Top 15 Best Mountain Bike Gloves Reviews 2021

The best mountain bike gloves will protect your hands from the weather, inevitable falls, and scrapes while looking sharp and keeping cool.

Whether you are going uphill on a bumpy road or racing through gravel, rocky trails, equipping yourself with proper gear will help you get the job done more effortlessly. Among various tools, the best mountain bike gloves will be one of the most crucial things that every cyclist should have. 

You might see that some pro riders don’t wear mountain bike (MTB) gloves. However, they play an important role in increasing your performance, especially when you are a newbie. They provide you with additional traction and grip, helping you hold the handlebars more easily and control your bike as naturally as possible. What’s more, they keep you safe from tree branches and prevent unwanted scratches when you are sliding on the road. 

Knowing the importance and advantages of MTB gloves, many brands offer a wide range of styles and designs. This makes it more overwhelmed and difficult for you to pick the right pair. That’s why I wrote this article to give you detailed reviews of the 15 best mountain bike gloves. Let’s take a closer look.

What are The Best Mountain Bike Gloves?

It seems that the Dakine Cross Mountain Bike Gloves are the best choice among hundreds of options out there. There are different factors making it the top choice, including comfort, breathability, durability, and great safeguarding.

If you are looking for a good model to wear in fall, don’t forget to try the Giro DND Mountain Cycling Gloves. They have moisture-wicking mesh and thick palm padding for reducing shock. 

And there are many more great selections. Keep reading to see if they are any interesting features that are what you need. 

Best Overall: Dakine Cross Mountain Bike Gloves

“Four-way stretch mesh for notably breathable; 3mm foam palm padding; good shock absorption; keep your hands fresh and cool”

Best for Cold Weather: 100% RIDECAMP Protective Mountain Bike Gloves

“Silicone grip for better handlebars control; offer extra warmth; comfortable with springy finger gussets; easy to pull on and off”

Best with Padding: ROCKBROS 6MM Gel Pad Touch Screen Knuckle Protection Gloves

“Excellent fingers and knuckle protective shield; 6mm gel padding for ultimate shock absorption and lessen numbness”

Best for Light & Comfortable: Dakine Covert Mountain Cycling Gloves

“Convenient slip-on design; effective touch screen; can wick sweat away for a fresher feeling; slightly durable for many uses”

Best for Fall: Giro DND Mountain Cycling Gloves

“Elastic upper for more ventilation and comfort; offer added grip; 3-piece palm design; 2mm padding; decrease fatigue”

Best for Resistance: INBIKE DH Road Riding Full Finger Mountain Bike Gloves

“Breathable and springy fabric for optimum breathability; anti-skid rubber palm; provide great traction for easier bike control”

Best for Protection: WelMat Full-Palm Protection Cycling Gloves

“Full-palm protection; breathable liner; responsive fingertips touch screen; soft and safe for your skin; durable stitching for longer lasting”

Best for Carpal Tunnel: Souke Sports Padded Anti-Slip Winter Cycling Gloves

“Windproof design; the outer shell can resist water; offer added warmth with good insulation; great at soaking up shock”

Best for The Money: NICEWIN Padded Anti-Skid Touch Screen Cycling Gloves

“Reflective strips make you visible in the dark; easy to wipe sweat; comfortable fit; keep your hands dry; relatively enduring”

Best for Fingerless: HTZPLOO Anti-Slip Shock-Absorbing Pad Mountain Bike Gloves

“Convenient pull-on loops; soft and smooth lycra coating for better contact with the handlebars; minimize weariness; improve performance”

Best for Winter: OZERO Water Resistant Windproof Thermal Gloves

“Pull-on design for extra fit and warmth; waterproof construction to keep your hands dry; perfectly fit; offer extended lifespan”

Best for Hot Weather: MOREOK Half-Finger Breathable Cycling Gloves

“Resilient and breathable materials; thick padding on the palm; two tabs for easier taking off; wear-resistant construction for durability”

Best for Summer: INBIKE 5MM Gel Pad Shock-Absorbing Breathable Cycling Gloves

“5mm pads; soak up vibration better; unique tab for quicker removal; adjustable strap for a more perfect fit; relieve pain and numbness” 

