Motorcycling is thrilling, but when it gets cold, keeping warm is key for comfort and safety. While helmets and jackets often get the most attention, gloves are just as crucial, especially in cold weather. Motorcycle gloves do more than protect your hands. They also make riding better. They stop cold problems like losing your grip or getting frostbite.
Regular gloves don’t perform well in cold conditions. If your hands get too cold, you risk losing control of your bike’s clutch, brakes, throttle, and handlebars. Frostbite is also a serious risk in freezing temperatures. That’s why investing in cold-weather gloves is essential.
Choosing the right pair of motorcycle gloves for cold weather can be overwhelming due to the variety of options. Before buying, consider factors like material, insulation, fit, waterproofing, and extra features.
This guide will break down the key elements to look for in cold-weather gloves. We’ll look at why insulation, material, and features matter. Then, we’ll check out some top gloves available and share maintenance tips. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose gloves that keep your hands warm, safe, and comfortable while riding in winter.
How Cold-Weather Motorcycle Gloves Are Designed
Insulation is key when it comes to cold-weather gloves. Some of the best materials for insulation include PrimaLoft, Thinsulate, and Gore-Tex.
Thinsulate is a light synthetic fiber. It offers great warmth while keeping things slim. It’s popular in cold-weather motorcycle gloves. It’s breathable and moisture-resistant, so it helps keep your hands warm and dry. Thinsulate gloves come in different grades measured in grams. This offers a range of warmth for various weather conditions.
PrimaLoft started as a water-resistant option for the military. It’s a synthetic insulation that is breathable, lightweight, and keeps you warm, even when it’s wet. It’s quick to dry, making it ideal for motorcyclists who may face rain or snow while riding.
Gore-Tex is strong and water-resistant. In motorcycle gloves, it keeps your hands dry from rain or sweat. It’s also windproof, blocking out cold air. The combination of insulation and Gore-Tex results in gloves that provide excellent warmth and comfort.
The outer shell of cold-weather gloves is equally important for keeping hands protected. Here are some materials commonly used in glove construction:
Leather Leather is a classic choice for motorcycle gloves due to its durability and abrasion resistance. It also provides excellent wind protection and can resist light rain. However, leather gloves may struggle in heavy rain without a water-resistant treatment.
Textile Synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, are becoming more popular. They are lightweight and can be made water- and windproof. Textile gloves are more flexible and breathable than leather. However, they might not resist abrasion as well.
Hybrid Gloves Hybrid gloves mix leather and textile materials. They use leather in high-impact areas like the palms and fingers. Textile provides flexibility and weather resistance.
These gloves offer a good balance of comfort, durability, and weather protection.
Key Features for Cold-Weather Motorcycle Gloves
When shopping for cold-weather gloves, look for features that enhance warmth and protection.
Waterproofing Wet hands can quickly lead to cold hands, so waterproof gloves are essential. Look for gloves made with Gore-Tex or similar materials that offer waterproofing to keep your hands dry in wet conditions. Remember that waterproofing can wear down over time, so follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Windproofing Even in mild temperatures, wind can quickly cool your hands. Windproof gloves help retain warmth by blocking out chilly air. Leather and some synthetic fabrics protect well against the wind. Also, some gloves have special windproof membranes for added coverage.
Adjustable Cuffs Cold air can seep into gloves through the cuffs, so adjustable cuffs are a valuable feature. Look for gloves with straps, buckles, or elastic at the wrist, allowing you to customize the fit and prevent wind or moisture from entering. Gauntlet-style gloves offer even more coverage, protecting your wrists and lower arms from the cold.
