Winter cycling gloves: protect your hands from the cold on the bike
Hands are one of the most sensitive and exposed parts to the cold when we ride a bicycle. Whether you practice cycling with mountain bikes on technical routes or pedal long distances with road bikes, protecting them properly is essential to maintain comfort and control during your ride.
With the sharp drop in winter temperatures, it is essential to keep them as warm as possible. That’s why specific winter cycling gloves become an indispensable part of your gear.
But it’s not just about keeping warm. Good gloves also provide additional benefits such as protection against falls or impacts from external objects and better handling of the handlebars, both on downhill trails and on high-speed road sections.
That’s why, when choosing between one model or another, you should take into account key aspects such as resistance, grip, and compatibility with your type of cycling. Below, we analyze in detail the characteristics a good winter glove should have so you can make the best purchase decision.
Winter cycling gloves: main features
When choosing between two models of winter cycling gloves, it is important to consider some basic aspects, such as the type of fabric, the fit, or the finger mobility that each type of glove allows. Below we describe what we believe are the main features you should know to make the right decision.
Fabrics
The vast majority of winter cycling gloves are made up of two or three layers of fabric. All of them are inseparable in the vast majority of models. That is why it is very important to choose the right one depending on the usual temperature range in your area. The outermost layer is usually the most resistant, has a greater variety of fabrics (synthetic, non-slip, terry) and is designed to ensure grip on the handlebar or when handling objects. The intermediate layer is insulating and breathable at the same time. The fabrics are synthetic, such as Gore-Tex (Teflon) or Windstopper windbreaker. Neoprene is also used in certain models to achieve a superior level of waterproofing. In the last layer, fabrics that retain heat very well are used, such as cotton, polyester (more breathable), or even wool. Its thickness and density will determine the recommended temperature range for the glove.
It is advisable for winter gloves to have 3 layers: a more resistant outer one, an insulating and breathable intermediate one, and a warm inner one
Fit
Unlike conventional cycling gloves, whether short or long, winter gloves have a longer and thicker closure or fit at the wrist. This is done with a silicone band, like on the waist of jerseys, inner elastics, Velcro fasteners, or even zippers in some cases. The goal is to prevent cold air from entering with the movement of the hand through the wrist. Although you lose some mobility compared to a spring or summer glove, you gain warmth to keep your hands at the optimal temperature.
Seams
In winter gloves, the seams are usually thicker, and it is important that they are well finished and do not hinder grip on the handlebar. There are quite a few cases of discomfort and hand pain due to the rubbing of seams against the hand. When trying on the glove, by grabbing an object or a handlebar, make sure there is no rubbing with this element.
Finger mobility
If possible, it is better if they have small patches or non-slip reinforcements to better handle objects and use touchscreens. We also recommend, unless you live in a really cold or snowy area like the high mountains, that you use gloves with independent fingers and not mittens. Although there are mitten models for cycling (and they do warm the fingers better), conventional fingers will give you greater mobility and better grip on the handlebar.
Types of winter gloves
In general, it is recommended to use specific winter cycling gloves when the temperature range is between 0º and 15º Celsius. If the outside temperature is below zero, it is best to use special gloves, such as heated gloves or mittens. Thus, we can establish different types of gloves depending on their recommended temperature.
By temperature range
Between 5º and 15ºC
These are thin winter gloves, with less thickness and two layers in some cases, although one of them should be waterproof and windproof. They offer wide mobility and are more versatile. You can use them both on sunny winter days, in the rain, or also for autumn and spring.
Between 0°C and 5°C
Specific winter gloves, mostly with three layers and a larger, longer wrist fit, sometimes even adjustable. For rides and routes with intense cold, wind, snow, or long outings. The ergonomics are worse, but you’ll gain in warmth.
Between -10°C and 5°C
Special models such as mittens or heated gloves. The latter include a membrane that heats up via a small rechargeable battery. The battery is housed in a special compartment of the glove, usually at the wrist. Heated gloves are completely effective against extreme cold, long routes through snow, or sudden drops in temperature. Their main drawback is the smaller selection of models and their high price.
By usage type
Before choosing cycling gloves, also consider the type of cycling you do. Designs differ depending on whether you ride on the road or mountain bike.
For mountain and gravel
They have more reinforcements in the palm or gel inserts. The wrist endings are also thicker. They are heavier, but adapted to a firmer grip on the handlebars.
For road
They are thinner, although that doesn’t mean they should be less warm. They have fewer inserts in the palm and fingers, and the outer layer tends to be smoother to improve aerodynamics.
Don’t skimp on gloves
Winter gloves should be an essential part of your cycling gear. Before buying them, carefully analyze their features, the temperature range they are designed for, and the reinforcement fabrics in the palm and fingers. Also, pay close attention to their ergonomics and how the seams are. If in doubt, always choose the thicker or warmer model. Good winter gloves will ensure good hand mobility, protection against falls or impacts, and help you avoid serious health problems, such as hypothermia.