Best for Half Finger: LuxoBike Anti-Slip Shock Absorbing Padded Gloves

“4-zone pad design for optimum impact absorption; very enduring with durable stitch reinforcement; more flexible to control the bike”

Best for Numbness/Numb Hands: Cool Change Full Finger Gel Padded Cycling Gloves

“Comfortable and thick pad enough for releasing numbness and weariness; easy to pull on and take off; machine washable”

Best Mountain Bike Gloves – Comparison Chart

The following comparison table of the 15 best mountain bike gloves will give you some basic but important specifications to let you know which model seems to be the one you need. 

Top 15 Best Mountain Bike Gloves Reviews 2021

Gloves come in different styles and designs, such as full-finger and half-finger. Different models are also equipped with different features to provide you with certain factors that meet your needs. In this part, I will give you detailed reviews of the 15 best mountain bike gloves to help you have a deeper overview.

Let’s delve into it!

Best Overall: Dakine Cross Mountain Bike Gloves

Key features

• Premium ax suede shell
• Polyester palm
• 4-way stretch air mesh
• Hook and loop strap
• 3mm foam padding
• Rubber knuckle guards
• Moisture-wicking outer layer
• Silicone grip design
• Touch screen compatible 

Product specs

Package dimensions	11.93 x 1.97 x 1.26 inches
Item weight	3.35 oz
Materials	Ax suede, polyester, and polyurethane
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	7 options

Design and Materials

Among a wide range of models and designs out there, the Dakine Cross Mountain Bike Gloves might be one of the best mountain bike gloves. They are considered to be suitable for different weather and conditions. They come in a full-finger style, and the knuckle area is made from durable rubber guards, protecting you from scratches when falling or rubbing against tree branches.

Comfort and Breathability

The outer shell is a combination of nylon and neoprene, creating a soft and thick layer enough so that you will feel snugly fit. Typically, the shell is crafted of 4-way stretch air mesh, which can absorb moisture very well. This way, you will feel more breathable, and you will not need to stop your bike and pull off your gloves just because it is sweaty inside.

Controllability and Stability

At the palm area, this model comes with a 3mm foam pad. I think this thickness is enough to dampen shock and impact. What’s more, it acts as a cushioning layer to add more softness and comfort when you cycle through bumpy roads. In addition, the manufacturer equips the palm and fingers with a silicone grip, providing additional stability so that you can hold the handlebar more firmly. 

Best for Cold Weather: 100% RIDECAMP Protective Mountain Bike Gloves

Key features

• Nylon/spandex shell 
• Pull-on closure
• Single layer Clarion palm
• Silicone grips
• Touch screen compatible

Product specs

Dimensions	11.5 x 5 x 1.5 inches
Weight	3.2 oz
Materials	Nylon/spandex
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Pull-on
Colors	5 options

Design and Materials

The next model on this list is the 100% RIDECAMP Protective Mountain Bike Gloves. They are made from top-quality nylon, which provides you with great elasticity. Therefore, you will find it more comfortable and flexible when wearing. Just make sure don’t choose a large pair. Besides, the pull-on closure makes them more snugly fit your wrist. From that, your hands will not get cold, making this model suitable when wearing in winter.

Comfort and Breathability

What amazed me most is the fabric material between the fingers. It is very comfy and elastic, helping you pull your hands on more effortlessly. However, I am not really impressed with the breathability of this model. But in general, it is great for cold weather because you tend to sweat less in winter than in summer.

Controllability and Stability

The palm and fingers are printed with silicone, which will enhance the grip capability. That means you can grab the bar and control it more stably and flexibly, even when riding on a rough trail. One of the unique features of this pair is the single layer Clarion palm that can improve your performance. But I don’t really like this thing because it doesn’t seem to be great at absorbing shock.

