Pearl Izumi Barrier women's glove

Cold weather never fails to remind us of our frailties and biological shortcomings. For me winter = frozen extremities, making cycling a physically uncomfortable experience rather than the endorphin generating pleasure it should be.

So, every autumn I embark upon a new annual quest for winter riding gloves. Annual, because despite riding for a long number of years, I still have yet to find the perfect pair of gloves to keep my hands warm (but not hot) and dry (on the outside AND inside of the glove) as well as offering cycling specific extras such as padding where I need it and a decent fit.

That said, with the Barrier from Pearl Izumi, my quest is over for at least the time being. This is one serious pair of winter cycling gloves, offering incredible warmth as well as fully waterproof protection, all in a glove that’s surprisingly not too bulky and even manages to look good.

The waterproof shell fabric is durable, and features stretch panels at the knuckles for comfort as well as generous reflectivity in the form of piping, logos, an attractive decorative motif and integrated reflective threads in areas of the fabric. The lining is soft and fleecy, giving a sense of warmth right from the word go, even before the insulation kicks in. A fleece thumb panel allows for non-scratchy wiping of those cold weather nose dribbles. The high quality Pittards leather palm isn’t padded but has well placed unobtrusive seams, and makes sure you’ve got a secure grip even in the wet and cold.

The wrist is snug but stretchy and doesn’t allow for any water to get in, while a Velcro tab means you can cinch it in for an even more snug fit, depending on whether you prefer to wear your gloves outside or inside the cuffs of a waterproof jacket.

The fit is on the generous side, with a size small fitting me well, when I would usually take a medium in women’s gloves, so consider trying a size smaller than usual. Finger length is good without being excessive.

The Barrier Glove from Pearl Izumi is unashamedly a glove for hostile, cold weather conditions. It’s not an all rounder for year round use, it’s a glove that will enable you to brave that New Year’s Day ride without fear of frostbite. It’s a glove that will likely lie unused in your drawer for 50 weeks of the year, but, if, like me, you suffer from cold paws, will prove its worth in the other two.

Verdict

A well considered, superbly warm protective winter glove that looks good too. Great value.