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It gets tricky for cyclists between 5 and 15 degrees: too warm for winter gloves, too cold and too windy for summer models. This is exactly where transition gloves need to excel. Weather protection is crucial - they must reliably block the wind, keep out short showers and at the same time maintain a pleasant climate inside the glove. A glove that is too thick will quickly lead to heat build-up, while one that is too thin will cause your fingers to cool down.
The fit is just as important: the sensitivity for braking, shifting and steering is only retained if the glove fits without creases. A grippy palm ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions. Modern touch zones on the thumb and index finger are indispensable today, as hardly anyone wants to take off their gloves to operate a GPS or smartphone.
The test showed that high-quality materials, windproof membranes and water-repellent outer fabrics make all the difference. A long cuff provides additional protection against the wind. However, it is the interplay of weather protection, grip, fit and touch function that determines whether a glove is really convincing in everyday use.
The podium in the weather protection category
1st place - Cube All Season Long Fingers - Grade 1.3
The strongest weather protector among the brand gloves. For 40 euros, the Cube offers noticeably good protection against wind and cold, keeps your hands pleasantly warm and impresses with a secure grip on the handlebars. The cuff provides good protection, but should be worn under the sleeve to prevent the knitted material from becoming soaked. The touch function is limited, as only the thumbs are conductive - but a clear winner for weather protection.
2nd place - Sportful Aqua Light Gloves - Grade 1.5
The lightest glove in the test surprises with strong weather protection. It insulates well against wind and even keeps out rain surprisingly effectively for its lightweight construction. It fits perfectly after the somewhat tight entry and offers excellent control on the handlebars. The touch function works precisely and all gestures are recognised accurately. Runs rather small - it's worth going up a size. >> available here
3rd place - Castelli Perfetto Light Gloves - Grade 1.8
The Perfetto Light impresses with its excellent fit and very good wind protection. Rain beads off well, even if the beading behaviour could be a little stronger. Touch function and grip are excellent. Overall, a very well-balanced glove that comes in just behind Cube and Sportful in the weather protection category.
3rd place Hestra Windbreaker Tracker 5 Finger - Grade 1.8
The warmest glove in the test - ideal for cold, windy days. The fleece lining insulates well, but can get too warm above 15 degrees. The material quality and workmanship are first-class, and the long cuff provides excellent protection. Six touch fingers and reflective details round off the package. A strong weather protector for cool weather >> available here.
The opinion and categorisation of the editorial team
The transition period places high demands on gloves - and only a few models fulfil them really well. Cube, Sportful, Castelli and Hestra show how convincingly weather protection, fit and touch function can work together. While Castelli sets the bar across all categories, Sportful and Cube offer strong alternatives, while Hestra scores particularly well in the cold. The decisive factor remains: The glove must fit perfectly and suit your personal temperature sensitivity. If you choose carefully, you will ride much more comfortably in the transition period.
Matthias Borchers
Editor
