Cycling to work exposes your hands to the elements, making the right gloves essential. Whether facing rain, wind, cold, or debris, your choice of gloves depends on the climate and season. In cold environments, you need insulated, waterproof gloves, while warmer areas are suited to breathable, lightweight options. For seasons like spring and fall, you need versatile gloves for varying weather.
Our guide covers all you need to know about choosing the best commuter cycling gloves. We’ll guide you on what to look for, recommend top gloves for winter, suggest options for all seasons, and discuss summer gloves. We’ll also explain our testing process and answer FAQs about glove fit and technology. Let’s dive in!
The Best Winter Cycling Gloves for Commuters
Frigid winter temps demand gloves delivering max insulation alongside weatherproofing. We’ll start with the most protective deep winter options before covering versatile gloves across varying cold conditions.
Deep Winter Cycling Gloves for Max Protection
When the mercury consistently dips into the 20s Fahrenheit or below 0 Celsius, keeping hands warm is difficult without ski glove-levels of insulation. But commuters need much better dexterity from gloves than alpine sports. Enter the protective winter cycling glove built for below freezing wind chills.
Castelli Estremo Gloves
- Three-layer membrane provides windproof, water-resistant protection
- 40g PrimaLoft insulation keeps hands incredibly warm
- Silicone grip pattern ensures wet/icy braking/shifting control
- Long adjustable cuff fully seals out cold air
The Castelli Estremo glove remains our top choice for riders battling deep winter weather year after year. Its windproof outer fabric utilises Gore Infinium Windstopper to shield hands from frigid air while the fleece liner locks in warmth once body heat has built up inside. PrimaLoft silver insulation brings heat generation up a notch past what fleece alone can provide. Together, these three layers form an impenetrable barrier between skin and cold.
During testing we rode for over an hour at 20°F (-6°C) with wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph (50 km h). The Estremo kept our hands toasty and pleasantly dry throughout while silicone grippers ensured confident braking and shifting despite frozen precipitation covering brake hoods and handlebars.
The only caveat we have for the Estremo glove is its long cuff requires jacket sleeves fitting over them to seal warmth in fully. Riders with shorter sleeve outerwear may experience some heat loss from the gap. But for keeping hands genuinely warm in brutal winter bike commuting conditions – not just blunting cold sting like lesser gloves – no product equals the Estremo.
Giro Proof Winter Gloves
- Windproof softshell blocks wind convectively
- PrimaLoftGold insulation retains infrared body heat radiation
- Snug Velcro wrist closure prevents air leaks
- Silicone fingertip pads enable touchscreen use
The Giro Proof winter glove takes a high-tech approach to insulation and windproofing using heat flow physics. Windproof panels on backs of hands prevent convective cold air penetration. Meanwhile, the PrimaLoft Gold synthetic insulation utilises infrared heat radiating from your skin and redirects it back towards your hand instead of letting it dissipate into the atmosphere. This keeps the warmth you naturally give off inside the glove rather than losing it to the outside chill.
Together with soft fleece liners for next-to-skin comfort and adjustable Velcro wrist closures, the Proof glove forms an adaptable hand shield to take on the coldest rides down into freezing territory. Just be aware the insulation does run on the thicker side which can make fine lever and shift operations slightly less precise.
Endura Strike Winter Gloves
- Waterproof yet breathable outer keeps precipitation out
- 170g PrimaLoft insulation retains heat in glove lining
- Gel palm padding absorbs vibrations across long distances
- Under £50 price tag saves cash for winter gear splurging elsewhere
When evaluating winter cycling gloves delivering solid value in their price range, we frequently turn to UK brand Endura and their Strike glove. Using a breathable waterproof Vitel fabric outer mated to a fleece inner with just enough PrimaLoft insulation for rides hovering around freezing, the Strike hits a dependable balance.
It provides ample dexterity for shifting and braking while keeping hands dry and reasonably warm in a range of winter conditions. Convenient pull loops on two fingertips make taking them off a cinch, ideal for transit stops with fingerprint scanners. For cost-conscious commuters seeking functionality over premium styling, Endura’s Strike punches well above its affordable price.
