Gear Guide Tried & Tested

Gloves

Say goodbye to slipping reins and blisters with 20 gloves on the market, tried and tested

Our testers: The pupils at Wellington Riding kindly tested a range of gloves to see how they held up after three months of rigourous riding.

The products

RRP
£105

PC Racewear weatherproof

Elasticated, curved cushioned waistband.

We say…

True to size. The pockets are comfortable and have sealed zips, making them really secure. They provided good grip in the saddle, and kept us warm and dry even when riding in heavy rain and strong winds. Washed well and dried quickly, with no signs of wear.

  • 10 colours
  • 24-34 in
  • Water repellent
RRP
£100

Toggi Delta full seat

Lightweight, four-way stretch material

We say…

True to size fit. Small front zipped pocket zip was stiff, but eased with use. Full-seat offered security without being restrictive. Performed well in all weathers, from light to heavy rain, cold and wind. They washed well, and still look new. 

  • 1 colour
  • 24-34 in
  • Water repellent
  • Fleece lined
Woof Wear Waterproof gloves
RRP
£33.00

Woof Wear Waterproof gloves

Breathable gloves with a thermal lining, synthetic suede palms and long cuffs.

Features velcro closure and waterproof outer

 I really like these gloves – they kept my hands warm and dry, and the cuffs kept the rain and wind out. They aren’t bulky, which meant I could easily do fiddly tasks around the yard in them, and they offered excellent grip and feel on the reins while I was riding. However, I found the lining could slip a little. I’d buy them again because I think they’re versatile and good value for money.

Horse Health Pro Touch DryTex Waterproof gloves
RRP
£27.50

Horse Health Pro Touch DryTex Waterproof gloves

A softshell outer with a breathable membrane and insulated lining. 

Features waterproof outer and silicone grip

The gloves had a very good grip, which was useful for both riding and yard work. They’re quite thick, so I preferred to hack in them rather than wear them for schooling, but I could still carry out most yard tasks with ease. They performed well in the rain, and kept my hands really warm and dry. I’d purchase them again for use in wet weather. 

Noble Outfitters Winter Show gloves
RRP
£24.95

Noble Outfitters Winter Show gloves

Lined with microfleece, they have leather palms and reinforced areas on the fingers. 

Features velcro closure and water-resistant

I was impressed by these gloves. The palms were grippy, even when my horse was strong out hacking, and I had enough feel on the reins for schooling. They’re windproof and stood up well to rain. For such lightweight winter gloves, they’re really warm, but I’d have preferred a longer cuff, as I could get a gap between them and my jacket sleeves. Overall I think they’re great value and really smart. 

Horseware Competition gloves
RRP
£21.95

Horseware Competition gloves

Smart gloves with a digital printed palm, faux leather binding and elasticated wrist.

Features velcro closure and water-resistant

These gloves were very comfortable to ride in, with excellent grip and feel, and I was really pleased with how they performed. The mesh insert meant my hands didn’t get too hot, but it did allow the rain in and, because they don’t have a lining, I feel they’re best suited to warmer weather. However, they’re smart, and ideal for riding and competitions, so I’d buy them again.

Hy5 Water Repellent Softshell gloves
RRP
£18.99

Hy5 Water Repellent Softshell

A water-repellent outer and 40g insulation, with grip palms and long cuffs. 

Features velcro closure, water-repellent and silicone grip

These gloves were fantastic in cold, wet weather. Personally, I found them a little bulky for riding, but they were great for on the yard and generally being outside. The grippy palms were helpful for carrying heavy buckets and handling tools. I found them easy to slip on and off, and they’ve stood up well to wet, muddy conditions. For the price I thought they were good value for money. 

MacWet Sports gloves
RRP
£29.99

MacWet Sports gloves

Lightweight gloves made from technical, soft, non-slip fabric with mesh backs.  

Features velcro closure

These gloves were very comfortable and grippy, even when it was really wet. They don’t keep your hands totally dry, but they’re designed to grip even when they’re wet through, which they do brilliantly. The mesh vents make them ideal for warmer weather and they’re tough enough to be used every day, but still smart to wear for competitions. I think they’re worth the money and I’d buy them again.

