I’ll never forget that first winter ride where my fingers went completely numb within minutes – the kind of cold that makes shifting gears feel like trying to manipulate blocks of ice. It was miserable, and it sent me on a years-long quest to find gloves that actually work for cycling in proper cold weather.
After testing countless pairs through frosty mornings and bitter commutes, I’ve learned that not all cold weather gloves are created equal. The right pair needs to balance warmth with dexterity, weather protection with breathability, and all while letting you actually operate your bike and devices.
Here’s what I discovered about finding gloves that will keep you riding comfortably through winter’s worst.
Best Cold Weather Gloves for Cycling – 2025 Reviews
MOREOK Waterproof & Windproof -30°F Winter Gloves – Extreme Cold Protection
These MOREOK gloves are engineered for serious cold weather cycling with 3M Thinsulate insulation rated down to -30°F.
The waterproof TPU membrane and windproof construction create a protective barrier against harsh elements while maintaining breathability.
Hikenture Winter Cycling Gloves – Thermal Protection with Great Fit
Hikenture delivers impressive cold weather performance at a very reasonable price point with these thermal cycling gloves.
They feature 4mm anti-slip palm padding, water-resistant fabric, and reliable touchscreen compatibility for winter riding comfort.
FanVince Winter Gloves – Affordable Cold Weather Solution
FanVince offers an incredibly affordable option for cyclists needing basic cold weather protection without breaking the bank.
These lightweight gloves feature windproof construction, touchscreen compatibility, and anti-slip palm grips for secure handling.
GripGrab Ride Waterproof Winter Gloves – Professional Performance
GripGrab brings professional-grade performance to winter cycling with these fully waterproof and windproof gloves.
They feature DoctorGel padding for vibration absorption and anti-slip silicone prints for maximum control in wet conditions.
INBIKE Cycling Winter Gloves – Reliable All-Rounder
INBIKE delivers solid winter performance with these thermal gloves featuring gel padding and reflective safety elements.
The fleece-lined interior provides warmth while the lengthened wrist closure seals out cold air effectively.
Souke Sports Winter Gloves – Comfortable Moderate Cold Option
Souke offers comfortable protection for moderate cold conditions with these water-resistant cycling gloves.
They feature 5mm rebound foam pads, touchscreen compatibility, and reflective elements for low-light visibility.
GripGrab Windproof Gloves – Spring/Fall Transition
GripGrab’s windproof option is perfect for transitional seasons and milder winter days where full waterproofing isn’t necessary.
These gloves offer 100% windproof protection with DoctorGel padding and a comfortable, close-fitting design.
MOREOK -10°F Winter Gloves – Balanced Cold Protection
This MOREOK model offers solid cold weather protection down to -10°F with 3M Thinsulate insulation and touchscreen compatibility.
The gloves feature anti-slip silicone grips and a comfortable fit suitable for various winter activities.
SIMARI Winter Gloves – Versatile Touchscreen Option
SIMARI provides a versatile touchscreen glove option suitable for cycling and other winter activities with reflective safety elements.
The gloves feature comfortable flannel lining and anti-slip silicone particles for secure grip during use.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
We put 9 different cold weather cycling gloves through real-world testing to determine which ones actually deliver on their promises. Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70% – focusing on how gloves actually feel and function during winter rides – and innovation and competitive differentiation at 30%.
For example, the MOREOK -30°F gloves scored 9.2 for their exceptional performance in extreme conditions, while the FanVince budget option earned 8.2 for delivering surprising functionality at an affordable price point.
We evaluated everything from wind protection and waterproofing to grip quality and dexterity, considering how each feature impacts actual cycling performance. Ratings of 9.0-10.0 indicate exceptional performance, 8.5-8.9 are very good with minor trade-offs, and 8.0-8.4 represent solid choices that get the job done effectively.
This data-driven approach ensures our recommendations are based on actual performance rather than marketing claims or popularity alone.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Cold Weather Gloves for Cycling
1. Understanding Temperature Ratings and Insulation Types
Temperature ratings are your starting point, but they’re not the whole story. Gloves like the MOREOK -30°F model use advanced insulation like 3M Thinsulate that provides warmth without bulk, while others rely on traditional fleece or synthetic fills.