All-Weather Cycling Gloves for Mixed Conditions
Not every winter commute faces bone-chilling cold or heavy snow. Milder climates experience winter through spring and fall through winter temps varying widely across seasons. For these variable conditions, an all-weather glove offers versatility.
Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves
- Unlined softshell fabric keeps gloves lightweight but blocks wind
- DWR water resistance beads light rain before soaking after hours of wetness
- Minimal cushioning maintains bar feel for performance cycling handling
- Snug stretch fit seals warmth without losing flexibility
UK cycling apparel brand Rapha nails the lightweight winter glove fit with its Pro Team style. Using an unlined softshell fabric for wind protection means no excess bulk when temps climb yet still cuts chill when they drop. A durable water resistant coating causes light precipitation to bead initially before inevitably soaking through over long rides.
Minimal padding across palms and between fingers ensures excellent road feel and shift/brake precision for cycling focused commuters. Lycra sides and backs conform like a second skin while avoiding pressure points during hours spent riding. For those wanting minimalist winter gloves erring on the side of cool flex rather than absolute insulation, Rapha’s Pro offering hits perfectly.
Giro Xnetic Knit Gloves
- Stretch knit fabric construction stays form-fitting across back
- Windproof yet breathable waterproof membrane across whole glove
- Light 60g weight won’t weigh down hands during variable conditions
- Under £50 price leaves budget for merino base layers or shoe covers
Giro takes a unique approach to balancing winter protection and all-weather versatility with its Xnetic glove. Using an elastic knit fabric laminated to an interior windproof breathable membrane, it achieves remarkable sensitivity for its insulating potential across varying winter through fall temps.
Silicone print detailing and just the right amount of padding across palms enhance grip and dampen vibration without losing road feel or control precision. For commuters wanting a single glove to last three seasons (plus work during summer rainstorms), the barely-there feel and durable construction of the Xnetic glove make it a sound value choice that outperforms its accessible price tag for a fully waterproof glove.
Craft Siberian Gloves
- Windstopper Softshell fabric and brushed fleece lining
- 40g lightweight insulation for cool to cold temps
- Silicone grippers at fingertips and palm heel
- Under £65 pricing frees budget for headwear/shoe covers
Swedish brand Craft splits the difference between deep winter and shoulder season needs with a glove offering subtle insulation alongside element protection. A Windstopper Softshell fabric shields the backs and fingers with its windproof yet breathable weave. The palm side uses Aquatex Light for water resistance that still enables solid bar grip.
Overall you get a handsome cycling glove with insulation suited to mid 40s F temps yet windproofing extending range into the 30s F comfortably. Silicone grips at fingers and palms ensure reliable adhesion to handlebars across hours of variable winter commuting. And for around £45, Craft’s Siberian hits that sweet spot between budget pick and premium pricing.
Best Summer Cycling Gloves for Hot Weather Commutes
Once winter passes and spring then summer bring temperatures from 60s F to upwards of 90s F each day. Insulation gives way to ventilated fabrics ensuring hands don’t overheat. Lighter gloves also improve feel for control inputs.
Best Breathable Summer Cycling Gloves
Pearl Izumi Cyclone Gel Gloves
- Gel padding across palms absorbs road vibrations
- Mesh back panel enables maximum airflow
- Microsuede thumb patch for wiping away sweat
- Under £35 price
When the mercury pushes past 80 degrees F, Pearl Izumi’s ultra-breathable Cyclone gloves make sweltering commutes bearable. Gel padding spans the entirety of palms to ward off numbness when riding upright for long periods. Meanwhile, a mesh back panel enables constant airflow release as hands heat up to avoid inner glove moisture buildup.
For managing sweat without removing gloves, microsuede patches at thumbs come particularly in handy. Pearl Izumi delivers these useful summer cycling glove features for under £35, so you can buy multiple colours to match various jersey styles. If hot humid rides dominate your summer commuting, the Cyclone glove perfectly matches the climate.
