As winter descends, cycling enthusiasts face the chill head-on, making the right gloves essential for a comfortable ride. Our guide to the best gloves for winter bike riding ensures your hands stay warm and functional, allowing you to conquer cold rides with ease. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend adventurer, discover top picks that blend warmth, dexterity, and style to elevate your winter biking experience.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Gloves for Winter Bike Riding

When the temperature drops and winter descends, many cyclists may feel tempted to retreat indoors. However, with the right pair of winter cycling gloves, you can continue to ride comfortably and safely through cold and wet conditions. This guide is designed to help you understand the types of winter cycling gloves available, how to choose the best pair for your needs, and what features to look for to ensure your hands stay warm and functional while riding.

Comparison Table of Winter Cycling Gloves

Model	Insulation Type	Waterproof	Windproof	Touchscreen Compatible	Price Range
Assos Ultraz Winter Gloves	Fleece	Yes	Yes	Yes	£105
Castelli Perfetto RoS Gloves	Gore-Tex Infinium	Yes	Yes	Yes	£85
GripGrab Polaris 2	Synthetic Insulation	Yes	Yes	No	£89.95
Rapha Winter Gloves	Insulated Synthetic	Yes	Yes	Yes	£85
Bontrager Velocis Softshell	Thinsulate	Yes	Yes	Yes	£110
Santini Fjord Gloves	Thermal Insulation	No	Yes	No	£85
Pearl Izumi AmFIB Lite	PrimaLoft	Water-resistant	Yes	Yes	£54.99
Galibier Barrier Deep Winter Gloves	Insulated	Yes	Yes	No	£45
Endura Strike Gloves	Synthetic Insulation	Yes	Yes	No	£54.99
Hikenture Winter Cycling Gloves	3M Thinsulate	Yes	Yes	Yes	£30

Types of Winter Cycling Gloves

When selecting winter cycling gloves, it’s essential to understand the different types available:

1. Insulated Gloves

These gloves are designed with thermal materials that provide warmth in freezing temperatures. Insulated gloves usually feature fleece or synthetic insulation to trap heat while remaining lightweight. Look for gloves that balance insulation with dexterity to ensure you can operate your bike’s controls effectively.

2. Waterproof Gloves

Waterproof gloves are crucial for wet conditions, ensuring your hands stay dry even in rain or snow. These gloves typically use a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex or similar materials. Remember, waterproof gloves may sacrifice some breathability, so choose wisely based on your riding conditions.

3. Windproof Gloves

Windproof gloves are designed to block chilly winds that can sap your body heat. They often feature a wind-resistant outer layer, ensuring that even the briskest rides are more comfortable. A combination of windproofing and insulation is ideal for cold-weather cycling.

4. Lobster Gloves

Lobster gloves combine the warmth of mittens with the dexterity of gloves. They separate the index finger from the rest of the fingers, allowing for better control while keeping your fingers warmer. These are great for extremely cold conditions but may not be suitable for all cyclists.

Size Guide for Winter Cycling Gloves

Finding the right size is crucial for winter cycling gloves to ensure comfort and functionality. Here’s a simple size guide:

• Measure your hand: Using a tape measure, measure the circumference of your dominant hand around the knuckles (excluding the thumb).
• Consult size charts: Most brands provide size charts. Compare your measurement with the chart to find your appropriate size.
• Consider layering: If you plan to wear liners for added warmth, consider sizing up for extra room.

Material Considerations

The materials used in winter cycling gloves play a significant role in performance and comfort. Here are common materials you might encounter:

• Thinsulate: A popular synthetic insulation that provides warmth without bulk. It retains heat even when wet.
• Gore-Tex: A waterproof and breathable membrane that prevents water ingress while allowing moisture to escape.
• Fleece: Soft and warm, fleece liners provide comfort but may not be waterproof. Ideal for less wet conditions.
• Synthetic Leather: Often used in palms for enhanced grip and durability. It can offer some water resistance.
• Merino Wool: Known for its warmth and moisture-wicking properties, merino wool is an excellent choice for cold weather.

Usage Recommendations

When choosing winter cycling gloves, consider the following factors to ensure you select the best option for your needs:

1. Climate: Assess the typical weather conditions you ride in. For extremely cold and wet conditions, opt for insulated, waterproof gloves.
2. Riding Style: If you ride competitively, prioritize gloves that allow for maximum dexterity and bar feel. For casual rides, warmth may be more important.
3. Duration: Longer rides may require gloves with better breathability to prevent overheating and moisture buildup.
4. Layering Needs: If you tend to get cold easily, consider gloves that can accommodate liners for added warmth.

Practical Tips for Choosing and Using Winter Cycling Gloves

• Try Before You Buy: Always try on gloves before purchasing to ensure a snug fit that allows for good dexterity.
• Check for Grip: Look for gloves with silicone grips on the palms to enhance control and prevent slipping on the handlebars.
• Test Touchscreen Compatibility: If you frequently use your phone or GPS, check that the gloves are touchscreen-compatible.
• Maintain Your Gloves: Follow care instructions to extend the life of your gloves. Wash them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and reapply water-repellent treatments when needed.

Technical Features Comparison Table

Feature	Assos Ultraz	Castelli Perfetto	GripGrab Polaris 2	Rapha Winter	Bontrager Velocis
Insulation	Fleece	Gore-Tex Infinium	Synthetic	Insulated	Thinsulate
Waterproof	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Windproof	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Touchscreen Compatible	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Price	£105	£85	£89.95	£85	£110

Related Video

Conclusion

Choosing the right winter cycling gloves can make a significant difference in your comfort and performance during cold-weather rides. Consider the types of gloves, materials, sizing, and your specific riding conditions to find the perfect pair. With the right gloves, you can embrace winter cycling and enjoy your rides year-round.

FAQ

What are winter cycling gloves?
Winter cycling gloves are specialized gloves designed to keep your hands warm, dry, and functional while cycling in cold and wet weather conditions.

How do I choose the right size for winter cycling gloves?
Measure the circumference of your hand around the knuckles and consult the size chart provided by the manufacturer to find the appropriate size.

Are waterproof gloves necessary for winter cycling?
Waterproof gloves are beneficial if you ride in wet conditions, as they help keep your hands dry and warm.

What materials are best for winter cycling gloves?
Look for gloves made from materials like Thinsulate, Gore-Tex, fleece, and synthetic leather for warmth, waterproofing, and breathability.

Can I use winter cycling gloves for other activities?
Yes, many winter cycling gloves are versatile and can be used for other outdoor activities like running, hiking, and skiing.

Do all winter cycling gloves allow touchscreen use?
No, not all winter cycling gloves are touchscreen-compatible. Check product descriptions to ensure they meet your needs.

How do I care for my winter cycling gloves?
Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, which may include hand washing, air drying, and reapplying water-repellent treatments.

Will wearing liners with my gloves keep my hands warmer?
Yes, wearing thermal liners can provide extra warmth, but ensure your gloves have enough room to accommodate them comfortably.

How do I maintain warmth in my hands during long rides?
Take breaks to warm up your hands, wear gloves that provide good insulation, and consider using hand warmers for extra heat.

What should I look for in a glove’s grip?
Choose gloves with silicone grips on the palms and fingers to enhance control and prevent slipping on the handlebars.