Dressage Gloves: Fit, Feel and the Show-Ring Rules
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Riding with Farris
Measure around the widest part of your palm (without your thumb), match it to the chart, and if you're between sizes, size down — riding gloves should fit snug.
By the riders at Farris · Updated June 2026
How to measure your hand for riding gloves
- Wrap a tape around your palm. Use a soft tape measure around the widest part of your palm, just below the knuckles, without including your thumb.
- Read the measurement. Note it in centimetres or inches, keeping your hand relaxed and flat rather than clenched.
- Match it to the chart. Find your size below. If you fall between two sizes, size down for a snug fit.
Riding glove size chart
| Hand circumference | Inches | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 16–17 cm | 6.3–6.7 in | XS |
| 17.5–18.5 cm | 6.9–7.3 in | S |
| 19–20 cm | 7.5–7.9 in | M |
| 20.5–21.5 cm | 8.1–8.5 in | L |
| 22–23.5 cm | 8.7–9.3 in | XL |
Cross-check against our full sizing chart before you order, as sizing runs differ between brands.
How should riding gloves fit?
A riding glove should fit like a second skin — snug, with no empty space at the fingertips and no bunching across the palm, but not so tight it restricts movement. You should be able to make a relaxed fist and pick up the reins easily. That close fit is what gives you feel; a loose glove bunches, twists, and slips.
What if you're between sizes?
Size down. Riding gloves are meant to fit close, and a slightly snug glove gives better feel and grip than a loose one. Many materials also relax a touch with wear, so a snug fit on day one is usually right. Still not perfect? Every Farris order includes a free size exchange.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure my hand for riding gloves?
Wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your palm, just below the knuckles, without including your thumb. Read the measurement with your hand relaxed, then match it to the size chart. If you're between sizes, size down.
Should riding gloves be tight or loose?
Snug, like a second skin — but not so tight they restrict movement. There should be no empty space at the fingertips and no bunching across the palm. A snug fit is what gives you feel on the reins.
What if I'm between two glove sizes?
Size down. Riding gloves are meant to fit close, and a slightly snug glove gives better feel and grip than a loose one, which bunches and slips. Materials also relax a little with wear.
From the makers
Built around feel
We design and ride in our own gear. The Farris Flexigrip riding gloves are lightweight, grippy, and tough — and as a Canadian brand we ship free with 30-day risk-free returns and a free size exchange.
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