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We tested these winter gloves:
(Click to go to the individual rating)
CONTENTS:
The test report
The sensation of cold is extremely individual. This is demonstrated by the selection of cycling gloves that the manufacturers sent us to test. Our requirement was that the gloves should cover a temperature range of plus seven to minus two degrees Celsius - classic winter weather. They also had to be windproof and water-repellent, as wind and moisture play a major role in cooling the fingers.
Thick and thin: the variety of models is huge
After an initial inspection, the range of test models starts with a lightweight transition glove with a thin Clarino palm, minimal lining on the back of the hand and an estimated range of use of barely less than ten degrees. Sealskinz marks the end of the flagpole with a model that at first glance we would have assigned to an Arctic expedition rather than use in the mild Central European winter. Several layers of Primaloft lining, waterproof membrane and merino fleece are concealed under robust sheepskin - you'll get warm fingers just reading this.
Thick warms better, thin gives more feeling
But this also brings us to the dilemma that manufacturers of winter gloves usually face: The thicker a model is insulated, the less feeling it conveys when gripping the handlebars. Shifting gears, braking, steering - all movements are made more difficult by the thick lining, especially on the palm.
In some cases, this effect is exacerbated by an inflexible waterproof membrane. If the manufacturer fails to bond the individual layers firmly together, they slide against each other like Teflon, making it difficult to maintain control in technical terrain - a particularly unpleasant situation on damp roots and mossy rocks.
In the worst case scenario, the inner lining slips out of the glove with a wet hand during a drink break and can then hardly be put back in. Sealskinz proves that this problem can be solved with a special adhesive. The British company joins the individual layers together to form a laminate, resulting in a surprisingly good grip despite the thick lining.
Only the models with unlined palms provide even more feeling. However, on cold winter days, these are unfortunately reserved for bikers who are less sensitive to the cold.
How BIKE tests winter gloves
The overall judgement is based on the evaluations of the criteria weather protection, fit and handling/grip feel, which are taken into account to varying degrees. We determined the insulation capacity of the gloves using a reproducible method. Heated water inside the glove cools down over the test period, while the glove is exposed to the simulated airflow of a fan at around zero degrees outside. The water is held in place by a thin inner glove made of tear-resistant PE film. The glove in which the water cools down the slowest provides the best warmth. The temperature range point in the test letters gives a rough indication of the range of use recommended by us.
Weather protection (40 %)
We tested the gloves for windproofness and water repellency using a spray test. Waterproofness has only a minor influence on the evaluation, as this property was not a criterion for participation in the test.
Feel / wearing comfort (30 %)
Several testers assess the fit in the right size for the respective hand. In practice, the grip on the handlebars and the operation of the controls are assessed. Loosely stitched layers, bulging seams or excess material on the fingertips noticeably reduce wearing comfort.
Handling (30 %)
Putting the gloves on and taking them off can sometimes be difficult with thick linings. Neatly welded layers of material or a Velcro fastener on the cuff can help here. The operation of a smartphone or bike computer and the use of the wiper thumb are also included in the assessment.
Significantly better: additional impregnation helps
Even though most manufacturers attest to the water-repellent properties of their gloves, hardly any of the models were really convincing in the spray test. Moisture, whether fog, drizzle or sleet, is usually absorbed directly by the outer material, which accelerates the cooling of the fingers. If you regularly treat your gloves with an environmentally friendly impregnation (e.g. Nikwax glove impregnation, €9), you can significantly improve their performance in bad weather.
Winter gloves pose a dilemma: really warm models rarely provide a direct and comfortable grip. Thin gloves may give you a better grip on your bike, but your fingers will quickly get cold.
Glove care
Well cared for gloves not only work better, they also last longer. Models without leather can be machine washed regularly at 30 degrees. Before washing, you should close the Velcro fasteners or put the gloves in a laundry bag so that no other clothing is damaged. After washing or wearing the gloves, hang them up or lay them out to air dry. Under no circumstances should gloves be tumble dried. Fabric softeners are also taboo. Leather gloves must not be machine washed or dried on a radiator. A waterproofing spray improves weather protection and keeps out sleet or light drizzle.
Runny nose? Tip: Wiping thumb on the glove
When we breathe in cold air, the brain increases the blood flow in the nasal concha. The blood vessels dilate and warm the cold air before it reaches the lungs. In order to keep the mucous membranes moist, secretion production also increases. Which in turn means that the nose runs and runs. To prevent the nasal secretions from freezing into icicles on your face, you need either a sophisticated blowing technique (experts can do it completely without fingers) or a softly rubbed wiping thumb on a glove. This should be part of the absolute basic equipment for winter gloves - which unfortunately not every manufacturer in this test takes to heart.
Waterproof membrane: yes or no?
