I don't bike without gloves - for protection, better grip, and to keep my hands happier. Unlike the rest of me, my hands get cold fast, which I've found leads to them reacting slower. I also prefer full finger. Unfortunately, one pair does not work for all conditions (temperature, sun, rain, wind, etc...), so I have three thus far, all PI:
- PRO Barrier WxB (with smartwool liners if its cold): below 40ish, or when its raining and below 50 or so. Not very breathable, but essential when its raining and cold. I got them for $60 (they retail for $100) and have been worth it.
- Cyclone gel: 40-60 or so, moderate weight, work relatively well, until they get wet. They're starting to fall apart after 3 years, and I'm not sure what I'll replace them with. Retail for $40
- Divide: above 60, mesh on the outside, extremely lightweight. Just got these so not sure how they'll perform in hot weather, but have been great thus far. REI just had them for $20