Equestrian gloves have been designed to fit the various and demanding needs of the horse rider today. The horse world has become quite specialized in the various disciplines, and the gloves are tailored to assist in your performance and comfort. Whether you ride for pleasure, trail, or competition there are gloves that are perfect for you.
Why Equestrian Gloves Matter
Horse riding gloves protect your fingers and hands from blisters, scrapes, dirt, and the sun. Equestrian gloves are more durable than run of the mill gloves because they have reinforced areas where the rider holds the reins and special materials that provide grip. They are also made with different materials and fabric to keep you more comfortable in the hot summer and cold winter months. Gloves also improve your safety while working with horses. Cotton and nylon lunge lines and lead ropes can burn your fingers when your horse pulls. While in the saddle, your grip on the reins is vastly improved. There are gloves for everyday schooling and hacking, and different styles and colors for competition. Most gloves today are touch screen friendly so you can keep them on while texting.
Do I Need Gloves to Ride a Horse?
The short answer is yes. Gloves designed specifically for riding horses will last longer because they are reinforced in the right areas, and the grip provides safety when handling horses on the ground and in the saddle. For a longer answer, read "Do You Need Gloves for Horse Riding."
How to Size and Fit Riding Gloves Correctly
The correct fit of your horse riding gloves is paramount. Too tight and you won’t feel you can move and flex your fingers without restriction. Too loose and you will fumble with buckles and the grip will not feel firm.
To measure your hand for gloves, get a soft tape measure and wrap it around the palm of your hand at the widest part. (Do not include your thumb) If you measure 6 ½” for example, you should choose a size 7 glove. Grewal Equestrian gloves are sized according to the inches of your measurement. 5 inches = extra small; 6” = small; 7” = medium; 8” = large, and 9” = extra large.
It is also interesting to note that glove size often corresponds to shoe size. If you wear an 8 size shoe, chances are you will also wear a size 8 in gloves.
Types of Equestrian Gloves
Casual
For everyday riding to school your horse in the arena, and for a weekend hack in the countryside, or completing chores at the barn, a plain, functional riding glove will serve you well. Grewal’s Alex Working Gloves are made with soft deerskin leather to be flexible for holding the reins, yet durable to hold up for stable work. The Ingrid Waterproof Riding Gloves are also an everyday favorite for riding in various weather and while grooming and working to protect your hands from getting wet.
Show/Competition
Be sure and check the rule book for your competition when it comes to acceptable attire. Here are some guidelines.
Dressage
White and black gloves are permitted in lower level dressage competitions, black being the most common. At the upper levels, and FEI specifically, white gloves are typically recommended. Isabella, and Victoria Touch Screen Lycra Riding Gloves are available in black and white.
Eventing
The eventing world combines cross country jumping, stadium jumping and a dressage test. So different gloves are chosen for each of these phases according to the riding level. The guidelines are the same for each phase - dressage, jumping and cross country.
Jumping and Cross Country
Riders who compete in eventing and cross country and jumper classes choose gloves they prefer for grip. It’s not important to go along with any particular style - choose what grip works for you.
Hunters
In the hunter world, a conservative, clean polished style is expected. So black gloves are traditional and the safest choice. Most Grewal Equestrian gloves are available in black, and Urraca and Isabella Riding Gloves are great choices.
Seasonal equestrian gloves
Summer
In warm weather, it’s more comfortable to wear gloves that breathe. Grewal’s Joanna and Margaret Riding Gloves are made with Air Mesh material for maximum air flow combined with synthetic leather for grip.
Winter
In cold weather, the Taj Thinsulate Lining Winter Riding Gloves are hard to beat. Your hands stay warm and cozy, and cold air stays out with the elasticized cuff. They are flexible with great grip on the reins. Waterproof gloves like the Lady Jane Waterproof Riding Gloves are also a practical choice in the winter.
Key Features to Look for in Riding Gloves
The proper fit of riding gloves is the key to their comfort. They must be snug enough to feel the reins, a ‘second-skin feel’ and flexible enough to allow full range of motion of your hand and fingers. The amount of grip is the rider's preference, but there must be enough grip to prevent the reins from sliding through your hands. Quality stitching and quality materials will ensure durability. Leather used to be the top choice among equestrians, and often still is, but the new synthetic leathers and materials are just as durable and popular for their great grip.
Gloves That Work as Hard as You Do
At Grewal Equestrian, we carry a wide range of gloves designed for performance, comfort, and style—whether you're training, competing, or just enjoying time in the saddle.
Explore our full collection of equestrian gloves and find your perfect fit.
