Winter Gloves: What are the best winter gloves for my bike ride?

For cyclists and mountain bikers, the cold winter months are a challenge. Cold hands can significantly reduce the enjoyment of riding and even impact safety, as they reduce feel and control over the handlebars. Winter gloves are therefore an essential part of any serious cyclist's winter gear. In this blog post, we'll discuss the different types, brands, their pros and cons, and why these gloves are so essential.

Why winter gloves are essential

While cycling, body temperature drops, especially in the extremities. Hands are more sensitive to cold than other parts of the body because there is less blood circulation to the fingers and hands. Unprotected hands can quickly become cold, stiff, and numb, making shifting and braking difficult. Well-insulated winter gloves keep hands warm, dry, and mobile, ensuring performance and safety. (Text continues after image)

Types of long finger gloves

Long-finger gloves for cyclists come in different types, depending on use, temperature and intensity of the ride:

Mid-season gloves (Spring/Fall gloves)

• Features: Lightweight, breathable & slightly water-repellent
• Pros: Perfect for cold mornings and evenings, still provides plenty of steering feel
• Disadvantages: Not suitable for severe cold or wet weather

Insulated gloves

• Features: Thicker material, often with thermal lining and windproof membrane
• Benefits: Keeps hands warm in temperatures just above freezing.
• Disadvantages: Less steering feel and flexibility, can be warmer than necessary during light exertion

Waterproof gloves

• Features: Made of waterproof and breathable material, with a waterproof membrane and a high cuff
• Advantages: Ideal for rainy or wet winter days
• Disadvantages: Less breathable during intensive exercise, can feel sweaty

Long-sleeved or over-gloves (lobster gloves)

• Features: Fingers are partially joined (usually thumb and index finger separate, the rest together)
• Benefits: Excellent thermal insulation, ideal for extremely cold conditions
• Disadvantages: Less precision when braking and shifting

XC long finger gloves

• Features: Mesh upper, lots of grip
• Benefits: Perfect for mountain biking in high temperatures
• Disadvantages: Not suitable for cold weather (below 12 degrees)

Popular brands and models

There are many brands specializing in winter gloves for road cyclists and mountain bikers. We've highlighted the most important ones:

• GripGrab: Known for their innovative designs, excellent fit, and excellent protection against cold and wind. They have gloves for both road cyclists and mountain bikers.
• Assos: A high-end brand focused on comfort, insulation, and aerodynamics; very popular with serious cyclists.
• Castelli: combines warmth and ventilation with a perfect fit, especially popular with racing cyclists.
• Gore Wear: offers waterproof and windproof models, ideal for wet or windy rides.
• Pearl Izumi: a good balance between warmth, flexibility and price, suitable for a wide range of weather conditions.

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Pros and cons of winter gloves

Winter gloves certainly have many advantages, but for your convenience, we've listed all the pros and cons we could think of.

Pros:

• Keep your hands wonderfully warm
• Protect against cold, wind and rain
• Improve comfort and performance during winter rides
• Prevent numbness and injuries due to poor grip or stiffness
• Some models are touchscreen compatible and waterproof

Negatives:

• Thicker gloves reduce steering feel and precision
• Waterproof gloves can become sweaty during heavy exertion
• There are some expensive models available for the most optimal heat

Tips for choosing winter gloves

What should you pay attention to when buying a pair of winter gloves?

1. Pay attention to insulation and material: for mild winter days, a thin, windproof glove is sufficient; for severe cold, choose an insulated model.
2. Check wind/water resistance if you often ride in wet conditions.
3. If in doubt, choose the larger size after measuring your hand using the size chart. Gloves that are too small prevent sufficient blood flow to your hands, so you'll never get warm hands.
4. Consider additional features such as touchscreen compatibility or reflective elements.