As temperatures continue to drop, it’s imperative to have the correct riding gear to remain warm for the duration of a ride. Controlling a mountain bike is hard enough as it is, and when a rider’s hands are so cold they can barely actuate their brakes, it becomes downright dangerous. A proper set of insulated riding gloves can go a long way in helping a rider maintain control of their bike and continue to rack up miles in the winter months. We have compiled a list of our favorite gloves for winter riding, including everything from minimalist waterproof gloves, to the warmest mountain biking gloves on the market. 

100%

100% Brisker

The 100% Brisker is an excellent option for winter rides while maintaining the feeling of a “standard” mountain bike glove. Its thicker insulated backing provides warmth, while its thin palm allows riders to maintain their usual dexterity on the bike. The snug fit and insulated interior retain body heat without compromising fit or feel. The Brisker glove also includes touchscreen-compatible fingertips, ensuring riders can stay connected and operate devices without removing their gloves. Utilizing a single velcro strap, the Briskers share a similar feel to summer gloves, making the transition from one to the other seamless for riders giving winter gloves a try for the first time.

100% Hydromatic 

For riders that live in a milder climate or those prioritizing defense against moisture over all-out warmth, the 100% Hydromatic is the way to go. The 100% Hydromatic allows water to roll off its outer shell, keeping the hands nice and dry no matter how dark the clouds get. Their slip-on design ensures a snug fit, while an extended waterproof cuff maximizes wrist coverage and eliminates any gap between the glove and jacket. Due to their tighter fit, the 100% Hydromatic gloves retain heat relatively well, making them an excellent option for shoulder seasons and wet climates.

100% Hydromatic Brisker

100% Brisker Xtreme

While the standard Brisker is a great option for most chilly days, riders have voiced a need for the warmest glove possible. In response, 100% has released the Brisker Xtreme, the warmest glove on offer. The Brisker Xtreme features increased coverage and insulation with an oversized cuff to eliminate any chance of exposed skin at the wrist. Reinforced fabric plays a significant role in maximizing insulation. No matter how cold the weather turns, riders outfitted in the Brisker Extreme are covered.

Fox

Ranger Fire

The Fox Ranger fire glove has become one of my go-to options when the temperatures drop below 40 degrees. The combination of a weather-resistant outer shell and an ultra-comfortable AX-Suede palm make for a glove that comfortably provides efficient warmth. Unlike some other winter gloves I've tried, the insulated design Ranger Fire goes relatively unnoticed on the bike, offering levels of feel and grip similar to my standard summer gloves. The Ranger Fire is a winter-specific glove as it runs uncomfortably warm if the temperatures creep toward 50 degrees. However, this ability to maintain body heat plays into its favor on days you need it most.

Specialized

Specialized Lobster

Named for its unconventional design, the lobster is undoubtedly our most unique glove. What the lobster may lack in style points, it more than redeemed itself in its ability to keep riders warm, even in the lowest PNW temperatures. This glove is best suited for light mountain riding, fat biking, and general commuting as its profile forces riders into “two-finger” braking. This glove was designed specifically for the coldest days of winter, keeping a rider’s hands nice and toasty even if the temperatures drop below freezing.