Guide to cycling gloves - how to choose?

Can you ride a bike without gloves? Of course. However, this choice isn't always the most comfortable. In colder seasons, cycling without gloves is unimaginable, but they also serve a purpose in summer: protecting hands from injuries and fatigue, increasing comfort, and improving bike handling. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right gloves from a wide selection.

Variety of Cycling Gloves

Cycling gloves are unique in their design – they are created for comfortable grip over long periods and to ensure a stable hold on the handlebars. Cycling gloves can be categorized by season and riding style, which often determines their padding and other features.

• Summer cycling gloves – lightweight, breathable, and short-fingered. In summer, gloves provide cushioning and improve grip, which is especially important when hands sweat. They also protect against calluses caused by prolonged contact with handlebars and against sun exposure, which can damage the skin during long rides.

• Winter cycling gloves – made from materials that retain heat and repel moisture. In cold and windy weather, gloves with proper insulation are essential to prevent fingers from freezing.

• MTB gloves – designed for mountain biking, these gloves are particularly durable, feature good padding, and often include additional protection (silicone or rubber guards).

• Road cycling gloves – road cyclists often opt for gloves made from aerodynamic fabrics, though simpler, long or short-finger gloves are also suitable for enthusiasts.

Latest Technologies

What innovations you look for in cycling gloves will depend on your needs. Manufacturers are now focused on technologies that enhance comfort – such as improved fabrics or touchscreen compatibility. When choosing gloves, look for these features in product descriptions or consult with specialists:

• Gel padding to protect palms from shocks and vibrations, reducing hand fatigue.

• Enhanced grip with silicone, often featuring patterns on the palm side to prevent hands from slipping.

• Touchscreen compatibility. Some gloves include special fingertip materials that allow you to use your phone without removing the gloves – a handy feature if you use a GPS device with a touchscreen.

• Season-specific materials: summer gloves often feature mesh panels for ventilation and thicker areas for wiping sweat, while winter gloves use layered fabrics to protect against cold and moisture. Popular options include blends with merino wool, which feel particularly comfortable.

How to Choose the Right Gloves

When looking for gloves, take your time – this small accessory can save your hands during long rides, so it should be comfortable and suited to your riding conditions. Here are some tips for selecting gloves:

1. What is your size? Cycling gloves should fit perfectly. Gloves that are too big will slip and hinder control, while gloves that are too small will feel tight, restrict movement, and may cause chafing. When trying on gloves, position your hands as if holding handlebars. Test brake levers and gear shifters if possible. Movements should not feel restricted, and there should be no discomfort from seams or tightness. Consider potential hand swelling in hot weather when choosing summer gloves.

2. Where will you ride? If road cyclists don’t necessarily need padding, gravel or MTB riders will appreciate gel cushions that protect the palms – choose gloves based on your riding style.

3. When will you ride? At Velonova, we offer gloves for all weather conditions – hot summer days, rainy mid-season weather, and freezing temperatures. The warmest cycling gloves are "lobster" style, which separate fingers for effective braking and gear shifting while keeping hands warm.

4. What do you need most? Touchscreen compatibility, preferred colors, comfortable materials, padding, and other features can help you make the final decision when narrowing down your glove options.

Top Cycling Glove Brands

We stock gloves from trusted brands whose quality and comfort have been tested by both us and our customers. We always recommend gloves from the following brands:

1. Assos of Switzerland gloves are innovative, long-lasting, and fit perfectly to the body’s contours. Assos focuses on creating gloves tailored to different weather conditions while maintaining lightweight comfort and excellent feedback. For aerodynamic options, choose Assos RSR Speed. For versatility, try Assos RS Targa, and for winter, opt for Assos GTO Ultraz Winter Thermo.

2. GripGrab, a Scandinavian brand, offers a wide range of gloves suitable for varying conditions. Popular options include summer gloves like GripGrab ProGel, winter gloves such as GripGrab Ride Waterproof Winter, and mid-season gloves like GripGrab Primavera Merino.

3. Fist Handwear specializes in MTB, motocross, and BMX gloves designed for comfort even in challenging conditions. Known for colorful designs updated every season, Fist offers classic black options like Fist Stocker Gloves and a variety of patterned models. All Fist Handwear gloves feature durable materials and reinforced areas for optimal protection.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure longevity, cycling gloves should be cared for similarly to other cycling apparel. Follow these tips:

• Wash gloves after every ride. Sweat residues damage the fabric, reducing softness and causing discomfort over time.
• Wash gloves in cool water using mild detergent, avoiding harsh chemicals.
• Air-dry gloves naturally; avoid heat, dryers, or direct sunlight, as they may damage the materials.

Customer Reviews

The quality of cycling gloves at Velonova has been tried and tested. Here's what our customers say:

“Fantastic gloves, thin but warm, convenient for phone use,” – Tatjana about GripGrab Merino Liner gloves.

“Comfortable gloves, excellent quality, size matches perfectly,” – Tomas about GripGrab Ride 2 Windproof gloves.

“Great quality gloves,” – Vitalij about GripGrab Hurricane 2 gloves.

Find your cycling gloves in our online store or visit us at J. Baltrušaičio g. 1, Vilnius.