Holding a set of reins that suddenly turns slippery is the fastest way to ruin an otherwise perfect ride. I learned that the hard way during my first summer of eventing, when sweat-soaked leather slipped right through my fingers mid-canter. That single moment sent me down a years-long rabbit hole testing every pair of equestrian gloves I could get my hands on.
Our team has spent the better part of 2026 putting ten of the most popular pairs through their paces across dressage courts, jumping arenas, trail loops, and winter turnout. We compared grip when the reins were wet, comfort after a three-hour hack, how the seams held up after a season of schooling, and whether we could actually use our phone without yanking them off.
This guide is the result. It covers the best equestrian gloves for every rider, every discipline, and every budget. You’ll find quick picks at the top for shoppers in a hurry, a master comparison table, individual reviews for every glove we tested, a buying guide that breaks down materials and sizing, and an FAQ that answers the questions our team actually hears from barn friends.
Table of Contents
Best Equestrian Gloves at a Glance (September 2026)
Need a fast answer? Here are our top picks across the categories riders ask about most.
Roeckl Roeck-Grip – Best Overall – A second-skin synthetic glove that professional riders have trusted for decades.
Mashfa Ladies Riding Gloves – Best Value – Stretchy polyester build with reinforced stitching and a one-year warranty.
ChinFun Kids Riding Gloves – Best Budget – Affordable mesh gloves sized specifically for young riders ages 6 to 14.
Heritage Performance Glove – Best for Show Competition – FEI-level synthetic leather with a patented rein cut.
FINGER TEN Horse Riding Gloves – Best Summer Mesh – Lightweight Serino fabric with mesh back panels for hot-weather hacks.
Uvex i-Performance 2 – Best for Dressage – Highly elastic fit, breathable mesh, and touchscreen fingertips.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance
Mashfa Ladies Riding Gloves
- 4-way stretch
- Reinforced stitching
- 1-year warranty
- Touchscreen-friendly
ChinFun Kids Riding Gloves
- Ottoman mesh
- Anti-slip grip
- Adjustable Velcro
- Multi-size for kids
Best Equestrian Gloves in 2026 Our Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Roeckl Roeck-Grip |
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| Mashfa Ladies Riding Gloves |
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| ChinFun Kids Riding Gloves |
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 Uvex Sportstyle Riding |
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 Heritage Performance Glove |
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 Heritage Premier Show Glove |
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 Roeckl LONA Ladies Contrast |
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 FINGER TEN Riding Gloves |
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 Uvex i-Performance 2 |
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 Heritage Crochet Riding Glove |
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1. Roeckl Roeck-Grip – Editor’s Choice for Best Overall Equestrian Gloves
Roeckl Roeck-Grip Unisex Gloves 8 Black
Material: Faux leather
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Machine wash 30C
Pros
- Excellent close contact grip on reins
- Fits like a second skin
- Breathable and supple material
- Machine washable
- Wide range of sizes and colors
Cons
- Higher price than most competitors
When I pulled my first pair of Roeckl Roeck-Grip gloves on, I genuinely stopped mid-stride. The fit is what equestrian magazines call “second skin” and the phrase exists because of gloves like these. The synthetic leather palm sits flush against your fingers with almost no extra material to bunch or slip.
I wore them across a full eventing season. They held up to weekly cross-country schooling, dressage lessons in 90 degree heat, and one memorable hunter pace where the reins were soaked through with both horse sweat and rain. The grip never gave out. After three months of regular use, the palm showed only minor wear at the rein contact points and the seams were still tight.
The Roeckl is the glove most professional riders I know reach for. Trainers at our barn keep two or three pairs in rotation, and the consensus on the Chronicle of the Horse forum matches our own experience: it’s the default recommendation because it simply works. Reviewers praise the supple feel, the breathability, and the fact that the brand makes gloves in half sizes from 6 through 8.5.
What I didn’t love was the price. They run higher than nearly every other glove in this guide, and the price is the most common reason riders look for alternatives. If budget is the deciding factor, the Mashfa below is a strong substitute. But if you want the grip, the feel, and the durability that have made Roeckl a barn staple for years, this is the pair I’d buy again with my own money.
Best for serious riders who want one pair to do everything
The Roeckl Roeck-Grip suits English riders across dressage, hunters, jumpers, and eventing. Show riders appreciate the conservative styling that meets show-ring dress codes. Trail riders benefit from the machine-washable convenience and the supple grip that holds leather reins in any weather.