Best with Padding: ROCKBROS 6MM Gel Pad Touch Screen Knuckle Protection Gloves

Key features

• Lycra fabric and rubber materials
• Finger knuckles protection
• 6mm SBR gel padding
• Touch screen compatible
• Ventilating holes
• Towel cloth on the thumb 
• Hook and loop closure 

Product specs

Package dimensions	12 x 4.6 x 1.7 inches
Weight	5.61 oz
Materials	Lycra, rubber, and SBR
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	Black

Design and Materials

One of my first impressions about the ROCKBROS 6MM Gel Pad Touch Screen Knuckle Protection Gloves is the knuckle protection. All the back areas from the knuckle to fingers are protected by top-quality rubber. It will keep your finger joints and hands free from injury when facing accidents on the road. 

Comfort and Breathability

The upper of this model is made from premium Lycra fabric. What’s more, it is designed with venting holes on the palm side. This perfect combination allows the air to circulate better, making sure your hands will always be breathable and dry. 

Controllability and Stability

If the previous gloves don’t offer great cushioning, then this pair provides you with 6mm foam palm padding. This thick silica gel will absorb a large amount of shock and impact when you cycle on rough trails. From that, it will minimize tiredness and numbness. Furthermore, it gives you an extra layer of traction so that you will have a better grip on the handlebar.

Best for Light & Comfortable: Dakine Covert Mountain Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Nylon shell
• Polyester palm
• Full-finger design
• Slip-on closure
• Moisture-wicking air mesh

Product specs

Dimensions	3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
Weight	0.63 oz
Materials	Nylon, polyester
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Pull-on
Colors	5 options

Design and Materials

If lightweight and comfort are your priority when looking for the best mountain bike gloves, you shouldn’t miss out on the Dakine Covert Mountain Cycling Gloves. They come in a basic design with pull-on closure. That’s why they are very light. But don’t worry because the shell is made from high-quality nylon, improving durability.

Comfort and Breathability

The air mesh is probably the most outstanding thing about this pair. It has a great ability to wick moisture and sweat. Therefore, you will no longer experience sweaty hands when pedaling uphill or cycling at fast speed for a long time. 

Controllability and Stability

One of the main reasons leading to the lightweight of this model is the synthetic suede palms. They are not as thick as some of the available. However, they are the kind of enduring material, which will keep your palm free from scratches in case you are sliding on the road. In addition, this design provides you with added traction for a firmer hold ability. 

Best for Fall: Giro DND Mountain Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Four-way stretch upper
• Moisture-wicking, ventilated mesh
• Ax suede microfiber palm
• Silicone fingertip print
• 2mm EVA padding
• Touchscreen technology
• 3-piece palm reinforcement
• Unique Flex Zones
• Slip-on design

Product specs

Dimensions	9.84 x 4.72 x 1.57 inches
Weight	2.4 oz
Materials	Mesh, microfiber, ax suede
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Slip-on
Colors	Various

Design and Materials

Since the Giro DND Mountain Cycling Gloves come in a slip-on design, they will be very easy to put on and take off. However, they don’t have a Velcro strap, making it a little bit loose if you have a small or thin wrist. The surface of these gloves is made from highly absorbent microfiber, allowing you to wipe sweat more quickly and conveniently.  

Comfort and Breathability

The four-way stretch and air-permeable mesh are the key factors creating ultimate breathability for you. It lets the air flow better and can “dry” perspiration. As a result, you will end up with cool and ventilated hands. 

Controllability and Stability

These gloves are equipped with 2mm EVA crash pads, which will provide you with extra cushioning to decrease numbness. Moreover, this design can dampen shock and impact to give you better performance. Besides, it allows you to hold the bars more stably and control your ride more flexibly.

Best for Resistance: INBIKE DH Road Riding Full Finger Mountain Bike Gloves

Key features

• Breathable and elastic fabric
• TPR finger pads
• 100% full protection
• 5mm palm cushioning
• SCR knuckle pad
• Touch screen fingertips
• Wear-resistant microfiber
• Non-slip silicone rubber palm
• Hook and loop strap

Product specs

Package dimensions	3.94 x 3.94 x 1.57 inches
Weight	7 oz
Materials	Air mesh fabric, silicone rubber, TPR, microfiber
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	5 options

Design and Materials

What I love most about the INBIKE DH Road Riding Full Finger Mountain Bike Gloves is the thick TPR fingers and SCR pads on the back of the model. They will provide you maximum protection when you hit the road. 

