Cycling gloves are more than just an accessory; they’re a crucial part of your riding gear. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, the right pair of bike gloves can significantly improve your comfort, control, and safety on the road or trail. While some riders might skip them, we strongly believe that gloves are an essential investment for any cyclist.
Bike gloves are designed to provide extra grip, cushion your hands from vibrations, and protect your skin in case of a fall. Many modern cycling gloves incorporate padding in key areas of the palm to enhance comfort, especially on longer rides. Breathable fabrics on the back of the gloves ensure your hands stay cool and dry, even when the intensity of your ride increases.
Our team of expert testers has rigorously evaluated a range of cycling gloves across different price points, focusing on value for money, overall quality, and fit. We’ve put these gloves through their paces to bring you our recommendations for the Best Bike Gloves available right now.
If you’re specifically looking for gloves to keep your hands warm in colder conditions, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to the best winter cycling gloves.
Top Cycling Gloves of 2025: Expertly Reviewed
Altura Endurance Gloves
Close-up of Altura Endurance cycling gloves showcasing their breathable mesh and subtle padding
Alt Text: Altura Endurance cycling gloves, highlighting breathable mesh fabric and thin palm padding for optimal bar feel and summer riding comfort.
Price: £35 / $42.20 / €41.70 / AU$63.10 (as tested)
The Altura Endurance cycling gloves are designed with a focus on providing exceptional bar feel without sacrificing comfort. These gloves are remarkably thin, almost like a second skin, yet offer surprising cushioning for long rides.
The back of the glove is constructed largely from a highly elastic and heavily perforated Lycra-style mesh. This design choice maximizes breathability, keeping your hands cool and dry even in warm weather. The printed fabric is also abrasion-resistant, adding to the gloves’ durability.
Practical pull tabs are included to make putting on and taking off the Altura Endurance gloves easier. However, their standout feature is the palm. It features strategically placed, thin yet effective pads at the heel and top of the palm. A Lycra-covered split in the center of the palm enhances grip on the handlebars and aids in cooling, complemented by perforations in the fingers for added ventilation.
Assos RS Targa Gloves
Detailed view of Assos RS Targa gloves, emphasizing the seamless palm construction and offset cuff design
Alt Text: Assos RS Targa cycling gloves, showcasing seamless suede palm and offset cuff designed for superior comfort and minimal friction during summer cycling.
Price: £55 / $68 / €65 (as tested)
Assos has crafted the RS Targa gloves with a focus on creating the ideal classic summer mitt. The seamless palm is made from a suede-like material that is pre-shaped to prevent bunching and irritation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable grip.
Our testers found the fit of the Assos RS Targa gloves to be nearly perfect. The offset cuff design further minimizes friction and enhances overall comfort. The high-density padding effectively absorbs vibrations without feeling bulky, making these gloves excellent for both smooth roads and rougher gravel terrains.
The material used on the back of the hand is designed for rapid moisture-wicking and offers a cooling sensation against the skin. This is particularly beneficial on hot days, helping to keep your hands dry and comfortable throughout your ride.
Giro Strade Dure Supergel Gloves
Giro Strade Dure Supergel gloves, highlighting the thick Dual Layer Technogel padding on the palm
Alt Text: Giro Strade Dure Supergel cycling gloves, zoomed in on the palm area to emphasize the thick Dual Layer Technogel padding for maximum cushioning.
Price: £34.99 / $42 / €45 / AU$51 (as tested)
Cyclists who prioritize maximum padding in their gloves will find the Giro Strade Dure Supergel gloves to be an excellent choice. These gloves are built with thick Dual Layer Technogel and Rebound Foam pads strategically placed at the base of the palm and inner thumb.
These substantial pads provide exceptional cushioning, making them ideal for long rides and rough road surfaces. Finger tabs are included to aid in removing the gloves, and a Velcro closure on the back ensures a secure and adjustable fit.
While the Giro Strade Dure Supergel gloves are on the higher end of the price spectrum, their supreme comfort and robust padding make them a worthwhile investment for riders seeking maximum hand protection and vibration damping.
Altura Airstream Mitts
Altura Airstream Mitts showcasing memory foam padding and breathable palm panels
Alt Text: Altura Airstream Mitts, close-up on the palm highlighting the memory foam padding, breathable perforated panels, and microfibre sweat wipe features.
