From hot summer trail rides to freezing winter commutes, gravel adventures to downhill racing, here's how to find the right cycling gloves for the way you ride.
Not all bike rides are created equal, and neither are all mountain bike gloves.
Some days you're grinding up a gravel road in 90-degree heat. Other days you're ripping downhill trails, dodging trees, or squeezing in a quick ride before the sun goes down. And sometimes you're just trying to keep your fingers from freezing off on the morning commute.
At HANDUP, we believe the best mountain bike gloves are the ones you forget you're wearing. They should fit comfortably, grip your handlebars, protect your hands, and look pretty dang good doing it.
That's why we've built a lineup of cycling gloves for just about every type of rider, riding style, and weather condition. Whether you're a weekend warrior, gravel grinder, road cyclist, downhill racer, or someone who just loves getting outside, there's a HANDUP glove for you.
Let's break down which gloves work best for your riding style.
1. Best All-Around Mountain Bike Gloves: HANDUP Most Days Gloves
Best for: Trail riding, cross-country MTB, enduro, downhill, gravel biking, BMX, and dirt bike riding.
If you're looking for one pair of mountain bike gloves that can handle just about anything, start with our Most Days Gloves.
These are the gloves that helped build HANDUP. They're designed to be comfortable, durable, grippy, and versatile enough to handle everything from a casual neighborhood cruise to an all-day mountain bike adventure.
Our signature silicone-printed palm graphics provide extra grip on your handlebars, while our FullTouch touchscreen palm lets you operate your smartphone naturally. No hunting around for that one tiny touchscreen-compatible fingertip. The entire palm and fingers are touchscreen capable, so using your phone feels a whole lot more like using your bare hand.
Why riders love Most Days Gloves:
- Silicone-printed palm graphics for added handlebar grip
- FullTouch touchscreen technology throughout the palm and fingers
- Comfortable full-finger coverage
- Versatile construction for a wide range of riding conditions
- Fun designs that don't take themselves too seriously
Our recommendation: If you're buying your first pair of HANDUP gloves or want one glove that can do a little bit of everything, Most Days is where we'd start.
2. Best Mountain Bike Gloves for Hot Weather: HANDUP Hot Days Gloves
Best for: Summer mountain biking, hot-weather gravel riding, road cycling, cross-country racing, and humid trail rides.
When temperatures climb and your hands start sweating before you've even reached the trailhead, it's time for our Hot Days Gloves.
We set out to make an incredibly breathable full-finger mountain bike glove without sacrificing the durability you need when things get rowdy.
The result? A glove so light and airy you might forget you're wearing it.
Hot Days Gloves feature a fully ventilated palm, breathable construction, our signature silicone grip graphics, and FullTouch touchscreen compatibility.
And don't let the lightweight feel fool you. We've clipped trees hard enough to scrape our knuckles while the gloves themselves held up just fine.
Why riders love Hot Days Gloves:
- Extremely breathable construction for hot riding conditions
- Fully ventilated palm to help reduce sweaty hands
- Lightweight, barely-there feel
- Silicone grip graphics for confident handlebar control
- FullTouch touchscreen compatibility
- Full-finger coverage without the bulk of heavier gloves
Our recommendation: These are our go-to gloves for summer mountain biking, especially in hot and humid climates. They're also a fantastic option for road and gravel riders who want full-finger coverage without overheating.
3. Best Technical Mountain Bike Gloves for Racing: HANDUP ProFormance Gloves
Best for: Enduro racing, cross-country racing, downhill, competitive MTB, and riders who prioritize precise handlebar feel.
Some riders can feel every little seam, wrinkle, or extra bit of material inside their gloves.
We made our ProFormance Gloves for those riders.
These are our most technically focused mountain bike gloves, engineered to feel as seamless and natural as possible.
Instead of using traditional glove construction, we redesigned the sewing pattern to move seams away from areas where your hands are most likely to notice them. The result is a smoother, more natural fit that helps eliminate distracting pressure points.
A lightweight upper material and ventilation between the fingers provide breathability while maintaining a sturdy construction.