Comfort and Breathability

Even if these gloves come in a full-finger style, you will not feel uncomfortable and sweaty. This is because they are made from stringy and air mesh fabric. They are breathable enough to let the air flow inside so that your hands will always be dry. Moreover, the excellent humidity-wicking ability contributes to the cool feeling inside.

Controllability and Stability

The first thing to mention about this model is the 5mm palm pad, which is great at resisting shock. It will protect your hand from the impact that might result in numbness and tiredness. Typically, it is reinforced carefully to prevent wear, and when you hit the road, the possibility of getting scratches will be decreased. What’s more, it is anti-slip, allowing you to manage your bike more easily. 

Best for Protection: WelMat Full-Palm Protection Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Breathable cotton fabric
• Non-slip PU foam patches
• Full-palm protection
• Resilient neoprene inserts
• Ventilated lining
• Velcro closure
• Two fingers touch screen

Product specs

Dimensions	7.7 x 0.73 x 8.27 inches
Weight	1.59 oz
Materials	Cotton, mesh, suede, and PU
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	3 options

Design and Materials

One of the first and most outstanding features of the WelMat Full-Palm Protection Cycling Gloves is the full-palm protection construction. It includes a soft lining inside, elastic neoprene inserts while not bulky, and non-slip PU foam. The three layers will create an ultimate shield to keep your palm safe from scrapes when you fall on the road.

Comfort and Breathability

There are two key features making this pair exceptionally ventilated. The first thing is the humidity-wicking mesh fabric. And the second factor is the soft air-permeable lining. This combination allows the air to flow more naturally to keep your hands dry. Typically, the liner material is very smooth, preventing any possible skin irritation.

Controllability and Stability

As I mentioned above, this model comes in 3 zones of palm guarding. They are reinforced with double stitches, enhancing durability. Besides, since the patches are made from shock-absorbent foam, they will absorb impact to make you feel more comfortable whenever riding through bumpy trails. Moreover, they can help you avoid slipping, improving the ability to hold the handlebars more naturally. 

Best for Carpal Tunnel: Souke Sports Padded Anti-Slip Winter Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Fleece back lining
• Windproof and water-resistant shell
• Non-slip silica gel
• 3-piece microfiber palm design
• Touch screen technology
• Elastic wrist cuffs
• Microsuede thumb

Product specs

Package dimensions	10 x 5.4 x 1.3 inches
Weight	3.21 oz
Materials	Nylon, fleece liner
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Elastic
Colors	4 options

Design and Materials

The Souke Sports Padded Anti-Slip Winter Cycling Gloves come in an elastic wrist, providing a snug fit. It also gives you additional warmth when it’s cold outside. The outer shell is made from a windproof and water-resistant material, making sure your hands will not get wet. However, they are not entirely water-repellent, so they just work on light rain or snow weather. 

Comfort and Breathability

On the back inside of the gloves, the manufacturer equips them with a soft layer of fleece lining. It creates a smooth and comfy feeling when wearing. The thumb area is made from microsuede, which is extremely soft and great at wiping sweat. You will not need to stop in the middle of the road to take off your gloves and wipe off perspiration. 

Controllability and Stability

What I like most about this model is the 3-piece palm reinforcement. It will dampen all kinds of shock and reduce a lot of fatigue and numbness, which is likely to result in a carpal tunnel. Moreover, the middle finger and palm positions have non-slip silicone gel. This design not only lets you grab your handlebars more straightforwardly and firmly but also withstands abrasion to protect your palm from injury.

Best for The Money: NICEWIN Padded Anti-Skid Touch Screen Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Springy suede and breathable spandex
• Polar fleece on the thumb
• SBR shockproof pads
• Reflective caution trips
• Two fingers touch screen technology

Product specs

Package dimensions	8.6 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
Weight	1.76 oz
Materials	Suede, spandex, SBR
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Velcro strap
Colors	Various

Design and Materials

Among various products out there, the NICEWIN Padded Anti-Skid Touch Screen Cycling Gloves might be the best mountain bike gloves for the money in terms of durability, protection, and comfort. They are designed with reflective strips on the back of the gloves, allowing you to ride safely at night. 

