I just don't have the grip (arthritis, carpel tunnel, generally unhealthy thumbs) to handle the grip shifts on my bike. The gloves make shifting possible.

I have some interesting tan lines, too. My wrists are all but black, from the gap between my long sleeves and the gloves, my hands look like I have some dread skin disease from the polka-dots left by the crocheted backs of my gloves, and let's not forget the white line around my chin/throat where my helmet strap goes.

I'm a multi-colored mess.

But, then again, I've always wanted to be one of those eccentric old ladies that other people make allowances for. I'm well on my way.