By Cycling Yes 
The Struggle is Real: Why Are My Hands So Numb When I Ride?
There’s something magical about riding a bike, that feeling of the wind in your hair and wheels rolling on pavement. It’s an exhilarating experience, but sometimes it comes with a side effect: numb hands. It can be a real damper on your joy ride! You know those moments when you grip the handlebars tightly, only to feel a prickly, tingling sensation through your fingertips? Well, that’s often caused by poor circulation or nerve compression in your hands.
Why is this happening? It boils down to a few key factors. First, long periods of holding on to the handlebars can restrict blood flow to your hands and fingers, leading to discomfort and numbness. Second, cold weather can also exacerbate the problem as it constricts blood vessels, resulting in reduced circulation. Lastly, certain hand-bike positions or riding styles, like those involving prolonged braking, can put pressure on nerves, causing tingling and numbness.
But hold on! There’s hope for those suffering from numb hands. A good pair of bike gloves can make a world of difference in keeping your fingers happy on the road.
What to Look for in Bike Gloves for Numb Hands
Finding the perfect pair of gloves is like finding the ideal riding partner – you want something comfortable, supportive, and capable of tackling any situation. Here’s a deeper dive into what to look for:
**1. Insulation:** For those chilly mornings or evenings, choose gloves with insulation! Consider materials such as fleece, Thinsulate, or even synthetic fibers designed to trap your body heat and keep you warm without feeling bulky.
**2. Grip:** The ability to grip the handlebars securely is key for maintaining control, preventing unwanted slides, and ensuring a smooth ride. Choose gloves with grippy palms made from materials like silicone or rubber. These types of grips add an extra layer of security to your hands while riding, allowing you to confidently navigate turns and challenging terrain.
**3. Padding:** If your numbness is due to repeated pressure on the sensitive nerve areas in your palms, padding can make a significant difference. Some gloves offer palm inserts or reinforced stitching for added comfort and reduced tingling. Remember, you don’t want your hands turning into lead weights after a few hours.
**4. Fit:** A good fit is crucial! Gloves that are too tight restrict circulation, while loose ones can feel uncomfortable and lack the necessary support. Look for gloves with adjustable wrist closures or touch-sensitive fingers to ensure a comfortable fit, allowing you to adjust them based on your needs.
**5. Durability:** You want a pair of gloves that can withstand your cycling adventures! Choose durable fabrics and high-quality stitching to ensure longevity and reduce the need for frequent replacements.
Top 5 Bike Gloves for Numb Hands:
Let’s delve into some of the best options available in 2024:
**1. Specialized Merino Wool Gloves:** These gloves are known for their exceptional comfort and insulation, thanks to their breathable merino wool fabric. The merino fibers keep your hands warm during colder rides, while the breathable nature prevents moisture buildup, keeping you feeling fresh even on challenging terrains.
**2. Showers Pass “Winter” Gloves:** These gloves are designed with serious cyclists in mind. Featuring insulated palm and finger areas for ultimate warmth, along with a windproof and water-resistant outer shell, these gloves are ideal for navigating snowy or windy conditions.
**3. Pearl Izumi Cycling “Endurance” Gloves:** These gloves are a classic choice for comfortable handling. They offer exceptional grip with silicone palms, while their lightweight and breathable design keeps your hands feeling fresh, even during extended rides.
**4. Craft “Aircomfort” Cycling Gloves:** Lightweight and flexible, these gloves prioritize comfort over bulk. They boast a seamless palm construction for optimal grip and breathability, keeping your hands cool and dry even during intense workouts.
**5. Gore-Tex Gloves:** For those who tackle the unpredictable weather conditions, Gore-Tex gloves offer superior waterproof and breathable performance. These gloves utilize Gore-Tex technology to keep you warm, dry and comfortable on any ride, rain or shine.
Keep Those Hands Happy: A Guide to Riding Comfort
Beyond choosing the right pair of gloves, remember that your overall comfort is essential for riding enjoyment. Here are some additional tips:
**1. Warm-up before you start:** Warming up your hands and fingers before any ride will increase blood flow and prepare them for long hours on the bike. A few minutes of stretching or a simple hand massage can do wonders.
**2. Avoid tight clothing:** Opt for looser-fitting clothes, especially around the wrists and forearms, to prevent compression on nerves and blood vessels, which might contribute to numbness.
**3. Adjust your handlebar position:** Experiment with different handlebar positions to assess their impact on circulation. Ensure your hands have a natural resting angle so they are not constantly in a stretched or strained position.
**4. Take regular breaks:** Remember, it’s okay to stop and stretch your fingers, wrists, and forearms regularly during your ride. This will help improve circulation and prevent fatigue.
**5. Consult a doctor:** If you experience persistent numbness or tingling in your hands, consult a physician to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the problem.
Happy cycling! And remember, comfortable hands are happy hands!