Cycling is one of the most effective ways to unwind and stay fit. However, prolonged holding of the handlebar can cause numbness and pain in your wrists and palms. So, here’s our list of the best cycling gloves for hand numbness to help you choose the right one.
Sometimes cycling can be quite tiring, especially on rough terrains and in harsh weather, if you have to hold the cycle bar tightly for a long time. These special gloves have pads around the palms to help reduce friction and vibration, providing you with a flexible and comfortable grip. They are available in various sizes and designs for a secure fit to provide optimal safety. So, we have considered all these factors to offer you our list of the best-selling products from trusted brands. Keep scrolling to find the right pair of gloves for yourself and avoid numb hands when cycling.
Top Picks
11 Best Cycling Gloves To Avoid Hand Numbness In 2023
1. Best Tailored Fit:Giro Jag Men’s Cycling Gloves
Giro Jag men’s cycling gloves are made of highly absorbent and moisture-wicking microfiber material, keeping your hands dry even after hours of use. Furthermore, their triple-panel design gives them a tailored fit, making them comfortable and functional.
The user-tested hand gloves are equipped with 100% EVA foam padding for added cushioning without compromising the hands’ mobility. Additionally, their pull-on style makes them easy to wear and remove during road cycling, and their half-finger coverage makes them perfect for hot and warm climates.
Pros
- Anti-bunching design
- Four-way stretchable Lycra fabric
- Quality hook-and-loop fastener
- Ergonomic biking gloves
- Half-finger gloves
Cons
- May not be true to size
- Color may fade over time
Caution2. Best Breathable:Moreok Cycling Gloves
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 1,779 positive reviews on Amazon.
Featuring 5MM SBR shock-absorbing pads, these could be one of the best cycling gloves that help prevent numbness. The non-slip silicone surface material provides relief from pain, fatigue, and shock absorption effect. Each glove is made of high-elastic Lycra and knitted, breathable mesh fabric that is comfortable to wear. It also contains breathable holes in the palm area to help the evaporation of the sweat.
The thumb has highly absorbent terry cloth on the outside to wipe off the seat. These bike gloves for hand numbness are unisex, machine-washable, and an ideal option for cycling, hiking, camping, etc.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing biking gloves with 5mm shockproof pads
- Half-finger gloves
- Anti-slip coating
- Elastic band on the wrist with a Velcro strap
- Towel cloth on the thumb
Cons
- Padding may not be in the right place
- Foam and not gel padding
3. Best Stitching:Louis Garneau Biogel Bicycle Gloves
The Louis Garneau bicycle gloves are lined with Biogel padding, reducing pressure on your hands and absorbing vibrations when cycling. The perforated palm with X-shaped ventilation holes make these biking gloves for nerve compression non-stuffy, and the stretchable mesh fabric of the upper surface offers a snug fit, giving it a competitive edge.
The stitching is done to perfection, and the seams are well-connected. Moreover, these compression cycling gloves are available in multiple sizes and colors to perfectly fit your hands and complement your style.
Pros
- Patented Ergo Air concept for better ventilation
- Comfortable and breathable
- Half-finger gloves
- Durable
Cons
- Do not have loops for easy removal
- Padding may be a bit thin for some
Giro Jag Men’s Cycling Gloves | Moreok Cycling Gloves | Louis Garneau Biogel Bicycle Gloves | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | White (2021) | Pink - Half Finger | Black |
| Material | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate | Spandex, Suede | - |
| Dimensions LxWxH | 9.84 x 4.72 x 1.57 inches | - | 6 x 1.5 x 0.15 inches |
| Weight | 0.05 Kilograms | - | 0.1 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 506 | 1,779 | 33 |
| Price | $15.16 | $17.99 | $18.74 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Waterproof:Souke Sports Winter Cycling Gloves
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product boasts 341 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
The Souke Sports winter cycling gloves provide full coverage and have a windproof and waterproof outer shell to protect your hands from the elements. The anti-slip silica gel strips offer the grip that bikers need, while the microfiber abrasions on the palms prevent injuries in case of a fall.
Furthermore, the touch-sensitive spots on the gloves help you operate your gadgets or touchscreen devices seamlessly. These heavy-duty full-finger biking gloves prevent numb hands and can also be used for hiking, trekking, climbing, and driving.
