Long and short MTB gloves

Long Fingers: the Trail Standard

On the trails, the long glove has become essential: branches, thorns, and rocks brush against the hands, and in case of a fall, it’s often the fingers that hit the ground first. The Giro DND, for Down N Dirty, features a simple, thin palm for direct contact with the grips. The Giro Trixter, Trail Builder, or IXS Carve are aimed at more demanding practices, in trail and enduro, with designs built to withstand abrasions and slides. Short-finger models, like the Roeckl Red Bull Race, Belp, or Prologo Faded, are reserved for cross-country in hot weather.

The Rest of the Gear

MTB equipment also comes in various forms:

• Jerseys.
• Shorts and Bibs.
• Jackets.
• Shoes.
• Helmets.
• Textile Accessories.

All the equipment can be found on the equipment page.

Touching Levers and Cold Protection

For MTB, most riders prefer a thin palm, without any thick padding: the index finger needs to feel the bite point of the brakes, and the hand should sense even the slightest movement of the handlebar. The Giro Blaze, a windproof winter glove, takes over when early morning rides are chilly, while the Xnetic Trail remains a glove for the nicer season. The fingertip compatible with touch screens, found on many models, allows checking a GPS track without taking off the glove. The Massi Siligrip fingerless gloves, designed for grip, maintain a secure hold even when the hands are sweaty.

Roeckl, IXS, Etxeondo: Specialists in Gloves and Textiles

Roeckl, a glove maker from Munich since 1839, applies craftsmanship born in leather to MTB with the Red Bull Race and Belp. IXS, a Swiss specialist in MTB and motorcycle protection, designs the Carve for downhill and enduro. Etxeondo, a Basque manufacturer of cycling textiles, offers the Uki, while Massi and Prologo complete the selection. For care, a glove covered in mud should be rinsed in warm water as soon as you return, before the dirt dries in the seams and hardens the palm; it should then dry flat, in open air, away from direct heat.

Good Deals

Good bargains can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days of spring, then the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size of MTB gloves to choose?

You measure the hand circumference under the knuckles, excluding the thumb, and then check against the brand's size guide. The glove should fit snugly on the fingers without compressing them: a finger with empty space hinders lever grip and reduces braking precision.

Which MTB gloves to choose for enduro?

Long gloves with a thin but durable palm, designed to withstand abrasion in case of a fall. The Giro Trail Builder or IXS Carve are suited for this practice, where long descents and carrying are alternated.

What MTB gloves to wear in winter?

Long windproof and slightly insulated gloves, like the Giro Blaze, which maintain enough sensitivity to feel the brakes. On muddy and wet rides, a waterproof membrane helps prevent the fingers from getting too cold too quickly.

Why wear gloves in MTB?

They protect the hands from falls, branches, and thorns, and prevent blisters caused by friction on the grips. They also ensure a secure grip when hands are sweaty or the grips are wet.

Are MTB gloves suitable for gravel?

Yes, a long glove that’s light with a thin palm is very suitable for gravel, where you ride for long periods on rough paths. Some riders prefer a little padding to filter vibrations from stony tracks.