How to Choose Gloves for Off-Road Riding
Even experienced riders often underestimate the importance of quality gloves for off-road adventures. In reality, specialized protection is essential for preventing serious injuries during these high-impact activities. When selecting gloves, every detail matters for your safety and performance. The harsh environment of trails with rocks, branches, mud, and high crash risks make proper hand protection necessary regardless of weather conditions. Let's explore how to choose the perfect gear for your journeys.
Key Criteria for Selecting Protective Gloves
When choosing gloves for serious off-road riding, focus on these essential factors:
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Riding style: ATV requires reinforced palms and fingers to handle vibration and control levers, while enduro needs maximum knuckle and wrist protection for narrow trails
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Durable materials: look for reinforced leather palms, abrasion-resistant textiles, and tear-resistant panels that can withstand branches and rocks
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Enhanced protection: quality gloves should feature reliable knuckle protectors, extended wrist coverage, and impact-absorbing materials in crash zones
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Grip optimization: silicone or rubber grip patterns enhance control in muddy, wet, and rough conditions
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Weather adaptability: premium gloves balance ventilation with protection through breathable panels, moisture-wicking liners, and appropriate insulation for various temperatures
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Secure closure: choose adjustable wrist closures that prevent gloves from slipping during impacts or falls
How to Determine Your Glove Size

For accurate sizing, measure the circumference of your palm at its widest point (excluding the thumb) and reference the FINNTRAIL size chart below.
Palm circumference |
S |
M |
L |
XL |
cm |
19-20 |
21-22 |
23-24 |
25-26 |
inches |
7.5"-7.9" |
8.3"-8.7" |
9"-9.4" |
9.8"- 10.2" |
Remember that proper fit is crucial—too tight and you'll lose circulation and dexterity; too loose and you'll sacrifice control and protection.
FINNTRAIL Summer Gloves Collection
Riding in hot weather tests both your skills and your gear. FINNTRAIL gloves are built for riders who need reliable protection, excellent ventilation, and maximum comfort in challenging conditions. Here's our lineup of summer models preferred by our professional riders.
Model |
Best For |
Key Feature |
Protection Level |
Eagle |
Versatile use |
Lightweight flexibility |
Medium |
Enduro |
Racing, ATVs |
Knuckle protection |
High |
GT |
All-weather riding |
Waterproof membrane |
Maximum |
Eagle
Versatile gloves for extreme sports and outdoor activities. Their lightweight, stretchy construction allows full range of motion. The anatomical cut and artificial suede palm provide excellent grip control.
Key features:
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Lightweight, flexible materials for unrestricted movement
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Rubberized palm pattern for superior grip
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Built-in rubber adjustment tab for perfect fit
Enduro
Purpose-built for racers and enthusiasts of ATVs, buggies, and motocross. These lightweight yet durable gloves feature breathable materials and anatomical design. The knuckles and joints include flexible rubber protective panels that absorb impact.
Key features:
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Flexible protective panels covering knuckles and joints
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Soft artificial suede palm
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Rubberized grip pattern for enhanced control
GT
All-weather gloves for serious off-roading. The integrated HIPORA® membrane keeps water and mud out while letting your skin breathe. Durable padded inserts protect your hands from branches, sharp objects, and impacts.
Key features:
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Genuine leather palm reinforcement
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Neoprene cuffs to protect from water and mud ingress
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Soft microfiber lining for all-day comfort
Care and Maintenance
Extend the life of your off-road gloves with these simple practices:
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Clean after muddy rides using mild soap and water
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Allow to air dry naturally—never use direct heat
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Apply leather conditioner to leather parts every 3-4 months
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Check stitching regularly and repair small tears immediately
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Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Common Mistakes When Shopping for Gloves
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Eyeballing the size: always measure your hands properly before buying—proper fit is crucial for both comfort and protection
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Ignoring ventilation: poorly ventilated gloves cause excessive sweating, which can be dangerous when controlling your bike
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Wrong cuff length: too-short gloves leave wrists exposed, while overly long ones can restrict movement
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Mismatched protection level: your gloves should match how and where you ride—don't go too light for aggressive riding or too heavy for casual use
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Cutting costs: don't cheap out on gloves—budget options wear out quickly and offer inadequate protection
Final Thoughts
Summer riding isn't just about thrill-seeking and freedom, it's about being responsible for your safety. Quality FINNTRAIL gloves will be your trusted companions on any adventure, protecting your hands while maintaining perfect control.
No matter which model you choose, make sure they fit your hands perfectly and suit your riding style. After all, the best gear is the kind that makes you feel confident and comfortable no matter where the road takes you!