Bull riding gloves are only worn by cowboys on the hand that grips the bull rope, which is called their riding hand. Gloves are made of thick leather to protect cowboys' hands from being burned by the rope. Gloves also help to get a better grip on the rope.

Bull riding gloves are usually taped onto the cowboys' hands. The force of the bull riding mixed with the friction of the rope could easily take off the glove while the cowboy is riding. Some gloves have straps that wrap around the wrist for a tight hold. Riders also use rosin with their gloves to increase grip on the rope.

Bull Riding Gloves Sold Singly

These kind of gloves are not sold by the pair, since the cowboy only needs one for the riding hand. They are available in half sizes for a perfect fit. Some bull riding gloves come with Velcro fasteners for an even better fit. Choose left or right hand when ordering a glove.

If you are not sure what size glove to buy, take a tape measure and loosely wrap it around the widest part of your hand. The measure equals your glove size; for example, 8 inches equals a size 8. If you are ordering a glove for bareback riding, order at least a half size bigger because the leather is thicker on those.