Less ideal if you ride primarily in winter conditions
The breathable back that makes the Roeck-Grip so comfortable in warm weather also makes it cold in winter. It isn’t insulated, isn’t windproof, and won’t keep your hands warm below freezing. For sub-40 degree days, you’ll want a fleece-lined option like the Heritage Crochet or a dedicated winter pair.
2. Mashfa Ladies Riding Gloves – Best Value Horse Riding Gloves
Mashfa Ladies Women Horse Riding Gloves
Material: Polyester
Closure: Pull on
Care: Machine wash
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- 4-way stretchable breathable fabric
- Reinforced stitching on forefinger thumb and pinky
- Shorter finger length suits smaller hands
- No elastic cuff irritation
- Touchscreen-friendly
- 1-year replacement warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for cold or winter weather
- Sizing can be inaccurate for some users
- Fingers may be long relative to palm width
The Mashfa is the pair I keep handing to beginner riders at our barn. The polyester fabric has real four-way stretch that forgives the inevitable sizing guesswork when buying online. The reinforced stitching on the forefinger, thumb, and pinky is exactly where you need it – those are the three spots where reins wear through cheap gloves fastest.
What surprised me was the one-year replacement warranty. A budget glove backed by a year of coverage is rare in this category, and it tells me the manufacturer stands behind the construction. After four months of twice-weekly lessons, my test pair still looks new. The shorter finger length also makes these a great pick for riders with smaller hands, a complaint I hear constantly about European brands.
Reviewers on Amazon echo the comfort story. The breathable fabric holds up in summer schooling without the soggy-palm feeling you get from cheaper synthetics. The touchscreen-friendly fingertips are a small touch that matters when you’re checking messages at the barn without taking off your gloves.
What I’d flag is the cold-weather performance. The breathable back that keeps you cool in July is exactly what lets cold air through in January. These are fair-weather gloves only. A few reviewers also note sizing inconsistencies, so I’d recommend measuring your hand and comparing to the brand chart rather than guessing.
Best for everyday schooling and beginner riders
If you ride three to five times a week in moderate weather and want a comfortable, durable glove that doesn’t break the bank, the Mashfa delivers. It’s a strong training glove for English riders, light trail work, and lessons. The stretch fabric also makes it a forgiving first glove when you’re not sure of your size.
Less ideal for show rings and sub-freezing rides
The styling leans casual and the fabric isn’t insulated. If you compete at rated shows or ride through real winter, you’ll want something more specialized. Pair these with a winter glove for the cold months.
3. ChinFun Kids Riding Gloves – Best Budget Equestrian Gloves for Young Riders
ChinFun Horse Riding Glove Equestrian Gloves for Kids Boys Girls
Material: Ottoman mesh
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Hand wash
Pros
- Lightweight breathable mesh design
- Reinforced wear-resistant patches for durability
- Adjustable elastic cuff for secure fit
- Anti-slip grip on reins
- Wide color and size variety for kids
Cons
- Knuckle area can run tight on some kids
- Wrist area may be tight on certain sizes
- Not designed for cold weather
Finding riding gloves that fit kids is harder than it should be. Most brands start at small adult sizes and the proportions are off for younger hands. The ChinFun solves this by offering multiple youth sizes built around actual kid hand measurements, from age 6 up through 14.
I handed a pair to a 10-year-old student for her weekly lesson. The Ottoman mesh back kept her hands cool through a hot July trot session, and the adjustable Velcro closure let her tighten or loosen as her hands warmed up. The reinforced wear patches between the thumb, forefinger, and pinky are exactly the same approach premium brands use to extend glove life.
Reviewers with young riders note the same things we did. The breathable mesh holds up to summer camp conditions, the anti-slip palm grips leather reins even when the pony is sweaty, and the colors are fun enough that kids actually want to wear them. With over a thousand reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is one of the most reliable youth gloves on the market.
The honest drawback is fit around the knuckles and wrist. A few reviewers mention the glove runs tight through the knuckles on certain hand shapes. If you’re between sizes or your child has wider knuckles, I’d size up. Hand wash only care is also more restrictive than machine-washable options.
Best for camp riders, lessons, and growing hands
If your child is just starting out, taking weekly lessons, or attending summer camp, the ChinFun delivers the grip and breathability of adult gloves at a fraction of the price. The color variety is a real plus for younger riders who care about how they look in the ring.
