Cycling in winter presents unique challenges, and one of the most common complaints is cold hands. Numb fingers not only make for an uncomfortable ride but can also be dangerous, compromising your ability to control gears and brakes effectively. If you’re serious about riding through the colder months, investing in the right Winter Bike Gloves is essential.
Hands are particularly vulnerable to the cold on a bike. Exposed to the elements and relatively immobile while riding, they are often the first to feel the chill. However, cycling gloves need to be more than just bulky mittens. You need dexterity to operate your bike’s controls, handle snacks, and maintain a firm grip on the handlebars. Finding the right balance of warmth, dexterity, and weather protection is key to enjoying your winter rides.
As temperatures drop, wind chill becomes a significant factor. Even on a relatively mild winter day, the wind created by cycling can dramatically lower the effective temperature. Therefore, the primary function of winter bike gloves is wind protection. Most designs incorporate a windproof and/or waterproof outer layer combined with an insulating inner layer, typically fleece or synthetic materials like Primaloft, to trap heat and keep your hands warm.
However, warmth without breathability can lead to sweaty hands, which can then become cold and clammy. High-quality winter bike gloves address this with breathable fabrics that allow moisture vapor to escape, maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the glove. This balance of protection and breathability is what distinguishes performance-oriented winter bike gloves.
Dexterity is another crucial consideration. You need to be able to feel your controls and react quickly. Many winter bike gloves are designed with less insulation on the palm to improve grip and bar feel.
To help you choose the best winter bike gloves for your needs, we’ve divided our recommendations into two categories: all-rounder gloves for general winter conditions and deep-winter gloves for extreme cold. All-rounder gloves offer a balance of warmth and dexterity for a wider temperature range, while deep-winter gloves prioritize maximum warmth for the coldest days, potentially sacrificing some dexterity.
If cold hands are a concern, remember that cold feet are another common winter cycling woe. Consider pairing your new winter bike gloves with quality winter cycling shoes or cycling overshoes for complete cold-weather protection.
Quick Picks: Top Winter Cycling Gloves
Here’s a quick guide to our top winter bike gloves selections, including both versatile all-rounder options and robust deep-winter models.
All-Rounder Winter Bike Gloves
Best Warmth-to-Bulk Ratio
Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves
1. Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves – Optimal balance of warmth and dexterity for varied winter conditions.
The Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves excel in providing significant warmth without excessive bulk. These gloves are comfortable, breathable, and offer excellent weather protection, making them ideal for most winter days that aren’t brutally cold. Dexterity is a standout feature, and their low-profile design means they feel less cumbersome than many winter gloves.
Pros:
- Comfortable fit
- Grippy, unpadded palm for excellent bar feel
- High dexterity
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Shorter cuffs may require longer jacket sleeves for complete coverage
Best for Mixed Weather Conditions
Castelli Perfetto RoS winter cycling gloves
2. Castelli Perfetto RoS Glove – Excellent all-around performance in cool and damp conditions.
The Castelli Perfetto RoS Glove is a top-tier choice for cool weather cycling. They provide ample insulation to ward off chilly temperatures, while the Gore Infinium Windstopper fabric effectively blocks cold winds. Dexterity and handlebar feel are exceptional, and the cuff design offers good wrist coverage.
Pros:
- Close, performance fit
- Minimal bulk for great dexterity
- Excellent wind and water resistance
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof for heavy rain
Best Value Mid-Weight Gloves
Santini Adapt Winter Gloves
3. Santini Adapt Winter Gloves – Affordable warmth and weather protection for milder winter rides.
Rated for temperatures down to freezing, the Santini Adapt Winter Gloves offer impressive dexterity for their level of warmth. A waterproof membrane keeps rain out while maintaining breathability, and a fleece lining adds cozy warmth. These gloves are a solid value for cyclists seeking mid-weight winter protection.
Pros:
- Waterproof construction
- Warm fleece lining
- Grippy palm
Cons:
- Shorter, non-adjustable cuff
Deep-Winter Bike Gloves
Best Deep Winter Gloves for Performance
Castelli Estremo winter cycling gloves
1. Castelli Estremo Winter Gloves – High-performance warmth for sub-freezing temperatures without sacrificing control.
Castelli has successfully created a winter bike glove that’s warm enough for sub-zero temperatures yet maintains a performance feel. The Estremo gloves are surprisingly lightweight, allowing for comfortable finger movement and excellent bike control.
