Essential Guide to Summer Riding Gloves for Comfort

As summer approaches, finding the perfect riding gloves becomes essential for both comfort and safety on your adventures. Our comprehensive shopping guide on summer riding gloves will help you navigate the vast selection available, ensuring you choose the ideal pair that balances breathability, grip, and style. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a casual rider, these gloves are a must-have for a smooth and enjoyable ride in the warm weather.

Summer Riding Gloves Shopping Guide

When it comes to horseback riding in the summer, having the right gear is essential for comfort, safety, and performance. One of the most important pieces of equipment you can invest in is a good pair of summer riding gloves. These gloves not only protect your hands from the sun and prevent chafing, but they also enhance your grip on the reins, ensuring better communication with your horse. This shopping guide aims to provide you with comprehensive information to help you choose the best summer riding gloves for your needs.

Comparison Table: Types of Summer Riding Gloves

Type	Breathability	Grip Level	UV Protection	Touchscreen Compatibility	Price Range
Mesh Riding Gloves	High	Moderate	UPF 50+	Yes	$20 – $40
Synthetic Leather Gloves	Moderate	High	UPF 30+	Yes	$25 – $50
Lightweight Cotton Gloves	High	Low	None	No	$15 – $30
Waterproof Summer Gloves	Moderate	High	UPF 50	Yes	$30 – $60
All-Weather Gloves	Low	High	UPF 20	Yes	$25 – $55

Types of Summer Riding Gloves

1. Mesh Riding Gloves
2. Breathability: These gloves are designed with a mesh backing, allowing for maximum airflow. They keep your hands cool during hot summer days.
3. Grip Level: They provide a moderate grip, making them suitable for casual riding and schooling.

4. Best For: Everyday riding and training.

5. Synthetic Leather Gloves

6. Breathability: While not as breathable as mesh gloves, they still offer good ventilation.
7. Grip Level: High grip on the reins due to the synthetic leather palm, which mimics the feel of traditional leather.

8. Best For: Competitive riding and shows.

9. Lightweight Cotton Gloves

10. Breathability: Excellent airflow, but they may not offer much in terms of durability.
11. Grip Level: Low grip, which may not be ideal for serious riding.

12. Best For: Casual rides or groundwork.

13. Waterproof Summer Gloves

14. Breathability: Moderate breathability, designed to keep your hands dry in wet conditions.
15. Grip Level: High grip, ideal for riding in rainy weather.

16. Best For: Trail riding and events where weather is unpredictable.

17. All-Weather Gloves

18. Breathability: Less breathable than summer-specific gloves, but they provide insulation and moisture protection.
19. Grip Level: Excellent grip, suitable for various riding conditions.
20. Best For: Riders who prefer a single glove for all seasons.

Size Guide for Summer Riding Gloves

Selecting the right size for your riding gloves is crucial for comfort and performance. Here’s a simple way to measure your hand size:

1. Measure Your Hand: Use a measuring tape to measure the circumference of your dominant hand around the widest part (excluding your thumb).
2. Consult Size Charts: Different brands have varying sizing charts, but here’s a general guideline:
3. Small: 6.5 – 7 inches
4. Medium: 7 – 8 inches
5. Large: 8 – 9 inches
6. X-Large: 9 – 10 inches

Materials Used in Summer Riding Gloves

• Mesh: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for keeping hands cool. Look for gloves with a high UPF rating for sun protection.
• Synthetic Leather: Offers durability and a good grip. It usually absorbs moisture better than natural leather and is often machine washable.
• Cotton: Soft and comfortable, but less durable and protective against the elements.
• Neoprene: Provides flexibility and water resistance, making it suitable for wet conditions.
• Spandex: Often blended with other materials for a snug fit and excellent stretch.

Usage Recommendations

• Training Rides: Opt for breathable mesh or synthetic leather gloves to maintain grip and comfort.
• Competitive Events: Choose gloves that provide a high level of tactility and grip, such as synthetic leather or all-weather options.
• Trail Riding: Consider waterproof gloves if you anticipate rain, while breathable gloves are best for dry, hot conditions.
• Groundwork: Lightweight cotton or mesh gloves can provide protection while allowing dexterity.

Practical Tips for Choosing and Using Summer Riding Gloves

• Test for Fit: Always try on gloves before purchasing. They should fit snugly but not too tight, allowing for full range of motion.
• Consider Grip: Depending on your riding style, select gloves with textured palms for better grip.
• Look for Features: Touchscreen compatibility is a bonus, allowing you to use your phone without removing your gloves.
• Check Care Instructions: Ensure the gloves are machine washable or easy to clean to maintain hygiene.
• Assess UV Protection: Choose gloves with a high UPF rating to protect your hands from sun damage.

Technical Features Comparison Table

Model	Material	UPF Rating	Touchscreen	Price
Kunkle Mesh Riding Gloves	Mesh/Synthetic Leather	UPF 50	Yes	$35
EGO7 Air Mesh Gloves	Synthetic Leather	UPF 40	Yes	$45
LeMieux Spring Pro Mesh Gloves	Mesh	UPF 30	No	$30
Ariat Cool Grip Gloves	Synthetic	UPF 50	Yes	$30
Roeckl Laila Suntanning Gloves	Lightweight Fabric	UPF 50	Yes	$32

Related Video

Conclusion

Summer riding gloves are essential for maintaining comfort and performance while riding in warm weather. With various options available, including mesh, synthetic leather, and waterproof designs, it’s crucial to consider your specific riding needs and preferences. By focusing on the right material, fit, and features such as breathability and UV protection, you can find the perfect pair of gloves to enhance your riding experience. Always remember to care for your gloves properly to prolong their lifespan and effectiveness.

FAQ

1. Why should I wear summer riding gloves?
   Wearing summer riding gloves protects your hands from sun exposure, improves grip on the reins, and prevents chafing and blisters during rides.

2. How do I choose the right size of riding gloves?
   Measure the circumference of your hand at its widest point and refer to the brand’s size chart. Gloves should fit snugly without being too tight.

3. What materials are best for summer riding gloves?
   Look for lightweight, breathable materials like mesh or synthetic leather, which offer comfort, durability, and good grip.

4. Can summer riding gloves protect against UV rays?
   Yes, many summer riding gloves come with a UPF rating that indicates their ability to protect against UV radiation.

5. Are riding gloves machine washable?
   Most synthetic and mesh riding gloves are machine washable. Check the care instructions on the label for specific washing guidelines.

6. What is the difference between summer and winter riding gloves?
   Summer gloves are lightweight and breathable, designed to keep your hands cool, while winter gloves are insulated and waterproof to keep your hands warm.

7. Can I use my phone while wearing riding gloves?
   Some summer riding gloves are touchscreen compatible, allowing you to use your phone without removing them.

8. How often should I replace my riding gloves?
   Replace your gloves when they show signs of wear, loss of grip, or if they no longer provide comfort during rides.

9. Are there specific gloves for different riding disciplines?
   Yes, different disciplines may require specific gloves. For instance, show gloves tend to be more refined, while trail riding gloves prioritize durability and grip.

10. Can summer riding gloves help with grip in wet conditions?
    Some gloves are designed with materials that enhance grip even in wet conditions. Look for gloves with textured palms for better control.