Whilst the best summer cycling gloves don’t need to keep your hands toasty like winter cycling gloves, they play a crucial role in warm-weather riding. Often referred to as bike mitts, these essential pieces of cycling gear offer more than just a barrier between your skin and the handlebars. Choosing the right pair of bike mitts is a smart move for any cyclist looking to enhance comfort, control, and safety during summer rides.
Bike mitts are designed to protect your hands from the constant pressure and vibrations transmitted through the handlebars from uneven road surfaces. Padding, though varying in thickness, provides a welcome layer of cushioning, significantly improving comfort on longer rides. Furthermore, the palm material of bike mitts enhances grip, ensuring confident handlebar control, especially in damp conditions caused by rain or sweat.
Beyond comfort and control, bike mitts offer crucial protection in the event of a fall. Even minor cycling accidents can result in painful abrasions to the palms, leading to time off the bike and discomfort. Bike mitts act as a protective shield, minimizing potential hand injuries.
Fit is paramount when selecting bike mitts. Mitts that are too tight can restrict movement and dig into your fingers, while overly large mitts can bunch up, creating uncomfortable folds and potential blisters. The ideal bike mitt should fit snugly without being restrictive, allowing for a comfortable and secure grip on the handlebars.
Our Top Picks for the Best Bike Mitts
Santini Cubo summer cycling gloves
1. Santini Cubo Gloves
Best Overall Bike Mitts
The Santini Cubo gloves stand out as a product that simply performs exceptionally well without any fuss, and at a reasonable price point. This is particularly noteworthy considering Santini’s reputation for high-end, often pricier cycling apparel.
These bike mitts are designed with a super-thin backing, which is key to minimizing heat buildup during summer rides. The combination of open foam and grippy suede palm materials effectively prevents overheating and excessive moisture, keeping your hands dry and comfortable. The gloves offer excellent grip without feeling overly sticky, and provide a balanced amount of cushioning that still allows for good handlebar feel.
While riders tackling extremely rough terrain on extended rides might prefer mitts with more substantial padding, the Santini Cubo gloves strike an excellent balance. For everyday cycling, racing, and even venturing off-road, these are a versatile and reasonably priced choice, making them our top pick for overall Best Bike Mitts.
GribGrab Aerolite InsideGrip summer cycling gloves
2. GripGrab Aerolite InsideGrip
Best Bike Mitts for Grip
GripGrab’s Aerolite InsideGrip bike mitts are engineered for riders who prioritize maximum handlebar grip. These lightweight mitts feature GripGrab’s unique InsideGrip design, incorporating silicone grippers on the inner surface. This innovative design prevents the gloves from slipping against your skin, ensuring a secure and confident hold on the bars.
These mitts are intentionally designed with minimal padding, seams, and soft artificial suede palms. This construction emphasizes enhanced bar feel and direct connection, rather than plush cushioning. They are ideal for cyclists who value a close feel to the bike and responsive handling.
Following the design of many aerodynamic cycling gloves, the Aerolite InsideGrip mitts feature a pull-on, stretchy cuff without a Velcro closure. This streamlined design eliminates any potential restriction to airflow. Reflective details on the little finger add a touch of visibility for added safety in low-light conditions. For riders seeking ultimate grip and direct handlebar feedback, these are the best bike mitts.
Castelli Arenberg Gel 2 summer cycling gloves
3. Castelli Arenberg Gel 2 Gloves
Best Padded Bike Mitts for Comfort
Named in homage to the challenging Arenberg Forest sector of the Paris-Roubaix race, the Castelli Arenberg Gel 2 gloves are built for maximum hand protection and comfort, especially on rough surfaces. These are the best bike mitts for riders seeking substantial padding.
These mitts incorporate gel inserts in the palm, a feature Castelli calls the Damping System (CDS). This system is strategically designed to enhance comfort and improve handlebar control on demanding terrain. More importantly, the padding is engineered to protect the pronator teres muscle in the hand, which, when subjected to prolonged and excessive impact, can compress the median nerve – often referred to as the “laborer’s nerve.” This makes them ideal for long rides and challenging road conditions.
