The science behind SteadyHands gloves and how to get the most out of them

The short version...

SteadyHands gloves are linked by an elasticised Velcro band with a quick-release clip.

The band can be adjusted to keep your hands at a wider or shorter distance apart.

The clip releases very easily with a short sharp movement, but under constant pressure stays clipped up.

You will use the band like a resistance band, and push your hands slightly apart against it.

This will engage the correct muscles to keep your hands:

1. Upright

2. The correct distance apart

3. In a forward-feeling position

4. Steadier

You will also notice that you are using less hand, and more seat and leg - and your horse becomes happier as a result.

The long version...

The band that links the SteadyHands gloves together (which is adjustable, elasticised and equipped with a safety-release clip) acts as a resistance band across the back of the rider's hands.

By pushing slightly against the band, the rider will engage the muscles of the back, shoulders and upper arms, specifically:

1. Deltoids

2. Latissimus dorsi

3. Serratus

4. Pectoral muscles

5. Abdominal muscles

6. Triceps

7. Brachioradialis

All these muscles work in conjunction to stabilise the rider's seat and arms, resulting in better contact and hand position. Many riders also report an improvement in the effectiveness of their seat.

SteadyHands gloves are not designed as a crutch. Once the rider has felt which muscles to engage, try to see how long you can keep them activated without wearing the gloves. Over time, you will use SteadyHands less.

Having said that, even advanced riders competing at the highest levels use SteadyHands gloves to make minute refinements to their contact.

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Which muscles are activated?

The following muscles all work in conjunction to stabilise the seat and the hand position. As most riders know, it is impossible to have a good hand position if the rider's seat is defective.

Although SteadyHands gloves act directly on the hands, they engage muscle chains which also affect the seat.

This is why most riders who use SteadyHands gloves report an improvement in their seat as well as their hand position.

Deltoids

These muscles provide dynamic stability of the shoulders. In horse riders, when correctly engaged, they help to keep the shoulders back.

Latissimus dorsi

These muscles stabilise the spine and support good posture. They are important to keep a good, upright position without slouching.

Serratus

This muscles connects the shoulders to the rider's core, and is crucial to good posture. It is a deep muscle but when engaged, it is a very important stabiliser.

Pectoral muscles

These are one of the largest muscles in the upper body and they play a key role in stabilising the shoulders and combatting slouching.

Abdominal muscles

Most riders know that engaged core muscles are the cornerstone of a stable and supple seat. Through the activation of muscles chains, core muscles are engaged when using SteadyHands gloves.

Triceps

These upper arm muscles help riders to keep their arms by their side and stabilise the shoulders. They provide (along with other muscles) the ability to keep the contact forward feeling without moving the upper body forwards.

Brachioradialis

These are the large forearm muscles, which primarily flex the forearm at the elbow. Properly engaged, they stabilise and encourage a bend in the elbows. This is key to achieving a steady contact, as the elbow is often thought of as the link between the seat and the bit.

Customer Reviews

Based on 207 reviews
88%
(183)
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(5)
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Neil Grant
Generally good

I've found then generally good, but the quick release buckle comes apart too easily. I realise why one is needed, but one that requires more force would be helpful

Hi there, thank you for your feedback on our SteadyHands Riding Gloves. We're glad to hear that you have found them to be generally good. We understand your concern about the quick release buckle and we will definitely take that into consideration for future improvements. We hope you continue to enjoy your rides with our gloves.

B
Benoît GERMANY

It’s very Nice

Thank you for your kind words about our SteadyHands Riding Gloves. We are glad to hear that you are enjoying them. Happy riding!

k
kathy debolt
The best think I have ever done die contact

These gloves are absolutely the best thing you can do if you are struggling to get and maintain contact with your horse

Hi Kathy, thank you for taking the time to leave a review for our SteadyHands Riding Gloves. We are thrilled to hear that they have helped improve your contact with your horse. We wish you many more successful rides with your horse.

K
Keith Newman
Lovely gloves

Fantastic results with my now steady hands !

Hi Keith, thank you for your kind review! We're thrilled to hear that our SteadyHands Riding Gloves have helped improve your stability while riding. Happy riding!

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Natalie Gifford
MAGIC!!

Ok, I’m an adult beginner and I’ve been struggling with position and my hands and so many things.
I’m not paid to say this. I bought the gloves with my own money. ONE RIDE. One ride and it changed everything for me. I noticed my horse’s transitions have been more seamless, I sit better, I’m so much more balanced in canter. It’s like how can a pair of gloves do all that? It’s amazing! I’m so glad I got these gloves and I can’t wait to keep improving and building! Already looking into other products!

Hi Natalie! Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It’s incredibly rewarding to hear how much the gloves have made a difference for you and your riding. As an adult beginner, navigating all the challenges of position, balance, and technique can feel overwhelming, and it’s amazing to see how a small change can have such a big impact. Your excitement and determination to keep improving are truly inspiring, and we’re thrilled to be a part of your journey. Thank you again for your thoughtful feedback, and we can’t wait to hear about your continued progress! 💪

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