Archive | Gloves

Specialized BG Gel Cycling Gloves

Whenever you see the Body Geometry Logo on a Specialized product, you can be sure that a good deal of research has been employed in its design. This is once again true for the BG Gel Cycling gloves.

The high-quality, gel padding extends over three areas of the palm; protecting the thumb, finger joints, and the entire width of the heel of the hand. The purpose of this padding is to more evenly distribute pressure which helps minimize numbing in your hands (particularly the ulnar nerve).

The position of the foam correctly follows the shape of my hand, providing superior protection and shock absorption. I have yet to find a more comfortable pair
of cycling gloves.

Even with all the padding, the leather is soft enough so that I still have full range of motion in my hands. I wore these gloves day after long day on Cycle Oregon (on rough roads paved with chip seal) and my hands didn’t suffer the way the rest of my body did.

The size small fits snugly (maybe I needed the mediums?), and so taking them on and off has stressed the fabric on the back of the glove, causing several small holes and a rip in a seam. I’ve also noticed a strange tan on my hand consisting of tiny lines that run in the same direction as the tiny holes in the mesh fabric on the top of the gloves. I find this mildly amusing.

Even after a year, the padding shows no sign of wear! If I were to guess, the mesh fabric will be the limiting factor on the life of the BG Gel Cycling Gloves. These gloves deserve your attention. Go try them on!

Avenir Comfy Gel All-Round Cycling Gloves

As an experienced seamstress, I notice things like the quality of materials (fabric, leather, thread and foam), as well as construction (stitching and finish of seams). 

These gloves (geared for women), have the sturdiest construction of ANY I’ve worn.

   I got two sizes: small and medium.  I found the small ones initially a little too snug and opted for the mediums, until one day when I’d forgotten to wash them and needed a different pair.  Thirty minutes into my ride,  the smaller size had stretched enough to comfortably accommodate my hands.

A few observations about these gloves:  The super soft gel foam padding feels like it’s ever-so-slightly in the wrong place for me.  Not by a lot, but small amounts on a small space like your hands make a big difference.  I kept trying to tug on the padding to adjust its position under the heel of my thumb.  Everyone’s hands are different, so this may not be a problem for you (I have a bit of arthritis).  I’ve worn these gloves over a year and the padding has compressed and deteriorated faster than the leather or fabric.  The breathable full stretch back of the gloves does indeed contour to the back of your hands, and the absorbent sweat wipe is handy and effective.

Avenir gloves will keep your hands protected probably longer than many other brands but maybe with a little less shock absorption over time.

My only other issue is the design of the glove which leaves an open space between the top of your hand and the velcro closure.  Sun will leave your hands with a strange tan.  This isn’t really a problem if you’re a tattoo lover…

If you’re having problems locating Avenir products, check the internet.  It seems to be the best source (in my geographic area) for Avenir products.  If you can find a pair of their gloves, by all means try them out– for rough roads, trails or paths, they may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

 

 

 

 

 

Some Hanky Panky has forced Me to Ask again

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