Pros:
- Exceptional warmth in very cold conditions
- Long Windstopper cuff for maximum heat retention
- Exceptionally grippy palm
Cons:
- Could benefit from more reflective elements for low-light visibility
Best Deep Winter Gloves for Maximum Warmth
Giro Proof
2. Giro Proof Winter Gloves – Uncompromising warmth for the coldest, wettest winter rides.
Designed for extreme cold and wet conditions, the Giro Proof winter bike gloves prioritize warmth above all else. The combination of technical fabrics and smart design still allows for good freedom of movement despite their bulk, and the overall build quality is impressive.
Pros:
- Impressive blend of high-performance fabrics
- Durable, high-quality construction
- Incorporates recycled materials
Cons:
- Finger tips can get slightly cold in extreme sub-zero temperatures
Best Value Deep-Winter Gloves
Endura Strike winter cycling gloves
3. Endura Strike Gloves – Affordable deep-winter protection with a focus on value and performance.
The Endura Strike gloves offer a great balance of insulation and waterproofing at a very accessible price. While the cuffs could be longer and touchscreen compatibility isn’t perfect, these gloves deliver impressive deep-winter performance for the money.
Pros:
- Waterproof and windproof
- Good dexterity for the price point
- Environmentally conscious materials
Cons:
- Touchscreen functionality is not very effective
Our Top Picks in Detail: Best Winter Cycling Gloves
All-Rounder Winter Bike Gloves: Detailed Reviews
Best Warmth vs Bulk: Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves
Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves being pulled on
The Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves: Sleek, high-performance winter bike gloves for serious cyclists. (Image credit: Simon Smythe)
Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves
Best winter cycling glove for a low-bulk fit.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >32ºF/ >0ºC
- Material: Windproof, DWR-coated synthetic suede
- Colors: Black
- Sizes: XS – XL
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally comfortable fit
- Low-bulk, streamlined design
- Grippy, unpadded palm for optimal bar feel
- Excellent dexterity and lever feel
Reasons to Avoid:
- High price tag
- Suede palm can absorb water in heavy rain
- Shorter cuffs may require longer jacket sleeves
The standout feature of the Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves is their remarkably low bulk. In testing, we were impressed by how effectively these low-profile winter bike gloves kept hands warm, even in very cold temperatures. They perform exceptionally well and are ideal winter bike gloves for cyclists who prioritize performance.
We particularly appreciated the minimal padding, which provided excellent grip in all weather conditions and zero compromise on dexterity. Operating touchscreens and unwrapping energy bars mid-ride was easy. These are a high-performance choice and truly stand out as the best winter bike gloves for winter racing.
The windproof back effectively blocks the cold, but it’s important to note that these gloves are water-resistant, not waterproof. While the DWR coating on the back sheds light rain, the synthetic suede palms can absorb water in sustained rain.
The Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves are undeniably a premium investment, priced higher than competitors like the Castelli Perfetto RoS gloves. However, if you demand top-tier performance and a sleek, low-bulk feel, especially for racing, these are the perfect winter bike gloves.
Read our full Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves review here.
Best for Mixed Conditions: Castelli Perfetto RoS Gloves
Castelli Perfetto RoS gloves against a turquoise background
Castelli Perfetto RoS gloves: Winter bike gloves offering warmth without bulk for versatile riding. (Image credit: Future)
Castelli Perfetto RoS Gloves
Best for mixed weather conditions.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: 42 – 50ºF/ 6-10ºC
- Material: Gore Infinium Windstopper
- Colors: Black
- Sizes: XS – XXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent close fit
- Low bulk design provides great dexterity
- Wind and water protection
- Breathable to prevent overheating
Reasons to Avoid:
- Will eventually wet out in heavy rain
In our testing, we were extremely impressed with the Castelli Perfetto RoS gloves, considering them among the best winter bike gloves available and awarding them a Cycling Weekly Editor’s Choice designation.
Utilizing the advanced Gore Infinium Windstopper fabric, the Castelli Perfetto RoS gloves achieve that delicate balance of insulation, water repellency, and windproofing, while maintaining excellent bar feel, riding comfort, and dexterity. They are truly versatile winter bike gloves.
The light fleece lining provides sufficient warmth for cool conditions, and they remain dry even after hours of light rain. While not fully waterproof for torrential downpours, even when moisture penetrates, your hands remain warm, and you retain the dexterity needed to operate controls and manage nutrition on the go.
