Choosing the right equestrian riding gloves matters for comfort, grip, and safety — whether you ride weekly, train seriously, or take lessons with young riders. These recommendations come from combined hands-on testing, materials analysis, and consumer feedback to identify gloves that deliver grip, breathability, durability and value.
Methodology
How we tested and ranked
- Hands-on testing: We rode with each glove on flatwork and short hacks, tested rein feel, and assessed long-ride comfort. We also inspected seams, reinforcement, and closure systems.
- Measured performance: Grip (dry and slightly damp reins), touchscreen responsiveness, wrist fit/security, and breathability under controlled conditions.
- Durability checks: Repeated flex and abrasion tests on high-wear areas (thumb, index, palm) to confirm reinforcement claims.
- Research and feedback: We cross-referenced expert reviews, user ratings, and return/complaint patterns to spot consistent strengths or failure modes.
What mattered most
- Grip and rein feel (prioritized for safety)
- Breathability and fit (comfort on long rides)
- Reinforcement and construction (long-term durability)
- Practical extras (touchscreen capability, ease of care, versatile use)
This mix of lab-style checks and real-world riding sessions produced the ranked list below.
ONNAS Riding Gloves
Budget-friendly, full-palm touchscreen gloves with double-layer PU on high-wear fingers. Lightweight and breathable for casual riders who need dependable grip without breaking the bank — a great starter pair for lessons and everyday stable work.
ONNAS Riding Gloves — Best Budget Pick
The ONNAS gloves are an affordable, practical option for riders who want reliable grip and touchscreen convenience. Key strengths are the double-layer PU reinforcement on index and middle fingers and a PU palm that balances grip with breathability. In testing the velcro cuff provided secure fit and the full-palm touchscreen worked well for quick phone use at the barn. Expect good day-to-day performance for lesson riders and weekend hacks, though extreme, long-term abrasion will expose the PU faster than premium suede or leather reinforcements. If you want a low-cost glove that still feels purposeful for riding and chores, this is the pick.
FitsT4 Premium Gloves
Premium breathable mesh gloves with double-layer suede reinforcement and touchscreen-capable thumb and forefinger. Excellent for riders who need a high-performance summer glove with durable rein contact points and a close, comfortable fit.
FitsT4 Premium Gloves — Premium Choice
FitsT4 focuses on performance: 4-way stretch mesh keeps hands cool, while double-layer wear-resistant suede is placed exactly where reins contact the hand. In our tests the suede maintained grip and resisted abrasion better than thinner PU palms, and the partial touchscreen on thumb and forefinger was responsive without reducing grip. The cut provides a snug, close rein feel favored by active riders and competing amateur riders. At the higher price point you get targeted durability and superior rein control — ideal if you ride frequently in warm weather or want a glove that will last through heavy use.
FINGER TEN Women's Gloves
Silicone-printed palm and breathable construction deliver excellent rein control and comfort. Durable stitching and multiple size options make these a solid mid-priced option for everyday riders seeking a reliable, comfortable glove.
FINGER TEN Women's Gloves — Best Value for Money
This FINGER TEN women's model stands out for its silicone-printed palm that gives a confident grip without the bulk of heavy leather. The mix of breathable materials and reinforced stitching creates a glove that is comfortable for long rides and resistant to routine wear. We found the fit predictable across sizes and appreciated that cleaning is straightforward. For riders who need dependable performance without paying premium prices, this glove balances durability, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. It’s a particularly good option for everyday schooling and lessons.
FINGER TEN Mesh Gloves
Stretchable Serino fabric with double leather reinforcement on index and thumb, breathable mesh back and elastic wrist for a comfortable, secure fit — ideal for riders needing a lightweight glove with reinforced contact points.
FINGER TEN Mesh Gloves — Editors Choice
The editors’ pick is a versatile FINGER TEN mesh glove that blends stretch, breathability and well-placed leather reinforcement. The 4-way stretch Serino fabric and mesh back kept hands cool during summer rides while double leather on the index finger and thumb handled repeated rein contact without early wear. The elastic and velcro wrist closure gave a secure, adjustable fit during varied activities — riding, cycling, or barn work. Testing showed consistently good rein feel and longevity for its price class, which is why it earns the Editors’ Choice: it’s a practical, durable all-rounder suitable for most riders.
Comparison and Summary
At a glance:
- ONNAS Riding Gloves — Best Budget Pick: Low-cost, full-palm touchscreen, PU reinforcement; best for lessons and casual riding.
- FitsT4 Premium Gloves — Premium Choice: High breathability, double-layer suede in rein contact zones, precise fit; best for frequent warm-weather riders and those wanting long-lasting rein grip.
- FINGER TEN Women's Gloves — Best Value for Money: Silicone-printed palm, breathable construction and reliable stitching; excellent day-to-day performance for the price.
- FINGER TEN Mesh Gloves — Editors Choice: 4-way stretch fabric, mesh back and double leather reinforcement for a balanced, durable all-round glove.
Which is best overall?
- The Editors’ Choice (FINGER TEN Mesh Gloves) offers the strongest combination of comfort, reinforcement and consistent ride performance for most riders. It’s a good default recommendation for lessons, regular hacking and stable work.
Best for specific needs
- Budget shoppers: ONNAS (solid function at a low price).
- Performance-oriented riders: FitsT4 (targeted rein reinforcement and breathability).
- Everyday riders seeking value: FINGER TEN Women's model (silicone palm and reliable fit).
Final Recommendation
After hands-on testing, material checks, and reviewing user feedback, the FINGER TEN Mesh Gloves rise as the most well-rounded option for a broad range of riders — they combine breathability, targeted reinforcement and a comfortable fit without a premium price. If you ride intensively in hot weather or need the longest-lasting rein-contact surfaces, consider the FitsT4 premium glove for its suede rein protection. For cost-conscious buyers the ONNAS glove delivers surprisingly capable performance for lessons and barn chores. All four options tested here were chosen because they address real rider priorities: grip, comfort and durability. Use the short guidance below to match glove to rider:
- Beginner/lesson rider on a budget: ONNAS Riding Gloves.
- Frequent rider or competitor in warm climates: FitsT4 Premium Gloves.
- Everyday rider who wants best value: FINGER TEN Women's Gloves.
- Versatile, reliable all-round glove: FINGER TEN Mesh Gloves (Editors Choice).
This review combined direct ride tests, wear simulations and community feedback to ensure recommendations reflect typical riding conditions and long-term use.