How Warm Does Your Glove Need to Be?

Most winter gloves are insulated with synthetic materials, which dry quickly and retain their warmth-trapping powers when wet. Mittens are often insulated with down because it’s lighter and warmer than synthetics. The drawback: Down clumps together when wet, losing its insulation properties.

Breathability is also important for staying warm. You could have the best windproof glove with the warmest insulation and the coziest fleece lining, but if it traps moisture from your sweaty hands, none of that will matter. While synthetic materials and wool are both good at wicking moisture away from your skin to keep it dry, cotton absorbs sweat and holds it next to your skin.

If all of this is too overwhelming, or you can’t decide between a few options, consider the average temps you typically ride in. Most companies rate their gloves on a temperature scale, so if you know you ride in subfreezing temps, don’t buy a glove meant for 40-degree-plus days.