Best Riding Gloves for Hot Weather and Sweaty Hands

Riding with Farris

The best summer riding gloves are lightweight, breathable, and grippy — a thin stretch back keeps hands cool while a textured palm holds the reins even when you sweat.

By the riders at Farris · Updated June 2026

Do you need different gloves for summer riding?

Not strictly, but a dedicated lightweight pair makes hot-weather riding far more comfortable. Most regular riders end up with two: a thin, breathable pair for warm months and a warmer pair for the cold. A heavy glove in summer leaves your hands hot and sweaty, which is exactly when grip starts to fail.

What makes a good hot-weather riding glove?

• A breathable back. Mesh or four-way-stretch fabric lets heat and moisture escape.
• Light, thin construction for maximum feel and minimum heat.
• A grippy palm. Sweat makes reins slick, so a textured or silicone palm matters even more in summer.
• A snug fit so the glove doesn't slide as your hands get damp.
• Quick-drying, washable materials, since you'll be rinsing sweat out often.

How do you stop your hands sweating in riding gloves?

You can't stop sweat entirely, but you can manage it. Choose thin, breathable, moisture-wicking gloves; wash them regularly so built-up sweat doesn't kill the grip; and air-dry them fully between rides. Rotating two pairs helps each dry out. Most importantly, a grippy palm keeps you secure even when your hands are damp, so prioritise grip rather than trying to eliminate sweat.

Are fingerless riding gloves good for summer?

They're cooler, but they trade away fingertip protection and some consistency of feel and grip. Many riders prefer a thin, full-finger breathable glove because it keeps steady contact across the whole hand. It comes down to preference — if you run very hot and don't mind less coverage, fingerless can work for light hacking.

What to look for

For summer, think thin, breathable, and grippy. For the cold months, see our winter riding gloves guide, and for sizing check the size chart before you buy.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best riding gloves for hot weather?

Lightweight, breathable gloves with a grippy palm. A mesh or four-way-stretch back keeps your hands cool, while a textured or silicone palm holds the reins even when your hands sweat. Avoid thick or padded gloves in summer.

How do you stop your hands sweating in riding gloves?

Choose thin, breathable, moisture-wicking gloves, wash them regularly so sweat build-up doesn't reduce grip, and air-dry them fully between rides. A grippy palm keeps you secure even when your hands are damp, so prioritise grip over trying to eliminate sweat.

Are mesh-backed riding gloves any good?

Yes, for warm weather. A mesh or stretch back lets heat and moisture escape, keeping your hands cooler and drier on long summer rides. Just make sure the palm still has a proper grip surface.

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