Short-finger gloves split into two camps: minimal palm coverage that saves weight and maximizes feel, or padded designs that sacrifice some bar feedback for comfort on longer efforts. The Assos Endurance Gloves S11 plant themselves firmly in the second category, built around a foam insert system that distributes pressure across your palm rather than letting it concentrate at the usual hot spots. If your rides regularly push past three hours, that's the trade-off that starts to matter.

The palm uses what Assos calls their ergoBox foam padding, positioned to cushion the ulnar and median nerve paths where handlebar pressure typically creates numbness. The foam sits inside a synthetic suede palm that grips bar tape without slipping, while the back of the hand gets a lightweight mesh construction that prioritizes airflow over protection. A terry cloth thumb panel handles sweat and lens cleaning duties—small detail, but one you notice when you need it mid-ride.

Fit follows the Assos pattern of running trim through the fingers with a snug wristband closure. The closure uses a simple tab system rather than velcro, which keeps the profile clean and eliminates the issue of velcro catching on jersey cuffs or base layers. Sizing tends to run true to the Assos chart, though riders between sizes often find the smaller option works better given the intended close fit.... Read More