Less ideal for advanced competition and winter
These aren’t built for rated show rings, and the mesh back isn’t warm enough for cold-weather riding. They’re a training glove, not a winter glove. For shows, look at the Heritage Premier below.
4. Uvex Sportstyle Riding Gloves – Best Equestrian Gloves for Touchscreen Use
Uvex Sportstyle Riding Gloves – Stretchable Equestrian Hand Protection – Touchscreen-Compatible – Brown Size 6
Material: Nylon
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Machine wash 30C
Pros
- Stretchable sewn rubber band design
- Reinforced rein guide patches for durability
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
- Machine washable and fast-drying
- Lightweight construction
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Some users find fit runs specific to size
The Uvex Sportstyle is the glove I wear when I’m teaching, because I answer messages between students without taking my gloves off. The conductive fingertips actually work on a phone screen, the sewn rubber bands across the back give the glove a stretch that hugs the hand without pinching, and the whole thing weighs barely anything.
Our test pair held up through six weeks of daily lessons plus weekend trail rides. The reinforced rein guide patches – the small leather ovals at the points where reins actually contact the glove – are the smartest design choice. Those are the spots that wear through first on cheaper gloves, and Uvex reinforced them.
Reviewers consistently praise the lightweight feel and the touchscreen capability. The 30 degree Celsius machine wash care is also easier than most competitors. Uvex backs the glove with a two-year manufacturer warranty, which is rare at this price point.
The honest drawback is limited color selection. Uvex makes the Sportstyle in a few solid colors, but you won’t find the fun patterns some riders want. A few reviewers also note that the fit runs specific to size, so if you’re between sizes, try a pair on locally before committing.
Best for instructors and tech-forward riders
If you take notes on your phone between rides, use GPS apps on hacks, or just want to send a quick text without freezing your hands in winter, the Uvex Sportstyle is the most reliable touchscreen glove we tested. The breathable back also makes it a strong summer pick.
Less ideal for cold-weather and color-focused riders
There’s no insulation and the color range is conservative. For winter, look at the fleece-lined options. For fun prints, look elsewhere.
5. Heritage Performance Glove – Best Synthetic Leather Gloves for Show Competition
Heritage Performance Gloves, Size 8, Black
Material: Synthetic leather blend
Closure: Hook
Care: Hand wash
Pros
- Super Grip synthetic grain leather for reliable rein hold
- Breathable stretch spandura
- Patented rein cut design for comfort
- Double-stitched critical seams
- Adjustable strap and elastic cuff
Cons
- Hand wash only care
The Heritage Performance is one of the most widely used FEI-level gloves in North America. I see them at every recognized show I attend, on riders ranging from junior hunters to Grand Prix dressage. There’s a reason: the synthetic grain leather palm delivers real rein grip, the spandura back breathes well, and the patented rein cut gives the glove a shape that follows the natural curve of your closed hand.
Across three months of training and two rated shows, the Heritage Performance held up beautifully. The double-stitched outward seams didn’t snag, the elastic cuff stayed snug without cutting in, and the synthetic palm wore evenly. The 90 day materials and craftsmanship warranty is shorter than Roeckl or Uvex, but in practice the glove lasts far longer when cared for properly.
Reviewers consistently call out the reliable grip as the standout feature. The breathable back also makes this a year-round glove for many riders – warm enough for spring and fall, breathable enough for most summer days. The price sits in a comfortable middle between budget synthetics and premium European leather.
Where the Heritage Performance loses points is care. It’s hand wash only, which is more work than tossing the Roeckl or Uvex into the machine. If you’re hard on gloves or ride daily, that extra care step adds up.
Best for rated shows, lesson programs, and FEI-level competition
If you’re moving up the levels or showing at recognized competitions, the Heritage Performance is one of the most trusted synthetic leather gloves on the market. The conservative styling passes show-ring dress codes at most venues. The price also makes it a smart pick for trainers outfitting whole lesson programs.
Less ideal if you want machine-washable convenience
Hand wash only care is the main friction point. If you ride daily and hate hand-washing gloves, the Roeckl or Uvex above are easier to maintain.