Samshield V-Skin gloves
RRP
£36.99

Samshield V-Skin gloves

Ultra-thin synthetic leather, with soft fabric palms and Spandex for stretch. 

These were the best gloves I’ve ever had for grip, particularly in the wet. They resisted rain and, while not the warmest, were very breathable and flexible. I found them suitable to wear on the yard, too – the grip was second to none for handling tools. Although the design on the palms isn’t my usual style, I’d definitely buy these gloves again, as the flexibility and grip were the best I’ve had. 

Kramer Impressive Winter gloves
RRP
£34.90

Kramer Impressive Winter gloves

Windproof, breathable gloves with knitted cuffs and a warm lining. 

Features velcro closure, waterproof outer and silicone grip

These gloves were really comfy, and while they’re bulkier than my normal gloves, I still had sufficient feel on the reins for hacking and schooling. For a bulkier glove they’re pretty nimble and were fine to wear for most yard jobs, but I still took them off for fiddly tasks such as doing up my bridle or tightening my girth. I really rate them – they’re waterproof, windproof and really grippy, even when wet.

SSG 10 Below gloves
RRP
£39.99

SSG 10 Below gloves

Four-layer, breathable gloves with digital fabric palms and elastic wrist straps.

Features waterproof outer and touchscreen compatible

These gloves are really robust and perfect for around the yard. They’re ideal for very cold weather – very warm and waterproof. I found them a little bulky for my taste, particularly for riding, but the grip on the palms was great for leading horses in and out of stables without being too sticky. I thought the wrist straps were a really handy feature and I’d buy them again to wear on the yard. 

Shires Neoprene Super Grip gloves
RRP
£15.99

Shires Neoprene Super Grip gloves

Insulating, softshell backs with faux nubuck palms and finger inserts.

Featuring water-resistant outer

I’m really impressed by these gloves – they’re warm, comfortable and excellent for all kinds of riding. The palms are grippy, and it was easy to adjust tack and do yard chores. The softshell repels water, but the finger inserts and palms aren’t waterproof, so moisture could seep in. I think the price is great for such reliable, hardwearing gloves, and I’d definitely buy another pair.

Mountain Horse Reflective gloves
RRP
£30.00

Mountain Horse Reflective gloves

Fleece-lined, with a reflective panel on the back and knitted cuffs.

I liked these gloves and they kept my hands dry in the rain. Personally, I found them a little bulky for riding, but they’re great for yard work and keeping your hands really warm. I really liked the elasticated wrist – they were secure, but I could still easily slip them on and off. The reflective panels on the back are a useful feature for hacking and they stood up well to muddy conditions.  

Sealskinz Elgin waterproof gloves
RRP
£55.00

Sealskinz Elgin gloves

Windproof and breathable, with a durable synthetic suede palm.

Features velcro closure and waterproof outer

I loved these gloves – they were completely waterproof and super-warm. As they’re a bit bulky, I was concerned I’d struggle to use my fingers for fiddly jobs, but I could still tie up haynets and easily adjust my reins while riding. The lining did start to slip a little, but I think it was because my hands were so warm. I’d recommend them, especially if you suffer from cold hands. 

Dublin Everyday Showerproof gloves
RRP
£14.99

Dublin Everyday Showerproof gloves

Showerproof, polar fleece gloves with knitted cuffs and finger reinforcements.

Features water-resistant outer

These gloves were a bit stiff to ride in at first, but this did improve the more I used them. My hands stayed dry in light rain and didn’t get too sweaty on warmer days, but I feel they’re best suited to cooler weather. They were a little thick for undoing rugs and more fiddly yard work such as tying up haynets, but great for walking the dog and other general wear when it was chilly.

Roeckl Westlock gloves
RRP
£74.95

Roeckl Westlock gloves

Softshell gloves that have faux suede palms with silicone grip. 

Features Velcro closure, waterproof outer, silicone grip and touchscreen compatible

These gloves were comfortable for riding and yard work, and faultless in terms of grip and freedom of movement. The touchscreen capabilities were fairly reliable and useful if I wanted to take a photo or read a message. My hands were warm without getting sweaty, and stayed dry even when I dunked them in water. They’re durable, practical gloves that protect your hands from the elements.

