The hands are one of the most sensitive parts exposed to cold when we ride a bicycle. Given the strong descent of winter temperatures, it is necessary that they are as warm as possible. Therefore, specific cycling winter gloves are essential in your closet.
But not only the coat is important. Having protected hands provides more benefits, such as protection against falls or impacts of external objects, or the improvement of bike handling. Hence, when choosing between one glove or another you also have to assess aspects such as resistance or grip.
We see in detail each of the features that a winter glove must have for cycling, as a guide to make the best purchase.
Winter cycling gloves: main features
When choosing between two models of winter gloves for cycling it is important to take into account some basic aspects, such as the type of tissue, the adjustment or mobility of fingers that allow each type of glove. Next we describe what are, in our opinion, the main characteristics that you should know to make the appropriate decision.
Fabrics
The vast majority of winter gloves for cyclists are made up of two or three layers of fabric. All of them are inseparable in the vast majority of models. Hence it is very important to choose the right one based on the usual temperature range of your area.
The outermost layer is usually the most resistant, has more variety of tissues (synthetic, non -slip, plush) and is destined to guarantee the handlebar grip or manipulation of objects.
The intermediate is insulating and breathable at the same time. The tissues are synthetic, such as gore-tex (teflon) or windstopper window. Neoprene is also used in certain models, to achieve a higher level of impermeability.
In the last layer, tissues are used that retain heat, such as cotton, polyester (more breathable) or even wool. Its thickness and density will determine the recommended temperature range for the glove.
It is convenient that winter gloves have 3 layers: a more resistant exter
Adjustment
Unlike the
conventional cycling gloves, whether short or long, winter have a louder and longer closure or adjustment. This is done with a silicone band, as at the waist of the jerseys, inner rubber, velcro closures or even zippers in some cases.
The goal is that cold air does not penetrate with the movement itself through the wrist. Even if some mobility is lost with respect to a spring or summer glove is earned in a coat to keep the hands at the optimal temperature.
Seams
In winter gloves, seams are usually thicker and it is important that they are well topped and do not hinder the fist. There are few cases of discomfort and hand pain due to the rubbing of the seam with your hand. When you try the glove, grabbing an object or a handlebar, make sure there are no friction with this element.
Fingers mobility
If possible, they better have small patches or non -slip reinforcements to be able to better manage objects and use touch screens.
We also recommend, unless you live in a really cold or snowy area such as the high mountain, that you wear gloves with independent fingers and not mittens. Although of the latter there are models for cycling (and manage to heat the fingers better) conventional fingers will give you greater mobility and better grip of the handlebar.
Types of winter gloves
In general, it is recommended to use specific cycling gloves for winter when the temperature range ranges between 0 and 15th Celsius. If the outer temperature is below zero, the ideal is to use special gloves, such as heating or mittens. Thus, we can establish different types of gloves depending on their recommended temperature.
By temperature range
Between 5th and 15ºC
They are fine winter gloves, with less thickness and two layers in some cases, although one of them should be waterproof and tiny. Its mobility is wide and are more versatile. You can use them both on sunny winter days, with rain or also for autumn and spring.
Between 0º and 5ºC
Specific winter gloves, with three other layers and an adjustment on the largest and long wrist, even adjustable. For outputs and routes with intense cold, wind, snow or long exits. The ergonomics is worse, but you will win in coat.
Between -10º and 5ºC
Specific models such as mups or heating. The latter incorporate a membrane that is heated by a small rechargeable battery. The battery is housed in a special glove compartment, usually on the wrist. Heating gloves are totally effective against extreme cold, long snow routes or sudden temperature drops. Its main inconvenience is the least offer of models and its high price.
By modality of use
Before choosing cycling gloves for cycling, also consider the type of cycling you practice. The designs are different depending on whether you make road or Mountain Bike.
For mountain and grave
They have more reinforcements in the palm or gel inserts. Also the doll ends are thicker. They are heavier, but adapted to a firmer grip of the handlebar.
For road
They are finer, although they should not shelter less. They have fewer insertions in the palm and fingers and the outer layer tends to be smoother to win in aerodynamics.
Conclusion: No scattles in gloves
Winter gloves should be an essential element in your cycling equipment. Before buying them, analyze their characteristics, temperature range for which they are indicated and reinforcement tissues in palm and fingers. It also takes into account its ergonomics and how are your seams.
In case of doubt, always opt for the thickest model or May coat. The good mobility of the hands will depend on good winter gloves, the protection against falls or blows and we will avoid serious health problems, such as hypothermia.
In general, it is recommended to use specific cycling gloves for winter when the temperature range ranges between 0 and 15th Celsius. If the outer temperature is below zero, the ideal is to use special gloves, such as heating or mittens. Thus, we can establish different types of gloves depending on their recommended temperature.