Pros
- Full-finger gloves
- Thermally-insulated fleece
- Flexible and shock absorbing
- Reflective straps for better visibility
- Thick foam padding
- Ambidextrous design
Cons
- May run a bit small
- No touch-sensitive patch on the thumb
5. Best Extra Grip:Suxman Mountain Bike Gloves
These gloves are said to contain palm pads made of non-slip silicone sponge that can absorb shock and reduce numbness. The palm pads also have breathable mesh fabric to give extra grip. The Suxman Mountain Bike gloves can also be used for cycling, gym workouts, motorcycle riding, etc.
The gloves’ outer portion is made of breathable fabric that keeps your palms cool and flexible to allow comfortable hand movements. The wrists of these gloves have an elastic band with a Velcro strap. The gloves are suitable for both men and women and come in four different colors.
Pros
- Made of elastic suede and breathable spandex
- Padded palms to reduce numbness
- Velcro wrist band for a customized fit
- Pull tabs on the middle finger and ring finger
- Terry cloth thumb towel
Cons
- For some, the pads may be too thin
- Stitches might rip off quickly
Pro tip6. Best For Easy Maintenance:Pearl Izumi Cycling Gloves
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 132 fine reviews on Amazon.
The Pearl Izumi biking gloves are made of faux leather that is soft to the touch and easier to clean and maintain than genuine leather. These tried-and-tested products offer four-way stretch for optimal flexibility, and you can pull them on and fasten them securely using the hook-and-loop fastener.
The gel pads are shaped such that they do not bulk up the glove and yet still provide high-quality grip and comfort. These gel padded cycling gloves help you stay cool and dry during intense road bike rides.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Ambidextrous design
- Built-in sweat wipe spot
- Durable stitching
- High-quality material
- Half-finger gloves
- Available in multiple color options
Cons
- Extra gel padding may make the gloves fit tighter
- May not be easy to remove
7. Best Anti-Vibration :Gearonic Cycling Gloves
Image: Gearonics The time-tested Gearonic cycling gloves are made of breathable fabric and their anti-slip leather coating reduces friction, providing a better grip when holding handlebars. The silica gel padding offers protection by absorbing shock and vibration when riding.
The anti-vibration cycling gloves are available in various sizes and have an ambidextrous design. You can also opt for the full-finger ones for full coverage during the colder months.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Machine-washable
- Moisture-wicking cycling gloves
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Might run a bit small
- May be thinner than expected
Quick tip8. Best Lightweight:Rockbros Cycling Gloves
Image: Rockbros Here’s a pair of cycling gloves from Rockbros that offers comfort while helping you make a style statement. It features a printed logo that doubles as a reflective feature for better visibility in low-light conditions. Despite being lightweight, these reflective cycling gloves provide maximum comfort and support, and thanks to their fleece lining, they keep your hands warm during cold seasons.
The strap closure ensures they are easy to wear and offer a snug fit. Furthermore, the pores on the gloves prevent sweat from wetting your hands, and the rubber strips on the fingers make the gloves touchscreen-friendly.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing
- Flexible design to facilitate mobility
- Windproof material
- Non-slip cycling gloves
- Can be used for fishing and hiking
Cons
- Velcro may be oddly placed
- A few may find the padding to be insufficient
9. Best Windproof:GripGrab Ride Windproof Cycling Gloves
If you are looking for biking gloves to keep you warm, this pair by GripGrab can be the ideal option for you. These windproof gloves are truly a trusted choice to protect your hands from cold winds. Also, the DoctorGel padding in the palms offers added protection and comfort when it’s chilly, and the extended cuffs ensure a snug fit and keep your hands well-insulated.
If you have a stuffy nose, you can conveniently use the moisture-wiper feature on the thumb for instant absorption and relief. Further, the ergonomic padding reduces the strain on your hands and prevents them from going numb.
Pros
- Full-finger gloves
- Compatible with touchscreens
- Plush fleece lining
- Low light visibility for road safety
- Available in six sizes
- Machine-washable
Cons
- May not be suitable for tumble drying
- May not be suitable for mountain biking
10. Best For Long Rides:Planet Bike Taurus Cycling Gloves
Planet BikeTaurus biking gloves feature a cotton mesh fabric in the back that facilitates good airflow and prevents sweaty hands. The palm is made of leather that provides an excellent grip, while the Lycra-based fourchettes offer a snug fit.
Moreover, the gloves also feature a five-millimeter thick foam padding and tricot lining for added comfort, making them suitable for long rides and outdoor adventures. And for added convenience, the thumbs are equipped with terry cloth.