Price: £20 / $25 / €25 / AU$37 (as tested)
The Altura Airstream Mitts strike a great balance between comfort and value. These gloves offer effective padding on the palm and the heel of the thumb, utilizing memory foam that molds to the shape of your hand over time, enhancing personalized comfort.
Breathable, wicking, and perforated palm panels work together to provide a good level of grip and comfort, ensuring your hands remain relatively dry and well-ventilated. The inclusion of a large microfibre sweat wipe is a practical feature for wiping away perspiration during intense rides.
Handy finger pull tabs make removal easier, and perhaps best of all, the Altura Airstream Mitts come at a price that is very accessible, making them a fantastic option for budget-conscious cyclists seeking quality gloves.
Castelli Icon Race Gloves
Castelli Icon Race gloves, highlighting the lightweight, skin-tight fit and minimal design
Alt Text: Castelli Icon Race cycling gloves, showcasing the lightweight, high-stretch fabric and mosaic-like print, designed for a skin-tight fit and direct bar feel.
Price: £52 / $69.99 / €49.95 (as tested)
The Castelli Icon Race gloves embrace a minimalist design philosophy, focusing on a lightweight and close-fitting feel. The entire glove is constructed from a lightweight, high-stretch fabric that provides a skin-tight fit, maximizing dexterity and bar feel.
A second layer of fabric is stitched onto the palm, featuring silicone dots to enhance grip. A single CDS (Castelli Damping System) pad is placed on the heel of the palm to provide a touch of cushioning against handlebar vibrations.
While the Icon Race gloves offer minimal vibration damping, they are designed to provide a very direct connection to the handlebars. Our testers found the minimal padding to be sufficient for most rides, especially for cyclists who prefer a more connected feel. The excellent fit and a half-moon terry cloth on the thumb for wiping sweat are appreciated features.
Castelli Premio Gloves
Castelli Premio gloves, emphasizing the close, wrinkle-free fit and seamless suede palm material
Alt Text: Castelli Premio cycling gloves, highlighting the Velcro closure for a close fit and the seamless suede palm material designed for comfort and performance.
Price: £58 / $69.99 / €54.95 (as tested)
The Castelli Premio gloves are crafted using a thin, high-stretch material similar to that found in Castelli’s Rosso Corsa shorts. This material choice results in a superb, close, and wrinkle-free fit that feels almost custom-made.
A seamless, suede-like material is utilized for the palm, with padding strategically positioned using Castelli’s damping system. We found the padding to be exceptionally well-placed, making the Premio gloves particularly well-suited for rides on rougher terrains.
Although the material is comfortable and breathable, the Castelli Premio gloves are more substantial than some other lightweight mitts. This makes them a good option not just for summer but also for slightly cooler days when you need a bit more protection from the elements. A Velcro closure on the cuff ensures a secure and adjustable fit.
Endura FS260 Pro Aerogel Gloves
Endura FS260 Pro Aerogel gloves, showcasing the rubbery silicone palm and vented gel pads
Alt Text: Endura FS260 Pro Aerogel cycling gloves, focusing on the palm with rubbery silicone texture and thick vented gel pads for enhanced grip and comfort.
Price: £39.99 / $48.20 / €47.70 / AU$72 (as tested)
The Endura FS260 Pro Aerogel gloves are designed to provide excellent grip, particularly in warm conditions where sweaty hands can be a problem. This is largely thanks to their rubbery silicone palms which offer a secure hold on the handlebars.
These gloves are a longstanding favorite among cyclists, featuring thick vented gel pads on the lower palm and a thinner strip at the top. This combination provides cushioning where you need it most while maintaining a degree of bar feel. They also feature notably large Velcro straps, ensuring a secure and customizable fit.
Practical features include sweat wipes along the thumb and lightweight, wicking fabric on the back of the hand for ventilation. Finger tabs are also included, rounding out a well-featured and reliable package.
Endura Xtract Lite Gloves
Endura Xtract Lite cycling gloves, highlighting the stretchy closed-mesh panel and slim gel padding
Alt Text: Endura Xtract Lite cycling gloves, zoomed in to show the stretchy closed-mesh back panel, strapless wrist design, and slim, perforated gel pads on the palm.
Price: £26 / $33 / €29 / AU$43 (as tested)
The Endura Xtract Lite cycling gloves are designed for warm weather riding, focusing on breathability and lightweight comfort. The back of the glove is made from a stretchy, closed-mesh panel, promoting excellent ventilation.