If you don't plan to get on your bike in the winter rain, it's better to do without a waterproof membrane in the glove. Each additional layer usually also worsens the fit of the glove, the handling and the feel. The materials are often rigid and inflexible, especially on the surface of the hand, making it difficult to grip the handlebars or operate the gear and brake levers. If the individual layers are not properly welded together, the secure grip on the handlebars suffers even more - particularly unpleasant in technical terrain.
The individual ratings of the 12 winter gloves tested
100% Hydromatic Brisker
Waterproof on the outside, lightly lined on the inside - the Brisker is the perfect companion for wet, mild days. The fit and grip feel are very good thanks to the thin layer of insulation, the Brisker gives a direct feel when shifting gears and braking and provides very good grip on the handlebars even without silicone prints. However, the backhand tightens due to the less flexible membrane, which is a little tiring in the long run. The 100% lacks a fleece on the thumb for wiping the nose, and the workmanship is also only mediocre. Plenty of reflectivity ensures good visibility in foggy conditions.
Technical data and grades 100% Hydromatic Brisker
Manufacturer information
- Price: 44,50 Euro >> at Maciag Offroad or Decathlon available at a reduced price
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 111 g / S to XXL
Equipment
- Waterproof and windproof
- Reflex
- long waistband
- Touchscreen fingers
BIKE judgement²: 44 points - good
45NRTH Nokken Glove
With the Nokken, the cold weather experts from Minnesota deliver a comfortable glove for temperatures down to freezing point. Despite the soft merino lining on the palm, the Nokken provides a direct grip. The shift and brake fingers as well as the palm are nice and grippy, on the trail only the somewhat bulging seams on the fingers are annoying. Touchscreen fingers, nose wipe area and the long neoprene cuff are further useful details. The softshell material is slightly water-repellent and the workmanship gives no cause for criticism.
Technical data and notes 45NRTH Nokken Glove
Manufacturer information
- Price: 80 Euro
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 101 g / XS to XXL
Equipment
- Wind and water repellent
- Touchscreen fingers
- Merino lining
- Silicone prints
- Neoprene waistband
BIKE judgement²: 47 points - very good
BBB ProShield BWG-39
With its soft padding and good thermal performance, the BBB is a hand cosy for cold days. Thanks to the waterproof membrane, the ProShield also keeps you warm in the rain. However, the membrane does compromise flexibility on the handlebars, with the fabric stretching on the backhand and making it difficult to operate the brake and gear levers. The thick padding slips when gripping the handlebars, and the fingers also offer little grip. You have to work your way through the lining when putting on and taking off. Top equipment, but not very suitable for trail riding.
Technical data and notes BBB ProShield BWG-39
Manufacturer information
- Price: 65 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 125 g / XS to 3XL
Equipment
- Wind and waterproof
- Touch finger
- Reflex
- Neoprene waistband
- XRD cushion
BIKE judgement²: 43 points - good
Chiba 2nd Skin
Very high-quality and waterproof glove for not too cold rainy days in winter. Despite the membrane, the fit is excellent and the grip on the handlebars is secure and comfortable. The individual layers are neatly welded so that the lining does not slip. Unfortunately, the fingertips offer a little less grip and there is no touch function. The wiping thumb could also be a little softer. The long, flexible cuff makes it easy to slip into the glove, but a Velcro fastener to adjust the width would be nice. A great glove at a reasonable price.
Technical data and notes Chiba 2nd Skin
Manufacturer information
- Price: 45 Euro
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 109 g / XS to 3XL
Equipment
- Wind and waterproof
- padded palm
- Reflex; Primaloft lining
- long cuff
BIKE judgement²: 47 points - very good
Craft Siberian 2.0 Glove
The Siberian is already a classic in the Craft range and a reliable companion on really cold days. However, it doesn't like wet weather as the material absorbs a lot of moisture. The thick lining affects the fit and feel, making you feel like you're wrapped in cotton wool. The individual layers slide over each other - unpleasant in technical terrain. The fingers also offer little grip on the shift and brake levers. In contrast, the wiping thumb, touchscreen fingers and long cuff with Velcro fastening are exemplary.
Technical data and notes Craft Siberian 2.0 Glove
Manufacturer information
- 60 Euro
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 125 g / XS to 3XL
Equipment
- Wind and waterproof
- Touch finger
- Reflex
- Neoprene waistband
- XRD cushion
BIKE judgement²: 43 points - good
Fox Defend Thermo Off Road
Absolutely minimalist glove for trail and enduro use and definitely only suitable for mild and dry winter days. The closed-cell foam top provides light protection against the cold, but the sides of the fingers are already draughty. On the other hand, the fit and feel are outstanding, with the thin Clarino palm providing excellent grip on the handlebars. The controls are also easy to operate. Unfortunately, there are neither touchscreen-compatible attachments nor a wiping thumb, and the cuff could also be a little longer.