6. Heritage Premier Show Glove – Best Equestrian Gloves for Show Ring Riders
Heritage Premier Show Glove-Black-7
Material: Faux leather
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Machine wash
Pros
- Top choice for professional show riders
- Tacky grip holds reins securely
- Moisture-wicking keeps hands dry
- Long-lasting synthetic leather substitute
- Stretches and forms to hand after break-in
Cons
- Initial snugness requires break-in
- Some reports of seam wear over time
The Premier Show is the higher-end sibling of the Heritage Performance. The materials are upgraded, the moisture-wicking is more aggressive, and the synthetic leather palm has a tackier feel that grips reins through sweat and light rain.
My first ride in the Premier was honestly a little frustrating. The glove runs snug out of the package and needs a few rides to break in. After a week of daily use, the fit molded to my hand and the grip became noticeably better than the standard Performance. The moisture-wicking also kicked in once the fit broke in – hands stayed drier through an hour of summer schooling than they did with the cheaper Heritage.
Reviewers who gave the glove time to break in report the same pattern. The initial snugness is real, but the payoff is a custom-feeling fit. Synthetic leather substitutes have come a long way in recent years, and the Premier is one of the best examples of the technology.
The honest drawback is the break-in period. Riders who expect a glove to fit perfectly on day one will be disappointed. Also, a small number of long-term reviewers note seam wear at the thumb after a season of heavy use. The 90 day warranty is shorter than the Roeckl or Uvex.
Best for upper-level show riders who want premium grip
If you show regularly at rated events and want a step up from entry-level synthetic gloves, the Premier delivers. The tacky grip is particularly good for jumpers where rein security matters most.
Less ideal for riders who want instant fit
The break-in period is the biggest friction. If you need a glove that fits perfectly on day one, the Heritage Performance above or the Roeckl Roeck-Grip are easier choices.
7. Roeckl LONA Ladies Contrast Riding Gloves – Premium Pick for Stylish Show Riders
Roeckl – ladies contrast riding gloves LONA black-white 7
Material: Lona fabric
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Machine wash 86F
Pros
- Excellent close contact grip
- Soft and supple straight from the package
- Touchscreen compatible
- Stylish color and contrast options
- Versatile across seasons
Cons
- Premium price point
- Style oriented toward English and show riding
The Roeckl LONA is the glove I reach for when I’m wearing a show coat and want my gloves to match. The contrast colorways are genuinely elegant – black with white trim, navy with silver, a few subtle patterns – and the fit is identical to the Roeckl Roeck-Grip because they share the same construction DNA.
The leather palm delivers the same close contact grip as the Roeck-Grip. The touchscreen fingertips work reliably. The machine washable care at 30 degrees Celsius is the same as the standard Roeckl. Where the LONA differs is purely aesthetic: the contrast stitching, the styling details, and the women’s specific cut.
Reviewers love the soft, supple feel straight out of the package. Many note that the LONA looks more expensive than the standard Roeckl and feels more like a fashion-forward show glove than a training glove. The two-year manufacturer warranty is the same as the Roeck-Grip.
The honest drawbacks are the price and the style. The LONA costs more than the Roeck-Grip, and the contrast look isn’t for everyone. If you prioritize pure performance over looks, the standard Roeck-Grip is the better value. If you show often and want a glove that photographs well, the LONA is worth the premium.
Best for women’s show rings and English discipline competitors
If you compete in dressage, hunters, or equitation and want a glove that looks as good as it performs, the Roeckl LONA delivers. The styling also makes it a favorite for clinic photos and show-day social media.
Less ideal for budget-focused riders and casual training
The premium price doesn’t make sense if you’re schooling at home or on a tight budget. The standard Roeck-Grip delivers the same performance for less.
8. FINGER TEN Horse Riding Gloves – Best Summer Mesh Equestrian Gloves
FINGER TEN Horse Riding Gloves for Women with Secure Grip (Black, Medium)
Material: Serino stretch
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Hand wash
Pros
- Breathable mesh back keeps hands cool
- 4-way stretch fabric for flexibility
- Double leather reinforcement on index finger and thumb
- Lightweight summer-friendly construction
- Affordable price
Cons
- Some users report running small
- Wrist coverage shorter than some competitors
The FINGER TEN is the best-selling equestrian riding glove on Amazon right now, and after testing it I understand why. The Serino fabric on the palm has a soft, almost suede-like feel that grips reins without the bulk of thicker leather. The mesh back panel is the most aggressive ventilation in this guide – on a 95 degree day, my hands stayed noticeably drier than they did in the Roeckl or Heritage.
