Why Do Cycling Gloves Have Loops?

If you have got some cycling gloves recently, or just researching them, you may wonder why they have loops…

Why Do Cycling Gloves Have Loops?

Cycling gloves have loops so that they’re easy to pull on and off as needed without potentially ripping the gloves. Since gloves are typically very snug, they can be difficult to pull off without having these loops. Not all cycling gloves have this feature, but it won’t make or break whether the gloves are high quality or are ones to pass on.

Coupled with sweat, the snug fit can make taking off cycling gloves more of a struggle, so having these loops is quite convenient and helpful. You’re better off ripping your glove loops accidentally instead of accidentally ripping your gloves and trying to take them off. Other than helping you take your gloves off though, the loops don’t serve any other purpose.

Why Do Cycling Gloves Not Have Fingers?

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Cycling gloves usually don’t have finger coverings to ensure your hands don’t become overly sweaty. If they did, it could be challenging to maintain a sufficient grip on your handlebars, which could make cycling dangerous very easily. You also get a better sense of control of your bike, especially when it comes to your handlebar brakes.

You can easily find full-finger gloves that work well if you prefer them, and you shouldn’t end up being too uncomfortable if they fit well. You might also prefer this option when the weather is chilly or less than ideal to keep your fingers from getting too cold.

Are Fingerless Gloves Better For Cycling?

Your best choice in gloves will ultimately depend on what kind of cycling you’re engaging in. A simple pair of fingerless cycling gloves are adequate if you ride a bike on the road or on flat trails during nice weather. When you’re riding on uneven terrain or rocky roads on a mountain bike, you might want more coverage and padding over your fingers.

The weather will also be a factor in which gloves you choose. You don’t want your hands to get too hot or too cold as it’ll make your hands harder to use. For wet conditions, your preference for gloves with or without fingers can vary, but you want to make sure your gloves are either non-slip or water-resistant.

Can You Use Any Gloves For Cycling?

A bike glove with loops.
A bike glove with loops.

Technically, you’re free to use any kind of gloves you want on your bike ride and, for the most part, you’ll be okay. If you ride long distances, race, or like to navigate different kinds of trails, you should strongly consider getting gloves designed for cycling. Cycling gloves are designed to keep your hands comfortable and protected while you’re having to consistently hold your handlebars.

What’s Special About Cycling Gloves?

Cycling gloves are designed with sweat-absorbing materials that ensure sweat doesn’t travel from your hands to your handlebars. Some of them will also feature padding that makes it easier for your hands to handle shock from a rough ride or protect your hands from getting sore.

Should Cycling Gloves Be Tight Or Loose?

A man out in the woods pushing his bike while wearing cycling gloves.
A man out in the woods pushing his bike while wearing cycling gloves.

Cycling gloves should not be tight or loose; instead, they should fit snugly. If they are tight, it’s possible they could be too constricting and limit your hand dexterity. You also don’t want to deal with any potential rashes or irritation that could come with your gloves rubbing too harshly against your hands.

On the other hand, when cycling gloves fit loosely, you run the risk of chafing and rubbing as well. You can also end up having to try and navigate your gloves sliding around or bunching up as you’re riding, and that could impact how smoothly your ride goes.

Do Pro Cyclists Use Gloves?

Not all professional cyclists wear gloves, even if they’re planning on riding in a race. Most professionals have tried numerous ways of writing with and without accessories and end up determining their most efficient ride, and that may not include wearing cycling gloves. For some professionals, it’s a pride thing, while others just don’t see the benefits of wearing them.

Since professionals are, in fact, professionals, they are probably less likely to have to worry about falls even when they’re tackling a challenging course. If nothing else, gloves can help protect your hands from scrapes and cuts if you do happen to fall off your bike.

Do Cycling Gloves Need Padding?

Padding is a vital component of cycling gloves. It offers your hands protection from the constant friction they’re experiencing when riding your bike, no matter what kind of biking you do. The good news is that you can find gloves with different levels of padding to suit your comfort without feeling like you can’t move your hands.

Padding will also help divert any kind of shock and vibration that naturally comes along with cycling from your hands. You might not realize just how much that constant friction can impact your hands, and that above the typical blisters.

How Do I Choose The Right Cycling Gloves?

Choosing the right cycling gloves for you is going to take some trial and error, with the most important factor being your comfort. When trying on gloves, you’ll want to pay attention to how your gloves are fitting between your thumb and your pointing finger. This is the part of your hand that is vital to your ability to grip handlebars.

As such, you want to test out how well you’re able to move your thumb and your fingers. While you want your gloves to be comfortably snug, you don’t want your hands to hurt or feel as though you can’t get proper movement.

How Long Do Bicycling Gloves Last?

A good pair of cycling gloves can last you anywhere from a year to three years depending on how well you take care of them. They can also last for less time the more you wear them and the rougher your cycling habits are.

Be sure that you wash your cycling gloves according to the instructions that come on the gloves to ensure you don’t let harsh chemicals or high heat wear them out faster.