Consider your local climate – if you regularly ride in sub-freezing temperatures, prioritize gloves with professional-grade insulation. For milder conditions, basic thermal lining may suffice.
2. Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: What You Actually Need
This distinction matters more than you might think. Fully waterproof gloves like the GripGrab Ride model use membranes that block water completely but can reduce breathability. Water-resistant options handle light moisture and spray but may wet through in heavy rain.
If you ride in snow, slush, or frequent rain, invest in true waterproof protection. For dry cold conditions, water-resistant may be adequate and often provides better breathability.
3. The Importance of Proper Fit and Dexterity
Gloves that are too tight can restrict blood flow and make you colder, while loose gloves compromise bike control. Look for gloves with adjustable wrist closures and ergonomic patterning that follows your hand’s natural shape.
Pay attention to finger length and palm construction – you need enough dexterity to operate shifters, brakes, and devices without struggling.
4. Touchscreen Technology: Convenience vs Reliability
Most modern cycling gloves include touchscreen capability, but performance varies dramatically. The best options like the Hikenture gloves use conductive fabric that works reliably with smartphones and bike computers.
Test the touchscreen functionality thoroughly – some gloves only work on specific fingers or require firm pressure, which can be frustrating during rides.
5. Padding and Grip for Long-Ride Comfort
Quality palm padding isn’t just about comfort – it’s about preventing numbness and fatigue on longer rides. Look for strategically placed gel or foam padding that protects pressure points without compromising grip.
Anti-slip silicone patterns on the palms and fingers help maintain control in wet conditions and reduce hand strain from constantly gripping the handlebars.
6. Safety Features for Winter Riding
Winter means shorter days and reduced visibility. Reflective elements on gloves can significantly improve your safety to motorists. Many models include reflective logos, strips, or entire panels that catch headlights.
Consider how visible you’ll be during dawn, dusk, or night rides, and choose gloves that enhance your presence on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I measure my hand for cycling gloves?
Measure the circumference of your dominant hand around the widest part of your palm, excluding your thumb. Compare this measurement to the manufacturer’s size chart, as sizing can vary significantly between brands.
If you’re between sizes or prefer a looser fit for layering, consider sizing up. Remember that cycling gloves should be snug but not restrictive.
2. Can I use these gloves for other winter sports besides cycling?
Absolutely! Most winter cycling gloves work well for running, hiking, skiing, or everyday use. However, cycling-specific gloves typically have enhanced palm padding for handlebar pressure and optimized finger articulation for shifting and braking.
If you primarily cycle, choose cycling-focused gloves. For multi-sport use, look for versatile options like the MOREOK models that balance various activity needs.
3. Do touchscreen gloves work with all devices?
Most modern touchscreen gloves work with smartphones, tablets, and bike computers, but performance can vary. The best gloves use conductive thread woven throughout the fingertip fabric rather than just patches.
If touchscreen access is important, look for gloves that specifically mention compatibility with your devices and read recent reviews about their real-world performance.
4. How should I care for and clean my winter cycling gloves?
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions, but most recommend hand washing in cool water with mild detergent. Avoid machine washing and drying, which can damage waterproof membranes, insulation, and touchscreen functionality.
After washing, reshape the gloves and air dry them away from direct heat sources. Proper care significantly extends their lifespan and maintains performance.
5. What temperature range are these gloves suitable for?
This varies significantly by model. Budget options like the FanVince work well for temperatures above freezing, while professional models like the MOREOK -30°F handle extreme cold.
Consider your typical riding conditions and choose accordingly. Remember that wind chill while cycling can make temperatures feel 10-20 degrees colder than actual readings.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing through various winter conditions, the clear winner for most cyclists will be the MOREOK Waterproof & Windproof -30°F Gloves for their exceptional performance in extreme cold. However, the best glove for you depends on your specific needs – budget-conscious riders will love the value of the Hikenture or FanVince options, while those facing wet conditions should consider the GripGrab waterproof model.
The key is matching the glove’s capabilities to your local climate and riding style. Whatever you choose, investing in quality cold weather gloves will transform your winter riding experience from endurance test to enjoyable adventure.