A Lycra band stretches across the strapless wrist, which not only contributes to a secure fit but also aids in pulling the gloves on and off. A Terry wipe covering most of the back of the thumb is useful for absorbing sweat, and finger-pull pockets are incorporated to assist with removal.
The palm is made from supple microfibre and features two slim, perforated gel pads. Further perforations in the palm enhance cooling, and a silicone Endura script adds extra grip. The slim gel layer effectively reduces vibration without adding bulk or causing excessive heat buildup, making these gloves ideal for hot summer rides.
Sportful Air Gloves
Sportful Air gloves, showcasing the open-weave palm material and short cuff design
Alt Text: Sportful Air cycling gloves, highlighting the 3D open-weave palm material and super-short cuff designed for maximum airflow and summer comfort.
Price: £45 / $40 / €39.90 (as tested)
The Sportful Air gloves live up to their name by combining multiple lightweight materials to create an exceptionally airy mitt, perfectly suited for high-summer conditions and comfortable enough for gravel excursions.
A 3D open-weave material is used on the palm, providing impressive airflow and ventilation to keep your hands cool. Substantial ulnar padding is included to effectively dampen vibrations, enhancing comfort on longer or rougher rides. There is also a terry knit section strategically placed for dabbing away sweat on hot days.
Due to their focus on ventilation and lightweight construction, the Sportful Air gloves do not offer much insulation. They are best suited for warm to hot weather riding and may not be ideal when temperatures drop. The super-short cuff design is intended to eliminate any friction at the wrist, further enhancing comfort.
Stolen Goat Blackbeard Gloves
Stolen Goat Blackbeard gloves, featuring a pirate-themed design and plush palm padding
Alt Text: Stolen Goat Blackbeard cycling gloves, showcasing the pirate-themed design, Velcro-free closure, and plush padding across the palms for comfortable summer cycling.
Price: £20 / $48 / €27 / AU$25 (as tested)
The Stolen Goat Blackbeard mitts are notable for their Velcro-free design and snug fit. These gloves are made from a combination of microfibre and cotton, offering a comfortable feel against the skin. They feature pull tabs under the two middle fingers to aid in removal.
Plush padding is strategically placed across the palms to provide cushioning and vibration absorption. Well-placed seams further enhance the overall comfort of the gloves. While the sweat wipe is on the smaller side compared to some other models, the Stolen Goat Blackbeard gloves offer a good combination of comfort, style (with their distinctive pirate design), and value.
Buyer’s Guide to Summer Cycling Gloves: Everything You Need to Know
Choosing the right cycling gloves can significantly enhance your riding experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:
Why Wear Cycling Gloves?
Cyclist wearing Sportful gloves, highlighting the style and comfort they provide
Alt Text: Cyclist wearing stylish Sportful cycling gloves, emphasizing the comfort and aesthetic benefits of wearing gloves during summer rides.
Wearing gloves while cycling offers several key benefits:
- Enhanced Comfort: Long rides can lead to discomfort and hand pain due to vibrations transmitted through the handlebars. Padded cycling gloves help to isolate your hands from these vibrations, reducing numbness and fatigue, especially on longer journeys. This can prevent conditions like cyclist’s palsy or “white finger.”
- Improved Grip: Sweaty hands can make it difficult to maintain a secure grip on your handlebars, particularly in warmer weather or during intense efforts. Cycling gloves, often featuring textured palms or silicone grips, provide a more reliable hold, improving bike control and safety.
- Protection in Crashes: In the unfortunate event of a fall, your hands are often the first point of contact with the ground. Cycling gloves act as a protective layer, preventing abrasions and cuts to your skin. The durable fabric of the gloves takes the brunt of the impact, minimizing potential injuries to your hands.
- Sweat Management: Many cycling gloves include absorbent material, like terry cloth, on the thumb or back of the hand. This allows you to easily wipe away sweat from your face, keeping your vision clear and improving comfort during hot rides.
Finding Your Perfect Fit: Cycling Glove Sizing
Close up of DHB Aeron mitts, illustrating the importance of a snug yet comfortable fit for cycling gloves
Alt Text: DHB Aeron cycling mitts, close-up shot emphasizing the snug fit and Elastic Interface pad, highlighting the importance of correct sizing for optimal glove performance.