To maximize breathability in warm weather, the Arenberg Gel 2 gloves utilize a mesh backing. A microsuede nose wipe on the thumb adds a practical touch, preventing nose irritation during strenuous rides. For cyclists who prioritize hand protection and luxurious padding, particularly on rough roads or long distances, the Castelli Arenberg Gel 2 gloves are the best padded bike mitts available.
100% Sling SF summer cycling gloves
4. 100% Sling Short Finger Gloves
Best Lightweight Bike Mitts
Following the acclaim of the 100% Brisker gloves by our sister publication MBR, we explored 100%’s offerings for road cycling, and the Sling Short Finger Gloves impressed as exceptionally lightweight bike mitts.
The Sling gloves are a minimalist, super-lightweight option, perfectly suited for cyclists who want to maintain maximum road feedback while enhancing handlebar grip. Available in both long and short finger versions, the Sling gloves offer a barely-there feel. They are so light, you might even forget you are wearing gloves, offering exceptional ventilation and freedom of movement.
Lacking padding, these mitts are not designed for riders seeking cushioning or relief from handlebar discomfort. However, for road cyclists who prioritize a low-profile grip and maximum tactile feedback, the 100% Sling gloves are ideal. They provide enhanced grip and a light layer of protection without sacrificing road feel, making them the best lightweight bike mitts.
Giro Monaco II summer cycling gloves
5. Giro Monaco II Gel Cycling Mitts
Best Durable Bike Mitts
The Giro Monaco II Gel Cycling Mitts are crafted using premium sheep leather. Testing of the unisex version revealed an incredibly comfortable and soft palm that molds exceptionally well to the hand. Small ventilation holes across the palm’s center enhance breathability. These are the best bike mitts for durability and long-lasting performance.
Giro’s Technogel padding delivers excellent pressure distribution, shock absorption, and, importantly, durability. This combination makes the Monaco II Gel mitts ideal for long days in the saddle. They strike a balance between comfort and handlebar feel.
While some bike mitts offer even more substantial cushioning, Giro understands that excessive padding can diminish bar feel and control. The Monaco II Gel mitts prioritize a balanced approach, providing lasting comfort and durability without compromising the connection to your bike, solidifying their place as the best durable bike mitts.
Supacaz Supag cycling gloves
6. Supacaz SupaG
Best Bike Mitts for Standing Out
For cyclists who appreciate eye-catching style, the Supacaz SupaG bike mitts are a perfect choice. The “oil slick” color option, in particular, commands attention and highlights the unique design of these mitts. These are the best bike mitts if making a style statement is a priority.
The SupaG mitts feature minimal padding, appealing to riders who prioritize road feedback and a direct radial grip on the handlebars. However, they may not be the best option for those seeking significant palm cushioning for long rides.
If making a visual statement with your cycling gear is as important as performance details, the Supacaz SupaG mitts are an excellent option. They offer good build quality alongside their distinctive aesthetics, allowing you to stand out while enjoying your ride. For those who want to combine performance with flair, these are the best bike mitts for making a statement.
Altura Progel summer cycling gloves
7. Altura Progel Cycling Mitts
Best Budget Bike Mitts
Altura’s Progel Cycling Mitts represent the latest iteration of their popular line, redesigned to minimize seams in the palms and enhance gel padding for improved handlebar comfort. These mitts deliver excellent value and performance at a lower price point, making them the best budget bike mitts.
These mitts feature a synthetic suede palm, strategically placed gel padding, and silicone print for enhanced grip. A combination of bonded and sewn seams, along with a stretch Lycra upper, provides a comfortable and secure fit. The cuff is designed to sit low on the wrist, offering freedom of movement.
