Are Premium Riding Gloves Worth It?

Riding with Farris

Premium riding gloves are usually worth it if you ride regularly — better materials and construction give more feel, more reliable grip, and a longer life, so the cost per ride often works out lower.

By the riders at Farris · Updated June 2026

What makes a riding glove "premium"?

A premium riding glove earns the label through better materials and construction: a quality leather or advanced synthetic, a purpose-built grippy palm, reinforced stitching, and a more precise, better-shaped fit. The difference shows up in how the glove feels on the reins and how long it lasts — not in branding or colour.

Are expensive riding gloves worth the money?

For riders who are out several times a week, usually yes. A better glove feels nicer, grips more reliably, and lasts longer, so the cost per ride often ends up lower than a cheap pair you replace every season. A budget glove that loses its grip or splits at the seams quickly can cost more over time. If you only ride occasionally, a mid-range glove is a sensible place to start.

What should you actually pay for?

• The palm — grip and feel are what you notice on every ride, so this is where quality matters most.
• Reinforced finger seams — the first place a glove fails, and a real durability difference.
• Fit and shaping — a well-cut glove holds its feel and doesn't bunch.
• Breathable construction — comfort over long rides.

What you don't need to pay extra for is branding or fashion colours.

How long should a good riding glove last?

It depends on how often you ride and how well you care for them, but a quality, well-maintained pair should comfortably outlast a cheap one. On almost any glove the first failure point is the stitching between the fingers, so reinforced seams are a good sign of a pair that will go the distance. Our care guide covers how to get the most life out of them.

What to look for

You don't have to overpay for a glove that performs. We built the Farris Flexigrip around feel and durability at a fair price — and for the material side of the decision, see our leather vs synthetic guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are premium riding gloves worth it?

For regular riders, usually yes. Better materials and construction give more feel, more reliable grip, and a longer life, so the cost per ride often works out lower than repeatedly replacing a cheap pair. Occasional riders can start mid-range and upgrade later.

What makes riding gloves expensive?

Higher-quality materials such as fine leather or advanced synthetics, a purpose-built grippy palm, reinforced stitching, and precise shaping. These improve feel and durability. Some of the price can also be branding, which doesn't affect performance.

How long should riding gloves last?

It depends on use and care, but a quality, well-cared-for pair should comfortably outlast a cheap one. The stitching between the fingers is usually the first thing to fail, so reinforced seams indicate a longer-lasting glove.

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