Pros
- Half-finger gloves
- Stretchable hoop wrist closure
- Unisex design
- Ideal option for warm days
Cons
- Stitching may not be highly durable
- May be smaller than expected
11. Best For Air Circulation:Tasco MTB Ridgeline Cycling Gloves
Despite a minimalistic design, the Tasco MTB Ridgeline Cycling Gloves come with vented fourchettes for maximum air circulation, making them comfortable in warm weather. It has a velcro-free slip and a pull-on, hook-and-loop fastener to ensure that it stays firm on your hands, and to make sure you do not miss out on a trailside photo, the gloves feature conductive threads on the right and index finger. These consumer-tested gloves are apt for people who are ambidextrous.
Pros
- Lightweight cycling gloves
- Suitable as summer gloves
- Full-finger gloves
- Wicks moisture
- Well-constructed
- Minimalist design
Cons
- May snag
How To Choose The Right Gloves For Hand Numbness?
Hand numbness can be pretty uncomfortable while riding a bike and may hinder your performance. In such cases, gloves are a good way to help prevent this. Here are a few points to consider before purchasing biking gloves for hand numbness.
- Padding: Padding prevents the hands from going numb. So, check the quality and type of padding on the gloves. Pads are usually made of sponge or gel. Look for extra padding that can withstand vibration and heavy use.
- Material: As these gloves are used mostly outdoors in various weather conditions, look for expert-approved, high-quality materials like Lycra or microfibers that are breathable, durable, and soft. Also, choose gloves with double seams and stitching.
- Grip: You need to have a good grip while holding the handlebars, so gloves with a good grip are a must. Gloves with leather or synthetic anti-slip cover for the palm offer a secure grip.
- Additional features: Look for other features like towel thumb, breathable holes, adjustable wristbands, and pull tabs. These will make it easy and comfortable to wear and take off these gloves.
Jordi Sadurní, a Sports Scientist and Cycling Coach, adds, says, “If after buying one of these gloves with a decent fit and padding, the numbness still persists, there are other possible solutions to the problem. These solutions could come from three different places: bike biomechanics, handlebar interaction, and handlebar grip type/material. So, making some bike adjustments, such as raising the handlebar or getting it closer to the bike, learning how to grab the handlebar or switching positions from time to time, and choosing another handlebar grip, could be the definitive solution to your hand numbness problems.”
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah, a skilled writer and an ardent reviewer, has leveraged his knowledge to handpick the best cycling gloves after considering the padding, material, grip, and other important factors. These gloves can prevent hand numbness and tingling while riding a bicycle on rough surfaces for a long duration and are made of high-quality materials. These products are chosen after considering user reviews and tester experiences to ensure an unbiased opinion. To make this article more informative, he has also enlisted the pros and cons of each recommended product and provided a handy buying guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should cycling gloves be tight or loose?
The golden rule of gloves is to ensure they have a snug fit without being too tight or loose to prevent chafing or stiffness.
2. How should winter cycling gloves fit?
Your winter gloves should offer enough mobility for your fingers, not to mention let your skin breathe. Therefore, make sure they fit snugly without a lot of excess material to cause chafing.
3. How do I measure my hands for gloves?
First, measure the length of your palm starting at the bottom edge all the way to the tip of the middle finger. Next, wrap the tape just below the knuckles of your dominant hand without including the thumb and make a fist. This method will give you the size of gloves you need to buy.
4. Why does my hand go numb when cycling?
Too much pressure or stress on the nerves can cause the area to become numb, especially if it’s for a prolonged period. However, other reasons might include the gloves being too tight or your skin having an allergic reaction to the fabric.
The Bottom Line
Cyclists are prone to numbness due to holding the handlebar tightly for a long time while cycling. Investing in the best cycling gloves can help you comfortably retain the bicycle’s grip, especially during rough terrains. Choosing the right pair of biking gloves is crucial due to the variety of available options. When buying one, considering factors like breathable material, padding, and the grip will help you pick one that suits you. Our top picks are LuxoBike Half Finger Bicycle Gloves for their specialized 4-zone shock-absorbing pads, the Giro Jag Men’s Cycling Gloves for their tailored fit and the Cool Change Bike Gloves for their touchscreen compatibility. Note that picking one that is suitable for long rides but goes soft on your skin will help.
Infographic: Advantages Of Cycling With The Right Pair Of Gloves
Cycling gloves are an essential piece of gear that offers numerous advantages. Investing in the right pair of gloves can enhance your performance while ensuring your hands are safe. Learn more about the importance of cycling gloves in the following infographic.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.
Download Infographic
References:
- Hand Numbness While Biking: What to Do
https://www.cvmc.org/blog/rehabilitation-therapy/hand-numbness-while-biking-what-do
Recommended Articles:
