Your legs are not the only body part that gets a workout during mountain biking. Gripping the handbars of a mountain bike is important for steering.
Most mountain bikers will tell you that gloves are an essential part of their gear. So we will take a deeper look into the value of wearing mountain bike gloves.
Why Wear Gloves For Mountain Biking?
When you are cycling in rough terrain, you have lots of exposure to the elements. Gloves protect your hands from those elements and from getting injured in a fall.
Falls are common in mountain biking, and when you hit the ground, you are likely to put your hands out to brace yourself. This can lead to scrapes, cuts, and bruises. Gloves provide a layer of protection between your skin and the ground.
They also protect your hands from getting sunburned or windburned.
Additionally, gloves can help you grip the handlebars more securely, and they absorb vibrations from the bike. This can help reduce hand fatigue.
Types of Mountain Bike Gloves
There are several different types of mountain bike gloves to choose from, depending on your needs.
Full-Fingered Gloves
These gloves cover the entire hand and finger, including the thumb. They are the most protective option and are a good choice for beginner mountain bikers or those who ride in colder weather.
They can make it difficult to brake and shift gears, however, so more experienced mountain bikers often prefer other types of gloves.
Fingerless Gloves
These gloves have no material covering the fingers or thumb. They are sometimes called “lobster gloves” because they look like lobster claws.
They offer more dexterity than full-fingered gloves, so they are a good choice for experienced mountain bikers. They provide less protection than full-fingered gloves, however.
Padded Gloves
Padded gloves have extra padding in the palms to absorb vibrations and help reduce hand fatigue. They are a good choice for long rides.
Some padded gloves have gel inserts in the palms for even more cushioning.
Knuckle Guards
Some mountain bike gloves have hard plastic or metal guards over the knuckles. These can protect your hands if you fall and hit a rock or branch.
They can make it difficult to grip the handlebars, however, so they are not a good choice for beginner mountain bikers.
Choosing the Right Mountain Bike Gloves
When you are choosing mountain bike gloves, there are several things to keep in mind.
First, consider the climate you will be riding in. If you live in a warm climate or you ride in the summer, you will want to choose a lighter glove. If you live in a cold climate or you ride in the winter, you will want to choose a heavier glove.
You should also consider the type of terrain. If you are riding in rough terrain, you will want a glove that offers more protection.Cycling on smoother terrain may require a less protective glove.
Finally, consider your own personal preferences. Some mountain bikers prefer the feeling of gloves, while others find them uncomfortable. You should try on a few different pairs of gloves to see what feels best for you.
What To Look For in Mountain Bike Gloves
There are many different types of mountain bike gloves available on the market, so it is important to choose a pair that is right for you.
In general, gloves should be lightweight and breathable. They should also offer good dexterity so that you can easily operate your bike’s controls. You may need to try a few different pairs before you find the perfect ones.
If you live in a cold climate or you bike in the winter, you will want to choose gloves that are warmer and more waterproof.
In addition, mountain bike gloves should have a good grip so that you can easily hold onto your handlebars. They should also be padded to help absorb vibrations and reduce hand fatigue.
Your hand size and finger length may also be a factor in choosing the right mountain bike gloves. Some gloves are available in sizes for small, medium, and large hands. Others are available in multiple sizes so that you can get a perfect fit.
When you are shopping for mountain bike gloves, keep these factors in mind to choose the best pair for you.
How to Care for Mountain Bike Gloves
Mountain bike gloves can last for many years if you take care of them properly.
After each ride, wash your gloves with soap and water to remove any dirt or sweat. Allow them to air dry completely before storing them.
Do not put your gloves in the washing machine or dryer, as this can damage the material.
Occasional deep cleaning is also a good idea. You can soak your gloves in a mixture of water and vinegar to remove any build-up of dirt or grease.
To prevent the material from deteriorating, store your gloves in a cool, dry place when you are not using them. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source.
With proper care, your mountain bike gloves will last for many years.
What Materials Are Mountain Bike Gloves Made Of?
Mountain bike gloves are typically made from a combination of materials, including leather, fabric, and synthetic materials.
The palms of mountain bike gloves are usually made from leather or a synthetic material such as nylon. The back of the gloves is often made from a breathable fabric such as mesh.
Some mountain bike gloves also have a waterproof liner to keep your hands dry in wet conditions.
Mountain bike gloves are available in a variety of styles to suit your needs. Choose a pair that is comfortable and offers the features you need for your rides.
What Happens If Mountain Bikers Don’t Wear Gloves?
Mountain bikers who don’t wear gloves run the risk of injuring their hands in a fall. Gloves help protect your hands from scrapes, cuts, and bruises.
In addition, gloves help you grip the handlebars more securely. This can help you avoid losing control of your bike in rough terrain.
Without gloves, your hands can also get very tired from holding onto the handlebars for long periods of time. Gloves help reduce hand fatigue.
If you are caught in bad weather during a biking session, gloves can also help keep your hands warm. This is especially important in cold climates.
For these reasons, it is always a good idea to wear gloves when you are mountain biking.
For these reasons, it is important to wear gloves when mountain biking. Choose a pair that is comfortable and offers the features you need for your rides.
Final Thoughts About Mountain Bike Gloves
Mountain biking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. To make the most of your experience, it is important to choose the right gear. Mountain bike gloves are an important part of this gear. They can help you grip the handlebars, absorb vibrations, and keep your hands warm in cold weather.
With so many different types of gloves available, you are sure to find a pair that is perfect for you. Be sure to wash and store them properly to extend their lifespan.
Now that you know more about mountain bike gloves, it’s time to hit the trails!