Horseback riders wear gloves for several reasons. 1. Gloves give riders a better grip on reins. If a horse pulls the reins, a gloved rider’s hands can remain steady and soft, without pinching skin. 2. Gloves protect skin. In a barn (and even in the saddle) cuts, scrapes, and callouses are easy to come by. Riding gloves preserve soft and healthy skin. 3. Gloves prevent chapped skin and sun damage. Hands are delicate, and barn chores, sun, and cold all take a toll on our skin. Horseback riders wear gloves to prevent chapping in the winter and sunburning in the summer.