The Progel mitts are positioned at the more affordable end of the market, but still offer a comfortable and well-made construction. While some users have noted minor thread loosening after extended use, the overall quality and comfort for the price make them an excellent choice for budget-conscious cyclists looking for the best value bike mitts.
Sportful Giara summer cycling gloves
8. Sportful Giara
Best Bike Mitts for Gravel Riding
The Sportful Giara bike mitts, with their unique design, are specifically tailored for gravel riders seeking maximum control and finger dexterity across varied terrains. These are the best bike mitts for tackling gravel adventures.
The thumb and first two fingers are intentionally uncovered, designed to enhance rider confidence during braking and gear shifting, critical in off-road conditions. The exposed fingers also aid in hand temperature regulation and maintain overall flexibility and dexterity, essential for technical gravel riding.
Grip is ensured by a combination of gel inserts and silicone print on the palm, providing comfort and control on rough gravel surfaces, both on and off paved roads. For gravel cyclists who demand maximum control and finger sensitivity, the Sportful Giara mitts are the ideal choice, representing the best bike mitts for gravel riding.
Assos GT Gloves C2
9. Assos GT Gloves C2
Best Premium Bike Mitts
As expected from Assos, the GT Gloves C2 exude an undeniable aura of quality. The premium fabrics feel luxurious, with a breathable back complemented by comfortable yet minimalist palm padding. These are the best bike mitts for riders who appreciate high-end materials and construction.
The overall design is understated and refined, featuring raw-cut fingers, no pull loops, and no wrist closure. The gloves rely on a precise fit for a secure feel. Fortunately, with six sizes available, finding the perfect fit should be achievable.
While the limited color option (black only) may not appeal to everyone, and the price point is higher than many, it’s relatively reasonable for Assos standards. Known for durability, Assos products are built to last, and the GT Gloves C2 are no exception. For cyclists seeking a premium feel, exceptional quality, and long-lasting performance, the Assos GT Gloves C2 are the best premium bike mitts.
Best Bike Mitts: Key Features to Consider
What to Look For in the Best Bike Mitts?
When choosing the best bike mitts, several features deserve careful consideration to ensure optimal performance and comfort.
Closure Systems: Look for reliable closure systems, typically a Velcro strap or a snug wrist fit. These ensure the mitts stay securely in place and don’t shift during your ride, maintaining consistent contact and grip with the handlebars.
Nose Wipe: A soft fabric panel, often located on the back of the thumb, serves as a convenient nose wipe. This feature is incredibly useful for wiping away sweat, dealing with a runny nose, or even cleaning cycling glasses lenses on the go.
Sizing and Fit: Ideally, try bike mitts on before purchasing to ensure the correct size and fit. Check for comfort and freedom of movement while gripping handlebars. If purchasing online, verify the retailer’s return policy is accommodating. Sizing can vary across brands, so don’t assume consistency.
Sun Protection: Some summer bike mitts utilize lightweight mesh backs for ventilation, which may offer limited sun protection. If your chosen mitts lack an SPF rating or have gaps near the closure strap, apply cycling sunscreen to the backs of your hands before your ride. Hands receive significant sun exposure during cycling, making sun protection crucial.
Why are Bike Mitts Important for Summer Cycling?
As one of only three contact points with your bicycle, your hands play a vital role in control and comfort. Keeping your hands comfortable and protected is essential for enjoyable and efficient cycling. Bike mitts significantly contribute to this.
While bike mitts cannot prevent all injuries, they substantially reduce the risk of hand damage from minor falls or gravel rash. Such injuries can sideline cyclists for days or weeks, hindering training and riding enjoyment. Bike mitts provide a protective layer that minimizes the severity of potential hand abrasions.
The best bike mitts also enhance comfort by wicking away sweat, improving grip on the handlebars, providing a convenient nose/brow wipe, and adding cushioning against road vibrations. These combined benefits make bike mitts an indispensable part of summer cycling gear for comfort, control, and safety.
Image shows Santini cycling gloves
Santini cycling gloves (Image credit: Future)
Do Summer Bike Mitts Have Padding?
