6 Point Checklist for Choosing Motorcycle Riding Gloves

6 Point Checklist for Choosing Motorcycle Riding Gloves

Posted by Team Motorcycle on Oct 1st 2024

Finding the perfect pair of motorcycle gloves is more than just picking something that looks cool. Your gloves need to protect your hands, most importantly give you a good grip, and keep you comfortable on the road.

But with so many options out there, how do you know which gloves are best for you? This checklist breaks it down into six easy points, so you can find the perfect pair that fits your needs and riding style. Let's break it down into a 6 point checklist so you can find gloves that fit like a - well - glove!

Know Your Budget When Buying Motorcycle Riding Gloves

When shopping for motorcycle riding gloves, one should keep a realistic budget in mind. Although high-quality gloves are more expensive, but they are well worth the money for your comfort and protection.

And gloves, if you ride in hot weather, a decent pair will cost at least $50. It should offer some basic defence and ventilation when it's hotter.

Oh well, don't be surprised at higher costs if you're talking leather gloves with plastic armor. These are more expensive yet provide significantly greater protection. Sure, they may feel pricey at first but remember you are paying for high-tech materials and craftsmanship.

For top-notch motorcycle riding gloves that'll really protect your hands, plan on spending $100 or more. At this price point, you'll get premium materials, reinforced palms, and impact protection - all key features for serious riders.

Vance Premium Leather Perforated Cruiser Gloves with Knuckle Protection

Vance Mens Premium Leather Perforated Cruiser Gloves with Knuckle Protection - Touchscreen Motorcycle Gloves

These Vance Men's Premium Leather Cruiser Gloves are built to keep your hands cool and comfortable on the road. Because of the perforated leather, air pass through easily, so your hands stay ventilated even during long rides.

The padded gel palm adds extra cushioning, helping reduce hand fatigue, so it's easier on your hands during longer trips. Soft knuckle protection offers safety without making the gloves stiff, keeping your hands flexible.

Special Feature: these gloves are touchscreen-friendly, with special pads on the fingers that let you use your smartphone without taking them off - great mix of comfort, protection, and convenience for any rider.

Type of Weather You'll Be Riding In

Second thing on the 6 point checklist for choosing motorcycle riding gloves is weather. Selecting motorcycle riding gloves, that suits the weather conditions you'll face is necessary. Cold temps can be a real pain, slowing your reactions and chilling you to the very bone. That's why warm gloves are a must-have for chilly rides.

But it's not just about staying cozy - snow and ice are serious hazards for bikers. Without proper traction, you could find yourself sliding instead of riding. And let's not forget about rain and fog – they can turn a clear day into a visibility nightmare in no time.

So, when you're choosing motorcycle riding gloves, think about the climate you'll be riding through. Water-resistant or waterproof options are great for wet weather, while insulated gloves will keep your fingers toasty in the cold. Friendly advice: the right gloves can make all the difference between a great ride and a miserable one.

AirFlow II Mesh / Textile Motorcycle Gloves

AirFlow II Mesh / Textile Motorcycle Gloves

AirFlow II Mesh / Textile Motorcycle Gloves are made for riders who need comfort, protection, and style. The gloves are devised specially with a mesh and textile design, which allows for better airflow while still being tough enough to protect your hands.

The mesh upper helps keep your hands cool by letting air pass through. On the other hand, the leather palm gives you a strong grip on the handlebars and helps protect your hands from the road. The wrist strap can be adjusted, making the gloves fit just right for you — the fingers are pre-curved, so your hands won't feel as tired during long rides.

If you need to use your phone or GPS, no big deal! The gloves are touchscreen-friendly, so you can stay connected without taking them off , and they also come in a stylish design that fits all types of riders.

Made from high-quality materials, these gloves are durable and built to last. And, if you have any questions, our customer service team is ready to help, making sure your buying experience is smooth and easy.

Provide Adequate Protection while Riding

When you're cruising down the open road, safety should be the first thing you should focus on. That's why investing in quality motorcycle riding gloves is a must. These aren't just any other gloves - they're your hands' best friends on two wheels.

Think about it - your hands are the first line of defense in a fall. Good riding gloves can mean the difference between a pretty bad bruise and walking away unhurt. Gloves also give you a better grip on those handlebars, which is necessary when you're zipping through the traffic or taking on twisty mountain roads.