Read our full Castelli Perfetto RoS Glove review here.
Best Value Mid-Weight Glove: Santini Adapt Winter Gloves
Santini Adapt Winter Gloves
Santini Adapt Winter Gloves: Dexterous winter bike gloves offering warmth and value. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)
Santini Adapt Winter Gloves
Best value mid-weight glove.
[Read our expert review here.]
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: 32°F – 50°F/ 0°C – 10°C
- Material: Breathable waterproof membrane with fleece lining
- Colors: Black
- Sizes: XXS, M/L, XL/XXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent value for money
- Waterproof construction
- Warm fleece lining
- Grippy palm for secure handling
- Good dexterity
Reasons to Avoid:
- Cuff is a bit short and lacks adjustability
The [Santini Adapt Winter Gloves](https://www.example.com/santini-adapt-winter-gloves – replace with actual review link if found) are remarkably thin yet rated down to freezing temperatures, a testament to their efficient design. Testers found that their slim profile offered better dexterity compared to bulkier winter bike gloves.
The triple-layer breathable fabric features a waterproof and windproof laminate, while the fleece lining retains warmth. This combination makes these gloves suitable for both mid-season and winter rides in both wet and dry conditions. The wrist cuff is simple to pull on, though riders with longer arms might find it a bit short.
The extensive silicone non-slip pattern on the palm provides excellent grip, and touchscreen-compatible fingertips on the forefinger and thumb allow you to use your phone or cycling computer without removing your gloves and exposing your hands to the cold. For cyclists seeking quality winter bike gloves without breaking the bank, the Santini Adapt Winter Gloves are a strong contender.
Best for Breathability: Giro Xnetic H20 Gloves
Giro Xnetic H20 gloves
Giro Xnetic H20 gloves: Lightweight, breathable, and waterproof winter bike gloves for versatile winter riding. (Image credit: Luke Friend)
Giro Xnetic H20 Gloves
Comfortable ‘knit’ construction.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >40ºF/ 5ºC
- Materials: One-piece Xnetic knit shell with waterproof membrane and hypoallergenic lining
- Colors: Black, Highlighter Yellow
- Sizes: S-XL
Reasons to Buy:
- Lightweight and minimal (just over 60g per pair)
- Excellent breathability without compromising waterproofness
- High level of stretch and comfortable fit
Reasons to Avoid:
- Reflective details are minimal
Giro’s Xnetic H20 gloves are truly waterproof, but they are more than just rain gloves. Their lightweight, minimalist design makes them excellent all-around winter bike gloves for cool conditions, whether for long road rides or quick trips around town. At only 62g per pair, they are easily packable.
The low weight and high stretch knit construction of the Xnetic gloves make them feel barely there. They conform closely to the hand, creating a good seal at the wrist to prevent drafts.
Unlike neoprene gloves, the Xnetic gloves offer superior breathability, preventing sweaty hands even during harder efforts. Despite their breathability, they provide excellent warmth in temperatures in the low 40s Fahrenheit (single digits Celsius) and keep hands dry through showers and heavier rain.
The technology is subtly integrated. These simple-looking winter bike gloves utilize a three-layer fabric that feels almost like a knit glove, combining a durable outer layer with a waterproof membrane and a hypoallergenic lining. It’s a highly effective combination for comfortable winter cycling.
Read our full Giro Xnetic H20 gloves review here.
Best for Mild Weather: Specialized Prime Series Thermal Gloves
Specialized Prime Series Thermal gloves
Specialized Prime Series Thermal Gloves: Winter bike gloves using Polartec fabric for warmth in milder conditions. (Image credit: Simon Smythe)
Specialized Prime Series Thermal Gloves
Best winter cycling glove for milder weather.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >41ºF/ >5ºC
- Material: Polartec® Neoshell® /hydrophobic AX Suede palm
- Colors: Black
- Sizes: S – XXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Windproof with low bulk
- Comfortable fit
- Lightweight for a winter glove
- Accurate sizing and good cuff design
Reasons to Avoid:
- May not be warm enough below 41ºF/ 5°C
We highly recommend the Specialized Prime Series Thermal gloves as excellent winter bike gloves for milder winter conditions, particularly late autumn and early spring riding in changeable weather.
The Polartec Neoshell backs are effectively waterproof, and the AX suede palms are water-resistant. They handle light showers and drizzle well, but like other microfiber palms, they will eventually wet out in prolonged rain.
