The Altura Airstream unisex cycling mitts are in their second iteration, with updates including an Amara suede palm and a bonded cuff. The Airstreams are Altura’s entry-level short finger gloves, sitting below the Endurance and Progel.
Altura says the upper is made from high-wicking fabric and is available in four colours. The suede palm has perforations for airflow and uses memory foam padding.
The mitts have a snug and stretchy fit which holds the fabric in place well while your hands are on the bars. The padding thickness and location isolates your hands well from road rumble while the bonded cuff sits smoothly against the skin.
The Airstream unisex mitts are a great option for anyone after quality short finger gloves on a budget.
Materials + technology
The Altura Airstream mitts are made from 50% polyester, 25% polyamide (nylon), 20% polyurethane and 5% elastane.
The Amara suede palm is new for this version and has perforated ventilation holes in the centre of the hand and at the base of each finger. Altura says it used memory foam padding, which is located under the knuckles and on each side of the base of the palm.
The upper is said to be high-wicking and uses a bonded cuff at the wrist to prevent fraying and skin irritation. There is also a small sweat wipe panel on the thumb.
Altura Airstream unisex cycling mitts fit + sizing
The Altura Airstream mitts are unisex and available in sizes XS to XXL and, with a hand circumference of 19.5cm, I fall under a size small. This felt accurate and the overall fit is snug but stretchy enough to allow good finger mobility.
The fabric finishes right at the wrist joint so doesn’t fold when moving your hands and the compressive fit helps prevent the fabric from moving excessively.
Wearing the Altura Airstream unisex cycling mitts
The accurate sizing contributes to a comfortable fit and the bonded cuff sits nicely against my skin. The breathability of both the upper and the perforated padding is average at best so better for mild rather than hot rides, combined with the fact that the sweat wipe panel is pretty tiny.
The padding placement and density is perfect for both short excursions and longer, tougher rides, and nicely isolates the hands from the rumble of the road below.
The Altura Airstream mitts are competitively priced for the quality of fit and padding and would be a good fit for anyone needing quality short finger mitts on a budget.
