Cycling Gloves Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type (Partial Finger, Full Finger), By Application (Road, Mountain, Others), By Region & Competition, 2019-2029F

Market Overview

Global cycling gloves market was valued at USD 4.57 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 7.62 Billion by 2029 with a CAGR of 8.9% during the forecast period. The global cycling gloves market is witnessing significant growth, driven by increasing interest in cycling as a sport, recreational activity, and eco-friendly mode of transportation. The market's expansion is influenced by key factors such as heightened health consciousness, rising participation in cycling events, and growing awareness of safety and comfort during rides. Cycling gloves, designed to provide enhanced grip, shock absorption, and protection against weather conditions, are becoming essential accessories for cyclists worldwide.

The market is segmented by type into partial-finger gloves and full-finger gloves. Partial-finger gloves are popular among road cyclists for their lightweight design, ventilation, and convenience during warmer months. They offer a balance of grip and comfort, making them ideal for endurance and long-distance rides. Conversely, full-finger gloves are preferred in mountain biking and off-road cycling due to their superior protection against abrasions, impacts, and harsh environmental conditions. These gloves often incorporate advanced features such as touchscreen compatibility, thermal insulation, and reinforced padding, catering to specific user needs. By application, the market is categorized into road cycling, mountain biking, and others including recreational and commuting purposes. The road cycling segment dominates the market, fueled by the increasing popularity of road races and organized events. Cyclists prioritize lightweight, ergonomic gloves that enhance aerodynamics and reduce fatigue on extended rides. The mountain biking segment is also growing rapidly, driven by the rise in adventure tourism and trail activities. Cyclists in this category demand rugged gloves with enhanced durability and grip to navigate challenging terrains. The others segment benefits from urban cycling trends, with casual riders seeking gloves that offer basic protection and comfort during daily commutes. Geographically, regions like North America and Europe witness high market demand due to their well-established cycling cultures and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific is emerging as a lucrative market, attributed to increasing urbanization, disposable income, and government initiatives promoting cycling for health and environmental benefits. Technological advancements, such as the integration of moisture-wicking fabrics, impact-resistant materials, and smart features like fitness tracking sensors, are further propelling market growth. The global cycling gloves market is poised for robust expansion as manufacturers innovate to meet diverse consumer demands, catering to varying cycling styles, weather conditions, and individual preferences.

Market Drivers

Growing Popularity of Cycling as a Fitness and Recreational Activity

The increasing emphasis on health and fitness is a critical driver for the cycling gloves market. As people adopt healthier lifestyles, cycling has emerged as a popular low-impact exercise suitable for individuals across all age groups. This trend is supported by the rising number of organized cycling events, charity rides, and recreational cycling activities globally. The growing popularity of cycling, driven by lifestyle changes due to the coronavirus lockdown, is a significant factor contributing to the cycling gloves market. According to the National Travel Survey from gov.uk, 47% of people in England aged 5 and over owned or had access to a bicycle in 2020, marking a 5% increase compared to the 3-year average of 42% for 2017-19. This rise in cycling participation was seen across all age groups, largely influenced by the lockdown's impact on daily activities and transportation. Furthermore, data from Cycling UK highlights that cycling's share of total traffic mileage, typically at 1%, doubled to 2% during the lockdown, as car and taxi usage dropped from 77% to 73%. As more people embraced cycling for both recreation and commuting, the demand for cycling accessories, such as cycling gloves, increased to support safer and more comfortable riding experiences. This trend has significantly impacted on the cycling gloves market, driving growth as cyclists prioritize protective gear during their rides. The demand for specialized gloves tailored to different types of cycling, including road, mountain, and recreational, has surged as consumers prioritize safety and enhanced performance.

Increasing Awareness of Safety and Comfort

Safety and comfort are paramount for cyclists, particularly as road cycling and mountain biking gain traction worldwide. The gloves market benefits from a growing awareness of the protective benefits these accessories offer. Cyclists face risks such as hand injuries from falls, harsh weather conditions, and prolonged pressure on nerves and muscles. Gloves equipped with shock-absorbing padding, reinforced palms, and durable materials address these concerns effectively. The rise in extreme cycling disciplines like mountain biking and downhill racing has created a demand for gloves that offer advanced protection and grip. Full-finger gloves with impact-resistant materials and anti-slip technology cater to these needs, ensuring a secure and controlled ride in challenging terrains. For urban commuters and road cyclists, lightweight gloves with ergonomic designs and breathable fabrics enhance comfort and reduce hand strain during long rides.

