Motorcycle gloves aren’t just an accessory. They are essential for your riding gear. They boost both safety and comfort. No matter if you’re a pro or just starting out, the right gloves can really improve your ride. Choosing the right gloves is more than just picking a stylish pair. Motorcycle gloves are made for protection, grip, and comfort. To choose the right pair, you need to know their purpose, materials, and features.
This guide will look at the best motorcycle gloves. We’ll cover what to consider when buying them. Also, we’ll discuss why gloves are a must-have for your riding gear. By the end, you’ll understand motorcycle gloves well. You’ll also know how to choose the perfect pair for your needs.
What Exactly Are Riding Gloves?
Before we discuss how to choose the best riding gloves, let’s clarify what they are and why they matter. Motorcycle riders face many risks. In an accident, their hands often hit the ground first. Motorcycle gloves mainly protect the rider’s hands from abrasions, cuts, and impacts during a fall.
Safety is the top priority. Gloves also make riding more comfortable and improve grip. This helps riders have better control of their motorcycles. Whether it’s a minor slip or a more serious fall, wearing the right gloves can significantly reduce the likelihood of injury.
Types of Motorcycle Gloves
Motorcycle gloves are available in many styles, materials, and features. Each pair suits different riding needs. Whether you commute, love off-road riding, or race, there’s a pair of gloves just for you.Below are some of the most popular types of motorcycle gloves:
1. Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Riding in cold weather can be tough, especially with exposed hands. Winter gloves have insulation and waterproof layers to keep hands warm and dry. They offer great protection from the cold, but the extra layers can limit flexibility. This may make it harder to operate the motorcycle controls. However, they’re a must-have for winter riders.
2. Heated Motorcycle Gloves
For those who ride in extremely cold conditions, heated motorcycle gloves offer an advanced solution. These gloves use the motorcycle’s electrical system or a battery pack. They keep your hands warm by maintaining a steady temperature. Some premium models have adjustable heat settings. This lets riders adjust the warmth according to the weather.
3. Summer Motorcycle Gloves
Summer gloves are lightweight and breathable. They keep your hands cool in hot weather. These gloves are made from mesh and perforated leather. They offer great airflow and protection. They aren’t as warm as winter gloves, but they are perfect for riding in hot weather when comfort and breathability matter.
4. Mid-Season Gloves
As the name suggests, mid-season gloves are perfect for transitional weather, such as spring and fall. These gloves balance insulation, waterproofing, and breathability. They keep you comfortable in both warm and cool weather. They are perfect for riders facing changing weather conditions during the day.
5. Urban Motorcycle Gloves
Urban gloves are designed with city riders in mind, where short, frequent trips are common. They are typically lighter and more stylish, making them ideal for daily commuting. They might not protect as well as racing or touring gloves. However, they offer a nice mix of comfort, style, and practicality.
6. Racing Gloves
When it comes to racing gloves, performance takes precedence over style. Racing gloves are designed for safety and flexibility. They help riders stay in control, even when going fast. These gloves usually have hard-shell knuckles, strong palms, and extra padding to shield hands from impacts.
7. Touring Gloves
Touring gloves suit long-distance riders facing different weather. They offer reliable protection for long hours. These gloves blend durable leather with flexible fabric. They often include ventilation, waterproofing, and insulation. They are made for comfort and protection during long rides.
8. Motocross Gloves
Motocross gloves are made for off-road fans. They offer a lightweight, flexible design and great breathability. These gloves suit extreme dirt biking. They provide the flexibility needed to control the bike on rugged terrain. Despite their lightweight design, they still provide essential protection for your hands.
7 Important Things You Need to Consider When Buying Motorcycle Gloves
Now that you know about the types of motorcycle gloves, let’s explore the key factors to think about before you buy. The following tips will help you select gloves that offer the right balance of comfort, fit, and protection.
1. Fit and Comfort
When choosing motorcycle gloves, comfort should be your top priority. Gloves that are too tight can limit movement and blood flow. On the other hand, gloves that are too loose can affect your control of the bike. A good pair of gloves should fit snugly without being restrictive.
To ensure the perfect fit, try on several pairs of gloves before making your purchase. Move your fingers, flex your hands, and ensure the gloves don’t pinch or cause discomfort. Motorcycle gloves should allow you to easily grip the handlebars and operate all the controls on your bike.
2. Size Matters
Size is another critical factor when selecting the right gloves. Just like clothing, gloves come in various sizes, and it’s important to choose the correct size for your hands. A glove that is too big might slip off if you fall. In contrast, a glove that is too small can be uncomfortable and limit your movement.
To find your correct size, measure the circumference of your palm and the length of your fingers. Most glove manufacturers offer sizing charts to help you select the right fit.
