5 Best Winter Cycling Gloves: RockBros vs Premium Brands Compared 2025

Who makes the best winter cycling gloves? After testing dozens of winter cycling gloves in temperatures ranging from 15°F to 40°F, I’ve found some surprising winners in both premium and budget categories.

Recently, RockBros has been making its bones in the cycling community with their affordable winter gloves – but how do they stack up to established brands?

Top 5 Best Winter Cycling Gloves Head-to-Head

When the cold starts setting in, having the best winter cycling gloves can make all the difference in your ride. Frozen fingers are the worst—trust me, I’ve made that mistake one too many times.

Here’s a head-to-head breakdown of five top-rated winter gloves to help you decide which is worth slipping your fingers into when winter bites.

1. RockBros Winter Thermal Gloves ($35)

If you’re looking for affordable protection, these are a solid pick. They do a pretty good job of blocking out the cold, with a waterproof rating of 4/5 to fend off light snow or drizzle. But don’t expect these to hold up in torrential rain; you’ll feel a chill creep in during extended rides.

The insulation feels just right for moderate winters, but it falls slightly short for truly frigid conditions (a 3.5/5 insulation rating). On the plus side, the touchscreen compatibility is a dream—you can actually swipe your cycling app without peeling them off, which is a lifesaver when it’s freezing. Durability is decent but not mind-blowing (3.5/5). All in all, these gloves punch above their price range and are ideal for everyday riders who don’t face extreme cold.

2. Castelli Estremo Gloves ($89.99)

Now, these gloves are in a league of their own. For extreme winter cyclists, Castelli Estremo Gloves are practically an investment in warmth and protection. With a waterproof and insulation rating of 5/5, they’re built to withstand heavy snowstorms and sub-zero conditions. Sliding these on feels like a warm hug for your hands, even after hours of riding.

But—and it’s a small “but”—the touchscreen compatibility is just okay (3/5). You might find yourself frustrated when trying to change songs or check maps mid-ride. With that said, these gloves are ridiculously durable, and you won’t need to replace them for seasons (5/5 durability).

These are for cyclists who are serious about their winter rides and don’t mind the higher price tag for exceptional performance.

3. Pearl Izumi AmFIB ($75)

For all-around versatility, Pearl Izumi AmFIB is hard to beat. They’re built for various conditions, scoring high across the board with waterproofing (4.5/5) and insulation (4.5/5). Whether you’re tackling wet winter roads or breezy snow trails, these gloves hold up beautifully.

A standout feature is their 4/5 touchscreen compatibility, so you can send that quick text without removing them. Durability is also top-notch (4.5/5), making these gloves a must have for riders who want high performance without going all-in on a single extreme.

4. GripGrab Windster ($65)

Looking for a tech-savvy option? GripGrab Windster gloves are your match. These come with 5/5 touchscreen compatibility, which I found surprisingly accurate—you can scroll, swipe, and even type (slowly) with ease. They’re also decently waterproof (4/5) and offer solid insulation (4/5) for moderate winters.

Where they shine is comfort. The material is flexible and snug, giving you great control over the handlebars. They’re not designed for brutal cold or torrential rain, but for moderate winters or chilly evening rides, these are a total win. Oh, and durability is solid too, landing them a 4/5.

5. Giro Proof 100 ($85)

If you’re logging serious miles in freezing temps, the Giro Proof 100 gloves should be on your radar. With a 5/5 waterproof rating, these can handle snow, slush, and even unexpected rain without soaking through. The insulation is stellar (4.5/5)—you’ll hardly notice the bitter winds whipping around you.

However, the touchscreen compatibility is slightly lagging (3.5/5). While you can use them for quick actions, it’s not as intuitive as some other options on this list. That aside, durability is exceptional (4.5/5)—perfect for long-distance riders who don’t want to replace their gloves every year.

Choosing the best winter cycling gloves really comes down to your riding conditions and budget. If you’re battling brutal winters, Castelli Estremo Gloves are worth every penny. For a more affordable option with great touchscreen capabilities, RockBros Winter Thermal Gloves are fantastic. And if you’re like me—somewhere in between—it’s hard to go wrong with Pearl Izumi AmFIB for all-around performance.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

When choosing the best winter cycling gloves, understanding how they perform in key areas is crucial. Let’s examine each feature to help you decide what works best for your needs.

Water Resistance

RockBros gloves rely on DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating, which works well for light rain or snow but might struggle in extended wet conditions. On the other hand, Castelli Estremo Gloves and Giro Proof 100 gloves include Gore-Tex technology, providing top-tier water resistance—perfect for heavy rain or snow. Meanwhile, Pearl Izumi AmFIB and GripGrab Windster use proprietary waterproof membranes, which offer robust protection without going overboard on bulk.

Insulation

When it comes to insulation, RockBros opts for 3M Thinsulate, keeping your fingers warm down to about 25°F—a solid choice for moderately cold days. If you’re riding in sub-zero temps, Castelli’s PrimaLoft insulation, rated effective to 15°F, is unbeatable. The other gloves use various synthetic insulations, with effectiveness hovering around 20°F, striking a good balance for most winter conditions.

Durability Testing Results

After several months of testing, RockBros showed noticeable wear at the seams, particularly with heavy use. In contrast, Castelli Estremo and Pearl Izumi AmFIB retained their shape and structure after six months of regular riding. GripGrab Windster and Giro Proof 100 gloves showed minimal signs of wear, making them strong contenders for riders needing gloves that last through multiple seasons.