Technical data and notes Fox Defend Thermo Off Road
Manufacturer information
- Price: 35 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 65 g / S to XXL
Equipment
- Wind repellent
- Touchscreen fingers
- Velcro fastener
BIKE judgement²: 44 points - good
Giro Pivot 2.0
With the windproof and waterproof Pivot, Giro has a solid all-rounder in its programme. The Primaloft lining provides warmth down to freezing point, while the Outdry membrane keeps the material flexible so that the grip on the handlebars hardly suffers. However, there is excess material at the end of the narrow-cut fingers, which interferes with handling, and the bulging seam of the touchscreen trim on the index finger is also irritating. With sweaty hands, it's difficult to get into the glove, the wiping surface is narrow and not very absorbent, and the material is unusually raspy.
Technical data and notes Giro Pivot 2.0
Manufacturer information
- Price: 90 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 118 g / XS to XXL
Equipment
- Wind and waterproof
- Palm pad
- Touchscreen fingers
- Velcro
- Primaloft lining
BIKE judgement²: 47 points - very good
Pearl Izumi Summit Alpha Glove
Similar to the Fox, the Pearl Izumi feels almost like a normal summer glove. With its thin Polartec Alpha lining on the backhand, it is more suitable for the transition period than the depths of winter. The Summit runs large. Be careful, otherwise the material on the palm will bunch up when gripping the handlebars. The fit is also not quite as supple as that of the Fox, and the grip on the controls is slightly less. On the other hand, the Summit has well-functioning touchscreen attachments and a towelling attachment on the thumb and is better at fending off wind.
Technical data and notes Pearl Izumi Summit Alpha Glove
Manufacturer information
- Price: 55 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 66 g / XS to XXL
Equipment
- Wind repellent
- Polartec Alpha lining
- Touchscreen fingers
- Velcro
BIKE judgement²: 40 points - good
Poc Nimble Glove
Despite the low weight and thin lining, the Nimble still insulates surprisingly well, but we cannot confirm the water-repellent properties from the description. However, the fit of the slim-cut glove is all the better. It provides a very direct grip, good contact with the handlebars and sufficient grip on the shift and brake levers. There is some criticism for the less flexible upper material and the many bulging seams on the inside of the fingers. Mobile phone operation and terrycloth thumb and the long neoprene cuff are great.
Technical data and notes Poc Nimble Glove
Manufacturer information
- Price: 60 Euro
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 58 g / XS to XL
Equipment
- Windproof
- Neoprene waistband
- Reflex
- Touchscreen fingers
- Terry thumb
BIKE judgement²: 48 points - very good
Roeckl Runaz
The Runaz shines with great workmanship, high-quality materials and an excellent fit - it practically fits like a second skin. The grip on the handlebars is correspondingly good. The entire palm is covered with non-slip silicone prints. Despite the full touchscreen function, the thumb and index finger provide a good grip on the controls. The soft wiper thumb keeps the nose dry. The XRD padding on the palm absorbs fine impacts, but is not to everyone's taste - even if it is not too thick. Unfortunately, the Runaz is too thinly insulated for really cold days.
Technical data and notes Roeckl Runaz
Manufacturer information
- Price: 55 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / sizes: 75 g / 6.5 to 11
Equipment
- Wind and water repellent
- Terry thumb
- Velcro
- Touchscreen fingers
- XRD cushion
BIKE judgement²: 51 points - very good
Sealskinz Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather
THE glove for bad and - sorry - really cold weather. Up to five layers including membrane and Primaloft lining ensure dry and warm hands. Special welding ensures that the individual layers do not slip and the feel is surprisingly good for a glove of this thickness. Supple sheepskin provides grip on the handlebars. Shifting gears, braking, operating a mobile phone - all possible without any problems. The backhand also remains surprisingly flexible, and the Velcro cuff warms half the forearm. Runs rather large.
Technical data and notes Sealskinz Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather
Manufacturer information
- Price: 110 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 180 g / S to XL
Equipment
- Wind and waterproof
- Touchscreen fingers
- Bunion pad
- Velcro fastener
- Terry thumb
BIKE judgement²: 56 points - great
Vaude Posta Warm Gloves
The Posta's slim fit and thin lining make it very comfortable to wear straight away. The all-round wind-repellent finger material provides decent insulation, but the wind whistles through the extensively terry-lined thumb - a little unpleasant once it's wet. The long cuff with Velcro closes comfortably far back. The grip on the handlebars and fittings could be a little better. The padding strips sewn onto the palm are too inflexible and press on the hands while riding, reducing comfort.
Technical data and notes Vaude Posta Warm Gloves
- Price: 45 Euro >> available here
- Weight¹ / Sizes: 73 g / 6 to 12
Equipment
- Touchscreen fingers
- Windproof and water-repellent
- Velcro fastener
- Bunion pad
- Terry thumb
- Reflex
BIKE judgement²: 48 points - very good
¹ BIKE measurement
² BIKE judgement: > 55 super, > 45 very good, > 35 good
Stefan Frey
Editor