Why riders love ProFormance Gloves:
- Specially positioned seams for a nearly seamless feel
- Precision-focused fit for riders sensitive to glove construction
- Lightweight upper material
- Ventilation between the fingers
- Durable construction for aggressive riding
- FullTouch touchscreen compatibility and silicone grip graphics
Our recommendation: If you're a competitive mountain biker, serious racer, or just extremely picky about how your gloves fit and feel, ProFormance is designed with you in mind.
4. Best Mountain Bike Gloves With Knuckle Protection: HANDUP Pro-Tection Gloves
Best for: Downhill mountain biking, enduro, aggressive trail riding, technical singletrack, and dirt bike riding.
Sometimes the trail fights back.
Whether you're squeezing between trees, riding rocky terrain, or racing through tight singletrack, your knuckles can take a beating.
Our Pro-Tection Gloves take the precision-focused construction of our ProFormance Gloves and add impact-resistant knuckle protection.
The protective material is designed to remain flexible during normal riding but stiffen when struck, helping protect your knuckles without making the gloves feel unnecessarily bulky.
You still get the carefully positioned seams, lightweight upper construction, ventilation, silicone grip graphics, and FullTouch touchscreen compatibility.
Why riders love Pro-Tection Gloves:
- Impact-responsive knuckle protection
- Technical construction based on our ProFormance Gloves
- Comfortable, precision-focused fit
- Ventilation for breathability
- Silicone grip graphics and FullTouch touchscreen technology
Our recommendation: If you regularly ride tight trails, race enduro or downhill, or want extra protection from branches and trail obstacles, Pro-Tection offers a great balance of control, comfort, and protection.
5. Best Cycling Gloves for Sun Protection: HANDUP SunDura Gloves
Best for: Long gravel rides, road cycling, bikepacking, cross-country MTB, and extended rides in direct sunlight.
When you're spending hours in the saddle, the sun can be just as relentless as the trail.
Our SunDura Gloves were developed for riders who want breathable full-finger gloves with added sun protection.
Unlike our Hot Days Gloves, SunDura features material on the back of the hand with a UPF 15 rating, helping reduce UV exposure to covered skin during long rides.
They also feature ventilated construction to keep things comfortable when the temperatures rise.
Why riders love SunDura Gloves:
- UPF 15-rated material on the back of the hand
- Breathable construction for warmer conditions
- Full-finger coverage
- Silicone grip graphics
- FullTouch touchscreen compatibility
- Versatility across mountain, gravel, and road riding
Our recommendation: If you spend long hours riding exposed gravel roads, sunny pavement, or open mountain trails, SunDura is an excellent choice when you want breathability and some additional sun protection.
For maximum protection, remember to apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
6. Best Short Finger Cycling Gloves: HANDUP Shorties
Best for: Road cycling, gravel biking, casual riding, recreational cycling, and riders who prefer exposed fingertips.
Not everybody wants full-finger gloves, and that's perfectly fine with us.
Our Short Finger Gloves, better known as Shorties, bring a traditional cycling glove feel to the HANDUP lineup.
With exposed fingertips and palm coverage, Shorties are designed for riders who want a little extra airflow and the freedom of bare fingers while maintaining a grippy connection to their handlebars.
They're especially popular among road and gravel cyclists, although plenty of mountain bikers still prefer the classic half-finger style.
Why riders love Shorties:
- Traditional half-finger cycling glove design
- Exposed fingertips for airflow and natural finger feel
- Palm coverage and silicone grip graphics
- Great for warm-weather road and gravel riding
- Fun HANDUP designs
Our recommendation: If you're a road cyclist, gravel rider, or mountain biker who simply prefers having your fingertips free, Shorties are a great choice.
Shop Short Finger Gloves here.
7. Best Mountain Bike Gloves for Cold Weather: The HANDUP Winter Glove Collection
Best for: Winter mountain biking, road cycling, gravel riding, fat biking, commuting, motorcycle riding, and outdoor adventures.
Cold hands can ruin a great ride faster than just about anything.
But winter riding doesn't always mean the same thing. A crisp 45-degree morning ride is a whole different animal from pedaling through snow and freezing temperatures.
That's why we offer four different levels of cold-weather gloves, each designed for different temperatures and conditions.