The level of padding in summer bike mitts varies significantly depending on design and intended use. Some of the best bike mitts incorporate padding, while others adopt a more minimalist approach.
Unpadded bike mitts may feature silicone grip zones on the palms to enhance handlebar grip in diverse weather and road conditions. Even this thin fabric layer offers a degree of protection in crashes and prevents sweaty palms from slipping on the bars.
Padding levels range from thin leather materials to substantial gel inserts, designed for the most demanding and longest rides. The choice of padding depends on individual preferences and riding conditions.
Hand protection from repeated impact is particularly important on long rides that include gravel or cobblestones. Sustained vibrations and impacts can lead to nerve compression and long-term hand discomfort or injury.
However, selecting the right amount of padding is crucial. Cyclists with smaller hands may find that excessive padding can interfere with their radial grip on the handlebars, reducing control. Therefore, assuming maximum padding is always best is not necessarily accurate; consider your hand size and typical riding conditions when choosing bike mitts.
What are the Loops on Bike Mitts For?
The loops or extra-long tabs often found at the wrist or fabric rings on the middle fingers of bike mitts may seem unusual, but they serve a practical purpose. These loops are designed to aid in removing the mitts after a ride.
Removing small, damp, and tightly fitted bike mitts can be surprisingly challenging. These loops provide a point to grip and pull, simplifying removal and preventing the mitts from turning inside out in the process.
Do Professional Cyclists Wear Bike Mitts?
The choice of whether or not to wear bike mitts is ultimately a personal one, even for professional cyclists. Some professional teams mandate glove use to minimize the risk of hand injuries that could lead to time off the bike. Preventing even minor hand injuries is a priority in professional cycling.
However, other professional riders have the freedom to choose and prefer the uninhibited road feedback and direct connection to the bike that riding without mitts can provide. The decision often comes down to individual preference and riding style.
Strade Bianche 2021 (Photo by Tim de Waele/Getty Images)
Mathieu van der Poel attacks during Strade Bianche 2021 without mitts (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images)
It’s important to remember that bike mitts are not universally favored, even among top cyclists. Tom Boonen, a retired cycling legend, famously rode without mitts, even on the notoriously rough cobblestones of Paris-Roubaix. Many other accomplished riders also choose to ride without gloves.
Modern handlebar tape offers significant comfort, grip, and shock absorption. As an alternative to bike mitts, consider upgrading to high-quality handlebar tape to enhance bar comfort and grip.
Tom Boonen (Image credit: Cycling Weekly)
Tom Boonen famously wore no mitts even over the cobbles (Image credit: Cycling Weekly)
Fingerless Mitts vs. Full-Finger Gloves for Summer?
For summer cycling, the choice between fingerless bike mitts and lightweight full-finger gloves depends on riding style and priorities. Lightweight full-finger gloves offer slightly more protection from the elements and potential abrasions. Mountain bike riders commonly use full-finger gloves, and they can be beneficial for gravel riding where hands might encounter trailside vegetation or obstacles.
Summer-specific full-finger gloves are designed with significantly less insulation than winter gloves, preventing overheating. They can also provide a welcome barrier against wind chill on cooler summer days.
Stefan Bissegger (Photo by Bas Czerwinski/Getty Images)
Stefan Bissegger on stage three of Paris-Nice 2021 with extra long fingerless gloves (Image credit: Bas Czerwinski/Getty Images)
Fingerless bike mitts are generally favored by road cyclists due to their enhanced coolness and reduced interference with bike controls. They also simplify tasks like eating while riding.
Aero bike mitts are a specialized category designed for racing and time trialling. These lightweight mitts utilize fabrics with low drag coefficients, minimizing aerodynamic resistance compared to bare skin. They typically feature minimal padding, streamlined construction with stretchy materials, and extended cuffs that reach over the wrist, eliminating wind-catching closures. Aero mitts are often paired with skin suits and aero helmets for maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