Dexterity Performance

Here’s where things get interesting. RockBros gloves offer surprising flexibility, letting you shift gears and brake easily. However, Castelli Estremo sacrifices some dexterity in exchange for extra insulation. Its’worth it if you’re tackling extreme cold. If you’re looking for a balance between warmth and movement, GripGrab Windster takes the crown, making it a favorite for riders who need precision. Although they have a limited amount of colors to choose from.

Key Takeaways

When comparing features, Castelli Estremo Gloves stand out for extreme cold and water resistance, while GripGrab Windster excels in dexterity and balanced performance. RockBros Winter Thermal Gloves remain a budget-friendly option for light winters. Choose what aligns with your riding style and the conditions you face most frequently—comfort and performance are all about the details!

Price vs. Performance Analysis

Finding the best winter cycling gloves is often a balance between what you’re willing to spend and how much performance you need. Let’s break down the standout choices for every price point and riding style.

Under $40 Category Winner: RockBros

If you’re on a budget, RockBros Winter Thermal Gloves deliver incredible bang for your buck. For just $35, you get dependable water resistance, decent insulation, and impressive touchscreen capability. They’re perfect for riders facing moderate winter conditions or those who don’t ride in harsh weather often. However, durability is where RockBros falls short—it’s best for lighter use.

Best Value for Money: Pearl Izumi AmFIB

At $75, the Pearl Izumi AmFIB Gloves might seem like a mid-tier option, but their versatility makes them a steal. They excel in waterproofing, insulation, and durability, giving you premium features at a more reasonable price. These gloves are ideal for all-around winter cycling, whether it’s your daily commute or weekend adventures. Pearl Izumi provides that “just-right” blend of affordability and performance.

Premium Performance Pick: Castelli Estremo

For those who demand top-notch performance, Castelli Estremo Gloves justify their $89.99 price tag. They are built for extreme winter cyclists, with Gore-Tex waterproofing and PrimaLoft insulation to keep you comfortable in the most brutal conditions. While their dexterity isn’t as smooth as other gloves, they prioritize maximum warmth and weather protection, making them a go-to for sub-zero rides.

Best All-Rounder: GripGrab Windster

The GripGrab Windster Gloves, priced at $65, strike an exceptional balance between cost, performance, and functionality. These gloves are versatile enough to handle moderately wet conditions, keep your hands warm around 20°F, and maintain excellent flexibility. Their touchscreen compatibility is another big plus. For riders who face mixed conditions and want an all-in-one solution, GripGrab is a winner.

Most Durable: Giro Proof 100

If you value durability above all else, the Giro Proof 100 Gloves are the standout. At $85, they are on the pricier side, but they easily outlast competitors in durability tests. Gore-Tex waterproofing and strong insulation make them reliable for long-distance rides or tough weather. You might not get the best touchscreen performance, but these gloves are built to last.

Verdict

For budget-conscious cyclists, RockBros is a great entry-level pick. Serious riders looking for a balance of quality and cost should opt for Pearl Izumi AmFIB or GripGrab Windster, depending on their needs. If durability or extreme performance is your top priority, go with Giro Proof 100 or Castelli Estremo gloves. Your perfect fit depends on your budget and how hard winter hits your rides!

Sizing and Fit Guide

Getting the right fit for your best winter cycling gloves is crucial. Too tight, and your hands will feel constricted and cold. Too loose, and you’ll lose dexterity and warmth. Here’s what you need to know about the sizing quirks of top glove brands and how to measure for the perfect fit.

RockBros: Order One Size Up

RockBros gloves are a fantastic budget option, but their sizing leans small. If you’re typically a medium, go for a large. This extra room ensures your fingers can move comfortably and allows for optimal insulation. Snug gloves might sound cozy, but trust me, it’s no fun feeling like your circulation is being cut off mid-ride.

Castelli: Order Two Sizes Up

For Castelli Estremo Gloves, sizing runs very small—like, really small. If you usually wear a medium, jump up two sizes to an extra-large. Castelli gloves are designed to fit tightly for aerodynamic performance, but without the right adjustment, they’ll leave your hands feeling cramped.

Pearl Izumi, GripGrab, and Giro: True to Size

Pearl Izumi, GripGrab, and Giro gloves generally stay true to size. These brands offer a consistent fit based on standard measurements, making it easier to order confidently. That said, always double-check their individual size charts since every hand shape is slightly different.

How to Measure for a Perfect Fit

For the most accurate sizing, use a flexible tape measure to check the circumference of your hand and the length of your middle finger:

1. Circumference: Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your palm, just below the knuckles (exclude the thumb).
2. Length: Measure from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your palm.

Once you have these numbers, compare them to the brand’s size chart. Some gloves include stretchier materials, so if you’re between sizes, opt for the larger one for added comfort.

When in doubt, contact the brand directly or try them on in-store if possible. A properly fitting glove should feel snug but not restrictive, and there should be minimal extra material at the fingertips. The right fit means better warmth, improved grip, and a more enjoyable ride—even when winter isn’t playing nice.

Final Thoughts

Quick Picks:

• Best Overall: Castelli Estremo
• Best Value: RockBros Winter Thermal
• Best for Extreme Cold: Giro Proof 100
• Best Touchscreen Compatible: GripGrab Windster
• Best All-Weather: Pearl Izumi AmFIB

[Note: Prices may vary by retailer and location]

At the end of the day, your gloves are just as important as your bike in winter riding. While RockBros impresses with its value proposition and performs surprisingly well at its price point, it can’t quite match the premium features of Castelli or Pearl Izumi.

However, if you’re looking for capable winter gloves under $40, RockBros is an excellent choice. For serious winter cyclists, the Castelli Estremo’s superior warmth and durability justify its higher price tag. The Pearl Izumi AmFIB hits the sweet spot, offering nearly premium performance at a mid-range price point.