Winter cycling shouldn't mean sacrificing comfort or control. Finding the right gloves is crucial for enjoying your rides even when temperatures plummet. This comprehensive review dives into six top contenders for the best winter cycling gloves in 2024, each offering a unique blend of features to suit various riding styles and conditions. From lightweight options for milder days to heavy-duty protection for the harshest winter storms, we've tested and analyzed the performance, comfort, and value of each glove.This guide explores key factors to consider when choosing your winter cycling gloves, including waterproofing, wind resistance, breathability, dexterity, and additional features like touchscreen compatibility. We'll examine the strengths and weaknesses of each model, helping you decide which glove best fits your individual needs and budget. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist tackling sub-zero temperatures or a casual rider seeking protection on cooler days, read on to discover the perfect pair to keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable all winter long.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent for early-season racing
- Slim design and stretchy material for exceptional dexterity
- Good bar feel
- Waterproof and windproof
- Lightweight
- Sweaty hands in milder weather
- Expensive
- Soft shell backing to keep out wind
- Hard-wearing
- Single-layer palm for good bar feel
- Good down to 0 degrees Celsius in dry conditions
- Good breathability
- Available in various colors
- Short cuffs
- Cuffs are longer on the women's version
- Extremely warm
- Windproof
- Extremely waterproof
- Soft and impressive insulation
- Durable
- Hard-wearing synthetic leather palm
- Good grip
- Expensive
- Not very breathable
- Best for cold days (under 5 degrees)
- Impressive spring and autumn performance
- High quality and value for money
- Super Ruby Lycra material with a mid-weight knit and fleecy inner
- Plenty of stretch for a close fit without restriction
- Improved dexterity on brake and shift levers
- Silicon pattern on the back for visibility
- Silicon on the palms for excellent grip, even in the wet
- Thin, so lacks padding
Read more: 5 Best Cycling Gloves to Buy in 2024
Choosing the Right Winter Cycling Gloves
Selecting the perfect winter cycling gloves involves considering several key factors. The primary consideration is the riding conditions. Bulky gloves with heavy-duty waterproof fabrics are ideal for deep winter, while thinner gloves offer better dexterity for milder conditions. A layered approach, using liner gloves under heavier gloves, provides versatility for changing temperatures.
Another crucial aspect is the glove's ability to manage both external and internal factors. The gloves need to effectively block wind and rain, preventing chilling, while simultaneously retaining body heat to keep your hands warm and comfortable. The materials, style, and thickness of the gloves are pivotal in achieving this balance.
Finally, consider additional features that enhance usability and comfort. Look for features like touchscreen compatibility for smartphone use, sufficient cuff length to prevent drafts, and strategically placed padding to reduce pressure points during long rides. These details elevate the overall riding experience.
Gallivant Ruby Vision Gloves: Lightweight & Versatile
The Gallivant Ruby Vision gloves are a mid-weight option perfect for spring and autumn riding. They feature a stretchy Super Ruby Lycra material with a fleecy inner lining, providing a comfortable, close fit without restricting blood flow. The material's excellent stretch enhances dexterity on the brake and shift levers.
These gloves offer impressive performance and excellent value for money. The silicon pattern on the back improves visibility, while the palm's silicon grip ensures excellent handlebar control, even in wet conditions. While thin, they provide good warmth for milder conditions and are comparable to higher-priced options.
Though lacking significant padding, the Gallivant Ruby Vision gloves are an excellent choice for spring and autumn rides where warmth and dexterity are priorities. They strike a great balance between comfort, performance, and affordability.
100% Brisker Gloves: Windproof Mountain Bike Gloves Adapted for Road Use
Designed for mountain biking, the 100% Brisker gloves surprisingly excel for road cycling in cool, dry conditions. Their soft shell backing effectively blocks wind, while the single-layer palm maintains great bar feel. The gloves are durable and offer good value for money at their price point.
These windproof gloves are a preferable alternative to fully waterproof gloves, as they breathe better, preventing clammy hands. They are also less bulky and offer a softer feel. Tester Rachel found them comfortable down to 0 degrees Celsius in dry conditions.