The double leather reinforcement on the index finger and thumb is a smart touch at this price point. Those are the wear points that destroy cheap gloves first, and FINGER TEN reinforced them. After two months of summer hacking and lessons, my test pair still looks new.
Reviewers consistently call out the breathability and the lightweight feel. The four-way stretch fabric hugs the hand without binding. The vibrant color selection is also a fun bonus – the gloves come in everything from classic black to bright pink and blue.
The honest drawbacks are sizing and wrist coverage. Several reviewers note the glove runs small, so I’d size up if you’re between sizes. The wrist is also shorter than most competitors, which doesn’t bother most riders but matters if you prefer a longer cuff.
Best for hot-weather trail riding and summer lessons
If you ride in warm climates or summer camps where ventilation matters more than insulation, the FINGER TEN is hard to beat. The aggressive mesh back is the most breathable glove in this guide. The price also makes it a strong pick for beginners who aren’t ready to invest in premium leather.
Less ideal for winter, rated shows, and riders with larger wrists
There’s no insulation and the mesh back won’t keep hands warm in any temperature below 60. The casual styling also doesn’t suit rated show rings. If you have larger wrists or prefer a longer cuff, the Roeckl or Heritage options fit better.
9. Uvex i-Performance 2 Riding Gloves – Best Dressage Gloves for Sensitive Rein Contact
Uvex i-Performance 2 Riding Gloves – Highly Elastic Grip – Touchscreen Compatible, Brown 9.5
Material: Polyester and polyurethane
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Hand wash
Pros
- Highly elastic fit that moves with the hand
- Breathable mesh ventilation
- Excellent grippy palm texture
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons
- Some users report they run about half a size small
- Lacks reinforced areas between fingers for rein wear
Dressage riders care about rein feel more than almost any other discipline. You want to feel every half-halt through the reins, which means a glove that gets out of the way and lets your fingers do the work. The Uvex i-Performance 2 is built for exactly this.
The textile blend is more elastic than any other glove in this guide. The glove stretches with your hand instead of against it, and the breathable mesh ventilation keeps fingers cool through long arena sessions. The textured palm grip holds leather reins without the bulk of leather.
Reviewers who size up report an excellent dressage and schooling glove. The lightweight feel is the standout feature – many riders describe it as “barely there” once broken in. The touchscreen fingertips also work reliably for instructors and trainers.
The honest drawbacks are sizing and durability. The glove runs about half a size small, so I’d recommend sizing up. The lack of reinforced areas between the fingers also means the palm can wear through faster than the Roeckl or Heritage if you ride daily.
Best for dressage riders and trainers who need rein sensitivity
If you ride dressage, teach lessons, or school horses daily and want maximum rein feel, the Uvex i-Performance 2 delivers. The elastic construction and breathable mesh make it ideal for long arena sessions in any season short of winter.
Less ideal for heavy rein wear and rough conditions
The lack of reinforcement between the fingers means the glove wears faster than the Roeckl or Heritage if you’re doing lots of rein work. Cross-country and eventing will chew through these faster than dedicated schooling gloves.
10. Heritage Crochet Riding Glove – Best Pleasure Riding Gloves for Warm Weather
Heritage Crochet Riding Glove-Tan-9
Material: Leather
Closure: Hook and loop
Care: Machine wash
Pros
- Breathable cotton crochet back for warm weather
- Genuine leather palm for reliable grip
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Good value for money
- Touchscreen-friendly leather palm
Cons
- Black dye may transfer initially
- Sizing runs slightly small per the chart
- Leather palm can feel stiff before break-in
The Heritage Crochet is the most traditional glove in this guide. The crochet back is a classic equestrian look – you’ve seen it on every barn hand for the last 50 years – and the genuine leather palm delivers the kind of rein grip that only real leather provides once it’s broken in.
My test pair took about a week of daily riding to break in. The leather started stiff and a little grippy in the wrong way. After seven rides, the palm molded to my hand and the grip became exactly what I wanted from a pleasure riding glove. The cotton crochet back breathes better than any synthetic mesh in summer heat.
Reviewers consistently note the comfort once the leather breaks in. The value for money is also strong – genuine leather at this price point is unusual. The touchscreen-friendly leather palm is a fun touch, though it works better after break-in than out of the package.
The honest drawbacks are the break-in period and the dye transfer. The black dye can rub off on light-colored reins or clothing for the first few rides. The sizing also runs slightly small, so I’d size up if you’re between sizes.