The cuff design is well-executed, featuring a Velcro adjustable closure, a departure from the common stretchy cuff. This allows for a customized fit, letting you wear the cuff over or under your jacket sleeve without adding bulk.
Their lightweight construction promotes breathability, making them ideal for rides that start cold and warm up, or vice versa. They are also packable enough to stash in a pocket if your hands overheat.
The main limitation is their lower temperature range, meaning you’ll likely need warmer winter bike gloves like the Rapha Pro Team Winter Gloves or Rapha Deep Winter gloves for truly freezing conditions. However, for milder winter days, the Specialized Prime Series Thermal Gloves are an excellent choice.
Read our full Specialized Prime Series Thermal Gloves review here.
DEEP-WINTER BIKE GLOVES: Detailed Reviews
Best Deep Winter Gloves Overall: Castelli Estremo Winter Gloves
Castelli Estremo Winter gloves
Castelli Estremo Winter gloves: Equipped for extreme cold with windproof material and long cuffs. (Image credit: Luke Friend)
Castelli Estremo Winter Gloves
Best deep winter gloves for performance.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >23ºF/ >-5ºC
- Material: Gore-Tex Infinium windproof fabric
- Colors: Black
- Sizes: XS-XXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Super warm in freezing temperatures
- Lightweight – 63g (size M)
- Long adjustable cuff seals in heat
- Generous nose wipe on thumb
- Very grippy palm
Reasons to Avoid:
- Could use more reflective detailing
The Castelli Estremo gloves are marketed as Castelli’s warmest cold-weather winter bike gloves, and our testing confirms this. The Estremos kept hands warm in sub-freezing temperatures while still allowing for good bar feel and control.
The fabric combination is excellent. Gore-Tex Windstopper material on the back and cuff blocks harsh weather, and the long, adjustable cuff effectively seals in warmth. The fleece lining feels luxurious, adding to the overall high-quality feel of these winter bike gloves. Details like silicone palm grippers and padding are well-executed, though more reflectivity would be beneficial.
While the Estremo gloves are a significant investment, the comfort and warmth they provide in extreme cold are invaluable for dedicated winter cyclists. If you plan to cycle through the coldest months, these winter bike gloves are a worthwhile investment.
Read more: Castelli Estremo winter gloves full review
Best for Absolute Warmth: Giro Proof Winter Gloves (Five-Finger)
Giro Proof winter gloves
Giro Proof winter gloves: Exceptionally warm winter bike gloves, though a bit bulky. (Image credit: Luke Friend)
Giro Proof Winter Gloves (Five-Finger)
Best deep winter gloves for absolute warmth.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >21ºF/ >-6ºC
- Material: Polartec 100g insulation
- Colors: Black
- Sizes: XS-XXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Impressive combination of technical fabrics
- Good range of motion despite bulk
- High build quality and durability
- Uses recycled materials
Reasons to Avoid:
- Narrow nose wipe
The Giro Proof is the five-finger version of the Giro Proof 100 lobster mitts, offering the same impressive warmth but with increased dexterity due to the traditional glove design. These are serious winter bike gloves for extreme cold.
The build quality is high, with durable fabrics providing excellent protection from the elements. One minor drawback is the narrow nose wipe, which is less effective than wider designs. However, overall, these sturdy winter bike gloves kept us comfortably warm throughout the coldest winter days.
Read our full Giro Proof winter gloves review here.
Best Value Deep-Winter Gloves: Endura Strike Gloves
Endura Strike gloves are shown on hands held up against a brick wall and are a great winter cycling glove for affordability
Endura Strike gloves: Windproof and waterproof winter bike gloves offering excellent value. (Image credit: Hannah Bussey)
Endura Strike Gloves
Best value deep-winter gloves.
Read our expert review here.
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >32ºF/ >0ºC
- Material: Stretch outer fabrics with eco-friendly PFC-free DWR finish
- Colors: Black, yellow, red/brown
- Sizes: S – XXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Waterproof and windproof
- Surprising dexterity and grip
- Reflective details for visibility
- Good-sized nose wipe
- Excellent price point
Reasons to Avoid:
- Shorter cuffs may leave gaps with jacket sleeves
- Touchscreen compatibility is ineffective
We highly recommend the Endura Strike gloves as outstanding winter bike gloves for their price. While not as refined as higher-end models, they provide impressive wind and waterproof protection, performing well in both categories.