Cycling gloves should fit snugly but not restrict circulation. They should feel like a second skin, allowing for good dexterity and control. A fit that’s too tight can be uncomfortable and limit movement, while gloves that are too loose may slip or bunch up, reducing grip and comfort.
Like shoes or jerseys, glove sizing can vary between brands. It’s always best to try on cycling gloves before purchasing to ensure the best fit for your hand shape and size. If trying before buying isn’t possible, consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart and read reviews regarding fit.
Aero gloves are typically designed to be tighter-fitting to minimize aerodynamic drag. However, they usually incorporate stretchable materials around the wrist and knuckles to maintain comfort and freedom of movement.
Material Matters: What Are Cycling Gloves Made Of?
Rapha Souplesse Mitts showcasing breathable back and durable palm materials
Alt Text: Rapha Souplesse Mitts, close-up showing the breathable Lycra and mesh back panel and the durable, protective microfibre palm material commonly used in cycling gloves.
Cycling gloves are typically constructed from multiple panels, each serving a specific purpose. The back of the hand usually features breathable and flexible materials like Lycra and mesh. These fabrics promote ventilation and help regulate hand temperature, preventing overheating.
The palm area, which requires more durability and grip, is typically made from materials like microfibre or synthetic suede. These materials offer a balance of durability, grip, and comfort.
Many high-quality cycling gloves also incorporate an absorbent wipe, often made of terry cloth or microfibre, on the thumb area. This feature allows riders to quickly and easily wipe away sweat from their face or brow without removing their gloves.
Padding: Cushioning for Comfort
Palm of Craft Puncheur mitts, highlighting silicone padding for vibration absorption
Alt Text: Palm detail of Craft Puncheur mitts, emphasizing the silicone padding designed to isolate hands from handlebar vibrations and improve cycling comfort.
Padding is a key feature in many cycling gloves, designed to enhance comfort and reduce hand fatigue. Not all cycling gloves include padding; some lighter-weight models prioritize breathability and direct bar feel over cushioning.
When present, padding is typically made from silicone or foam and is strategically placed in areas of the palm that experience the most pressure when gripping the handlebars. The type and thickness of padding can vary significantly between gloves.
It’s important to consider your personal preferences and riding style when choosing gloves with padding. Some riders prefer thicker padding for maximum cushioning, particularly on longer rides or rougher roads. Others prefer minimal padding to maintain a more direct feel for the bike. Trying gloves on and simulating a handlebar grip can help you determine if the padding is beneficial for your pressure points or if it simply adds unwanted bulk.
Keeping Them Clean: How to Wash Your Cycling Gloves
Properly washing your cycling gloves is essential for maintaining hygiene and extending their lifespan. Sweat, dirt, and road grime can accumulate in your gloves, leading to odors and material degradation over time.
Not all cycling gloves are machine washable due to the delicate materials and padding used in their construction. High heat and harsh detergents can damage these components. Always check the manufacturer’s care label for specific washing instructions.
In most cases, hand washing your cycling gloves with cool water and a mild detergent is the safest and most effective method. Gently massage the soapy water into the gloves to remove dirt and grime, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Avoid using a tumble dryer, as the heat can damage the padding and fabrics. Instead, allow your gloves to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Fingerless vs. Long-Fingered Gloves: Choosing the Right Style
Mountain biker wearing full-finger gloves for enhanced protection on trails
Alt Text: Mountain biker wearing full-finger cycling gloves, illustrating the extra protection and coverage provided by long-fingered gloves for off-road cycling.
The primary distinction between fingerless mitts and long-fingered gloves is, of course, finger coverage. Fingerless mitts, also known as summer cycling gloves, leave your fingers exposed, promoting ventilation and dexterity. They are generally lighter-weight than full-finger gloves and are favored for warmer weather riding.
Long-fingered cycling gloves, also known as full-finger gloves, offer complete coverage of your hands, including your fingers. They provide more protection from the elements, such as wind and cold, making them suitable for cooler weather conditions. Full-finger gloves also offer increased protection in the event of a crash, safeguarding your entire hand, including your fingers. They are often preferred by mountain bikers and cyclists riding in varied terrains or cooler climates.
The choice between fingerless and long-fingered gloves depends largely on personal preference, riding conditions, and the type of cycling you do. For summer road cycling, fingerless mitts are often the preferred choice, while long-fingered gloves are more common for mountain biking, cooler weather riding, or situations where maximum hand protection is desired.
