This review delves into the world of cycling gloves, specifically comparing the merits of a more traditional, robust design against the sleek, minimalist options flooding the market. We examine a pair of fingerless cycling gloves priced at around $15, focusing on their key features and overall performance. The analysis explores the design choices, including the presence of an elasticated wrist strap (a point of contention for the reviewer), and the level of padding offered for various ride durations.The central question revolves around finding the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics. Do cyclists need the extra padding and potentially bulky design of older-style gloves, or are the lightweight, modern alternatives sufficient? This review offers a detailed assessment of these trade-offs, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of these budget-friendly gloves, and helping you decide if they are the right choice for your cycling needs and preferences, regardless of whether you're a triathlete or simply enjoy a casual ride.
Pros And Cons
- Good price (around 15 bucks)
- Suitable for short cycling trips (around one hour)
- Lack of padding
- Elastic strap considered useless by the reviewer
- May not be durable enough for long cycling sessions (six hours or more)
Read more: 5 Best Cycling Gloves to Buy in 2024
Dry Board Fingerless Gloves: First Impressions
I recently reviewed a pair of dry board fingerless cycling gloves. The initial discussion centered around the ideal glove for cycling, leading to two key features: fingerless design and palm flexibility.
The fingerless design was a key feature requested. The reviewer emphasized the importance of range of motion (ROM) in the palm area, highlighting a preference for gloves with more material and less of a sleek, modern look.
This preference steered the conversation towards what some might consider 'old-school' cycling gloves or those better suited for triathlon or trail biking—providing more robust coverage and dexterity. The design differed from the modern slim-fitting types.
A Closer Look at Design Features
One feature initially perceived as unnecessary was the elasticated wrist strap. The reviewer questioned its practicality, suggesting that its elastic nature may render it superfluous.
This particular element added to the overall cost but felt unneeded, conflicting with the glove's otherwise sleek design aesthetic. This seemingly unnecessary addition detracted from the overall feeling of quality and design cohesiveness.
The trend is moving towards cycling gloves without such straps. Modern gloves typically focus on minimalist designs and often eliminate the added wrist strap. This shift is visible across the market.
Performance, Price, and Value
Despite the minor design quibble, the reviewer praised the gloves' overall value, considering the price of around $15 as excellent, especially compared to higher-priced brands.
The gloves utilize double stitching and material for durability. However, the lack of significant padding may not suffice for long rides (six hours or more). For shorter rides, this could be perfectly adequate.
The reviewer concludes that these gloves are great for shorter rides, offering good value for the price. They are a solid option for those seeking a cost-effective choice for one-hour or less cycling.
Final Verdict and Conclusion
The reviewer found the gloves to be a good value for the price, especially for shorter rides. The lack of extra padding might be a drawback for longer rides, but the affordability and overall comfort make them a worthwhile consideration.
The reviewer’s dislike for the extra wrist strap is a personal preference; many cyclists might find this feature beneficial. The lack of significant padding might be a disadvantage for longer rides.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase depends on individual needs and preferences. For shorter cycling sessions, these gloves offer a cost-effective solution with good comfort. For long rides, more padded options may be necessary.