RRP
£27.99

Mountain Horse Performance gloves

Waterproof riding gloves with a stretch outer, lightweight padding, and reinforced palm and fingers. Thin enough to ride in, but warm enough for the coldest, wettest days.

Tel: 01462 432596 mountainhorse.co.uk

“They were waterproof, even when I dropped them in a puddle! However, they are very bulky to work in and hold reins.”

RRP
£24.95

Bridleway Competition riding gloves

Fine, leather-backed gloves with stretch inserts at the knuckles and between the fingers. Synthetic grip palms with touch-sensitive synthetic suede fingers for rein control. Elasticated wrists with touch-and-close fastenings.

“These gloves were smart enough to use for both casual riding and at competitions. They fitted well, with stretchy material on the back of the hand for comfort when riding and reinforced material where the reins sit for durability. They washed well and feel like they will really last.  Although great for riding, they weren’t the warmest of gloves for general use around the yard and they lost some of their grip when wet.”

RRP
£15.99

Shires Super Cool competition gloves

A lightweight leather glove with a mesh back to keep hands cool. They also feature reinforced grips and adjustable wrists.

“They were very comfortable with a stretchy mesh patch across the knuckles, which provided unrestricted hand movement. They look smart for competitions with a strong fastening. The fingers seemed very long for a average person’s hand shape and finger length. Could be cold when worn in cold weather because of the mesh patch.”

RRP
£29.99

Mark Todd Competition gloves

Lycra knuckle gussets let you close your hand in comfort and vented fingers keep your hands cool to avoid perspiration for a better feel.

Tel: 01303 872277 wefi.co.uk

“The design of these gloves makes it easier to close your fingers around the reins – they’re comfortable and a good fit. The sporty design may not appeal to everyone.”

RRP
£23.99

Dublin Dressage touchscreen gloves

Leather gloves with reinforced fingers for single and double reins with touchscreen- compatible tips. They feature stretch fabric over the knuckles for comfort and touch-tape wrist closures.

“These look smart and are easily good-looking enough for competitions. They are comfortable and fit close to the skin, so you can do everything without taking them off. The elasticated wrist can rub if you overtighten it.”

RRP
£24.95

Roeckl Mission riding gloves

Fashionable riding gloves with Lycra upper hand and durable palm material for non-slip grip.

“These feature a nice design and grippy palm. Because they’re quite patterned, they might not be suitable for use in dressage competitions.”

RRP
£7.95

LeMieux Work gloves

Tough gloves for work and riding, made from flexible, durable cotton with a nitrile palm.

“I love these gloves to work in around the yard. They really did keep my hands warm. None, they are definitely good value for money.”

RRP
£29.99

Bionic AquaGrip gloves

Designed to fit like a second skin and made from suede microfibre for increased grip in wet conditions, these gloves are ergonomically designed for comfort and grip.

Tel: 01303 872277 wefi.co.uk

“They are made from a light, breathable material that’s warm on cold days and gives a really good feel on the reins. They’re excellent value for money.”

RRP
£27.49

Caldene 3-in-1 riding gloves

Comes with a removable base layer with silicone-printed grips on the palms and finger tips that can be worn for general use or riding. The outer gloves have silicone-printed grips and can be worn on their own or over the base layer.

Tel: 01274 711101 caldene.co.uk

“I love these gloves! When you’re wearing both layers they are toasty warm and not too thick so you can still do a lot of things with them on. The lining is really soft and warm, too. I also found the wrist strap handy as you don’t have to find somewhere to put them when you take them off for a minute. They are great value for money as you have gloves to suit all kinds of weather and jobs. If you’re wearing both pairs you have to take them off and put them on separately.”

RRP
£12.50

Toggi Barbury Cross-Country gloves

Designed to keep hands warm and dry, whatever the conditions. Featuring a technical stretch fabric, reinforced panels for durability and grip, neoprene cuff and adjustable wrist strap for comfort and protection.

