I wear these only for rides over 50 miles as they have caused me to only rely on them for necessity.
When I first received these, they were a little tight, but felt great. After only a few sweaty rides they started hardening when dry, despite my handwashing. Even leather conditioner has not helped much. I still squeeze my hands into them to get my money's worth and eventually they soften up enough to be decently comfortable. The black palms stain my hands to this day, after hundreds of hours in them.
I expected an improvement over the original Monacos, and have seen only better quality control and slightly better durability.
Bought size med (based on sizing chart). They were too small, returned to be exchanged for size Large. Western Bike credited my account instead of exchanging for Large. Ended up ordering a couple pair of Pearl Izumi ELITE Gel Gloves. Those are good gloves and fit perfectly.
I bought these to replace some cheap ones that wore out prematurely. They worked well on a recent week-long trek. My hand is really a medium, but the mediums were far too tight. I returned them and got large which are still a bit tight.
I don't feel like I have big hands, but to echo other reviewers, order a size (or two) larger than you may usually order.
I like the leather palms and placement thickness of the padding. The breathable fabric on the back of the hand completes a comfortable & functional design. The tight fit and lack of finger pull will teach you patience as you go to remove the gloves after a long ride.
I will buy another pair, just the next size up.
Long rides can be hard on the hands when you lean on the handlebars. The Giro Monaco II Gel Glove provides superior padding in the right places to prevent wear and tear while relieving pressure.
I use this glove for road cycling. Typically ride 150 to 200 miles a week. The padding on the palm helps relieve the compression of the ulnar nerve. A pair lasts me about 6 months through multiple washings. The cloth on the thumb is useful for wiping sweat from the face. The only problem I have had is with those with black material that bleeds through to the hands the first few times they are used.
Picked these up for the gel padding and namequality. I'm very happy with them for summer gloves. Wore them on the Crater Lake Century this year, and my hands did well in them. Washed them multiple times and they continue to hold up.
