Gear Reviews

Best Mountain Bike Gloves for Cold Weather 2025

Riding a mountain bike in cold weather can be tough without the right gear. Your hands feel it the most. Cold fingers can ruin a fun ride. That’s why warm, comfortable gloves are so important. The best mountain bike gloves for cold weather keep your hands dry and warm. They also help you grip the handlebars better. Some even protect against wind and rain. Good gloves let you ride longer and safer in winter. In this article, we review the top cold-weather mountain bike gloves. We picked them based on warmth, comfort, and grip. Let’s find the perfect pair for your winter rides.

1. LAXEDING Mountain Bike GlovesLAXEDING Mountain Bike Gloves

  • Material: Lightweight breathable polyester
  • Palm: Anti-slip silicone grip
  • Closure Type: Adjustable Velcro strap
  • Touchscreen: Yes, thumb and index finger

LAXEDING Mountain Bike Gloves offer an excellent balance between comfort and functionality. The breathable polyester fabric ensures your hands remain cool during long rides, while the anti-slip silicone palm provides solid grip on handlebars. The adjustable Velcro closure allows for a customized fit that remains snug even on bumpy trails.

What sets these gloves apart is their minimalist yet performance-oriented design. With touchscreen capability in the thumb and index finger, they provide convenience without removing your gloves. However, these gloves are better suited for mild to warm weather and may not provide enough insulation for cold conditions. Overall, they’re an ideal choice for casual riders or weekend trail enthusiasts.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Effective anti-slip grip
  • Touchscreen functionality
  • Good value for money

Cons:

  • Not suitable for winter riding
  • Limited padding for high-impact trails

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2. INBIKE Winter Cycling GlovesINBIKE Winter Cycling Glove

  • Material: Windproof polyester with fleece lining
  • Padding: Thermal gel pads
  • Reflective Design: Yes, for safety
  • Touchscreen: Yes, compatible with all devices

INBIKE Winter Cycling Gloves are designed to battle the elements while keeping your hands warm and protected. The windproof polyester outer layer and soft fleece lining make them ideal for winter rides. Gel pads strategically placed in the palm area absorb shocks, adding comfort to long-distance cycling.

The reflective elements improve nighttime visibility, which is a great safety addition. The touchscreen compatibility is responsive, although slightly bulky due to insulation. While not suitable for high-performance racing due to their bulk, these gloves are a top pick for casual winter riders seeking warmth and comfort.

Pros:

  • Excellent thermal insulation
  • Effective windproofing
  • Reflective for low-light visibility
  • Gel padding for shock absorption

Cons:

  • Bulky for competitive use
  • Touchscreen use slightly hindered by thickness

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3. BEACE Full Finger MTB GlovesBEACE Full Finger MTB Gloves

  • Material: Stretchable mesh fabric
  • Palm: Silicone anti-slip surface
  • Closure: Elastic wrist cuff
  • Touchscreen: Yes, multi-finger functionality

BEACE Full Finger Mountain Bike Gloves stand out for their comfort and adaptability. The stretchable mesh fabric provides flexibility and ventilation, making them perfect for summer or spring riding. The silicone palm ensures you maintain a steady grip, and the elastic cuff keeps the gloves securely in place.

With responsive touchscreen functionality on multiple fingers, these gloves cater well to tech-savvy riders. However, the thin material means they aren’t suited for cold weather or heavy-duty terrain. Their lightweight nature and decent grip make them a great everyday option for recreational cyclists.

Pros:

  • Breathable and flexible fabric
  • Multi-finger touchscreen functionality
  • Comfortable fit
  • Affordable pricing

Cons:

  • Not suitable for winter
  • Minimal impact protection

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4. FanVince Winter GlovesFanVince Winter Gloves

  • Material: Water-resistant polyester outer
  • Insulation: Thermal cotton lining
  • Touchscreen: Yes, high-sensitivity tips
  • Windproof: Yes, double-layer protection

FanVince Winter Gloves are built for riders who venture out in cold, windy, or rainy conditions. The double-layer construction offers both windproofing and insulation, ensuring your hands stay warm and dry. High-sensitivity touchscreen fingertips allow seamless phone use without exposing your skin to the cold.

These gloves are ideal not only for cycling but for other outdoor activities too, making them versatile. The downside is their limited breathability and bulkiness, which can make prolonged rides less comfortable. Still, they’re a reliable pick for winter bikers and commuters.