Giro Bravo Gel Gloves
- Gel padding protects nerves across sensitive palm areas
- Lightly insulated terry panels on thumb/fingers
- Half finger style exposes fingertips to air
- Retro style looks good on and off the bike
Some riders find full finger cycling gloves excessively hot once summer hits while opting to go gloveless sacrifices too much nervous system protection across palms. Giro’s Bravo model splits the difference with its half finger style keeping important heel and ulnar areas padded while freeing up fingertips.
Terrycloth fabric on thumbs lets riders wipe sweat away without compromising grip. Plus a retro look in bold colours or stripes means the same gloves pulling duty on steamy commutes stylishly run post-work errands afterwards. For the right balance between total protection and ventilating breathability across summer, Giro nails it.
Choosing the Right Cycling Gloves for Commuting
The cycling glove market contains an array of options catering to different needs. To select the right pair of gloves, it helps to understand the types available.
Understanding Cycling Glove Types
Winter Cycling Gloves
The coldest months of the year demand gloves with insulation for warmth and weather protection. Winter cycling or thermal gloves utilise fleece linings, PrimaLoft insulation, windproof panels, and waterproof membranes to keep your hands warm when temps drop on a winter ride. Some even have removable liners to customise insulation levels. Most offer decent dexterity too despite their bulkier builds.
All-Season & Transition Cycling Gloves
As seasons change from winter to spring and fall to winter, gloves need versatility to handle fluctuating conditions. All-season cycling gloves balance lightweight builds with insulation and weatherproofing for moderate protection across varying temps and precipitation levels. They offer great dexterity for shifting and braking. If you get caught short in a downpour you’ll be thankful for waterproof gloves.
Summer & Fingerless Cycling Gloves
Once winter passes and temps consistently hit the 50s and up, breathability and ventilation take priority over weather barriers. Summer cycling gloves feature perforated palms, mesh panelling, and lightweight fabrics that wick moisture to keep hands cool. Fingerless designs provide even more airflow while protecting palms from blisters and vibration.
Now that you know the types of cycling gloves available, let’s go over what to look for when comparing options.
Key Considerations in Selecting Cycling Gloves
Material and Warmth
A glove’s outer material impacts how windproof, waterproof, and breathable it will be. Fleece linings, PrimaLoft insulation, and other synthetic fill materials determine warmth capability. Consider your local winter temps and how much insulation you need to maintain hand heat.
Waterproofing and Windproofing
Cycling through precipitation calls for waterproof membranes made of Gore-Tex or similar tech. For chillier winds, windstopper panels prevent heat loss while still enabling ventilation. If riding in rain or cold isn’t a frequent need, water-resistant DWR coatings can suffice at a lower price.
Fit and Comfort
A secure fit ensures maximum dexterity while thicker winter fabrics can affect feel and shift/brake operation. Make sure to try gloves on and grip sample bars wearing them before riding to test flexibility. Seams and stitching should avoid rubbing pressure points or irritating skin over long distances.
Aero Efficiency vs. Protection
Performance road cycling demands maximum aerodynamics while commuters need durable protection for hands during crashes. Determine whether you want a second-skin fit or a more reinforced covering based on your riding style and priorities.
Palm Materials and Grip
The grippiest gloves utilise silicone details for holding bars, even when wet. Leather, synthetic leather, and rubberized textures also enable control. Make sure palms can withstand pressure over long periods without deteriorating.
Cuff Design
Snug cuffs prevent air gaps for warmth while looser styles layer under jacket sleeves better. Adjustable straps provide customization but add bulk. Determine whether you want gloves fitted over or under outerwear cuffs before deciding on a secure closure style.
Additional Features
Bonus considerations include touchscreen-compatible fingers or pads to wipe sweat and nose drips without removing gloves in variable temperatures. Reflective accents additionally boost visibility and safety for early morning/evening commutes.
Now that we’ve covered how to choose the ideal commuter cycling gloves, let’s get to our recommendations for deep winter through summer riding.
In-Depth Reviews and Testing Methodology
Now that we’ve covered the best commuter cycling gloves to match varying weather conditions, let’s go over how we evaluated models plus answer a few FAQs riders often have about selecting the ideal options.
