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Your guide to cycling gloves

So why do cyclists even wear gloves?

Protection

Nobody likes to crash, period. But if you’re going to crash- you’re going to want to be wearing gloves. When we fall, our instinct is to put our hands out to catch us. The road, gravel, and dirt aren’t usually the best cushion and can lead to cuts and scrapes. Gloves help absorb the impact and prevent against painful injuries to your hands.

COMFORT

The handlebars are what we call a ‘touchpoint’ on a bike. These touchpoints should be comfortable to make the ride enjoyable. Padding on cycling gloves helps you to ride longer without getting blisters from the handlebars and will also help against vibrations and stop any discomfort. The level of padding is up to the rider. You may assume that more padding is always better- but that’s not always the case. Try on different gloves to find what level of padding is right for you. The cold can also be quite uncomfortable. Wearing gloves is a perfect protection to keep your fingers warm while you ride in cooler conditions.

GRIP

Believe it or not, handlebars can get slippery. Rain, humidity, and sweat are all factors that can cause you to lose your grip. Gloves will allow you to get a firm grip despite these issues and stay safer on your bike.



choosing a glove

short fingered vs. long fingered gloves

When choosing between a short fingered and a long fingered glove, it comes down to preference. Cyclists in all disciplines wear both and they are both great options, it just matters what you''re looking for. Short fingered gloves provide more ventilation and allow you to use your phone with all of your fingers which is a plus. Long fingered gloves offer more protection from the sun, dirt, elements, etc. and many have ''wire touch'' which allows you to use your phone with the fingers that are equipped with the patches. Overall, you really can''t go wrong with either one.

padding

There are different levels of padding, but don''t be fooled- more padding isn''t always the best choice. It really depends on the person and what they feel comfortable in. Padding protects your hand and can help you to have a more comfortable ride. The key is to try on the gloves, grave a handlebar and see how you feel. If you don''t like the amount padding, try another one. 



fit

When it comes to fit, think Goldilocks- not too small, not too big, but just right. Gloves don''t usually stretch or shrink so make sure you get something that feels comfortable from the beginning. You want the glove to be an extension of your hand and you want to almost feel like you aren''t even wearing them.  So go with what feels right. Trust your gut, you''ll usually know.


Red rock staff picks

Fox
Ranger Glove

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I have the blue camo version of this glove and love it. It looks cool, it''s very comfortable, and it breathes well. It''s not too thick which I really like too. It comes in a bunch of colors which is always nice.

Mountain/Enduro/Trail

-Jaden (Rider Goods)

Specialized
BG Grail Gloves

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I like these in both the long-fingered and short-fingered versions.  It''s scientifically proven that these gloves help with circulation and prevent numbness. That''s why they designed this glove. 

I personally get a lot of hand numbness and I''ve found that it really does work. I just keep going back to this glove.

Mountain Biking/Road Biking

-Sarah (Rider Care Specialist)



Specialized
SL PRO gloves

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These are a great all around glove for summer time. I use barmits during the winter. These gloves are super ventilated and they feel like you aren''t even wearing anything. They keep the sun off my hands and help me get a good grip.

Cargo Bike/Mountain Bike

-Bryce (Rider Care Specialist)