There’s a strong wave of American riders looking for top-tier motorcycle gloves that blend tough protection, touchscreen convenience, and standout style, all without the premium markup. At Team Motorcycle, our curated lineup delivers on all fronts. Below are 10 gloves you can trust this year, each with a detailed breakdown of why it stands out on the road.
1. Vance Denim & Leather Motorcycle Gloves – Brown (VL480BR)
Classic Denim-Meets-Leather Protection
Price: $34.95 (Sale)
If you want versatile gloves that combine rugged denim with real leather, the VL480Br is a first-rate choice. These brown riding gloves use premium denim fabric across the back of the hand for breathability, paired with full-grain leather in impact zones for durability. The timeless brown design gives a vintage vibe that stands out from typical all-black gear, making a statement while still matching easily with brown boots or a leather jacket.
Despite their retro looks, these gloves are modern in function. They come pre-curved for an ergonomic fit, reducing hand fatigue on longer rides. Tiny perforations in the leather panels allow airflow on hot days, keeping your hands cool and dry during summer rides. The inside features a soft polyester lining that feels comfortable against the skin, so you won’t mind wearing them all day. Safety isn’t sacrificed either – reinforced knuckle padding and double-stitched leather palms provide a solid layer of protection against impacts or abrasion. An adjustable hook-and-loop wrist strap ensures you can cinch them snugly for a secure fit that won’t come loose at high speeds.
Why we picked it: The VL480Br offers urban-friendly protection without bulk. Riders love the blend of breathable denim and tough leather, which gives you flexibility for city commutes and short tours alike. The touchscreen-compatible thumb and index finger let you use your phone or GPS at stoplights without pulling off your gloves. Plus, this model comes in two colors – the classic brown here and a sleek black version – so you can choose a style to match your ride. It’s a great all-rounder glove that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get quality materials and everyday comfort.
2. Vance Denim & Leather Motorcycle Gloves – Black (VL480B)
Sleek, Streamlined All-Black Design
Price: $34.95 (Sale)
For riders who prefer a low-profile look, the VL480B is the stealthy twin of the brown version above. These all-black denim and leather gloves mirror the construction and features of the VL480Br, but with a midnight-black finish that appeals to sportbike and street riders seeking a minimalist style. The black denim sections not only add a unique texture but also help ventilate your hands, while the leather overlays (in a matching matte black) reinforce the high-wear areas like the palms, fingers, and knuckles.
On the road, the VL480B feels instantly comfortable. The fingers are pre-curved to naturally wrap around your grips and levers, which reduces break-in time and hand strain. A soft inner liner and the breathable denim panels team up to prevent the sweaty, clammy feeling that some full-leather gloves cause on warm afternoons. Despite the lighter weight, these gloves don’t skimp on protection: you get rubberized knuckle armor hidden under the leather for impact protection, and padded sections on the palm to cushion your hands in case of a slide. The cuff secures with a sturdy Velcro strap, allowing the glove to tuck neatly under a jacket sleeve or tighten over it, as you prefer.
Why we picked it: The VL480B delivers classic Vance protection in a covert package. Riders love that it has all the practical perks – touchscreen-compatible fingertips, durable double stitching, and an ergonomic fit – while keeping a blacked-out look. If flashy logos or colors aren’t your thing, this glove lets you gear up with confidence and not attract unwanted attention. It’s perfect for those who want that “blends with everything” gear. From cruisers to café racers, anyone can appreciate how these gloves combine style and substance without any extra fuss.
3. Premium Perforated Cruiser Gloves w/ Knuckle Protection (VL412)
Airflow Plus Armor for Warm-Weather Riding
Price: $29.95 (Sale)
When the summer heat hits, the last thing you want is swampy hands. The VL412 Premium Cruiser Gloves are designed to keep you cool and protected through warm rides. Crafted from genuine cowhide leather, these gloves are covered in strategically placed perforations – thousands of tiny holes across the fingers and back of the hand funnel air into preventing sweaty palms. Even in stop-and-go traffic or a humid climate, the airflow is a game-changer, making these an ideal choice for riders in hot regions like the Southwest or Florida.
