How to improve the comfort of your hands while riding

Hand comfort starts with a proper bike fit, which implies a thoughtful handlebar choice, a properly fitted saddle and adapted accessories. The cycling industry has certainly evolved in terms of handlebar geometry and general ergonomics in recent years, which means there is most definitely a solution to your present discomfort.

1. Make sure to choose handlebars that are the right size and shape

Rarely are the stock handlebars the best shape for your needs. Here are a number of ways to help you make the right choice, the first time :

• Fit standards dictate your handlebars should be 2-4cm wider than your shoulder width
• We recommend ‘’compact’’ handlebars for most riders due to the wide selection of hand placement possibilities and short distance between them
• Integrated barstem combos should be avoided, as they offer no practical adjustment capabilities not mentioning the unjustifiable cost of replacement. 

2. Carefully positioning the handlebars shifters

Even with the right handlebars, if they or the shifters are not ergonomically placed, discomfort will persist.

• The tops and drops would be parallel to the ground for a neutral position
• The shifter should be placed in such a way that does not create a pronounced wrist angle

For more details on how to fit your handlebars, check out the full video made by Physio Vélo

3. Choosing a good bar tape

Choosing a quality bartape will have a serious impact on hand comfort.

• We recommend a well padded bar tape, but not so much so that the shifter placement is affected
• Choose a dark or black color for easy maintenance

4. Having the right saddle with the right fit

A well fitted saddle directly impacts the way your hands approach the shifters.

• A saddle too inclined forward puts too much weight on your hands, creating numbness and pressure points
• A stable position is essential to properly distribute weight while pedaling.

5. For hybrid riders

While generally considered more comfortable, hybrid bikes actually provide less hand placement options and can be seriously hard on the hands. Thankfully, a wide variety of accessories such as grips and bar ends exist to mitigate this problem.

6. Gloves

• Choose gloves with minimal padding - too much will affect your hand position!
• Gloves offer better grip and can hello you maintain a comfortable position for longer
• Gloves can also protect the hands from damage in the case of a fall, particularly useful in the trails!

Check out our huge selection of cycling gloves for men and women.

Conclusion

More comfort means better and longer rides. Uncomfortable hands are often neglected - a one-time investment into a good handlebar, grip tape and gloves can make a world of difference both short and long term. 

With Primeau Vélo, you can order the best accessories to help with hand comfort online. Don’t forget to check out our 6 retail stores across the province. Primeau Vélo is Canada’s #1 Trek retailer and the largest cycling retailer in Québec.