Tel: 0113 270 7000 toggi.com

“These gloves are warm and a nice fit, the grip is good and they kept my hands dry in wet weather. I loved the design. They are a bit thick for my liking and the stitching wasn’t as durable as some.”

RRP
£25

Woof Wear Technical Event gloves

Designed for eventers, they have a short cuff to accommodate a stopwatch. Four-way stretch fabric and a Reintex Pro palm ensure grip in all conditions.

Tel: 01208 265920 woofwear.com

“They’re light and grippy in wet conditions. However, the fastening wasn’t as durable as others.”

RRP
£11.99

Hy5 Everyday riding gloves

Designed for style and comfort, they have added reinforcement to prevent wear and a fabric back to keep your hands warm. The elasticated cuff with an adjustable wrist strap aids fit.

“Comfortable, waterproof, stretchy and they keep your hands cool. They’re not warm and I think tough yard duties would take their toll on them, too.”

RRP
£25

SSG Soft Touch gloves

Made from synthetic leather with a snake pebble pattern, they feature a ventilated back for comfort, breathability and style.

“They’re super-smart gloves for schooling and competing. Very breathable and they look great. They can get a bit slippery on rubber reins if it rains.”

RRP
£48

Gersemi Functional waterproof gloves

Tel: 01352 763350 zebraproducts.co.uk

“They were warm but so tactile – I was able to do up buckles, open supplement lids and even use a touchscreen phone. They keep out hay seeds and protect hands from blisters. Lightweight, yet warm and waterproof. Suitable for working around the yard or riding.”

RRP
£29.90

Ekkia LAG Respirant gloves

Made of anti-slip goat leather for comfort and featuring a perforated area on the back of the palm for breathability. Gussets on the back of the hand and elastic nylon knit between the fingers provide a good fit.

“Very comfortable, thin and nice to ride and lunge in. They look good and are also great in the rain. Because they’re so breathable, they aren’t good for  keeping hands warm in winter.”

RRP
£14

Carrots Competition riding gloves

Suitable for competitors and leisure riders alike. The four-way stretch fabric aids fit, flexibility and rein contact, while the high-tech fabric keeps hands comfortable in warm and cool temperatures.

Tel: 01245 445362 carrotsequestrian.co.uk

“They kept my hands warm and are lightweight enough to be able to have a good feel on the reins. They have an unusual design for riding gloves.”

RRP
£22.99

HV Polo Riding gloves

Made from 100% acrylic with an elasticated wrist and touch-tape fastening. Synthetic logo print on the palm helps to grip the reins.

“They’re lightweight and give a good feel on the reins. After weeks of continuous use, they were in great shape. I have small hands and the medium size was tight across the palm, but long in the fingers.”

RRP
£24.50

Ariat Tek Grip gloves

A synthetic suede palm helps sensitivity and grip, while stretch Tek Twill gives flexibility and fit.

Tel: 01367 242818 ariat-europe.com

“These are extremely comfortable. They’re not too hot or cold to wear, nor bulky, so they’re yard work/riding friendly. They prevented me from getting blisters when I was working and riding. Next time I would go up a size, as the medium-sized pair I tested was very snug, but they still felt very comfortable.”

RRP
£26.50

Equetech Snaffle half leather gloves

These gloves feature an engraved snaffle buckle detail, leather palm and reinforced suede finger panels, with a stretch cotton back and elasticated wrist, fastened with Velcro.

Tel: 01296 688966 equetech.com

“These are a nice design, comfortable and a good fit. I found the grip was less efficient when wet, so I wouldn’t feel secure going cross-country in them. Also, the wrist strap was large on me and did not tighten enough around the wrists.”

RRP
£26.99

Tredstep Trainer Pro

Suitable for wet and dry conditions, Wet Tec technology ensures that these gloves have a secure grip, while the Flexi Grip palm avoids any bunching of material in your hand.

Tel: 00 353 12 950598 tredstep.com

“These gloves are thin so they give you good grip on the reins. I wore them hunting and they were waterproof, kept my hands warm, the mud brushed off easily and they dried very quickly.  I didn’t find the wrist closure very durable.”

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