Despite being ventilated and lightweight, the VL412 doesn’t compromise on safety. Each glove comes with molded knuckle protectors built in, giving you hard armor over your knuckles to absorb impacts. (The knuckle armor is covered by leather, so it maintains a low profile, but it’s there when you need it.) The palms feature gel padding that soaks up engine vibrations and road shocks, so your hands stay comfortable on longer cruises. Many riders report significantly reduced hand fatigue thanks to these padded gel palms – you can ride longer without the numbing buzz. The fingers are flexible and pre-curved, and the glove includes touchscreen pads on the index finger and thumb, allowing you to operate your smartphone or GPS with gloves on. This model comes in two finishes: a classic black leather (VL412) for a clean look, or a rich brown leather (VL412Br) variant that has a warm, retro vibe.
Why we picked it: These cruiser gloves hit the sweet spot for summer riding. Riders love how the fully perforated design keeps hands dry and comfortable even in triple-digit temperatures. The combination of airflow, soft gel palm cushions, and armor makes them perfect for long weekend rides, poker runs, or daily commuting in warmer climates. We also appreciate the little things: the soft “floating” knuckle protection doesn’t restrict your finger movement, and the touchscreen compatibility means you’re never out of touch. Overall, the VL412 gloves offer serious protection and comfort for the price, especially for those in warm-weather states who refuse to ride gloveless.
4. Vance Waxed Austin Brown Perforated Cruiser Gloves (VL412BR Waxed)
Vintage-Inspired Look with Modern Airflow
Price: $42.95 (Sale)
If you’re chasing a bit of vintage style on your rides, the Waxed Austin Brown gloves deliver a retro look packed with contemporary features. Made from premium waxed cowhide leather in a warm brown hue, these gloves have a classic, old-school appearance – the waxed finish gives the leather a slightly distressed, broken-in character that only gets better with age. Don’t let the throwback aesthetics fool you, though: they’re fully perforated across the top and thumb, ensuring you get ample airflow for summer and fall rides. The breathable design means you can cruise on a hot afternoon and still feel the breeze on your hands, all while rocking that heritage biker style.
Comfort is front and center with the Austin Brown gloves. Inside, you’ll find padded gel inserts on the palms that work to neutralize the vibration from your handlebars. This gel padding is a lifesaver during long rides or when tackling rough pavement – it significantly reduces the tingle and fatigue in your hands, making it easier to keep riding mile after mile. The fingers and palm are pre-curved and supple, so these gloves wrap around your grips naturally without a stiff break-in period. A reinforced leather overlay on the lower palm provides extra abrasion resistance (a nice safety net if you ever have to put a hand down). Meanwhile, the mid-length cuff with an adjustable wrist strap lets you dial in a secure fit, and it’s short enough to slide under your jacket sleeves comfortably.
Why we picked it: We love the handcrafted, vintage appeal of the Austin Brown gloves combined with their everyday functionality. Riders who favor retro gear or classic bikes are drawn to the waxed leather look – it pairs great with a brown leather jacket or denim vest. At the same time, these gloves have modern perks like the touchscreen-friendly thumb and index finger, so you’re not sacrificing convenience. The waxed finish also repels light moisture, so a surprise drizzle won’t immediately soak your hands. All in all, the VL412Br Waxed gloves are ideal for riders seeking “old school cool” without giving up the comfort and tech features of today’s gear. They’re a stylish companion for cruising Main Street or rolling into the rally in vintage style.
5. Vance Premium Leather Gloves w/ Reflective Skull (VL473)
Bold Looks Meet Nighttime Safety
Price: $24.95 (Sale)
For those who want their gloves to make a statement, the VL473 Premium Leather Gloves have you covered – literally. These gloves sport an eye-catching reflective skull graphic on the back of the hand that shimmers under headlights. By day, the skull design is a subtle silver-grey, but at night it reflects bright white when light hits it, adding a bit of extra visibility to help cagers notice you. It’s a perfect blend of style and safety: you get to show off a badass design while also boosting your nighttime presence on the road.
