Product Review: Cycling Gloves for Pickleball
As a devoted pickleball player who enjoys long sessions on the court, I often find that my hands take a beating. Between the gripping of my paddle and the occasional mishap when diving for a ball, I was on the lookout for some reliable gloves. That’s when I stumbled upon these cycling gloves, which boast features like shock-absorbing pads and a non-slip grip—perfect for our fast-paced game.
Right off the bat, these gloves had a comfortable snug fit. The sizes offered (M, L, XL) catered to various hand dimensions, making it convenient for players of all kinds. I opted for a large size, which felt just right during play. The shock-absorbing pads proved effective as they cushioned my palm during those intense rallies. I particularly enjoyed how they kept my hands cool—thanks to breathable fabric—allowing for an extended play without discomfort.
However, not everything is perfect. During my testing, I noticed some issues that echoed what I had seen in other reviews. For instance, I echoed the sentiments of Big Don who praised the gloves for keeping his hands warm and comfortable. However, I also experienced some of the downsides shared by others. Specifically, the zippers were a bit troublesome. Similar to Marti’s experience, I found that the zipper’s design made it somewhat difficult to put my hands in quickly, especially when time was of the essence between matches.
Another point of concern was the durability. While the gloves provided decent protection and comfort initially, I wasn’t too pleased to find that the stitching began to fray after a few weeks of consistent use, much like Joan Rojas who mentioned that they "come unstitched easily". This raised some doubts about how long these gloves could withstand regular gameplay, both on the court and during my more casual outdoor activities.
Despite these drawbacks, I must admit that for the price, they offered good value for money. The cushioning and grip during gameplay were commendable. I appreciated that they are versatile—they worked just as well for pickleball as they would for cycling or light hiking. They genuinely fit the bill for someone looking to enhance their grip and protect their hands without investing in overly expensive gear.
In terms of overall performance, while the gloves exceeded my expectations in comfort and grip, they fell short in durability. Yes, the non-slip feature was a blessing during intense volleys, but dealing with the zipper and frayed stitching dampened my enthusiasm. The gloves inherited a 3.5-star rating in my book, reflective of both the enjoyable aspects and the areas needing improvement.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, these cycling gloves are a solid option for casual players or those looking to get a feel for gloves without a huge investment. Just be prepared for a bit of wear and tear with regular usage, especially in a demanding sport like pickleball. If you prioritize comfort and shock absorption, they might be worth considering. But if you’re looking for something that holds up long-term, you may want to explore other options. Happy playing!
