Snug everywhere, tight nowhere. Measure around the widest part of your hand (excluding the thumb) and match it to the size chart. Your fingertips should reach the end of the glove without pressure, and the palm material should sit flat with no wrinkles — wrinkled fabric between your hand and the rein is what causes rubbing and blisters. If you are between sizes, size up: an adjustable wrist closure takes up the slack. Farris offers a free size exchange, so an imperfect first guess costs you nothing.

Leather looks traditional and suits the show ring, but it needs a break-in period, loses grip when wet, and runs hot in summer. Full synthetic gloves are cheap and durable but often bulky, reducing rein feel. Mesh-backed hybrids — like the Farris Flexigrip — pair a reinforced synthetic palm for all-weather grip with a 4-way stretch mesh back for airflow, giving leather-level control without the break-in or the sweat. For everyday schooling, trail riding and barn work, a mesh hybrid is the practical choice; keep a leather pair for formal competition if your discipline requires it.Full comparison →

Dressage riders prioritise feel — thin, close-fitting gloves that transmit subtle rein aids. Jumpers need grip and security over fences, especially with a horse that pulls. Trail and endurance riders want breathability, sun protection and touchscreen fingertips for navigation. Around the barn, the same gloves protect against rope burn when lunging and leading. A reinforced-palm mesh glove covers all four jobs, which is why one well-made pair outworks a drawer full of specialised ones.

Hand wash in cold water with mild soap, press out the excess water (don't wring), and air dry away from radiators and direct sun. Heat degrades grip materials and elastic. Brush off arena dust after each ride and let gloves dry fully before storing — damp gloves wear out fastest. With basic care a quality pair lasts seasons, not months.Step-by-step care guide →

1. Reinforced palm at the four rein contact points. 2. Snug fit with zero spare fingertip fabric — check the size chart, size up between sizes. 3. Breathable back (mesh or ventilated) if you ride in warm weather. 4. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips so your phone stays usable. 5. A returns policy that lets you exchange sizes free — buying gloves online should be risk-free.