Getting cold and wet on bike rides is the worst. Once my hands, shorts, and feet are wet, I just want the ride to be over. Products like the Showers Pass Crosspoint Knit Waterproof Gloves (and their amazing socks) can transform what was a miserable slog to something far more bearable by keeping hands (and feet) dry, and more importantly, warm.
The Crosspoint gloves are rather unique in comparison to our other riding gloves. Based around a waterproof membrane, they feature a wool lining and a knit exterior that results in a unique wearing and performing glove.
Features (via Showers Pass)
- 3 bonded layers: a wear-resistant knit exterior that feels like a regular knit glove, a waterproof-breathable Artex membrane, and a moisture-wicking, antibacterial Merino wool lining
- A Microporous waterproof membrane allows the gloves to ventilate in order to decrease sweat accumulation
- Low profile fit and excellent dexterity
- Silicone print on the palm offers a better grip in wet condition
- Ergonomic fit as a result of a proprietary 3-D laminating process
- Inner: 38% Merino Wool, 38% Acrylic, 2% Lycra, 20% Nylon, 2% Spandex
- Outer: 95% Nylon, 5% Rubber
On the Bike
These gloves have been a welcome addition to my gear closet and having lived with them for some time, they’ve become a wet weather riding staple. I find them to be true to size, wearing the size medium, the size glove I most commonly wear.
This time of year, I make a point of of carrying a spare set of gloves on when mountain biking, to swap out after the first pair gets wet. The waterproof Crosspoint is the ideal glove to have awaiting in your bag or pack. They’re legitimately waterproof, and a major upgrade from single-use rubber gloves (the budget option for those that want just a bit of insurance against hypothermic situations, and a staple in any wilderness first aid kit)
They’re even more essential for wet weather commutes, keeping your hands dry.
The grips feature a silicone print on the palm that aid with gripping the bars, even in wet conditions. With cooler fall temperatures upon us, they’ve been a staple and are packed to accompany me on every ride.
There is a downside to the Crosspoint gloves; they can feel a bit weird, due to a bit of a rubbery feel, which can be likened to a resistance band against your fingers while gripping handlebars. It’s really my only gripe about the product; when you make a fist, you can feel the Artex membrane stretch to accommodate the action. Less noticeable with my hand position on drop bars, it’s far more noticeable on risers bars, especially if you run narrow grips. It can be a bit distracting, so I rarely start mountain bike rides wearing them. I’m also a bit concerned with long term durability, mostly the thought of snagging on them. I haven’t experienced any issues yet.
Once things get wet though — say, after a stream crossing — this is the best product ever.
Paired with Showers Pass’s excellent waterproof socks, they make wet weather riding far more tolerable, and if you ever find yourself stuck in a downpour, you’ll be extremely happy you have them with you.
For commuting, they’re a staple. For mountain biking this time of year, they’re the best solution/insurance for wet hands we’ve been able to find. It’s also worth mentioning how versitile they are; they’re useful for other activities other than cycling.
The Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Knit Gloves list for $50. Learn more or get a pair at ShowersPass.com or support the site by shopping for Showers Pass gear at retail partner REI.com.