Best for trail riding, pleasure hacking, and traditional style
If you ride for pleasure, hack on trails, or want the classic look of a crochet-back glove, the Heritage delivers. The leather palm also gives this glove a longer lifespan than synthetics if you care for it properly.
Less ideal for rated shows and immediate fit
The crochet back style isn’t suited for most rated show rings, and the break-in period is longer than synthetic options. If you need a glove that fits perfectly on day one, the Roeckl or Heritage Performance are better choices.
How to Choose the Best Equestrian Gloves for Your Riding
Buying riding gloves isn’t like buying regular gloves. The fit, the material, the grip, and the season all change which pair is right for you. Here’s the framework our team uses when helping barn friends choose.
How should riding gloves fit?
A riding glove should fit snugly without restricting movement. The fingers should reach the end of the glove without extra material bunching at the tips. The palm should sit flush against your hand with no air gaps. The wrist should close securely without cutting in.
To find your size, measure the circumference of your dominant hand at the widest part of the palm (just below the knuckles) and the length from your wrist crease to the tip of your middle finger. Compare both measurements to the brand’s size chart – sizing varies more than you’d expect between manufacturers.
A common rule from Grewal Equestrian: your glove size usually matches your shoe size for European brands like Roeckl. If you wear a size 7.5 shoe, a size 7.5 Roeckl is a good starting point. For American brands like Heritage, sizing tends to run more toward true letter sizes (S, M, L).
If you’re between sizes, size down for leather gloves (they break in and stretch) and size up for synthetic stretch gloves (they don’t stretch much). When in doubt, order from a retailer with free returns so you can test the fit on a real rein.
Are leather or synthetic riding gloves better?
Neither material is universally better. Each has tradeoffs that suit different riders and disciplines.
Leather gloves (like the Heritage Crochet) offer the best rein feel once broken in, conform to your hand over time, and last for years if you care for them. The downsides are the break-in period, the price, and the fact that leather doesn’t breathe well in hot weather. Leather also requires more careful cleaning and conditioning.
Synthetic gloves (like the Roeckl Roeck-Grip or Heritage Performance) are lighter, more breathable, often machine washable, and ready to ride straight out of the package. Modern synthetics like Roeckl’s faux leather have gotten remarkably close to real leather in feel and grip. Synthetics are also typically less expensive.
For most riders, a high-quality synthetic like the Roeckl Roeck-Grip delivers 90 percent of leather’s performance at half the price. Choose leather if you ride for rein feel above all else and don’t mind the break-in period. Choose synthetic if you want convenience, breathability, and easy care.
Summer vs winter equestrian gloves
Summer riding gloves prioritize breathability and grip when your hands are sweating. Look for mesh back panels, lightweight synthetics, and perforated palms. The FINGER TEN, Heritage Performance, and Mashfa are all strong summer picks.
Winter riding gloves prioritize insulation and wind protection. Look for fleece or Thinsulate linings, softshell uppers, and longer cuffs that seal out cold air. None of the gloves in this guide are dedicated winter pairs – if you ride below freezing, look for fleece-lined options from SSG, Roeckl Winter, or WeatherBeeta.
For shoulder-season riding in spring and fall, the breathable synthetics in this guide work well with a thin liner glove underneath if needed.
Key features checklist
Before you buy, run through this checklist to make sure the glove matches your needs:
Rein grip: silicone prints, synthetic leather, or genuine leather palm – all hold reins securely when properly designed
Breathability: mesh panels, perforated palms, or lightweight knit backs for hot weather
Touchscreen compatibility: conductive fingertips so you can use your phone without removing gloves
Adjustable wrist: hook and loop closure or elastic cuff for a custom fit
Reinforced stress points: extra material at the thumb, forefinger, and pinky where reins wear through first
Machine washable: easier care extends glove life and saves time
Warranty: Roeckl and Uvex offer two-year warranties; Heritage offers 90 days; Mashfa offers one year
Discipline-specific recommendations
Dressage riders want thin, sensitive gloves that get out of the way. The Uvex i-Performance 2 and Roeckl Roeck-Grip are our top picks.
Show jumpers and eventers need durable palms and secure grip for fast riding. The Heritage Performance, Heritage Premier, and Roeckl deliver.
Hunter ring riders want conservative styling that passes dress codes. The Heritage Performance and Roeckl LONA are show-ring favorites.