Top 5 Cold-Weather Motorcycle Gloves
- Brand A – COFIT Motorcycle Gloves (Breathable) Pros:
- Comfortable, durable, and versatile
- Protective armor on knuckles and extra padding
- Touchscreen compatibility for convenience
- Adjustable wrist strap for a secure fit Cons:
- May not offer enough insulation for very cold weather
- Sizing issues reported
- Brand B – Touchscreen Gauntlet Windproof Snowmobile Gloves Pros:
- Gauntlet-style design for extra coverage
- Windproof to protect against cold air
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
- Comfortable fit for long rides Cons:
- Not ideal for extreme cold conditions
- Durability concerns with stitching
- Brand C – Kemimoto Winter Motorcycle Gloves Pros:
- Excellent insulation for warmth
- Waterproof for wet conditions
- Touchscreen compatibility
- Protective knuckle armor and foam padding Cons:
- Not as breathable as some options
- Sizing issues
- May not be suitable for extreme cold
- 4. Brand D – GORELOX Winter Warm GlovesFeatures:
- Warm Lining: GORELOX gloves feature a thermal lining to help retain heat in chilly weather.
- Waterproof & Windproof: These gloves offer solid protection against rain and wind.
- Touchscreen-Friendly: The fingertips have a special material. This lets you use your device while keeping your gloves on.
- Secure Grip: Anti-slip silicone on the palms ensures you maintain control.
- Adjustable Fit: An adjustable wrist strap helps create a snug, cold-resistant fit.
- Effective warmth for moderate cold weather.
- Good water and wind protection.
- Comfortable and secure fit.
- May not be warm enough for extreme cold conditions.
- Some durability issues, especially with stitching and touchscreen functionality.
- Sizing may be inconsistent, so accurate measurements are crucial.
- Double-Layer Insulation: A warm inner lining keeps your hands cozy in moderate cold.
- Touchscreen-Compatible: The tips allow you to use your smartphone without taking off your gloves.
- Non-Slip Grip: A silicone grip provides steady control even in wet conditions.
- Elastic Cuff: The snug wrist cuff prevents cold air from sneaking in.
- Versatile Design: These gloves are great for different outdoor activities, like hiking and running.
- Comfortable and warm for moderate temperatures.
- Convenient touchscreen use.
- Reliable grip for motorcycle control.
- Adjustable fit for comfort.
- Not tailored specifically for motorcycling (lacks protective features like knuckle armor).
- Limited waterproofing.
- Not ideal for extreme cold temperatures.
- Measure around your hand: Wrap a tape measure around the widest part of your hand (excluding the thumb).
- Measure hand length: Measure from the tip of your longest finger to the crease of your palm.
- Gauntlet Gloves: These gloves feature an extended cuff, offering extra protection and insulation. Ensure the cuffs are wide enough to fit over your jacket sleeves.
- Short Cuff Gloves: Lighter and easier to put on, but they provide less cold protection.
- Heated Gloves: These gloves come with heating elements. They get power from batteries or your motorcycle’s electrical system. They may fit differently due to their additional components.
- Insulation vs. Dexterity: Thicker gloves may offer warmth but can reduce control over your bike. Look for gloves with enough insulation without sacrificing movement.
- Touchscreen Compatibility: Gloves made with touchscreen-friendly material allow device usage without removal.
- Ventilation Options: Some gloves feature ventilation for temperature control. Be careful, though—too much airflow can make your hands cold.
- Reflective Features: Use reflective patches or piping on your gloves to boost visibility in low light.
- Cleaning: Clean leather gloves with a damp cloth and mild soap, while textile gloves can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle.
- Storage: Store gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent material breakdown.
- Repairs: Small damages like tears can be fixed at home with a repair kit. More significant issues may require professional repairs or replacement.
- How do I know if a glove is suitable for cold weather? Cold weather gloves often have materials such as Thinsulate, Gore-Tex, and PrimaLoft. These materials offer insulation and resist harsh weather.
- Are heated gloves suitable for extreme cold? Yes, heated gloves work great in very cold weather. They have battery-powered or electrical heating elements.
- How often should I replace my gloves? Replace gloves if they lose warmth, become damaged, or no longer provide proper protection.
- Can I use regular winter gloves for motorcycling? Regular winter gloves don’t have protective features like armor and impact resistance. These features are important for safe motorcycle riding.
- Any special care for Gore-Tex gloves? Skip fabric softeners. They can clog Gore-Tex pores, which reduces breathability and waterproofing.