But don't stop just at gloves. A full-face helmet that meets DOT standards is non-negotiable. Pair that with your trusty gloves, a sturdy jacket, and proper boots, and you'll be ready to tackle whatever the road throws your way. The right motorcycle gear isn't just about looking cool - it's about keeping you in one piece so you can keep on riding.

Fly Racing Glacier Motorcycle Leather Gloves

Fly Racing Glacier Motorcycle Leather Gloves

Fly Racing Glacier Motorcycle Leather Gloves are designed to keep your hands safe and comfortable in tough weather conditions. The specialty of these gloves is that they use HYDRAGUARD™ technology, which makes them windproof, waterproof, and breathable. This means your hands will stay dry and protected in all types of weather.

The gloves are made from real leather in a gauntlet style, providing strong protection. They also have 300g of insulation, which helps keep your hands warm, even in cold temperatures. For extra protection, you can tighten the cinch cord cuff around your jacket sleeves to block out wind and water — the gloves are touchscreen-friendly, so you can use your phone without taking them off.

When you're not wearing them, there's a connection clip to keep the gloves together, making them easy to store.

Look for Proper Fit and Comfort

Fit is everything - and that's even more true in the case of a motorcycle riding glove. You want your gloves to feel like a second skin, snug but not suffocating. It should be like this — your hand slides in smoothly, with each finger resting comfortably at the tips. No excess material flapping around, no pinching at the joints.

Snug, Not Tight

A well-fitting glove should hug your hand without restricting your movement. You'll know you've found the right pair when you can easily grip the handlebars and operate controls without feeling like you're wearing oven mitts.

Flex and Feel

Flexibility is key for comfort and control. Your gloves should allow you to wiggle your fingers freely and make a fist without resistance. Keep in mind, you'll be wearing these for hours on end, so comfort is non-negotiable.

Finding that sweet spot between snugness and flexibility may take some trial and error, but it's worth the effort. After all, the right pair of riding gloves can make a huge difference in your motorcycle adventures.

Mens Black Gel Palm Perforated Fingerless Biker Leather Gloves

Vance GL2090 Mens Black Gel Palm Perforated Fingerless Biker Leather Gloves

The Vance GL2090 Men’s Fingerless Biker Gloves are made from durable, high-quality cowhide leather, built to withstand rigors the road has to offer. The good thing about them is that they offer both comfort and strength, making them suitable for motorcycle riding or driving.

One of their standout features is the gel padding in the palms. This padding helps absorb road vibrations, reducing hand fatigue on longer rides all the while improving circulation. This feature is also extremely beneficial for riders with conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, offering enhanced comfort and grip.

The gloves also include adjustable Velcro straps for a comfortable yet, secure fit, adding to their appeal, overall functionality and ease of use.

Check Reviews and Recommendations Online

When it comes to choosing motorcycle riding gloves, don't just wing it - do your homework - the internet is a goldmine of information from fellow riders who've been there, done that.

Take the Alpinestars Supertech gloves, for example. These gloves are often recommended for their CE Level 2-KP racing certification — that's some serious protection right there!

For a comprehensive guide, check out MCN's tried and tested roundup of motorcycle gloves. They've done the legwork so you don't have to.

Looking for something breathable? The REAX Superfly mesh gloves are top picks among riders. They offer that perfect blend of airflow and TPR protection. Your hands will thank you on those sweltering summer rides.

Also, reading reviews isn't just about finding the best gloves. It's about learning what to look for and what to avoid.

Joe Rocket Sub Zero Waterproof Mens Textile Motorcycle Gloves

Joe Rocket Sub Zero Waterproof Mens Textile Motorcycle Gloves

The Joe Rocket Sub Zero Waterproof Men's Textile Motorcycle Gloves are designed for riding in cold weather - the name says it all! These gloves keep your hands warm and protected.

The outer layer is treated to be both windproof and waterproof - meaning your hands stay dry and warm, even in tough conditions. Inside, the DryTech mid-liner adds extra protection against the elements.

These gloves also feature a slip-resistant palm, so you can grip your bike securely and the padded knuckles help protect your hands during rides. The finger gussets allow for flexibility, making it easier to move your fingers comfortably.