Pros:

  • Warm and water-resistant
  • Windproof construction
  • High touchscreen responsiveness
  • Suitable for multiple outdoor uses

Cons:

  • Slightly bulky
  • Not very breathable

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5. DUEECO Cycling GlovesDUEECO Cycling Gloves

  • Padding: 3MM XRD palm padding
  • Fabric: Stretchable Lycra and mesh
  • Closure: Adjustable wrist strap
  • Touchscreen: Compatible with smart devices

DUEECO Cycling Gloves are tailored for comfort and performance during long mountain rides. The 3MM XRD padding reduces vibration impact and enhances comfort, especially on rugged trails. The Lycra and mesh combo provides breathability and flexibility, giving a snug yet non-restrictive fit.

The touchscreen compatibility is a practical feature, and the adjustable wrist strap ensures a secure fit. Though they perform well in most conditions, they may not offer enough warmth for winter use. Best suited for trail and endurance riders who prioritize comfort.

Pros:

  • Excellent shock absorption
  • Breathable and stretchable material
  • Adjustable fit
  • Touchscreen compatible

Cons:

  • Not for cold weather
  • May wear faster under heavy use

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6. BEAST RAGE Full Finger GlovesBEAST RAGE Full Finger Gloves

  • Padding: Shock-absorbing foam inserts
  • Material: Breathable microfiber
  • Palm: Anti-slip silicone print
  • Touchscreen: Yes, responsive design

BEAST RAGE Gloves are engineered for durability and comfort on rugged terrains. The shock-absorbing foam inserts are highly effective at reducing vibrations, and the anti-slip silicone ensures a firm grip even in wet conditions. The breathable microfiber material helps keep your hands cool and dry.

Touchscreen functionality is reliably responsive, allowing device use without glove removal. These gloves balance rugged design with practical features, making them ideal for riders tackling mixed terrains. However, they may feel a bit snug for those with larger hands.

Pros:

  • Great shock absorption
  • High grip performance
  • Durable material
  • Functional touchscreen fingertips

Cons:

  • Snug fit may not suit everyone
  • Not insulated for cold weather

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7. 100% BRISKER Youth Gloves100% BRISKER Youth Gloves

  • Fit: Youth-specific ergonomic fit
  • Material: Insulated soft-shell upper
  • Palm: Single-layer Clarino with silicone print
  • Touchscreen: Integrated at fingertips

The 100% BRISKER Youth Gloves are specially designed for younger riders, combining warmth and control. The insulated soft-shell upper keeps the cold out, while the Clarino palm maintains excellent bar feel. Silicone prints enhance grip, even in damp conditions.

Touchscreen compatibility is a bonus for tech-savvy young cyclists. These gloves offer a perfect fit for youth hands, making them comfortable for extended wear. However, they are seasonal and may not be ideal in warm weather. Still, they’re a top-tier pick for cold-weather youth cycling.

Pros:

  • Designed for youth hands
  • Great insulation
  • Excellent grip and control
  • Touchscreen capable

Cons:

  • Seasonal use only
  • Limited size range

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How to Choose Mountain Bike Gloves for Cold Weather

Mountain biking in cold weather can be a thrilling experience — the crisp air, serene trails, and fewer crowds make winter rides special. However, cold temperatures pose unique challenges, especially for your hands. Numb or frozen fingers can hinder control, compromise safety, and ruin the ride. That’s why choosing the right mountain bike gloves for cold weather is essential.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know when selecting the best cold-weather mountain biking gloves — from insulation types and material to fit, features, and maintenance.

1. Understand the Importance of Cold-Weather Gloves

Unlike regular cycling gloves, winter gloves are designed to keep your hands warm, dry, and functional in low temperatures. Cold hands lead to reduced dexterity, making it harder to shift gears, brake, or maintain a proper grip on the handlebars. A good pair of gloves protects against wind, water, and cold while allowing freedom of movement and control over your bike.

2. Consider the Weather Conditions

Before choosing a pair, assess the specific cold-weather conditions you usually ride in. Consider:

  • Temperature range: Are you biking in mild winters (above freezing) or extreme cold (below 20°F)?

  • Precipitation: Do you face frequent rain, snow, or dry conditions?

  • Wind exposure: Windchill can significantly affect how cold your hands feel.

Knowing this will help you choose the right combination of insulation, waterproofing, and wind resistance.