HANDUP Cold Weather Gloves — Best for Cool Weather Riding
Recommended comfort range: Down to approximately 40°F (4°C).
Our original Cold Weather Gloves are designed to take the chill off without sacrificing the handlebar feel you love.
They feature a fleece-lined, wind- and water-repellent upper and a single-layer palm that helps maintain dexterity and control.
They're great for riders who want warmth without feeling like they're wearing ski gloves.
Best uses: Cool-weather MTB, gravel rides, road cycling, commuting, and motorcycle riding.
Choose these if: You ride in chilly conditions but still prioritize precise brake and shifter control.
HANDUP ColdER Gloves — Best for Near-Freezing Rides
Recommended comfort range: Down to approximately 34°F (1°C).
When the temperature drops a little further, our ColdER Gloves bring additional insulation to the party.
An extra fleece layer helps retain warmth in colder conditions, although that additional insulation means you'll give up a little bit of dexterity compared with our original Cold Weather Gloves.
They're also great for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities where cold hands aren't invited.
Best uses: Near-freezing mountain biking, cold commutes, gravel riding, camping, and general outdoor adventures.
Choose these if: You tend to get cold hands or regularly ride in temperatures approaching freezing.
HANDUP ColdER Plus Gloves — Best for Cold and Wet Riding
Best for: Cold, rainy rides, wet winter commutes, muddy trail conditions, and mild-weather skiing or snowboarding.
Cold is one thing. Cold and wet is another.
Our ColdER Plus Gloves build on the insulated construction of ColdER while adding complete waterproofing.
They're designed for riders who don't want rain, slush, or wet conditions cutting their adventures short.
And when you're not riding bikes, they're also a great option for skiing or snowboarding on milder bluebird days.
Choose these if: You need both insulation and waterproof protection for cold, wet adventures.
HANDUP ColdEST Gloves — Best for Extreme Cold and Snow Biking
Best for: Fat biking, snow biking, freezing-weather cycling, skiing, snowboarding, and winter chores.
When winter really shows up, it's time for ColdEST.
Inspired by classic leather workwear gloves, our ColdEST Gloves combine a rugged work-glove look with built-in waterproofing and insulation.
They're made for the coldest adventures, whether you're pedaling a fat bike through the snow, hitting the slopes, or shoveling the driveway.
Choose these if: Warmth and weather protection are more important than maximum fingertip dexterity.
Temperature recommendations are approximate comfort guidelines. Wind, moisture, activity level, and individual cold tolerance can change how warm a glove feels.
Shop All Gloves for Cold Weather here.
Which HANDUP Mountain Bike Gloves Should You Choose?
Here's a quick comparison to help you find your perfect pair.
|
Riding Style or Condition |
Our Recommended Gloves |
|
Everyday trail riding |
Most Days |
|
Gravel riding |
Most Days, Hot Days, SunDura |
|
Road cycling |
Hot Days, SunDura, Shorties |
|
Hot and humid mountain biking |
Hot Days |
|
Cross-country MTB racing |
Hot Days, ProFormance |
|
Enduro and downhill racing |
ProFormance, Pro-Tection, Most Days |
|
Technical trails with branches and rocks |
Pro-Tection |
|
Long rides in direct sunlight |
SunDura |
|
Traditional half-finger preference |
Shorties |
|
Cool weather, around 40°F |
Cold Weather |
|
Near-freezing temperatures |
ColdER |
|
Cold and rainy riding |
ColdER Plus |
|
Snow and extreme winter conditions |
ColdEST |
|
Dirt bike and off-road motorcycle riding |
Most Days, Pro-Tection |
|
Winter commuting |
Cold Weather, ColdER, ColdER Plus |
What Makes HANDUP Mountain Bike Gloves Different?
There are plenty of cycling gloves out there. So why HANDUP?
We built HANDUP around a pretty simple idea: Make quality gear that's comfortable, functional, affordable, and actually fun to wear.
That means focusing on the details that make a difference when you're riding.
FullTouch Touchscreen Technology
Ever tried answering a call or checking a trail map while wearing gloves, only to repeatedly poke your phone with one specific fingertip?
Yeah, we didn't like that either.