Comfort and Breathability

This model is made from resilient suede and ventilated spandex. This reinforcement will let the air flow in and out more easily, making sure your hands will not be accumulated with sweat. The pads are typically designed to resist shock and impact. They are considered to keep your hands cushy when bumping on rough roads. 

Controllability and Stability

Like almost all other models, these gloves are equipped with an anti-slip coating. This layer will create friction between the palm and the handlebars. As a result, you can control your bike more easily and naturally. 

Best for Fingerless: HTZPLOO Anti-Slip Shock-Absorbing Pad Mountain Bike Gloves

Key features

• Polyester and nylon
• Non-slip silicone gel
• Shock-absorbing pad
• Two-finger pull-on loops
• Soft Lycra coating

Product specs

Package dimensions	8 x 6.5 x 0.5 inches
Weight	1.59 oz
Materials	Nylon and polyester
Finger style	Half-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	7 options

Design and Materials

The most outstanding feature of the HTZPLOO Anti-Slip Shock-Absorbing Pad Mountain Bike Gloves is the two loops on the four fingers, allowing you to pull off more quickly. The combination of polyester and nylon with the double stitching construction extends the endurance of the gloves. 

Comfort and Breathability

Soft and thick pads on the palm are another excellent and worth-buying feature of this model. They not only provide you with additional protection when you accidentally hit the road, but they also have a great ability to absorb vibration. This, as a result, will lessen hand fatigue and weariness that might lead to further carpal tunnel. 

Controllability and Stability

The surface of the palm is coated with a layer of Lycra, making it more flexible while not slipping thanks to the non-slip silicone. Consequently, it will enhance your performance, allowing you to ride like you are not wearing gloves. 

Best for Winter: OZERO Water Resistant Windproof Thermal Gloves

Key features

• Windproof polyester
• Waterproof TPU
• Pull-on closure
• Elastic wrist
• Insulate cotton lying
• Anti-skid silica gel padding
• Touchscreen compatible

Product specs

Package dimensions	10.6 x 3.9 x 1.2 inches
Weight	2.4 oz
Materials	Polyester, TPU
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Pull-on
Colors	Black

Design and Materials

At first sight, the OZERO Water Resistant Windproof Thermal Gloves come in a full-finger design. This is one of the three factors making them ideal for winter. The second feature is windproof polyester construction. And the last one is the pull-on closure. It will hold your wrist snugly to prevent cold wind from getting inside so that your hands will always be warm. Besides, a water-resistant outer shell allows you to ride in small rain conditions comfortably. 

Comfort and Breathability

The lining is made from soft and smooth cotton, allowing you to slip on more straightforwardly. However, these gloves are not great at letting air circulate. This might be because they have a waterproof design. Therefore, you might not feel ventilated inside. 

Controllability and Stability

The palm and index fingers of this mode are equipped with silicone gel. They will add extra traction so that you can hold the handlebars more tightly. The top of the middle finger also has these particles, enabling you to squeeze the brake lever more exactly. 

Best for Hot Weather: MOREOK Half-Finger Breathable Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Springy Lycra and mesh fabric
• Non-slip suede palm
• 5mm shockproof SBR pads
• Microfiber cloth outside
• Ventilated holes
• Two pull tabs on the fingers
• Hook and loop strap

Product specs

Dimensions	3.94 x 3.94 x 0.2 inches
Weight	1.45 oz
Materials	Lycra, mesh, SBR, suede
Finger style	Half-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	8 options

Design and Materials

The best mountain bike gloves for hot weather should be a half-finger design and breathable. With these criteria, the MOREOK Half-Finger Breathable Cycling Gloves will be a worth-considering option. Even if they are not full-finger style, the thumb area is made from terry cloth, which is great at absorbing and wiping sweat. 

Comfort and Breathability

There are two major features making this model very comfortable and air-permeable when wearing. The first one is the stringy lycra and mesh fabric upper. They are soft and elastic to make you feel lighter, more squishy. Moreover, there are lots of air holes between the palm pads, allowing the air to go in and out more easily. And your hands will be very ventilated and cool. 