The 100% Brisker gloves are an excellent option for those seeking wind protection in cool but dry weather. Their breathability is a standout feature, providing a more comfortable experience than many road-specific winter gloves.
Climb & Conquer Four Seasons Gloves: All-Round Weather Protection
The Climb & Conquer Four Seasons gloves offer impressive versatility, performing well across various conditions. Windproof and waterproof, these gloves provide reliable protection in cold and wet weather, even handling near-freezing temperatures. They maintain a good grip and feature long, stretchy cuffs for a secure, weather-resistant fit.
While not ideal for summer use, these gloves demonstrate impressive performance in autumn, winter, and spring. The long cuffs adapt to various layering combinations, effectively sealing out the elements. Although touchscreen functionality is a slight drawback, their overall performance compensates for this minor issue.
The Climb & Conquer Four Seasons gloves provide excellent value as a single-pair solution across three seasons. Their waterproofing, windproofing and durability make them a good investment for regular riders.
Gore Universal Thermo C5 Gloves: Maximum Warmth for Extreme Cold
The Gore Universal Thermo C5 gloves are designed for extreme cold weather riding. These gloves excel at keeping hands warm, even in sub-zero temperatures, though breathability is sacrificed for warmth. The windproof Gore-Tex construction ensures effective wind protection.
These gloves are incredibly durable, boasting a hard-wearing synthetic leather palm. They offer excellent grip and exceptional longevity, making them a worthy investment despite the higher price point. The extra soft lining provides outstanding insulation, and the fit remains secure even after removing the gloves.
For riders who prioritize warmth above breathability in freezing conditions, the Gore Universal Thermo C5 gloves are a top choice. Their durability, superior insulation, and windproof properties justify the higher cost for those who need maximum hand protection in the harshest winter weather.
BioRacer Tempest Pixel Protect Gloves: Breathable Warmth for Varying Temperatures
The BioRacer Tempest Pixel Protect gloves offer a unique balance of warmth and breathability, making them suitable for a wide range of winter conditions. They excel at insulating hands from the cold and keeping out rain while also managing moisture buildup. This feature ensures comfort even when temperatures fluctuate throughout a ride.
These gloves are surprisingly breathable, effectively wicking sweat away from the skin. They performed well in temperatures ranging from 2 degrees Celsius to milder conditions. The long cuffs and reflective panels enhance safety and comfort.
The BioRacer Tempest Pixel Protect gloves represent excellent value for their performance and versatility. Their ability to handle both cold and warmer conditions, along with breathability and safety features, makes them a strong contender for winter cycling.
Velato Waterproof Gloves: Lightweight Dexterity for Racing
The Velato Waterproof gloves are ideal for early-season racing, excelling in conditions with rain, cold, and strong winds. Their slim, stretchy design provides exceptional dexterity and bar feel, which is a benefit for racers who prefer a less bulky glove.
While exceptionally dexterous, these gloves can become quite sweaty in milder weather. However, their waterproofing and windproofing capabilities significantly outweigh this drawback, providing a protective layer against the elements.
The Velato Waterproof gloves are a premium choice for competitive cyclists who prioritize a close-fitting glove with excellent dexterity and weather protection, despite the higher price point and potential for sweat buildup in warmer conditions.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Winter Glove
The best winter cycling glove depends heavily on individual preferences and riding conditions. Each of the six gloves reviewed offers unique strengths, catering to different needs and budgets. For versatility, the Climb & Conquer Four Seasons or BioRacer Tempest Pixel Protect stand out.
If extreme warmth is paramount, the Gore Universal Thermo C5 gloves are unrivaled, while the Gallivant Ruby Vision and 100% Brisker provide lightweight options for milder conditions. The Velato Waterproof gloves cater to racers needing maximum dexterity. Carefully consider the conditions you'll encounter and choose the glove that best suits your needs.
Ultimately, investing in high-quality winter gloves significantly enhances the comfort and enjoyment of cycling during colder months. By considering factors like weather protection, breathability, dexterity, and personal preferences, you can select a pair of gloves that will keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable all winter long.