Budget Gloves That Actually Protect Your Smartwatch
Smartwatch-wearing ruckers face a real problem: most gloves either block your device or leave it exposed to scratches. Dhabii's workout gloves tackle both issues at under twenty bucks, which caught our attention immediately.
These gloves deliver solid grip and smartwatch compatibility at a budget price. They're not premium, but they work well enough for weighted carries, gym training, and anyone who refuses to remove their fitness tracker.
Best for: Budget-conscious ruckers who train with smartwatches
Check Price — $19.99Specifications
| Price | $19.99 |
| Material | Rubber |
Durability
At this price point, we expected rubber grip zones to peel after a few weeks of barbell work. They've held up better than anticipated, though the stitching around the wrist wrap shows wear faster than premium alternatives.
The rubber material handles friction reasonably well during pull-ups and ruck carries. We've seen some minor deterioration after extended outdoor use, but nothing catastrophic. These won't outlast leather gloves, but they're durable enough for casual to moderate training schedules.
The wrist wrap support maintains tension consistently, which matters more than most realize. Cheap gloves lose elasticity quickly, but Dhabii's construction keeps support intact through multiple training cycles.
Comfort
The open-hand ventilated design makes a noticeable difference during long rucks. Your hands stay cooler than with full-coverage gloves, and sweat evaporates instead of pooling against your palms.
The smartwatch cutout sits higher on the wrist than competing designs, reducing pressure during push-ups and sandbag work. We appreciated this detail during GORUCK-style events where wrist contact happens constantly.
The fit runs slightly small, so size up if you're between measurements. Once properly sized, these gloves flex naturally with hand movements and don't create hot spots during weighted carries or kettlebell training.
Features
The smartwatch compatibility feature actually works as advertised, which separates these from gimmicky alternatives. The protective zone cushions your device during ground contact without adding bulk that interferes with touchscreen use.
Rubber grip zones provide legitimate traction on pull-up bars and ruck plates. The pattern isn't aggressive enough for max deadlifts, but it handles typical rucking weights and gym exercises competently. We tested them on smooth metal bars and textured handles with consistent results.
Wrist wrap support extends longer than basic gym gloves, offering decent stability during pressing movements. The Velcro closure adjusts easily mid-workout, though it occasionally loosens during high-repetition training.
Value
At nineteen dollars, these gloves undercut most smartwatch-compatible options by thirty to fifty dollars. You're not getting premium materials or elite construction, but you're getting functional gear that solves real problems.
The versatility claim holds up in practice. We've used these for weighted rucks, CrossFit workouts, and cycling sessions without needing different gloves for each activity. That consolidation saves money and gym bag space.
Compared to basic workout gloves in the same price range, the smartwatch integration and rubber grip zones justify the slight premium. They're not endgame gloves for serious athletes, but they're excellent entry-level or backup gear for budget-conscious ruckers.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Smartwatch cutout with protective cushioning prevents scratches
- ✓ Rubber grip zones provide solid traction on bars and handles
- ✓ Open-hand ventilation keeps palms cooler during long sessions
- ✓ Wrist wrap support extends farther than basic gym gloves
- ✓ Works across multiple workout styles without switching gear
- ✓ Budget price significantly undercuts smartwatch-compatible competitors
Cons
- ✗ Stitching quality shows wear faster than premium alternatives
- ✗ Sizing runs small, requiring careful measurement before ordering
- ✗ Velcro closure occasionally loosens during high-rep training
- ✗ Not durable enough for daily heavy lifting or extreme use
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these gloves work with my Apple Watch or Garmin?
Yes, the wrist cutout accommodates most standard smartwatch sizes including Apple Watch, Garmin, and Fitbit models. The protective cushioning keeps your device scratch-free during ground contact exercises.
Do I need to size up from my normal glove size?
We recommend sizing up if you're between measurements. These gloves run slightly smaller than typical workout gloves, and proper fit matters for grip and comfort during weighted carries.
Can I use these for heavy deadlifts and barbell training?
The rubber grip handles typical rucking weights and moderate barbell work effectively, but they're not designed for max-effort powerlifting. For heavy deadlifts over 300 pounds, consider dedicated lifting straps or leather gloves.
How do these compare to full-finger gloves for cold weather rucking?
The open-hand design prioritizes ventilation over warmth, making these better for gym training and moderate weather. For cold weather rucks, layer with liner gloves underneath or choose full-coverage options.