3. Protective Features
Motorcycle gloves are designed to protect your hands from potential injuries in the event of a crash. Look for gloves that feature reinforced knuckles, padded palms, and wrist protection. Some gloves also include additional armor, such as carbon fiber or metal inserts, for extra protection.
Ventilated gloves made from breathable materials keep your hands dry and comfortable in hot weather. Choose gloves that balance protection and comfort. They should be strong for safety but flexible for control.
4. Construction Materials
Leather is the most common material for motorcycle gloves. It provides durability, comfort, and protection. Leather gloves resist abrasion and shape to your hands over time, enhancing comfort. To boost protection, some gloves include synthetic materials like nylon or Kevlar. These add durability while keeping flexibility intact.
When selecting gloves, consider the type of material that will best suit your riding style. Leather gloves are great for most riders. However, textile gloves can provide better flexibility and breathability in some situations.
5. Safety and Durability
Safety should always be your primary concern when buying motorcycle gloves. Choose gloves that follow safety standards. Look for ones with good padding, hard knuckles, and wrist protection. Gloves with reflective elements can also increase your visibility when riding at night.
Durability is also important. Gloves are exposed to a lot of wear and tear, especially if you frequently ride in harsh conditions. Choose gloves made from high-quality materials that are built to last. Check the stitching and reinforcement in high-wear areas, like the palms and fingers. This ensures they can handle daily use.
6. Better Control Over the Bike
Motorcycle gloves should provide a secure grip on the handlebars, even in rainy or slippery conditions. The materials used in the palm area should enhance your grip and prevent slippage. Some gloves feature textured palms or grip patches to improve control.
It’s important that your gloves do not interfere with your ability to operate the motorcycle. Ensure you can reach the throttle, brake, and clutch easily. Also, check that the gloves let you control the bike smoothly.
7. Comfort and Breathability
You’ll likely be wearing your gloves for long periods, so comfort is key. Look for gloves that feature breathable materials to keep your hands cool and dry. Gloves with mesh panels, ventilation holes, or perforated leather help airflow and cut down sweating.
Additionally, consider the climate in which you’ll be riding. If you often ride in extreme temperatures, choose gloves with winter insulation or summer cooling features.
Why You Need to Wear Motorcycle Gloves
It might be tempting to ride without gloves, especially on short trips or in warm weather. But wearing gloves is important for protecting your hands. Here are a few reasons why gloves are a must-have for every motorcyclist:
1. Protection Against Injuries
Gloves act as a barrier between your hands and the road. They shield you from cuts, abrasions, and burns that can happen during a fall. In an accident, your hands usually hit the ground first. Gloves help absorb the impact and reduce the risk of injury.
2. Improved Grip and Control
Motorcycle gloves improve your grip on the handlebars. This is key in wet or hot weather. Sweaty or slippery hands can make it hard to control your bike. Gloves help keep your grip secure, even in tough weather.
3. Prevent Hand Numbness
Long rides can cause hand numbness due to vibrations from the motorcycle’s engine. Padded gloves absorb vibrations. This reduces hand fatigue and numbness. As a result, your ride becomes more comfortable.
Care and Maintenance of Motorcycle Gloves
Caring for your motorcycle gloves helps them last longer and keep their protection. Always clean your gloves as the manufacturer says. Also, don’t wash leather gloves in water. When the riding season ends, store your gloves in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Regularly check your gloves for signs of wear and tear, and replace them when necessary. Keep your gloves clean and in good shape. This way, they will keep protecting your hands well.
FAQs on Motorcycle Gloves
Can I use regular gloves for motorcycle riding?
While regular gloves may provide some comfort, they are not designed to protect against the specific risks of motorcycling, such as high-speed crashes or abrasions. Motorcycle gloves are made with specialized materials and padding to safeguard your hands in case of an accident.
What are motorcycle gloves made of?
Motorcycle gloves are typically made of leather, textile, or a combination of both. Leather is popular for its durability, comfort, and protection, while textile gloves are lightweight, breathable, and more affordable. Other materials like carbon fiber, Kevlar, and Gore-Tex are also incorporated for added safety and performance.
Why do I need to wear motorcycle gloves?
Motorcycle gloves are essential for protecting your hands from abrasions, cuts, and injuries during accidents. They also improve grip, reduce hand numbness caused by vibrations, and enhance overall control while riding.
Conclusion
Motorcycle gloves are essential for your riding gear. They provide protection and comfort on the road. To choose the right gloves for riding, know the types available. Consider the key factors when buying, and understand why gloves are important. This knowledge will help you find the perfect pair for your needs.
Prioritise fit, safety, and comfort when choosing gloves. Always value high-quality protective gear. No matter if you’re a city commuter, a long-distance rider, or a pro racer, the right gloves can really improve your ride.