How We Selected the Best Cycling Gloves
At Commuter Bikes, we rigorously test cycling gloves in all weather conditions, assessing their insulation, windproofing, and water resistance against real-world data. For gloves claiming touchscreen compatibility, we verify their effectiveness through practical use. Details like fleece nose wipes and pull loops are tested for durability over hundreds of miles, and we assess palm grip in various conditions, from wet to icy surfaces.
We evaluate each glove’s flexibility, ventilation, and effectiveness in braking and shifting, testing their performance with different bike components. Our reviews are honest and thorough, highlighting any discrepancies between marketing claims and actual performance. When we can’t test gloves ourselves, we compile data from multiple sources and user-generated reviews to create a reliable, accurate rating and review system, ensuring that our readers have access to unbiased and comprehensive information.
Expert Q&A on Winter Cycling Gloves
Q: “How much do gloves really help during winter commuting?”
A: Investing in quality winter cycling gloves makes a tremendous impact defending against cold temps, precipitation, wind, and reduced dexterity thick gloves often cause. The latest fabrics shield cold air and wetness relatively efficiently compared to regular gloves while maintaining solid flexibility. You’ll ride more consistently through inclement stretches while avoiding risk of hand numbness, irritation, and crashes due to slippery grips or frozen phones/computers.
Ultimately you get out of winter cycling gloves what you pay for. Premium options really do protect better with less bulkiness or performance trade-offs compared to value-minded alternatives. Consider the extra cost as protecting against lost ride days or potential medical issues from cold weather injuries down the road.
Q: “Do lobster claw gloves really help retain warmth better?”
A: In our experience testing winter cycling gloves, lobster claws (or split index/middle fingers) do enable slightly improved insulation for two reasons:
First, less surface area gets exposed at glove tips since two fingers share one section instead of getting individually capped. This helps internal warmth reduce convection outwards.
Second, having two fingers in one pocket lets them share body heat better to maintain temperature together versus struggling to do so alone.
That said, advancements in highly insulated glove liners the past decade have narrowed any thermal advantage lobster claw gloves provided in decades past. Unless you experience severe Raynaud’s conditions limiting circulation, modern winter gloves retain warmth efficiently regardless of split fingers or not. Ultimately choosing based on budget, features, and styling you like rather than warmth differentiation is sound strategy these days. But by all means try both styles to see what works for your body!
Maintenance Guidelines & FAQ
Taking proper care of cycling gloves ensures they last across many commuting miles. Follow these tips to maintain long-term performance after initial purchase. We also tackled additional frequently asked questions riders have when selecting winter through summer gloves.
Care & Maintenance Guidelines
Cleaning
Refer to glove tag suggestions on cleaning methods or hand wash gently with mild detergent, rinse thoroughly avoiding excess water exposure that could compromise water resistant membranes, allow flat drying fully right side out instead of machine drying to avoid glue softening at glove fingertips.
Avoid Oils/Greases
Contact with oils, greases, alcohol-based cleaners/solvents can break down palm adhesion or protective treatments on glove exteriors. Gently wipe spills with warm water and mild soap. Don’t use oil-based creams before donning gloves.
Storage
Pull any adjustable wrist straps snug so gloves hold shape before storing folded flat not balled up, fists clenched, or fingers overly twisted which can deform glove shapes compromising future fit. Store in a zippered bag/pocket along with glove liners/covers if applicable.
Conclusion: Choose the Best Gloves for Your Commute
We hope this guide helps commuters select the ideal cycling gloves across winter through summer weather conditions. Proper hand protection ensures fewer lost ride days while enabling effective bike control and preventing long-term medical issues. Let our insider recommendations guide you to the perfect gloves matching local climates and riding styles. Here’s to many comfortable commuting miles ahead!
Ride on!
The Commuter Bikes Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: “How do I know when to replace worn out cycling gloves?”
A: Variations in glove usage, storage, and care mean durations will vary. But here are typical signs indicating cycling gloves could get replaced:
Palm material shows cracks or tears, grip dots disappear, seams split open, liner fabric develops holes/thins leaving insulation exposed, elastic wrists permanently lose snugness, exterior water protection degrades letting moisture penetrate instead of beading up & running off the surface. Any of the above issues will compromise insulation or bike control, risking cold hands or lack of braking/shifting response.
