Cycling through the winter can be rewarding, but cold hands can be painful and ruin the experience.
A good pair of cycling gloves will keep chills at bay, but what else can you do to enjoy getting out on the bike during the colder months without suffering from freezing fingertips?
We’ve drawn on our bitter(ly cold) experience to bring you our top tips, as well as this year's best winter bike gloves for every kind of cyclist.
Keep your core warm
When it’s really cold, your body will automatically prioritise keeping your vital organs warm so they can still function and keep you alive. If this means diverting warm blood-flow away from fingers and toes, so be it. You’ll live even if you’re missing a few digits.
Wear warm layers and remember to check the weather forecast. Take a waterproof if you’re expecting rain - you'll be surprised at how quickly a chill can set in once you get soaked!
Layer up your gloves
Adding some thin liner gloves will trap a layer of warm air. Choose a pair that features touch screen compatibility so that you'll be able to operate your phone and any other devices without completely exposing your hands to the elements.
Consider the conditions you'll be riding in when you choose your outer-layer. If you'll be riding in the dark, choose a pair with plenty of reflective elements and bright colours. If you live somewhere with particularly harsh winters, there are plenty of gloves offering excellent protection from wind and rain.
Don't restrict your circulation
Make sure clothing, and particularly gloves, aren't so tight that they're restricting your circulation. If you'll be layering up, you might want to consider buying outer layers in a larger size.
If you're commuting, make sure your backpack straps aren't cutting off blood flow to your arms, or you could even consider carrying your bags on your bike.
Keep moving
Remember to give those fingers a little wiggle every now and again. If it's safe to do so, you can even try a few arm circles - anything to get the blood pumping will help.
Stay dry
Rain can make the effects of the cold feel so much worse. Look for winter gloves with water repellency. If you're expecting a prolonged drenching, consider carrying a spare, dry pair under your jersey so it will be toasty-warm when you need it.
Ride hard
You might enjoy those long, leisurely rides in the summer but shorter, faster rides are great for building speed over the winter and riding harder means you'll generate more heat.
You could also consider changing your route. Long climbs can warm you up but all that heat is lost on a long descent, particularly if it's wet. If possible, stick to flatter routes on colder days.
Keep the heat sealed in
It's easier to stay warm than it is to get warm. Don those gloves before you step outside, or at least have your glove liners on if you need to do fiddly things like lock up.
If you've got toggles, zips, velcro, anything to cinch those gloves and sleeves, use them and keep the cold out!
dhb Underglove
These breathable liners wick away moisture and the rubberized grip means they'll stay in place underneath heavier gloves.
dhb Roubaix Liner Glove
These robust liners will see you through the chilly autumn days on their own, then layer them under your heavy-duty winter gloves as temperatures plummet. The silicone palm print has been added for increased grip.
The best gloves to protect against wind
Altura Merino Softshell Gloves
The lightweight construction makes these gloves perfect for milder winter days. The softshell outer keeps the chill off and the merino blend fabric feels soft and comfy.
Gore M GORE-TEX INFINIUM Stretch Gloves
The innovative GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ fabric blocks windchill and repels rain, whilst a rubberized print stops your hands from slipping on the handlebars.
Endura Windchill Gloves
These cycling gloves have a windproof softshell on the back to protect your hands from cold chills, plus silicone palm and fingerprints to enhance your grip on the handlebars.
The best gloves for rainy days
dhb Waterproof Gloves
Your hands will feel toasty and dry thanks to the waterproof membrane and brushed fleece lining. The stretch neoprene cuff keeps wind and rain out. A reflective decal makes these a perfect choice for anyone who commutes through the dark, whatever the weather.
Gore Wear C5 GTX Thermo Gloves
GORE-TEX fabric offers complete waterproofing without sacrificing breathability. Warm air is trapped between the thermo lining and fleece inner face.
Endura Pro SL Primaloft Waterproof Gloves
Made with a seam-sealed, waterproof, breathable internal membrane that keeps water out, while still allowing sweat build-up to escape. For a secure and reliable grip, Endura have added a synthetic leather to keep your hands firm through the wet conditions.
The best gloves to get you seen in the dark
Gore M GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ Stretch Gloves
The ultimate all-winter glove that will see you through all but the foulest of conditions. The GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ provides total protection from the wind and is water repellant. Touchscreen fingertips mean you can operate devices without letting the cold in.
Gore Wear C5 Gore-Tex Thermo Gloves
Whether you go for the hi-viz yellow or the more subtle black, these gloves will keep your hands toasty and the reflective print lights up in headlights and street lights, increasing your visibility on the road.
GripGrab Ride Waterproof Hi-Vis Winter Gloves
360-degree reflective logos provide dazzling visibility in low light conditions. Silicone grippers on the index and middle finger, as well as a padded palm, help you to stay in control even in wet conditions.
The best gloves for when it gets really cold
dhb Deep Winter FLT Glove
The brushed fleece lining feels lovely and cosy against the skin whilst the hollow fill insulation provides a layer of warmth. Grippers on the index and middle fingers mean you'll retain control over the brakes and shifters, even in wet weather.
GripGrab Optimus Gloves
Waterproof and Windproof OutDry® Technology guarantee top-level protection from harsh conditions.4mm padding ensures ultimate comfort on the roughest winter roads and trails.
GripGrab Nordic Gloves
For the coldest Nordic winters, these windproof and waterproof lobster-style mitts will keep your hands toasty. GripGrab's 4mm DoctorGel™ padding cushions your palms against bumps in the road for additional comfort. A pull-cord means you'll be able to get them on and off easily.
