Protection for the hands
Riding gloves
Riding gloves protect your hands from chafing and cold and give you a better hold on the reins. Whether thin summer gloves with mesh or lined winter models: here you will find riding gloves from Roeckl, Samshield, LeMieux, QHP, Busse, Uvex, ELT, Kentucky Horsewear, Kingsland, Imperial Riding, Equestro, BR, ANKY, Ego7, Premiere and Sir Lancelot.
Why riding gloves every day?
When riding, lunging and leading, reins and lead ropes rub against the skin. A suitable glove prevents blisters, keeps the hand drier or warmer and improves grip – especially in wet conditions or with smooth reins. That is why many riders wear gloves not only in winter but all year round. A sturdy pair also protects against chafing and dirt when working with the horse, loading or in the arena.
Summer, winter or all-round?
Summer gloves are light, often with mesh inserts, and breathable so that your hands sweat less. They are suitable for the indoor arena, outdoor arena and warm hacks. Winter riding gloves are lined and windproof; they are slightly bulkier, so pay attention to the fit at the fingers. All-round models with a robust grip surface on the palm and fingers (in the listing, for example, Roeck-Grip and comparable versions) accompany you through training and shows all year. Which version you need depends on the season, discipline and whether you prioritise warmth or a particularly fine feel for the reins.
Fit and size
The glove should fit snugly enough to keep the feel for the reins without constricting the fingers. Many manufacturers offer women's, men's and children's sizes; use the size chart of the respective brand. If unsure, measure hand circumference and finger length and compare with the chart. Wrist fastenings (Velcro or cuff) should sit under the jacket or over the sleeve, depending on how the model is cut. After the first rides the material often gives a little – so it is better to choose a snug fit than one that is too loose.
Grip, material and care
The grip surfaces on the palm and fingers determine the hold on the reins. Synthetic and blended fabrics dry quickly and are easy to care for; leather-like surfaces occasionally need care according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not wash gloves hotter than stated and let them air dry, not on the radiator. Close Velcro fastenings before washing. If you ride a lot, alternate between two pairs – this keeps the material in shape for longer and more hygienic.
Training, shows and children
For everyday riding, hard-wearing all-rounders in a colour that matches your outfit are enough. For shows, many choose a plain, dark pair without eye-catching prints. Children's gloves are cut smaller; check the size regularly because hands grow. Glitter or Swarovski versions in the listing are a matter of taste and mainly intended for training or shows – grip remains the decisive criterion.
How they differ and matching categories
Riding gloves belong to riding apparel, not to work or ski gloves from the DIY store. For cold days at the yard, they go well with riding jackets, jumpers and sweatshirts and hats, headbands and scarves. You will find spurs and spur straps under spurs and spur straps. Tips for the cold season: Riding in winter.
Brands in our range
Particularly frequent on the first page: Roeckl (including Roeck-Grip and V-Skin), Samshield and LeMieux. In addition there are QHP, Busse, Uvex, ELT, Kentucky Horsewear, Kingsland, Imperial Riding, Equestro, BR, ANKY, Ego7, Premiere and Sir Lancelot.
Riding gloves for the summer
- lightweight fabrics are particularly breathable and prevent sweaty hands
- often with mesh inserts
- also available with UV protection
- e.g. made from nylon, polyester, polyurethane or synthetic leather
Riding gloves for the winter
- Well lined and windproof
- slightly thicker than normal riding gloves, so the fit is important
- usually made from a thicker material
Lined, windproof models with good grip. Your fingers must not go numb; a proper winter model is usually enough without an additional inner glove.
Light, breathable gloves with mesh or thin fabric. They should wick away moisture and still give a good hold on the reins.
Use the manufacturer's size chart and, if necessary, measure hand circumference and finger length. The glove must fit snugly without causing tingling.
No. Many also use them for lunging, leading or work with the horse when ropes and lead ropes chafe.
Special surfaces on the palm and fingers increase adhesion to the reins. Details are in the product description; in wet conditions or with smooth reins, more grip is often pleasant.
Clean off coarse dirt, wash according to the manufacturer's instructions or just air them, and let them dry slowly. Close the Velcro and do not store them on the radiator.
Find the right riding glove size
To find the right size, place a tape measure around your knuckles, leaving out the thumb. Close your hand loosely and read the circumference off the tape measure. These measurements are guide values.
| more for women | more for men | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glove size | 6 | 6,5 | 7 | 7,5 | 8 | 8,5 | 9 | 9,5 | 10 | 10,5 | 11 | 11,5 | 12 |
| Hand circumference in cm | 16,5 | 17,6 | 18,9 | 20,3 | 21,6 | 23,0 | 24,3 | 25,7 | 27,0 | 28,4 | 29,7 | 31,1 | 32,4 |
Brands with S/M/L sizes and children's sizes have their own charts, please check the size chart on the product page.