Long finger gloves for road cycling tend to fall into two camps: thin enough to preserve bar feel but borderline useless when temperatures drop, or warm enough for actual cold weather but so bulky you're guessing at your brake lever position. The RS LF Gloves Targa from Assos attempt to thread this needle by focusing on what Assos calls their "racing speed" category—gloves built for performance riding in cool conditions where dexterity matters as much as thermal protection.
The construction centers on a minimal padding philosophy that prioritizes direct contact with the handlebar. Where many long finger gloves add foam or gel inserts across the palm, the Targa uses a thin microsuede palm that lets you feel bar tape texture and brake lever position without an insulating layer between your hands and the cockpit. This makes them suited to riders who spend time in the drops, on the hoods, and moving between positions rather than those looking for cushioned comfort on long endurance rides.
Assos uses their stretchSingle textile across the back of the hand, a single-layer fabric that moves with your grip rather than bunching at the knuckles. The fit runs snug through the fingers with an ergoBox cut at the palm that Assos designs to match a natural gripping position. A magnetic closure at the cuff keeps the wrist secure without requiring velcro adjustment mid-ride, and the pull-on tab at the wrist makes removal easier when your hands are sweaty or cold.... Read More
The temperature range here sits in cool-to-mild territory rather than genuine cold weather. These work best in conditions where you'd reach for arm warmers and a vest but not full winter gear—roughly 50°F to 65°F depending on your personal thermostat and how hard you're riding. Touchscreen compatibility at the fingertips keeps smartphone navigation functional without removing gloves, useful for checking routes or adjusting ride computers on the move.
The reflective details add low-light visibility, though the primary design intent remains race-oriented performance in daylight conditions. Sizing runs true to Assos standards, which tend toward a fitted European cut rather than relaxed American proportions.
