D3O Ghost operates on non-Newtonian principles, staying soft and flexible during normal use but stiffening instantly on impact to disperse force across a wider area. Giro positions this material over two knuckles on the Rodeo, providing protection where your hands are most likely to contact rocks, trees, or the ground without adding the bulk that usually comes with armored gloves. The result is knuckle coverage that disappears during the ride but shows up when you need it.

The palm takes the opposite approach to most trail gloves: no padding at all. Giro builds the Rodeo around a single-panel stretch AX Suede construction with full silicone grip printing, prioritizing direct bar feel over vibration damping. The pre-curved moto fit follows natural hand position on the bars, and the hydrophobic treatment on the AX Suede sheds water rather than absorbing it. If you've been riding without gloves to maintain maximum feedback and only wish you had protection when things go wrong, this is the compromise that keeps both priorities intact.

The backhand uses hydrophobic mesh that breathes in warm conditions while the Lycra cuff slips on without closures or adjustments. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips let you check your phone or GPS without stripping the glove. The materials are part of Giro's Renew Series, incorporating post-consumer recycled polyester into the construction. For enduro racing and aggressive trail riding where bar feel matters more than cushioning, the Rodeo delivers protection without the usual tradeoffs.