Controllability and Stability

The pads on the palm are made from 5mm SBR, which are adequately thick enough to resist the vibration you will get when riding on rough and bumpy roads. Besides, it has a silicone pattern that allows you to control the handlebars and handle the bike more easily and accurately. 

Best for Summer: INBIKE 5MM Gel Pad Shock-Absorbing Breathable Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Resilient Lycra and mesh fabric
• Hook and loop fastener 
• 5mm palm pads
• Anti-slip silicone gel
• Terry cloth design
• A pull tab included 
• A unique easy-off tab

Product specs

Dimensions	7 x 6 x 1.1 inches
Weight	2.4 oz
Materials	Lycra, mesh
Finger style	Half-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	2 options

Design and Materials

The INBIKE 5MM Gel Pad Shock-Absorbing Breathable Cycling Gloves are likely to be the best mountain bike gloves for summer. They come in a half-finger style, which lets your fingers be comfier. The wear-resistant construction makes the gloves last longer even after many uses. 

Comfort and Breathability

The first reason making this model ideal to wear in hot weather is that there are small holes on the short parts of the fingers. What’s more, it allows you to control the brake lever more accurately. The second reason is the combination of ventilated lycra and mesh fabric, making it more squishy to wear. 

Controllability and Stability

What makes me impressed most is the 5mm gel padding on the palm area. This design will add an extra layer of cushioning to absorb shock and vibration. This, as a result, will lessen the fatigue you will get while cycling on bumpy roads. What’s more, the silicone pattern is anti-slip to make sure you grip your handlebars more exactly and easily. 

Best for Half Finger: LuxoBike Anti-Slip Shock Absorbing Padded Gloves

Key features

• Stretchable Lycra upper
• Microfiber suede
• Absorbent thumb cloth
• Two-finger loops included
• Elastic band
• Velcro strap
• 4-zone pad construction
• Double-stitched construction

Product specs

Package Dimensions	8.66 x 6.1 x 1.1 inches
Package Weight	2.33 oz
Materials	Lycra, microfiber suede
Finger style	Half-finger
Closure type	Hook and loop
Colors	6 options

Design and Materials

The LuxoBike Anti-Slip Shock Absorbing Padded Gloves look like the HTZPLOO model because they are equipped with two pull-on loops on the fingers. This great design allows you to remove the gloves more conveniently and quickly without stretching the fingertips parts. One of the unique features of this product is the roomy space for your thumb to rotate comfortably. 

Comfort and Breathability

The lycra on the back of the gloves is soft and stretchable. From that, it lets the air go in and out naturally, keeping your hands and fingers cool and breathable. Moreover, it is considered to be great at protecting your hand from sunburn. 

Controllability and Stability

I really love the design of this pair’s palm. It is crafted of microfiber suede, which provides you with an additional shield to prevent your palm from scratches when hitting the road. More importantly, it doesn’t add extra weight, making you feel more lightweight and having more contact with the handlebars. This way, you will be able to control your cycle better.

Best for Numbness/Numb Hands: Cool Change Full Finger Gel Padded Cycling Gloves

Key features

• Elastic, ventilated fabric upper
• Touch screen technology
• Non-slip gel padding
• Terry cloth on the thumb
• Silicone imprinting
• Adjustable Velcro strap

Product specs

Package dimension	12.64 x 5.94 x 1.22 inches
Weight	2.89 oz
Materials	Springy fabric
Finger style	Full-finger
Closure type	Velcro strap
Colors	4 options

Design and Materials

The key feature that makes the Cool Change Full Finger Gel Padded Cycling Gloves the best mountain bike gloves for reducing numbness is the shockproof construction. The palm is equipped with thick gel padding, which will absorb almost the impact you experience on rough trails. From that, it will release fatigue and pain, which might lead to numbness. 

Comfort and Breathability

Since the upper is made from springy and air-permeable fabric. What’s more, they are very lightweight. This combination makes you feel more breathable, keeping your fingers and hands free from sweat. It is also ideal for wearing in summer or cool weather. I will not recommend this model for cold days because the liner is not insulated enough. 

Controllability and Stability

The palm is not only shock-resistant but also comes with a non-slip gel layer. Typically, it is distributed in the right place so that you can grab the handlebars more accurately and handle your cycle effortlessly like you are not wearing gloves on your hands.