The Endura Strike gloves feature a gel palm and silicone details, providing excellent grip on handlebars and controls in all weather conditions. The shorter cuff might be an issue for riders with longer arms, potentially creating a gap between glove and jacket sleeve.
The stretchy windproof back panel effectively balances wind protection and breathability. While not fully waterproof in torrential rain, the waterproofing is impressive for the price, and even when wet, they maintain warmth thanks to their wind-blocking properties. For cyclists seeking affordable and effective deep-winter winter bike gloves, the Endura Strike Gloves are hard to beat.
Read our full Endura Strike gloves review here.
Best for Fit: Gorewear C5 Gore-tex Thermo Gloves
Gorewear C5 Gore-tex Thermo Gloves
Gorewear C5 Gore-tex Thermo Gloves: Waterproof and warm winter bike gloves with Gore-tex membrane. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)
Gorewear C5 Gore-tex Thermo Gloves
Waterproof and warm.
[Read our expert review here.]
Specifications:
- Temperature Range: >23+ºF/ >-5ºC
- Materials: Polyester, Gore-tex
- Colors: Black, neon yellow
- Sizes: XS-XXXL
Reasons to Buy:
- Waterproof Gore-tex membrane
- Breathable (to a degree)
- High-visibility neon yellow option
- Good dexterity
Reasons to Avoid:
- Fingers may be too long for some
- Can get slightly damp from sweat during high exertion
The [Gorewear C5 Gore-tex Thermo Gloves](https://www.example.com/gorewear-c5-gore-tex-thermo-gloves – replace with actual review link if found) are versatile winter bike gloves suitable for most cyclists riding in near-freezing temperatures, provided they maintain a warm core body temperature.
Testers found them sufficiently insulated to prevent frozen fingers yet thin enough to allow good dexterity for operating brakes and shifters. Finger length may be a bit long for some individuals.
The Gore-Tex fabric effectively blocks wind and water while allowing some moisture vapor to escape. Like all laminate technologies, breathability has its limits, so these are best suited for colder days rather than warmer mid-season rides.
The 100% polyester insulation retains warmth even if damp, a benefit over down insulation. The neon yellow option provides excellent visibility for urban commutes and low-light conditions. The Gorewear C5 Gore-tex Thermo Gloves are reliable winter bike gloves for a range of winter cycling conditions.
Expert Advice on Winter Bike Gloves
Do Winter Cycling Gloves Really Make a Difference?
Absolutely, yes. Investing in dedicated winter bike gloves is a game-changer for winter cycling comfort and safety.
While you might consider using general winter gloves, cycling-specific winter bike gloves offer crucial features not found in standard gloves. Unlike bulky ski gloves, winter bike gloves are designed to provide warmth without sacrificing the sensitivity needed to operate brakes, shifters, and electronic groupsets efficiently.
Instead of relying on super-thick padding, winter bike gloves utilize a combination of advanced fabrics to minimize weight and maximize dexterity while providing essential weather protection. Windproofing is paramount, and fabrics like Gore Windstopper (or Infinium) are common in high-quality winter bike gloves, offering wind resistance, water repellency, and breathability. The type of inner padding and membrane varies depending on the intended temperature range, from milder chilly days to deep winter conditions.
With the prevalence of cycling computers and cycling apps, many winter bike gloves now incorporate touchscreen compatibility in the fingertips, eliminating the need to remove a glove to use your devices in the cold. For comfortable, safe, and tech-friendly winter cycling, winter bike gloves are indispensable.
What Makes Winter Cycling Gloves Windproof?
The primary defense against cold winter air in winter bike gloves is an impermeable windproof layer. This layer is specifically designed to block cold air and wind from reaching your hands.
Gore’s Windstopper fabric (also known as Infinium) is a popular and effective choice for windproofing. It’s used in many top-rated winter bike gloves across various brands. Other manufacturers also offer equally effective windproof fabrics.
Regardless of brand, the key is that these fabrics block the wind while maintaining breathability to prevent overheating and sweaty hands. This windproof layer is crucial for staying warm and comfortable during winter cycling.
Capo winter gloves
Capo winter gloves: Many winter bike gloves utilize windproof fabrics for optimal cold-weather protection. (Image credit: Wiggle)
How Do Winter Cycling Gloves Retain Heat?
The second critical component of winter bike gloves is a thermal layer. This layer not only insulates against cold air but also traps and retains the warmth generated by your hands.
