Bike handlebar grips

Why arm warmers keep you warmer than gloves

The arm warmer attaches to the handlebars and forms a pocket around the grip, brake lever, and gear shifter. Your hands slide inside and find themselves in a volume of still air, protected from the relative wind, which is mainly responsible for cooling the fingers while cycling: even at twenty kilometres an hour, it significantly increases the feeling of cold. As the insulation is carried by the arm warmer and not by the hand, you can wear thin gloves or even go bare-handed, with all the sensitivity needed to control braking and shifting gears.

Other components

The components are also available in different types:

• Grips.
• Handlebars.
• Cables.
• Handlebar tape.
• Bells.
• Accessories.

All the components are gathered on the peripheral components page.

Flat handlebars or road handlebars: two types of arm warmers

For a flat handlebar, on a city bike, hybrid bike, or mountain bike, the arm warmer looks like a giant mitt opened towards the cyclist, enclosing the grip and levers. On a road handlebar or gravel bike, it follows the curve of the handlebars and slips around the hoods, allowing for hands to rest on the levers. On an electric bike, check that the opening accommodates the control unit and screen. Arm warmers are popular among commuters, couriers, and long-distance cyclists, who spend many hours in the saddle regardless of the weather.

Neoprene, fleece, or coated fabric: choosing the material

The outer layer needs to be waterproof and windproof: coated nylon, technical fabric, or neoprene, which retains some warmth even when wet. The lining, often made of fleece, insulates and feels nice against the skin. A stiffened opening or one with elastic makes it easier to put your hand in and out, essential for stretching your arm before turning. Some versions add reflective strips to be seen at night. Finally, choose a model that’s compact enough not to touch your knees or the frame when turning the handlebars.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within that time. The highlight events of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, winter sales, French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back-to-school season.

Frequently asked questions

Are there bicycle arm warmers for children?

Yes, smaller arm warmers fit the slim grips of children’s bikes. Ensure the child can quickly remove their hand and reach their brakes without strain, especially if they’re new to riding in the city.

Are arm warmers useful in the rain?

Yes: a waterproof cover keeps the hands dry, whereas gloves tend to get soaked. Let the arm warmers air dry after a wet ride, with the lining turned inside out if possible.

How do you attach arm warmers to handlebars?

They slide on from the end of the handlebars and are tightened with a cord, a Velcro strap, or an elastic band around the bar. Make sure to fix them well so they don’t rotate or obstruct the levers.

At what temperature should you use arm warmers?

As soon as your fingers get numb with mid-season gloves, often below ten degrees. They’re kept on throughout the winter, then removed in spring when the warmth makes your hands sweat.

Do arm warmers interfere with braking?

Properly fitted, no: your hands stay on the levers and thin gloves can even enhance sensitivity. Get into the habit of putting in and taking out your hands while stopped, and check that the fabric doesn’t block the levers from returning.