Best Mountain Bike Gloves Summer

Trail dust hangs in the air, your tires hum against the dirt, and the sun beats down like it’s trying to break you. Summer rides are brutal—in all the right ways. But while you’re locked in and focused on the next turn, your hands are doing more work than you think. Gripping, absorbing shock, staying responsive. And if your gloves can’t keep up—too hot, too stiff, too worn—you feel every mile in all the wrong ways.

The best summer mountain bike gloves don’t just protect your skin. They breathe when the heat’s unforgiving. They flex when the terrain gets technical. And they stay put no matter how hard you ride. This isn’t about flashy logos or overbuilt gear—it’s about gloves that feel like an extension of your hands. So we dug into the latest options that actually deliver. No gimmicks. Just high-performance gloves that work as hard as you do, mile after mile, even when the mercury climbs.

5 Best Mountain Bike Gloves Summer

Comparison table of five top-rated summer mountain bike gloves available:

Glove	Material	Breathability	Padding	Touchscreen Compatible	Closure Type	Image
Troy Lee Designs Air Glove	Micromesh back, perforated palm	High	Minimal	Yes	Slip-on
Giro DND Gloves	AX Suede synthetic leather palm, 4-way stretch mesh back	Moderate	Minimal	Yes	Slip-on
Pearl Izumi PRO Gel Vent	Polyamide, polyester, polyurethane, elastane	High	Gel padding	Yes	Hook-and-loop
INBIKE MC020 MTB Gloves	Polyurethane, silicone, TPR	High	EVA padding	Yes	Hook-and-loop
GripGrab SuperGel XC Gloves	Polyamide, polyester, elastane	High	DoctorGel padding	Yes	Hook-and-loop

1. Troy Lee Designs Air Glove

Troy Lee Designs Air Glove is crafted for riders pursuing a lightweight and breathable glove for summer trails. The micromesh back ensures optimal airflow, which keeps hands cool during intense rides. The perforated palm enhances ventilation and provides a direct feel of the handlebars.

Although the glove offers minimal padding, it ensures maximum tactile feedback, which is preferred by many riders. The Velcro strap provides a secure fit, though some users have noted it can feel tight. Durability-wise, the glove performs well, but there have been reports of the silicone grips wearing off after extended use.

2. Giro DND Mountain Bike Gloves

Giro DND Gloves, also known as the “Down and Dirty” gloves, are designed for riders who prioritize durability and comfort. The AX Suede synthetic leather palm offers a soft yet durable grip, while the 4-way stretch mesh back ensures flexibility and breathability.

2mm EVA crash pads provide added protection without compromising the glove’s slim profile. The slip-on design eliminates the need for closures, offering a seamless fit. However, some users have reported that the three-piece palm construction can cause pressure points during extended rides.

3. Pearl Izumi PRO Gel Vent Full Finger Glove

Pearl Izumi PRO Gel Vent Full Finger Glove is set up for riders seeking maximum comfort and ventilation. The glove features gel padding strategically placed to alleviate pressure points and reduce hand fatigue during long rides. The combination of materials ensures a snug fit while promoting airflow to keep hands cool.

Hook-and-loop closures allow for easy adjustments. This will ensure a secure fit. Touchscreen compatibility integration allows riders to use devices without removing the gloves. However, the glove’s premium features come at a higher price point, which may not suit all budgets.

4. INBIKE MC020 MTB Gloves for Summer

INBIKE MC020 MTB gloves are best for riders who value protection and comfort. The mix of polyurethane, silicone, and TPR materials ensures durability and flexibility. EVA padding provides shock absorption. This will reduce hand fatigue on rough terrain.

The gloves feature breathable fabric to keep hands cool during summer rides. The hook-and-loop closure allows for a customizable fit, and touchscreen compatibility ensures convenience. However, the gloves feel slightly bulky to riders accustomed to minimalist designs.

5. GripGrab SuperGel XC MTB Gloves

Finally, the GripGrab SuperGel XC Gloves are tailored for cross-country riders, following maximum comfort and grip. The DoctorGel padding system reduces nerve compression, minimizing hand numbness during long rides. The materials offer remarkable flexibility. High breathability keeps hands cool.

The hook-and-loop closure provides a secure fit. However, some users have noted that the gloves can feel tight, and the padding may be excessive for riders preferring a more direct handlebar feel.

How to Choose the Best Summer Mountain Bike Gloves

Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider when making your choice:

Material Composition

Summer mountain bike gloves should be made of lightweight, breathable materials to prevent your hands from getting too hot. Look for gloves with a mix of synthetic fabrics, spandex, mesh, or lightweight leather that allow for better airflow.

Ventilation & Breathability

Ventilation is key in hot weather. Choose gloves with mesh panels or perforated materials that allow airflow to your hands, reducing sweat and discomfort. Look for gloves specifically labeled as “breathable” or with ventilated sections.

Padding and Protection

While minimal padding is ideal for keeping a close feel with the handlebars, some riders prefer gloves with just enough cushioning to absorb shocks during bumpy rides. For summer, avoid excessive padding that can cause overheating and opt for thinner padding that still provides comfort.

Touchscreen Compatibility

A useful feature in modern mountain bike gloves is touchscreen compatibility. If you plan to use your phone for navigation, photos, or other tasks during your ride, check that the gloves have touchscreen-capable fingertips (usually made with special conductive materials).

Fit & Closure System

Proper fit ensures that the gloves stay securely in place without restricting movement. Look for gloves with adjustable closure systems, such as hook-and-loop straps or elasticized cuffs, to provide a customizable and snug fit.

Durability

Even summer gloves should be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. Look for gloves with reinforced palms or stitched areas that can handle friction and abrasion, especially during long or rugged rides.

Price Range

Mountain bike gloves come in a wide range of prices. High-end gloves often include more advanced features, like superior breathability, advanced padding, and touchscreen compatibility. Although you can find affordable gloves, make sure you’re not sacrificing comfort or durability.

FAQs:

Are mountain bike gloves for summer waterproof?

Summer mountain bike gloves are not waterproof, as their primary function is to provide breathability and comfort during hot weather. If you need waterproof gloves for rain, look for gloves specifically designed for wet conditions.

How tight should my summer mountain bike gloves be?

Your gloves should fit snugly, but not be too tight. A good fit means that you can move your fingers freely without the gloves bunching or sliding off. A snug fit ensures that the gloves stay in place while riding.

Can I wear mountain bike gloves for other sports or activities?

Yes! While designed for cycling, many summer mountain bike gloves are versatile enough for other outdoor activities like trail running, hiking, and casual outdoor sports. However, if you need gloves for more specific activities (e.g., climbing), consider models made for those sports.

Can I use summer mountain bike gloves during winter?

Summer gloves are not suited for cold weather riding. In winter, you will need gloves with more insulation and possibly waterproofing. If you want year-round versatility, look for gloves that offer a good balance of warmth and breathability.

Will summer mountain bike gloves provide enough protection?

Summer mountain bike gloves are designed for comfort and light protection, rather than heavy-duty protection. They offer basic protection from abrasions and shocks but are not ideal for extreme sports or dangerous trail conditions.