
• Replace at first signs of material fatigue on palms

Common problems and solutions

Blisters

Causes:

• Gloves too large with wrinkle formation
• Grip too tight on handlebars
• Insufficient padding
• Wet gloves

Solutions:

• Choose correct size
• Vary grip position
• Use gloves with better padding
• Take a second pair on long rides

Numbness in fingers

Causes:

• Gloves too tight
• Too much pressure on nerve pathways
• Incorrect handlebar position
• Insufficient padding

Solutions:

• Try one size larger
• Change grip position more frequently
• Have bike fitting done
• Gel padding for better pressure distribution

Slipping gloves

Causes:

• Chosen too large
• Worn-out palms
• Inferior materials
• Wrist closure too loose

Solutions:

• Choose better fitting size
• Buy new gloves
• Tighten Velcro closure more
• Choose models with silicone grip

Specific recommendations by discipline

Road cycling

For long rides on asphalt, gloves with good gel padding and breathable mesh on the back of the hand are ideal. The padding should effectively dampen vibrations. In summer, short-finger gloves are standard, for cool days thin full-finger models are suitable.

Mountain biking

Mountain bikers benefit from more robust full-finger gloves with reinforced palms and knuckle protection. The padding can be more moderate, as suspension systems already dampen vibrations. More important here is protection against branches and crashes.

Time trials and triathlon

Aerodynamics are the priority here. Minimalist gloves with smooth surface and little padding are optimal. Some professionals completely forgo gloves to save weight and air resistance – however, at the cost of safety and comfort.

Track cycling

On the track, special gloves with maximum grip and without padding are common. The smooth track surface requires no vibration damping. The focus is on secure hold at high speeds.

Cyclocross and gravel

These disciplines require versatile gloves that work both on asphalt and off-road. Full-finger models with moderate padding and good breathability are ideal. Water-repellent materials are advantageous for muddy conditions.

Gloves and complete equipment

Gloves are part of a well-thought-out clothing system. They must harmonize with other equipment parts:

• Jerseys: Color-coordinated for professional appearance
• Cycling shorts: Together they form the comfort package
• Helmets: Safety equipment complements each other
• Shoes: Optimize contact points with the bike

A well-thought-out setup of high-quality clothing significantly contributes to performance.

Innovations and future trends

Smart Gloves

First prototypes with integrated sensors capture grip pressure, hand position, and even exhaustion level. This data can be transmitted via Bluetooth to training computers.

Sustainable materials

More and more manufacturers are focusing on recycled materials and environmentally friendly production processes. Gloves made from recycled polyester or vegetable-tanned leather are gaining importance.

Adaptive padding

New padding technologies adapt dynamically to hand position. Memory foams with various density zones respond to pressure and temperature.

Hygienic coatings

Antibacterial coatings and odor-inhibiting treatments increase comfort during intensive use and reduce washing effort.

Conclusion

The right gloves are a worthwhile investment in comfort, safety, and performance. They not only protect in crashes but also increase control over the bike through better grip and vibration damping. The choice should be made depending on discipline, weather conditions, and individual needs.

Invest in high-quality gloves with good fit and pay attention to details such as padding, material quality, and workmanship. With proper care, they will accompany you over several seasons and noticeably improve your riding experiences.