MTB gloves

From classic MTB gloves to fingerless mitts and liner gloves, discover a wide range of models on Snowleader for every style and condition. Whether you ride cross-country, enduro or downhill, you'll find the MTB gloves to suit your needs and expectations. Key factors to consider when choosing MTB gloves are comfort and freedom of movement. 

Why wear MTB gloves?

MTB gloves are not just a comfort accessory: they are an essential part of your mountain biking kit. On the trails, your hands constantly absorb handlebar vibrations, and in the event of a fall, they are the first to hit the ground. Good MTB gloves absorb these vibrations, protect your palms and fingers from abrasions, and allow you to ride longer without excessive fatigue.

The vast majority of MTB gloves feature a grippy palm surface for easier handlebar control, as well as a touchscreen-compatible fingertip on the index finger so you can check your GPS or smartphone without removing your gloves-a handy detail when you need to check your route mid-ride.

The benefits of MTB gloves

With the right MTB gloves, you'll enjoy several daily benefits on your bike:

• Enhanced grip thanks to non-slip palms, for a secure hold on the handlebars even in wet or muddy conditions.
• Effective protection against impacts, blisters and irritation on long rides.
• Vibration absorption that reduces muscle fatigue in your arms and hands, especially on rough terrain.
• Thermal comfort adapted to the season: protection from cold and wind in winter, optimal ventilation in summer.

How to choose your MTB gloves?

Selection criteria

It's important to have gloves that fit properly-too small and your hand will feel compressed, too large and you'll lose finger precision. Beyond size, here are the main criteria to keep in mind to find the right model for you:

• Cut: full-finger gloves cover the whole hand and offer maximum protection, while fingerless mitts free the fingers and provide better ventilation in hot weather.
• Materials: synthetic leather offers durability and grip, while mesh and spandex focus on lightness and breathability. Some models include gel inserts in the palm for extra cushioning on rough ground.
• Reinforcements: protection on the knuckles and palm is especially recommended if you ride enduro or downhill.
• Closure: a velcro strap at the wrist ensures a secure fit and prevents the glove from slipping during effort.

Choosing MTB gloves for the weather

Depending on the weather conditions, your needs will vary, so it's worth having several pairs suited to each situation. There are waterproof gloves for wet and cold weather. In winter, pair your gloves with a MTB jacket for full protection.

• In summer: choose lightweight, breathable MTB gloves or fingerless mitts that wick away sweat while maintaining good grip. Pair them with a breathable MTB jersey for optimal comfort.
• In winter: opt for lined, windproof and water-repellent gloves. You can also wear thin merino or synthetic liner gloves under your MTB gloves for extra warmth without sacrificing dexterity. Consider MTB trousers suitable for cold weather to keep your whole body warm.
• In between seasons: versatile MTB gloves with a windproof membrane offer a good balance between protection and breathability.

Different MTB disciplines and suitable gloves

Each MTB discipline has its own demands in terms of speed, technicality and duration. The gloves you use for cross-country will not have the same features as those for downhill, and that's perfectly normal. Check out our MTB shorts to complete your outfit.

Gloves for cross-country

Cross-country involves long, often intense efforts with demanding climbs where heat builds up quickly. That's why MTB gloves for this discipline focus on lightness and breathability: mesh or stretch fabric, close fit and long fingers to maintain control on technical sections without overheating. Brands like Scott or Ion offer models particularly suited to this use, with slim construction and precise grip on the handlebars.

Gloves for enduro

Enduro alternates between climbs and technical descents, requiring MTB gloves that combine protection and flexibility. Look for models with light reinforcements on the knuckles and palm, made from breathable materials that wick away sweat. The glove should remain flexible enough to ensure good feel on the brake lever and shifter, even after hours of riding.

Gloves for downhill

In downhill, speed and impacts demand maximum protection. Choose long MTB gloves with rigid or semi-rigid protection on the fingers and back of the hand, a reinforced synthetic leather palm and a secure wrist closure. POC offers MTB gloves specifically designed for downhill, with reinforcements to absorb high-speed impacts-where protective accessories really make a difference.

MTB gloves FAQ

Which materials are best for durable and comfortable MTB gloves?

For durability and comfort, look for MTB gloves with a synthetic leather palm (Clarino or similar) and a breathable stretch fabric back. Synthetic leather is much more abrasion-resistant than standard textiles, while mesh or spandex panels ensure good ventilation during effort. Some models also feature gel inserts in the palm for extra cushioning on rough terrain. For winter gloves, windproof membranes like Windstopper and thin fleece linings offer a good balance of warmth and dexterity.

How do MTB gloves improve safety on descents?

On descents, reinforced MTB gloves protect your hands in the event of a fall thanks to rigid or semi-rigid shells on the knuckles and back of the hand. The non-slip palm helps you maintain a firm grip on the handlebars even in technical sections or wet weather, reducing the risk of losing control at the wrong moment. They also help prevent blisters and fatigue caused by repeated vibrations. Combined with a MTB helmet and knee pads, gloves are an essential part of any mountain biker's protective gear.

How should you care for your MTB gloves?

To maintain the technical properties of your MTB gloves, wash them by hand or in the machine at a maximum of 30°C on a delicate cycle with mild detergent, without fabric softener. Let them air dry out of direct sunlight, and avoid tumble drying, which could deform the reinforcements and damage the seams. Regular care helps preserve palm grip and material flexibility over time.

What size MTB gloves should you choose?

To determine your size, measure the circumference of your dominant hand at the knuckles, without squeezing, then refer to the size guide of your chosen brand. Well-fitted gloves should hug the hand without compressing the fingers or leaving excess material at the tips. If you're between two sizes, opt for the larger one for better freedom of movement.