As a general rule of thumb, daily cycling glove commuters can expect 12-18 months of use before replacement becomes advised based on average wear rates. Weekend warriors may enjoy 2-4 years depending on annual mileage. But inspect frequently for damage issues during storage as needed.
Q: “What’s the best way to determine my ideal winter glove size?”
A: Nearly all glove brands provide sizing charts listing hand circumference around the palm area, measured from the tip of thumb to the base of your small (pinky) finger. Wrap a tape measure or strip of paper around your dominant hand to determine width then match to brand size chart listings for the match.
Keep in mind winter cycling gloves use varying insulation liners that spread apart finger spacing slightly so always size down a half step if you fall between two sizes. You want a performance fitment without compression or tightness which impedes blood circulation. Err on the side of precision handling over absolute warmth for glove fit decisions with winter cycling models.
Q: “How do I manage sweat buildup inside summer cycling gloves?”
A: Excess sweat causing moisture accumulation and dampness inside glove linings poses two drawbacks: 1) compromised insulation as trapped warmth dissipates faster, 2) slippery grip unable to safely operate brake/shift levers.
Seeking out highly breathable mesh-backed gloves provides ventilation to minimise overheating in summer gloves. Terrycloth thumb patches enable sweat wiping without removing gloves every few minutes. Carry a spare pair on extended commutes to swap out if one gets excessively damp with sweat halfway through long rides during hot weather.
Q: What are the best commuter cycling gloves for 2023?
A: The best commuter cycling gloves for 2023 include options like the Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Knit and Rapha Deep Winter gloves, which are designed to provide warmth and protection during cold weather rides.
Q: How do I choose the best winter gloves for road cycling?
A: When choosing the best winter gloves for road cycling, consider factors such as insulation, waterproofing, dexterity, and fit. Look for gloves that offer thermal insulation, are waterproof and windproof, and provide good grip and comfort on the bike.
Q: What are the features of the best winter gloves for cycling?
A: The best winter gloves for cycling should offer thermal insulation, waterproof and windproof protection, good dexterity, and comfort for long rides in cold weather. They should also provide a secure fit and good grip on the handlebars.
Q: What are the benefits of using gloves for winter cycling?
A: Gloves for winter cycling provide warmth, protection from the cold and wind, improved grip, and comfort on the bike during cold weather rides. They help to keep the hands warm and maintain dexterity for better control of the bike.
Q: Are the Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Knit gloves the best winter gloves for cycling?
A: The Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Knit gloves are highly regarded for their waterproof and windproof properties, making them a popular choice for winter cycling. However, the best gloves for winter cycling depend on individual preferences and riding conditions.
Q: What are the advantages of Rapha Deep Winter gloves for road cycling?
A: Rapha Deep Winter gloves are known for their thermal insulation, waterproof shell, and overall comfort for long rides in cold weather. They provide excellent protection and dexterity for road cyclists facing harsh winter conditions.
Q: How do I maintain comfort and warmth while riding in winter temperatures?
A: To maintain comfort and warmth while riding in winter temperatures, invest in a good pair of winter cycling gloves, layer clothing appropriately, wear a waterproof and windproof jacket, and consider using accessories like neck gaiters and shoe covers for added insulation.
Q: What are the key considerations when choosing gloves for road cycling in cold weather?
A: When choosing gloves for road cycling in cold weather, consider factors such as thermal insulation, waterproof and windproof properties, dexterity, fit, and the ability to maintain comfort and control on the bike in winter conditions.
Q: Can I use ski gloves for winter cycling?
A: While ski gloves may offer warmth and protection, they are not specifically designed for cycling and may lack the dexterity and grip required for good control on the handlebars. It’s best to use gloves designed specifically for cycling in cold weather.
Q: How can I stay dry while riding in the rain during winter days?
A: To stay dry while riding in the rain during winter days, invest in a waterproof and windproof cycling jacket, wear gloves that offer good water resistance, and consider using accessories like waterproof shoe covers and a waterproof helmet cover to protect against the elements.