Sealskinz Performance Thermal gloves review

You want a pair of winter gloves to be waterproof, windproof and breathable. Sealskinz says the Performance Thermal gloves tick all the boxes. We put this claim to the test

(Image credit: christopher.hovenden)
Reasons to buy
  • +

    Durable

  • +

    Good padding

  • +

    Easy to get on

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Pricey

  • -

    Not completely waterproof

  • -

    Could be warmer

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Sealskinz has a reputation for producing high-end cold weather cycling apparel and the Sealskinz Performance Thermal gloves look to continue in this vein.

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They have plenty of padding on the palm to absorb vibrations - although the seams at the base of the index finger rubbed a little on longer rides- and Kevlar has been used to enhance their durability.

>>> Pro rider tips for winter riding

Whether riding on the hoods or the top of the bars, grip was good thanks to the textured pattern on the fingers- which also assisted using a smartphone or GPS device on the fly.

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Soft material on the tops of both thumbs means you can wipe your face or glasses when needed. The gloves’ opening is wide enough to slip your hand in and out easily whilst the medium length cuff is fastened with a narrow velcro strap.

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Sealskinz says the gloves are totally waterproof, breathable and windproof. On early morning rides the gloves kept out the cold wind and light rain.

However, on particularly cold days you will want something a little warmer;  in heavy and persistent rain my hands did get damp; and the ventilation, although good, could be better.

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