Technological Innovations in Cycling Gloves

Innovation plays a pivotal role in driving the cycling gloves market. Manufacturers are continuously improving product features to meet the specific needs of various cycling segments. Advanced materials such as moisture-wicking fabrics, thermal insulation, and shock-absorbing gels are increasingly incorporated into glove designs. These technologies ensure optimal comfort and performance in diverse weather conditions. Additionally, smart gloves equipped with sensors and Bluetooth connectivity are gaining popularity. These gloves provide real-time feedback on metrics like heart rate, cadence, and grip pressure, appealing to tech-savvy cyclists who seek a data-driven approach to performance enhancement. Touchscreen compatibility is another significant innovation, allowing cyclists to operate devices without removing their gloves, thus improving convenience and usability.

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Key Market Challenges

High Competition and Market Saturation

The cycling gloves market is characterized by intense competition among global, regional, and local manufacturers. Well-established brands such as Giro, Castelli, and Fox Racing dominate the premium segment with their innovative designs and quality assurance. Meanwhile, many small and medium-sized players compete in the mid-range and budget segments, often offering lower prices to attract consumers. This high level of competition leads to market saturation, especially in mature markets like North America and Europe. In these regions, consumer loyalty to established brands and the availability of numerous alternatives make it challenging for new entrants to gain a foothold. Additionally, the rise of private labels and counterfeit products further complicates the competitive landscape, eroding the market share of legitimate manufacturers and potentially damaging consumer trust in the category.

Seasonality of Demand

Cycling gloves, like many other cycling accessories, are subject to seasonal demand fluctuations. Sales typically peak during the spring and summer months, when outdoor cycling activities are at their highest. Conversely, demand diminishes in colder months, particularly in regions with harsh winters, where outdoor cycling becomes less feasible. Although winter-specific gloves designed for thermal insulation and water resistance exist, their adoption remains limited compared to summer gloves. This seasonal nature of demand poses challenges for manufacturers and retailers, who must manage inventory effectively to avoid overstocking during low-demand periods or understocking during peak seasons. The reliance on seasonal sales also creates revenue unpredictability, which can impact investment in research and development or marketing initiatives.

Price Sensitivity and Limited Adoption in Emerging Markets

While cycling is gaining popularity globally, the adoption of cycling gloves remains limited in emerging markets. In regions like Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America, cycling is often viewed as a practical mode of transportation rather than a recreational or fitness activity. Consumers in these regions may prioritize basic functionality over specialized accessories, making it difficult for manufacturers to penetrate these markets with high-performance or premium-priced gloves. Additionally, price sensitivity among consumers in emerging markets can deter the adoption of advanced or branded cycling gloves. The availability of low-cost, unbranded alternatives often undercuts the sales of quality products. Manufacturers must balance affordability with innovation to cater to these cost-conscious consumers, which can be a challenging endeavor given the rising costs of raw materials and production.

Key Market Trends

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability has become a significant focus across the cycling industry, including the gloves segment. Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly products as awareness of environmental issues grows. In response, manufacturers are adopting sustainable practices, such as using recycled or biodegradable materials in glove production. For example, some brands now incorporate recycled polyester or organic cotton into their designs, reducing the environmental footprint of their products. Additionally, manufacturers are adopting environmentally responsible production processes, such as waterless dyeing techniques and reduced chemical use. Packaging is also becoming more eco-conscious, with brands opting for recyclable or compostable materials. These efforts not only appeal to environmentally conscious consumers but also align with broader corporate sustainability goals.