Mountain Bike Gloves’ Buying Guide: What to Look For?

When you read this part, I think many of you know the benefits you get when wearing gloves riding your mountain bike. However, not all of you know which styles you should buy.

So, in this part, I will provide you with some of the essential things to look for when you are looking for the best mountain bike gloves. From that, you can easily make your own decision, and I believe that it will be the right one.

Fit & Sizing

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing the best mountain bike gloves is fit. It is absolutely futile to buy gloves if they don’t properly fit. The wrong size models can result in cramps and blisters in your hands. Almost all available brands provide the same hand measurements regarding various sizes.

Besides, you should make sure that it fits snugly, which is better than either too loose or too tight. If you buy a pair of gloves that are larger than your hands, controlling your cycle is very difficult. You will not grab or hold the handlebar firmly enough. Likewise, too tight gloves might cause discomfort, which causes fatigue when you ride for an extended period. 

There are some simple steps you can take to get an exact measurement for your hands. The tip here is measuring from your middle finger’s tip to your hand’s base. Remember to keep your hands flat while measuring to get as accurate a result as possible. 

Comfort

Comfort is also a crucial thing you need to pay attention to when purchasing other gear, not only gloves. Actually, when riding a mountain bike, you might not think too much about your hands compared to how much pain in your legs when pedaling uphill. That’s why you will need to get yourself a comfortable pair of gloves.

What’s more, you may encounter bumpy roads, so padding and shock-absorbing gloves can help reduce vibration and fatigue. You will feel more squishy to control your bike for a longer time. 

Padding & Protection

The most important and major purpose of the best mountain bike gloves is to keep your hands safe. Hence, finding the balance between cushioning and safeguarding while still feeling cushy is necessary. 

The place on which you ride your cycle might be a vital part of this element. If you are going to pedal on a place with a lot of tree branches that are ready to scratch you when you cycle by, then using gloves with an extra layer of protection will be exceptionally useful. They will keep your hands from scrapes. 

This is also correct when you go on rocky trains and choose gloves with a certain amount of padding. When the trail is too bumpy, and your bike is increasingly bouncing up and down, your chance of getting blisters will be higher. And having a pair of gloves with gel pads will be a crucial factor in absorbing impact. 

Full-Finger Vs. Half-Finger Gloves

The mentioned gloves in my list include both full-finger and half-finger gloves. So, you may wonder what the differences are between these two types. 

In fact, half-finger gloves are more common for road cycling. When it comes to design, this style seems to be better than full-finger gloves at switching gears and controlling your ride. However, in relation to protection, full-finger ones might provide you with much-needed protective layers when you are falling. 

But this also depends on the dangerous degree of the trail you will ride your bike. If it has too many tree branches and is rocky, then full-finger gloves are a more suitable option. If the road is just bumpy or has some small gravels, you can go with half-finger gloves for a better feeling of changing gears and managing your cycle. 

Durability

Durability is another significant thing to keep in mind. As you know, gloves are a worthy investment, and you might be willing to spend quite a lot on them. That’s why endurance goes a long way. You need to make sure that your gloves can last for a long period enough, at least after several or many spills. 

In addition, you may want to spend quite a lot at first on your MTB gloves, but they tend to last more prolonged than the cheaper ones. You don’t need to replace them too often. So, it turns out to be a more valuable option. 

Material

Many mountain bike gloves are either made from leather, neoprene, or vinyl. Leather is most similar to the skin on your hands and provides the most protection due to the padding it offers. Neoprene is a synthetic material that is less likely to absorb moisture than leather but offers some additional padding. Lastly, vinyl looks like plastic and is more flexible than leather or neoprene. It is best for riders who prefer a tighter fit with less movement for gripping their bike’s handlebars.

Types of Mountain Biking Gloves

The subcategories of gloves are full-finger summer mitts, lightweight full-finger gloves for the winter, and heavyweight winter gloves.