3. Types of Insulation

Insulation plays a key role in keeping your hands warm. Common types include:

  • Fleece lining: Soft and warm, ideal for moderately cold weather.

  • Thinsulate™: Lightweight yet warm insulation, perfect for low temperatures without bulk.

  • Primaloft®: Offers excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and retains heat even when wet.

  • Down: Extremely warm but not recommended for wet conditions as it loses insulation when damp.

Choose insulation based on your riding conditions. For intense rides or mild winters, light insulation may suffice. For sub-freezing temperatures, go for gloves with heavier insulation.

4. Waterproofing and Breathability

Wet gloves quickly become cold gloves. A good cold-weather MTB glove should offer:

  • Waterproof membrane: Materials like Gore-Tex®, Hipora®, or proprietary waterproof liners keep water out.

  • Windproof outer shell: Keeps windchill from cutting through the glove.

  • Breathability: Prevents moisture from sweat building up inside the glove.

Look for gloves that balance waterproofing with breathability. Overly waterproof gloves without ventilation can make your hands sweat, leading to moisture buildup and eventual cold.

5. Grip and Control

Thick gloves may keep you warm but can compromise your grip and feel. To maintain control on technical trails, check for:

  • Silicone-printed palms and fingers: Improve grip on handlebars and brake levers.

  • Pre-curved finger design: Matches the natural position of your hand on the handlebars.

  • Minimal bulk in contact areas: Ensures you don’t lose sensitivity where you need it most.

Striking a balance between insulation and dexterity is key for maintaining performance and safety.

6. Cuff Design and Closure

The glove’s cuff plays a role in sealing out cold air and snow. There are a few styles to choose from:

  • Gauntlet-style cuffs: Extend over your jacket sleeves for extra coverage and protection.

  • Elastic cuffs: Offer a snug fit and are easy to slip on and off.

  • Velcro or zipper closures: Allow a secure, adjustable fit to prevent wind and moisture entry.

Choose based on your layering system. If you wear long jacket sleeves, a snug or gauntlet cuff helps seal in warmth.

7. Touchscreen Compatibility

In today’s digital world, the ability to use your smartphone or GPS without removing your gloves is a huge convenience. Many cold-weather gloves include:

  • Conductive fingertips: Allow basic use of touchscreens (e.g., swiping, answering calls).

  • Responsive materials: Some gloves offer more precise control than others.

If you rely on digital navigation or communicate mid-ride, make sure your gloves are touchscreen-compatible.

8. Durability and Protection

Mountain biking often involves rough terrains, brush, and occasional crashes. Cold-weather gloves should provide:

  • Reinforced palms and knuckles: For abrasion resistance.

  • Double stitching: Enhances durability.

  • Padding: Adds comfort during long rides and protects during falls.

Look for gloves that are built tough yet remain flexible enough for technical handling.

9. Sizing and Fit

Proper fit is crucial. Gloves that are too tight restrict circulation and reduce warmth, while loose gloves make it difficult to control the bike. When trying on gloves:

  • Ensure a snug fit without compressing your fingers.

  • Make a fist to test flexibility and pressure points.

  • Leave a small air gap inside the glove for warmth — your fingers shouldn’t touch the outer shell.

Always refer to the brand’s sizing chart, as sizing can vary between manufacturers.

10. Best Cold-Weather Glove Styles

Depending on how cold your rides get, you can choose from:

  • Standard winter MTB gloves: For temperatures above freezing, offering light insulation and wind resistance.

  • Lobster-style gloves: A hybrid between mittens and gloves, keeping fingers together for warmth while allowing some dexterity.

  • Bar mitts (pogies): Attach to handlebars for extreme cold. Use with light gloves underneath for maximum warmth and flexibility.

11. Maintenance Tips

To extend the life of your gloves:

  • Air dry after each ride: Especially if damp from sweat or snow.

  • Hand wash or machine wash on gentle: Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

  • Store in a dry place: Avoid stuffing them wet into a bag.

Proper care ensures your gloves stay effective throughout the season.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right pair of cold-weather mountain bike gloves can transform your winter rides. By evaluating your local climate, the type of insulation and waterproofing you need, and ensuring a proper fit, you can stay warm, dry, and in full control of your bike no matter how cold it gets.

Don’t let freezing fingers force you off the trail — gear up with the right gloves and embrace the winter ride.