Cold fingers, a slipping handlebar or an unresponsive touchscreen: the wrong cycling gloves can make an ordinary ride unnecessarily uncomfortable. This applies to commuting, road cycling, mountain biking and longer bike rides in all weathers.
A low price does not automatically say anything about usability. At the same time, you may sometimes pay extra for features you barely use. So focus mainly on the fit, the material and the features that suit the way you cycle.
Gloves that are too loose can fold up in the palm. This reduces control and can cause rubbing. Gloves that are too tight restrict freedom of movement and become uncomfortable more quickly on longer rides.
Always check:
A model such as cycling gloves size L may be suitable for an adult hand, but letter sizing is not fully standardised. Measure your hand and compare the dimensions with the product page.
Not every palm with a sporty print actually provides extra grip. Look at the construction used. Silicone prints on the palm and fingertips are easier to assess than a general description such as ‘extra grip’.
For cycling gloves with grip, positioning is also important. Grip on the areas that make contact with the handlebars can help in wet conditions, but it does not guarantee that your hands will never slip in every situation. Also check whether the glove remains flexible enough to operate the brake and gear levers properly.
With cycling gloves with touchscreen functionality, it is useful to know which fingers can be used on a screen. A product that works only with the thumb offers a different experience from a model with touchscreen material on the thumb and index finger.
Also consider how the controls work in practice. A touchscreen may respond less effectively when a glove is heavily padded, when the screen is wet or when you are wearing several layers. Only use a smartphone while cycling when it is safe and permitted, for example when you are stopped.
Polyester is widely used in sports gloves because it combines flexibility with ease of care. Its properties do vary depending on the design and thickness. A lined glove is more suitable for cold mornings than a thin model for summer rides.
With winter cycling gloves, pay particular attention to:
According to the product description, the Dunlop Cycling Gloves have a warm lining, breathable comfort and a polyester outer material. The recommended wash is 30 °C on a normal cycle.
For road cycling gloves and mountain biking, a close fit and sufficient feel for the handlebars are important. Very thick padding can provide warmth, but may reduce direct contact with the handlebars.
If you mainly cycle on tarmac, you can opt for a lightweight, flexible model. For longer rides outdoors, changeable weather or a bike with a sportier riding position, additional palm grip may be more important.
Thin cooling cycling gloves or outdoor cycling gloves may be suitable for warm weather, but always check which features the manufacturer actually specifies. According to the product title, the Beneunder AL360 unisex gloves are offered for summer use, cooling and sun protection. The available option is one size, making it particularly important to check the fit and the returns policy.
For strength training, ordinary cycling gloves are not always the right choice. Fitness gloves or lifting gloves often have a different palm construction and a wrist fastening. They are designed for dumbbells and gym equipment, not primarily for handlebar control.
Why it suits this profile: The black version in size M is a straightforward choice for adults looking for a model for regular cycling and who mainly want to choose by size and colour to begin with.
The product page clearly states the size and colour. Before buying, however, check the other product specifications and the sizing information.
Black colour, size M and a version marketed as cycling gloves.
Why it suits this profile: Suitable for cyclists who want to use a smartphone during a ride without taking off their gloves, while also valuing warmth and grip.
The product description specifies touchscreen operation on the thumb and index finger, and mentions silicone grip on the palm and fingertips.
Size L, unisex design, warm lining, touchscreen functionality on two fingers and machine washable at 30 °C according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: This model is intended for people who do strength training as well as cycling and are therefore looking for separate fitness gloves.
The product description positions these as lifting gloves, so you will not confuse them with gloves specifically designed for handlebar control.
Size L and a hook-and-loop fastening according to the product information; designed to provide protection and grip when weightlifting.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Choose a model that explicitly specifies a warm lining and sufficient wrist coverage. Also consider freedom of movement. Winter cycling gloves that are too thick can make it more difficult to operate the brake and gear levers.
You can if the model states that it is touchscreen compatible. Check which fingers are intended for this purpose. The Dunlop gloves in size L specify the thumb and index finger as the touchscreen fingers. Performance may vary depending on the screen, moisture levels and the fit of the gloves.
Their lifespan depends on how often they are used, rubbing, sweat, washing and storage. Wash them according to the label, avoid unnecessarily hot washes and leave the gloves to air-dry. Replace them when the palm shows visible wear, the grip starts to come away or the seams no longer fit properly. Products covered by a statutory guarantee are subject to the applicable consumer rights in the EU; the Dunlop and Body&Fit product information states a minimum statutory guarantee of two years.