Trail gloves with thick padding can actually work against you when the terrain gets rough. Padding shifts and bunches under hard braking, and it dulls the bar feel you need to read the trail through your hands. The Giro Havoc takes the opposite approach, skipping the padding entirely in favor of a thin, seamless palm that puts you in direct contact with the grips. When you're threading through rock gardens or committing to a steep chute, that immediate feedback matters.

The palm uses AX Suede microfiber in a one-piece, pre-curved design that contours to your hand's natural shape. The material is thin enough to feel like a second skin but durable enough to resist the wear that destroys lesser gloves. Full perforation across the palm adds ventilation, working with the Ariaprene mesh upper to move air through the glove and keep your hands from getting swampy on hot climbs.

TPR knuckle coverings add protection from trailside hazards without compromising flexibility. The coverage shields your knuckles from brush, branches, and the occasional rock deflection without the bulk of full armored gloves. A hook-and-loop wrist closure dials in fit quickly and tucks under so the back of your hand stays smooth for wiping sweat or clearing your face. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips let you check your phone or GPS without stripping off the gloves. Made for trail riders who prioritize feel and ventilation over cushioning.