Fabric or Leather Glove?

When it comes to choosing motorcycle riding gloves, you've got two main options: fabric or leather. Each has its pros and cons, so let's have a look:

Waterproof vs. Water Resistant

Fabric gloves often have better waterproofing, perfect for those unexpected downpours. Leather, on the other hand, is naturally water-resistant but may need some extra treatment to keep your hands dry in heavy rain.

Insulation Matters

Thinking about insulation? Fabric gloves typically offer more warmth, with options like Thinsulate or fleece lining. Leather gloves can be cozy too, but they might need an extra layer for those chilly rides.

Joe Rocket Tactile Motorcycle Gloves

Joe Rocket Tactile Motorcycle Gloves

The Joe Rocket Tactile Motorcycle Gloves are perfect for riders who want comfort and protection. With a Free Air™ mesh design, they keep hands cool, and the goatskin leather panels add strength. The molded knuckle and finger armor protect your hands without restricting movement, and extra padding helps reduce vibrations.

A contoured goatskin leather palm provides comfort and shock absorption, and the double-stitched Chamude palm ensures durability. For flexibility, the gloves feature Full Flex™ stretch panels on the fingers, making it easy to move.

If you need to use your phone, the SmartTouch™ conductive material on the index fingers allows for easy access without removing the gloves. With an ergonomic design and a secure hook-and-loop cuff, these gloves are perfect for long rides.

Your best gloves depend on your riding style and local weather. Try on a few pairs to find your perfect fit!

Additional Nice-to-have Features in Motorcycle Riding Gloves

When shopping for motorcycle riding gloves, you might come across some cool extras that can make your ride even better. Some of the few of these nifty features are mentioned below:

Knuckle Protection

Ever heard of D3O® armor? No, that's not a video game but it's this awesome material that's soft and flexible but hardens on impact. Some gloves use it for knuckle protection, giving you that extra peace of mind.

Tech-Friendly Features

In our connected world, touchscreen capabilities are a godsend. No more taking off your gloves to check your GPS! Some gloves even have finger bridges to improve dexterity.

Palm Reinforcement

Your palms take a beating while riding, so look for gloves with reinforced protection and those that reduce vibrations. PWR|shield technology is used in some gloves for protection in the palms, which can be lifesaving if you take a spill.

Vance GL2066 Men's Black Biker Motorcycle Leather Gloves With Rain Cover

Vance GL2066 Men's Black Biker Motorcycle Leather Gloves With Rain Cover

The Vance GL2066 Men's Black Biker Motorcycle Leather Gloves are great for any rider. These all-leather gloves not only look good but also perform well. With a single hook/loop strap, you can adjust them for a snug fit, which feels comfortable and secure while riding.

They have an insulated lining that keeps your hands warm, which is perfect for chilly days. Designed for real bikers, these gloves suit motorcycle lovers of all ages. Plus point: they come with rain covers to keep your hands dry during unexpected rain.

You can easily store the rain covers in the gloves’ zippered compartments, so they're always ready when you need them.

All these features are great, but comfort and fit should always come first when choosing motorcycle riding gloves.

FAQs about Choosing Motorcycle Riding Gloves

What material is best for riding gloves?

Leather is often the top choice for motorcycle riding gloves. It's durable, offers good protection, and molds to your hands over time. But synthetic materials like Kevlar are gaining popularity for their strength and flexibility.

How tight should gloves fit?

Your gloves should fit comfortably without restricting movement. You want them tight enough to stay on in a crash, but not so tight they cut off circulation. A good rule of thumb: you should be able to make a fist comfortably.

Are fingerless gloves okay for riding?

Fingerless gloves look cool, but these gloves don't offer enough protection for motorcyclists. Full-fingered gloves shield your hands from debris, weather, and potential road rash. Always opt-out for gloves that cover your entire hand when choosing motorcycle riding gloves.

So that was your handy 6-point checklist for choosing motorcycle riding gloves — not just of any kind but a perfect pair! Your hands are pretty important, so don't skimp on protection.

Think about how different options will work for your specific riding needs before trying them on. At the end of the day, the best gloves are the ones that feel great on your hands, keep you safe, and let you enjoy the ride. Now get out there, gear up, and hit the open road — just don't forget to give your new gloves a little break-in time before any big trips.