Full-Finger Mountain Bike Gloves

These winter mitts are full-fingered, feature a curved shape, and are usually made of leather or suede. They can be waterproof or can be water-resistant, but not waterproof. These gloves are designed to fit snugly around the hand, especially around the thumb. They also have a long cuff that helps keep snow out of the glove. They are less bulky than summer mitts. They’re typically made of leather, but some brands offer synthetic leather.

Lightweight Full-Finger Mountain Bike Gloves

These gloves feature a lightweight and less bulky design than the full-fingered gloves. They’re usually made of synthetics and sport a sporty mesh liner for added ventilation. Select these when you need something that dries quickly when wet, such as in the winter when it gets colder. This is because the lightweight design doesn’t hold water like heavier styles of cycling gloves will do when wet. These winter gloves come with partial leather and synthetic leather design, and although they still aren’t waterproof, they do keep the water out better than the lighter-weight summer mountain biking gloves.

Heavier Winter Mountain Bike Gloves

These heavyweight mountain bike gloves are usually made of leather and offer protection from wet and cold climates. Some come with fingerless fingertips or fingertips that allow you to get a better grip on your bike’s handlebars. They offer a snug fit and a long cuff that helps keep snow off your hands. They’re used by people who ride in cold weather climates, such as Britain or Canada.

Super-Lightweight Summer Mountain Bike Gloves

Extra light and thin summer gloves are often worn when it’s hot outside. They feature a tight-fitting design, but they aren’t as bulky as the heavyweight winter gloves for mountain biking. These summer gloves are made of lightweight materials like mesh and Lycra, which help keep your hands cool. They also tend to dry quickly when wet, making them good for hot weather riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have received a lot of questions relating to MTB gloves. I can’t answer all of them, and there are also some similar ones. Therefore, I have compiled some of the most commonly asked questions on the best mountain bike gloves and give you suggested answers.

What are mountain bike gloves?

They are the kind of gloves to wear when you are riding your mountain bike. Some of the most popular models are full-finger and half-finger styles. They are made from different types of materials, such as suede, leather, spandex, microfiber, etc. Typically, the palm area is usually designed to be non-slip, providing you with extra grip on your bars. 

Are mountain bike gloves necessary?

Although mountain bike gloves are not required, they can keep you safer in every riding by providing you with the necessary protection under extreme conditions. On a simple level, they can prevent your hands from being hurt by trees, branches, gravel, and the ground when you bump into your bike. But in a more complicated way, they give you greater control over your cycling and can help you avoid getting into an unneeded accident on the road.

How tight should mountain bike gloves be?

Well, the obvious answer would be that mountain bike gloves should be snug enough. If they are too loose, you will not be able to grip your bars in the best way. In other words, you will not control your bike as you want. Similarly, a too tight pair of MTB gloves will make you feel uncomfortable due to the pressure that impacts your fingers and palm. 

How do I hand wash my mountain bike gloves?

It will depend on the material of your gloves. For example, you should use cold water and mild detergent if your gloves are made from wool, polyester, and cotton. However, for nylon gloves, you should soak them in warm water, wash them by hand with a soft detergent. Remember to rub the gloves carefully to make sure all dirt and stains are removed. Then rinse them and squeeze out the water, and let them hang to dry naturally. 

How long do mountain bike gloves last?

Depending on the quality of the gloves, the frequency you use them, the environments where they are used, different MTB gloves will last for a certain period. However, an average pair of gloves can last anywhere from a few months to a year. Some might even last for two years. 

Why do my fingers go numb when cycling?

While riding a mountain bike, you might experience numbness, which is probably caused by extended compression of the median nerve. When you don’t sit in an appropriate riding position, you may have unintentionally put pressure on your hands. 

My Top Picks

Thanks a lot for reading my reviews of the best mountain bike gloves. I hope that this article will help you make the right decision on picking a suitable pair. 

For those who are still wondering which model you should opt for, you can consider the Dakine Cross Mountain Bike Gloves. They are enduring, soft, and comfortable. More importantly, they give you enough protection to keep your hands free of injury.

If you have to suffer from carpal tunnel, I suggest you try the Souke Sports Padded Anti-Slip Winter Cycling Gloves. They come in very thick padding on the palm, which will soak up impact and relieve numbness to make you feel more squishy.