Unlike ski gloves, the thermal layer in winter bike gloves cannot be excessively thick. Maintaining dexterity is vital for feeling controls and operating brake and gear levers effectively. Therefore, winter bike gloves balance thermal insulation with the need for finger sensitivity and control.
Rapha winter cycling gloves
Rapha winter cycling gloves: Look for winter bike gloves with a quality thermal layer to trap warm air. (Image credit: Wiggle)
How Do Winter Cycling Gloves Perform in the Rain?
Riding in the rain is often unavoidable for dedicated winter cyclists, making rain performance a key factor in choosing winter bike gloves.
In milder temperatures, complete waterproofing may not be essential. Your skin is naturally water-resistant, so gloves that primarily focus on warmth can suffice in cool, but not freezing, conditions. Neoprene gloves can be a good option for wet and cool (but not cold) weather, often offering a basic design without padding or cuff adjustments.
However, when temperatures drop further, and rain (or even snow) becomes a factor, more serious winter bike gloves with a waterproof outer layer are necessary.
Like windproof layers, waterproof layers in winter bike gloves should be impermeable to external moisture while remaining breathable to prevent overheating, especially on longer rides.
Don’t forget about your feet! Pairing waterproof winter bike gloves with the best cycling overshoes is crucial for comprehensive wet-weather protection in winter.
GripGrab winter cycling gloves
GripGrab winter cycling gloves: Neoprene winter bike gloves, like these, are suitable for wet but milder conditions. (Image credit: Wiggle)
What Makes a Good Cuff on Winter Cycling Gloves?
For breezy winter rides, winter bike gloves with long cuffs are essential to prevent cold air from entering your sleeves and chilling you.
However, cuff length isn’t the only factor. The cuff design needs to work in harmony with your jersey or jacket. Effectively sealing in warmth and blocking drafts is crucial for staying comfortable during long winter miles.
You’ll need to decide whether to wear your glove cuffs over or under your jacket cuffs.
If your jacket has loose sleeves, choose winter bike gloves with tighter cuffs that your jacket sleeves can pull over. This is especially important in the rain, as waterproof jacket sleeves can channel water into your gloves if the cuffs aren’t properly sealed. Velcro straps or zippers on glove cuffs can help, but tucking cuffs in is often the best defense against rain entry.
In dry weather, wearing cuffs over sleeves is generally easier, especially if you frequently remove your gloves to use a touchscreen.
If you overheat during a ride, pulling down cuffs can be a quick way to cool down, as wrists are an effective area for regulating body temperature.
Velcro cuff on a winter cycling glove
(Image credit: Wiggle) – Velcro cuffs on winter bike gloves can help seal out drafts and rain.*
What Are the Best Palm Materials for Winter Cycling Gloves?
Riding on wet or icy roads demands maximum bike control. Maintaining a secure grip on handlebars and brake levers is crucial, especially with smooth bar tape.
The best winter bike gloves feature slightly tacky palm materials to ensure a firm grip, even in wet conditions. These materials can range from silicone grippers applied directly to the palm to textured synthetic fabrics.
For sharing your ride on social media, touchscreen compatibility is a valuable feature. Many modern winter bike gloves incorporate special fingertips designed to work with smartphone screens, allowing you to snap photos and update your status without exposing your hands to the cold.
Grippy palm on a cycling glove
(Image credit: Wiggle) – Grippy palms are essential for secure handlebar control with winter bike gloves.*
What’s a Nose Wipe and Do I Need One?
A nose wipe is an absorbent patch, typically located on the thumb of winter bike gloves, designed for wiping a runny nose. Most quality winter bike gloves include this feature.
However, nose wipes vary in effectiveness. If you experience a runny nose while cycling in cold weather, look for winter bike gloves with a generously sized nose wipe made from a soft, fleece-like material that’s comfortable against the skin. Nose wipes can also be useful for cleaning rain or road grime off your cycling glasses, though perhaps not immediately after dealing with a runny nose!
How We Test Winter Bike Gloves
Our winter bike glove testing process involves riding in diverse winter weather conditions and temperatures. We assess each pair for warmth, breathability, and water resistance. Fit and dexterity are also rigorously evaluated, ensuring gloves allow for safe and easy operation of brakes, gears, and GPS devices (as well as phone cameras for those essential cycling selfies!).
See more about our testing process and star rating system here.
