Dakine’s Cross X full finger mountain bike gloves are meant to do more than just keep your digits warm in cooler temps: these gloves were truly designed with protection and function in mind. These gloves are unique because Dakine uses at least five different textured materials in construction with each having a unique purpose. For maximum grippage the leather-like palm of the Cross X has an extra reinforced layer at the base of the fingers and strategically placed cushioning helps with impact absorption. Coordinating silicone graphics on the index and middle fingertips prevent slipping when feathering the brakes.
Your fingers and hand get full coverage with nylon mesh connecting the essential pieces of the Cross X. The thumb is wrapped in terry cloth, handy for wiping off your brow or nose. The knuckles and backside of the hand have padded neoprene and rubber guards that hold up against rocks, branches, or other flying debris. The protective exoskeleton design of these mountain bike gloves were meant to take a beating.
Grip and protection are definitely essential features of mountain bike gloves, but they’re worthless if the gloves don’t fit. Get the wrong size gloves and you may end up with blisters and sloppy bike handling. For me, the girls small Cross X fit snugly throughout the fingers and palm, but leave any rings at home or they’ll just pinch your fingers. I especially like the wrist pull tab for getting these gloves on. You can do most hand movements off the bike with the gloves on, like getting in and out of your backpack and tearing open an energy bar. You could probably even change a flat tire with them on, if you’re the type that doesn’t want to get your hands dirty 😉
The Cross X gloves have serious features for the aggressive mountain biker. Men’s and women’s styles are available in black, olive, and white. Get yours and hold on for the ride!
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Aug 11, 2010