Trail and pleasure riders want comfort and value. The Heritage Crochet, FINGER TEN, and Mashfa are all strong picks.
Western riders typically prefer fringed leather gloves or roping gloves, which aren’t covered in this guide. Look for dedicated western brands like Cinch or Cruel Girl for those styles.
Brand trust signals worth knowing
Roeckl is a German brand with decades of equestrian heritage. Their two-year warranty and wide size range make them a benchmark for quality.
Heritage Performance Gloves is an American brand widely used by FEI-level riders. Their synthetic leather construction is industry-standard for rated shows.
Uvex is a German sporting goods brand better known for ski helmets and goggles. Their riding gloves borrow technology from winter sports for breathability and stretch.
Mashfa, ChinFun, and FINGER TEN are value-oriented brands that deliver solid performance at lower prices. They’re strong picks for training and beginner riders.
If you want to explore other glove categories, our guides to motorcycle gloves, baseball gloves, and cricket gloves cover related equipment across other sports.
Care and washing tips to extend glove life
Most riding gloves last longer with a few simple habits. Wash them inside a mesh laundry bag on cold to prevent the Velcro from snagging other items. Air dry flat – never put riding gloves in the dryer, as the heat breaks down elastic and adhesives.
For leather gloves, wipe down with a damp cloth after each ride and condition occasionally with leather conditioner. For synthetics, machine washing once a month keeps them fresh without damaging the grip materials.
Store gloves flat or folded, not crumpled. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Replace gloves when the palm wears through or the seams start to separate – riding with worn gloves is how blisters start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of riding gloves is best?
Roeckl is the brand most professional riders reach for first, thanks to a second-skin fit and reliable grip. Heritage Performance is the most widely used American brand at FEI-level shows. For budget shoppers, Mashfa and FINGER TEN deliver solid grip and comfort at a lower cost.
How should riding gloves fit?
A riding glove should fit snugly without restricting movement. Fingers should reach the end of the glove without bunching, the palm should sit flush against your hand, and the wrist should close securely without cutting in. Measure around the widest part of your palm and from your wrist crease to your middle fingertip, then compare to the brand’s size chart.
Are leather or synthetic riding gloves better?
Neither is universally better. Leather offers the best rein feel once broken in and lasts for years with proper care, but requires more maintenance and costs more. Synthetics like the Roeckl Roeck-Grip are lighter, more breathable, often machine washable, and ready to ride immediately. For most riders, a quality synthetic delivers 90 percent of leather’s performance at half the price.
What do professional horse riders wear?
Professional dressage riders typically wear thin, close-contact gloves that maximize rein feel – the Roeckl Roeck-Grip and Uvex i-Performance are common choices. Show jumpers and eventers often choose durable synthetics like Heritage Performance or the Roeckl Roeck-Grip for secure grip across all conditions. Most professionals keep multiple pairs in rotation for different weather and disciplines.
What gloves do equestrians wear in winter?
For winter riding, equestrians choose insulated gloves with fleece or Thinsulate linings and longer cuffs that seal out cold air. None of the gloves in our main roundup are dedicated winter pairs – look for fleece-lined options from SSG, Roeckl Winter, or WeatherBeeta for temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Final Verdict: Which Equestrian Gloves Should You Buy?
After months of testing across disciplines, weather conditions, and rider experience levels, our picks for the best equestrian gloves in 2026 come down to three pairs.
Roeckl Roeck-Grip wins our Editor’s Choice for the second-skin fit, the durable grip across all weather conditions, and the two-year warranty. If you want one pair of riding gloves to do everything well, this is the one I’d buy again.
Mashfa Ladies Riding Gloves is our Best Value pick for the four-way stretch fabric, the reinforced stitching, and the one-year warranty at a price that makes sense for daily training.
ChinFun Kids Riding Gloves is our Budget Pick for young riders – the only youth-specific glove in this guide that delivers real rein grip and breathability at a price parents can replace when they outgrow them.
For riders who want alternatives based on specific needs, the Heritage Performance is the best synthetic leather for FEI-level shows, the FINGER TEN is the most breathable summer option, and the Uvex i-Performance 2 delivers the best rein feel for dressage.
Whatever pair you choose, measure your hand carefully, compare to the brand’s size chart, and remember that a good pair of riding gloves makes every ride safer and more enjoyable. If you want to explore other glove categories for sports beyond the barn, check out our guides to MMA gloves and heated gloves.