Our FullTouch technology makes the entire palm and fingers touchscreen compatible, rather than limiting functionality to a tiny fingertip patch.
Whether you're checking a GPS route, taking a photo, or texting your riding buddies, you can use your smartphone without constantly removing your gloves.
Signature Silicone Palm Graphics
Our trademarked silicone-printed palm graphics aren't just there to look cool.
They add grip where your hands meet the handlebars, helping maintain a confident connection to your bike.
And because we're HANDUP, we figured those palm graphics might as well be fun, too.
Gloves for More Than Just Mountain Biking
Although mountain biking is at the heart of HANDUP, we don't believe good gloves should be limited to one kind of bike.
Our gloves are worn by mountain bikers, gravel cyclists, road riders, BMX riders, commuters, and dirt bike enthusiasts.
If you've got handlebars and somewhere to go, chances are we've got a glove for it.
Quality Without Taking Ourselves Too Seriously
We believe you shouldn't have to spend a fortune to get a great pair of riding gloves.
We focus on practical features, comfortable fits, dependable construction, and original designs that reflect the fun side of riding bikes.
Because at the end of the day, bikes are supposed to be fun.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mountain Bike Gloves
What are the best mountain bike gloves for everyday riding?
For most riders, HANDUP Most Days Full Finger Gloves are our best all-around recommendation. They offer silicone grip graphics, full-finger coverage, and FullTouch touchscreen compatibility for trail riding, gravel biking, downhill, and other cycling disciplines.
What are the best mountain bike gloves for hot weather?
HANDUP Hot Days Gloves are our most breathable option, featuring a fully ventilated palm and lightweight construction. They're designed for mountain biking, gravel riding, and road cycling in hot or humid weather.
Are full-finger gloves better for mountain biking?
Full-finger gloves are generally a good choice for mountain biking because they provide additional finger coverage against branches, brush, and minor scrapes. However, some riders prefer short-finger gloves for extra airflow and exposed fingertips.
What gloves should I wear for downhill mountain biking?
For downhill riding, we recommend HANDUP Pro-Tection Gloves if you want additional knuckle protection, ProFormance Gloves if you prioritize precision and handlebar feel, or Most Days Gloves for versatile everyday performance.
Can I use mountain bike gloves for gravel and road cycling?
Absolutely. Many mountain bike gloves work well for gravel and road cycling. HANDUP Hot Days Gloves are especially useful for warm-weather rides, while SunDura Gloves provide UPF 15-rated back-of-hand fabric for riders spending extended time in the sun.
What are the best mountain bike gloves for cold weather?
The best choice depends on the conditions. HANDUP Cold Weather Gloves are designed for temperatures down to approximately 40°F, while ColdER Gloves add insulation for comfort down to approximately 34°F. ColdER Plus adds waterproofing, and ColdEST is designed for extremely cold and snowy conditions.
Do HANDUP mountain bike gloves work with touchscreens?
Yes. HANDUP gloves feature FullTouch touchscreen technology designed to allow touchscreen use across the palm and fingers, rather than requiring a special fingertip contact point. This makes checking maps, taking photos, and using a smartphone more convenient during rides.
Are mountain bike gloves good for dirt bike riding?
Many mountain bike gloves can also work well for dirt bike riding. HANDUP Most Days Gloves offer versatile grip and comfort, while Pro-Tection Gloves provide additional knuckle protection for off-road riding. Choose protection appropriate to your riding conditions and motorcycle safety needs.
What are the best cycling gloves for sun protection?
HANDUP SunDura Gloves are designed for cyclists who want breathable full-finger coverage and additional UV protection. Their back-of-hand material carries a UPF 15 rating, making them a useful option for long road, gravel, and mountain bike rides in direct sunlight.
Find Your Perfect Pair of HANDUP Gloves
Whether you're chasing podiums, chasing your buddies, or just chasing a good time, the right gloves make every ride a little better.
Our advice? Pick the gloves that match the conditions you ride most often, then get out there and put some miles on them.
From the everyday versatility of Most Days to the barely-there breathability of Hot Days, the precision of ProFormance, and the winter-ready warmth of ColdEST, we've got your hands covered.
Less fussing with your gear. More riding bikes.
