Cycling · Head-to-head
Rapha Core Mitts vs Endura Xtract Mitts
Which should you buy? Our verdict on both, pulled from our full The Best Cycling Gloves: 4 Compared (and One to Skip) comparison.
Rapha's Core mitts balance padding, grip and breathability without over-thinking it. Endura's Xtract gets you most of that for less.
Rapha Core Mitts
Buy itLightweight, breathable mitts with foam pads where your palm needs them and a synthetic suede palm for grip.
- Strategically placed foam pads damp road vibration without turning the palm into a cushion, so bar feel stays sharp.
- Synthetic suede palm grips in wet and dry conditions, and the four-way stretch mesh back keeps hands cool.
- Bound cuff and easy-on finger loops, with a fit that works for a wide range of hands.
- Padding is moderate: riders with very sensitive hands or long rough rides may want more gel.
- Priced above the budget mitts for a design that is deliberately simple.
- The understated look is a pro for most and a bore for anyone who wants a loud kit.
Endura Xtract Mitts
Buy itThe budget mitts that punch above their price: gel padding where the palm bends, silicone grip and an adjustable cuff.
- Gel padding placed by palm-bend zones so it cushions where your hand actually contacts the bar.
- Microfibre palm with silicone grip holds in wet or dry conditions, and the cuff adjusts for a secure fit.
- Priced at the budget end while still feeling like a real cycling mitt, plus a nose-wipe panel and easy-off tabs.
- A step below premium mitts in materials and finish, which shows up over a season of hard use.
- Fewer color and size options than the bigger brands.
- Padding is still moderate; riders who want maximum cushion should look at the gel-heavy options.
Side by side
| Rapha Core Mitts | Endura Xtract Mitts | |
|---|---|---|
| Our verdict | Buy | Buy |
| Best for | Most road and gravel riders who want a mitt that disappears until you need it. | Value-conscious riders and beginners who want real mitt features at the lowest sensible price. |
| Price tier | $$ · mid-range | $ · budget |
The bottom line
Our overall pick is the Rapha Core Mitts - Lightweight, breathable mitts with foam pads where your palm needs them and a synthetic suede palm for grip. Choose the Endura Xtract Mitts instead if value-conscious riders and beginners who want real mitt features at the lowest sensible price.
Want the full picture, including the other options we compared and the popular one we'd skip? Read the complete The Best Cycling Gloves: 4 Compared (and One to Skip).