The Ultimate Guide to Cycling Gloves for Women: Find Your Perfect Fit

Ladies, let's talk about cycling gloves. They're not just an accessory, they're an essential piece of kit for any woman who loves to ride. Whether you're clocking up the miles on your road bike, hitting the trails on your mountain bike, or just enjoying a leisurely cycle in the park, the right pair of gloves can make a world of difference.

Why You Need Cycling Gloves

Cycling gloves offer a multitude of benefits for female cyclists:

• Protection: Gloves act as a barrier between your hands and the road, protecting you from scrapes, grazes, and blisters. This is especially important if you're mountain biking or riding on rough terrain.
• Comfort: Padding in cycling gloves absorbs vibrations from the road, reducing hand fatigue and preventing numbness. This means you can ride longer and enjoy your cycling experience more.
• Grip and Control: Gloves enhance your grip on the handlebars, especially when your hands are sweaty. This gives you more confidence and control, particularly when braking or navigating tricky terrain.
• Weather Protection: Gloves provide insulation in cold weather and help wick away sweat in warm weather, keeping your hands comfortable in all conditions.
• Style: Let's face it, cycling gloves can be stylish too! With a variety of colours and designs available, you can find a pair that complements your cycling kit and expresses your personal style.

Glove Technology: What to Look For

When choosing cycling gloves, there are a few key features to consider:

• Material and Breathability: Look for breathable materials like mesh and Lycra that allow air to circulate, keeping your hands cool and dry.
• Padding: Gel padding offers superior cushioning for longer rides, while foam padding provides lighter protection for shorter distances.
• Windproofing and Waterproofing: If you ride in all weathers, consider gloves with windproof and waterproof membranes to keep your hands warm and dry.
• Touchscreen Compatibility: Many gloves now feature touchscreen-compatible fingertips, so you can use your phone or cycling computer without taking your gloves off.
• Women-Specific Fit: Some brands offer gloves specifically designed for women's hands, with a narrower fit and shorter finger lengths.

Finger Coverage: Full-Finger vs. Fingerless

The choice between full-finger and fingerless gloves depends on your personal preference and the weather conditions.

• Full-finger gloves: Offer more warmth and protection, making them ideal for colder weather or off-road riding.
• Fingerless gloves (mitts): Provide more breathability and dexterity, making them a good choice for warmer weather or road cycling.

Padding: Your Hands' Best Friend

Padding in cycling gloves is crucial for absorbing shocks and vibrations, reducing hand fatigue and preventing numbness. Look for gloves with padding strategically placed at the base of the palm and inner thumb, where pressure tends to be highest.

Winter Essentials

When the temperature drops, you'll need a pair of gloves that can keep your hands warm and dry. Look for gloves with thermal insulation, windproof layers, and waterproof membranes. Longer cuffs will help seal out the cold, and a good grip on the palm will ensure you stay in control even in icy conditions.

Summer Saviours

In the summer, breathability and ventilation are key. Choose gloves made from lightweight, airy materials like mesh and Lycra. Minimal padding will help keep things cool and comfortable, and a slim fit will give you a good feel for the handlebars.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

Getting the right size is crucial for comfort and performance. Gloves should be snug but not too tight, allowing for natural hand movement. Measure your hand circumference and refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to find your perfect fit.

Glove Care: Keeping Them Fresh

To keep your gloves in top condition, hand wash them with mild soap and air dry them. Avoid using harsh detergents or putting them in the tumble dryer.

Safety First

Cycling gloves can also enhance your safety on the bike. Look for gloves with reflective details for increased visibility in low light conditions.

Choose Your Perfect Pair

With so many different cycling gloves available, it can be tricky to know where to start. Consider your riding style, the weather conditions you typically ride in, and your personal preferences for padding, finger coverage, and style.

By taking the time to choose the right pair of gloves, you can enhance your comfort, performance, and safety on every ride. So, what are you waiting for? Glove up and enjoy the ride!

If you have any questions please do get in touch. But we may have answered your questions on our Sundried Podcast. We have an episode just on cycle gloves. Click play below.

If you prefer listening on YouTube, then you can play and save our ultimate guide to cycle gloves right here.