Customization and Personalization

As cycling becomes a lifestyle choice for many, consumers are seeking products that reflect their individual preferences and identities. Customization is emerging as a significant trend, with brands offering options to personalize gloves in terms of color, design, and fit. Some companies allow customers to add logos, names, or unique patterns to their gloves, catering to cycling teams, clubs, or individual riders. Advancements in digital manufacturing and on-demand production make it easier for brands to deliver customized products without significantly increasing costs. Moreover, a focus on ergonomic designs tailored to individual hand sizes and shapes is gaining traction, enhancing both comfort and performance. This trend underscores the shift toward a consumer-centric approach, where products are designed to meet specific needs and preferences.

Integration of Smart Features

Technology integration in cycling gloves is becoming a prominent trend, driven by the increasing adoption of smart devices and the demand for enhanced performance tracking. Smart cycling gloves equipped with sensors and connectivity features offer functionality beyond traditional designs. These gloves can monitor metrics such as heart rate, grip pressure, and cadence, transmitting data to smartphones or cycling computers for real-time analysis. Touchscreen compatibility is another widely adopted feature, enabling cyclists to use their devices without removing gloves. This is especially beneficial for navigation and communication during rides. Some innovative products also incorporate haptic feedback systems to alert riders about navigation cues or safety warnings. The combination of advanced materials with smart technology positions cycling gloves as multifunctional accessories that cater to tech-savvy consumers.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Full finger gloves dominated the cycling gloves market, driven by their widespread adoption across multiple cycling disciplines, particularly mountain biking and extreme sports. These gloves provide comprehensive coverage, ensuring maximum protection for the entire hand. Features such as reinforced padding, impact resistance, and superior grip make them indispensable for cyclists navigating challenging terrains and rough trails. Mountain biking, downhill racing, and other off-road cycling activities have seen a surge in popularity, fueling the demand for full finger gloves. These gloves also offer better insulation and wind protection, making them ideal for colder weather conditions. Additionally, advancements in materials and designs, such as touchscreen compatibility and moisture-wicking fabrics, have enhanced their appeal. Full finger gloves cater to safety-conscious and performance-driven cyclists, solidifying their position as the leading segment.

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Regional Insights

Europe stands out as the leading region in the global cycling gloves market, supported by its deeply entrenched cycling culture and robust cycling infrastructure. Countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Belgium have long been recognized as cycling hubs, with cycling ingrained in daily life for commuting, recreation, and competitive sports. The European Union’s commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions has further bolstered cycling's popularity as an eco-friendly mode of transportation. Extensive investments in cycling lanes and urban cycling initiatives have increased the number of regular cyclists, directly driving demand for accessories like gloves. Additionally, Europe's strong presence in professional cycling events, such as the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, has cultivated a large community of enthusiasts who seek high-quality cycling gear. European consumers are particularly inclined toward premium products with advanced features, aligning with their emphasis on performance and safety. This demand has attracted major global and regional manufacturers, making Europe the largest and most mature market for cycling gloves.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Handup has expanded its lineup with the 'Pro Gloves,' designed for competitive cyclists seeking a balance between durability and lightweight performance. These gloves feature enhanced grip and breathable materials to ensure comfort during intense rides.
• In 2024, Muc-Off has introduced premium slip-on MTB gloves, offering riders improved grip and control. These gloves are designed to provide comfort and durability for mountain biking enthusiasts. Showers Pass has released knit waterproof gloves, ideal for cyclists facing cold and wet weather conditions. These gloves are designed to keep hands warm and dry, ensuring a comfortable ride in adverse weather.

Key Market Players

• Trek Bicycle Corporation
• Roeckl Sporthandschuhe GmbH & Co. KG
• ESBT GmbH
• AML UNITED Limited
• Vista Outdoor Inc.
• Revamp Moto Private Limited
• Manifattura Valcismon S.p.A.
• ASSOS of Switzerland GmbH
• Handup Gloves
• Giordana Cycling 

Report Scope:

In this report, the global cycling gloves market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

·          Cycling Gloves Market, By Type:

o   Partial Finger

o   Full Finger  

·         Cycling Gloves Market, By Application:

o   Road

o   Mountain

o   Others  

·         Cycling Gloves Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  Germany

§  Spain

§  Italy

§  United Kingdom

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  Japan

§  India

§  Vietnam

§  South Korea

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  Turkey

§  Kuwait

§  Egypt

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the global cycling gloves market.

Available Customizations:

Global Cycling Gloves market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

·         Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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