Beyond the skull artwork, these gloves are built with rider comfort in mind. They are made from supple black leather that breaks in nicely and offers good abrasion resistance. The gel-padded palms immediately stand out when you put them on – you can feel the cushioning that will dampen the vibration from your engine or rough roads. This means less hand fatigue on long rides or when you’re on that old V-twin with lots of character in the handlebars. The gloves feature a straightforward mid-length cuff with a Velcro closure, so they’re easy to slip on and adjust to your wrist. Riders also appreciate that the design has a solid one-piece leather back (apart from the skull), which means fewer seams that could wear out and a clean look. Touchscreen-compatible finger pads are built in as well, allowing you to operate your phone’s GPS or answer a quick call without de-gloving.
Why we picked it: The VL473 strikes a great balance between funky style and functional features. Riders love the reflective skull – it’s a fun way to personalize your gear and stand out from the crowd of plain black gloves. More importantly, that reflectivity can catch a driver’s eye when you signal or reach, adding a safety benefit for night riding. We also chose this glove for its comfort: the gel palm and flexible leather make it an easy go-to for daily use. At under $25 on sale, it’s an affordable upgrade that brings both personality and practicality to your ride. If you’re the type who likes to ride with a bit of flair but still demands comfort and quality, these skull gloves are a no-brainer (pun intended!).
6. “The Scrapper” Mid-Length Leather Gloves (VL420)
Reinforced Mid-Cuff Durability for Adventure
Price: $19.95 (Sale)
The Scrapper gloves earn their name by being tough, mid-length leather gloves ready for anything. Designed for adventure seekers and high-mileage riders, these gloves extend a bit past the wrist for added coverage without becoming a full gauntlet. That mid-length cuff, combined with a beefy Velcro closure, provides a very secure fit – you won’t worry about these coming off unintentionally, and they do a decent job sealing the wind out on cooler rides. Constructed from 0.4–0.5 mm premium cowhide, the Scrapper gloves strike a good balance: thick enough to reassure you of their durability, yet flexible enough to allow full control and feel.
Protection and comfort are both well thought out. The Scrappers come with soft padded knuckle panels across the back of the hand. Instead of a hard carbon knuckle shell, they use impact-absorbing foam over each knuckle, which preserves your range of motion while still guarding against knocks. The outside of the pinky finger (a vulnerable area in crashes) has an extra leather overlay to prevent wear and add abrasion resistance. Across the palm, you’ll find double-layer leather and a foam rubber palm pad at the heel of the hand – this helps absorb shocks and also reinforces the glove in case of a slide. The inside is lined with moisture-wicking polyester, so even on warm days your hands stay drier. For flexibility, stretch panels are built into the fingers and backhand, allowing you to move your fingers freely when working the clutch or brake. Perforated sections along the fingers further ensure that air can circulate, an appreciated feature in summertime. And like most Vance gloves, the Scrapper includes touchscreen-capable material on the thumb and index finger, so you can use your devices on the go.
Why we picked it: Simply put, “The Scrapper” is a workhorse glove built for riders who put their gear through its paces. We’re impressed by its blend of heavy-duty construction and comfort features at such a low price point. Riders who commute daily or tour across states love that these gloves hold up to regular use – from the high-tenacity stitching to the quality leather, they’re made to last. The mid-length design offers a bit more protection for the wrist area and pairs well with jackets (no exposed skin between glove and sleeve). We also chose the Scrapper for its versatility: it’s suitable for a wide range of temperatures. The perforations and liner manage sweat in summer, yet the coverage and padding give enough warmth for spring/fall. Whether you’re an adventure biker hitting gravel roads or a cruiser who just wants a sturdier glove for the long haul, the Scrapper has proven to be a reliable companion on countless journeys.
7. Vance Leather Fingerless Gel Palm Gloves (VL402)
Airy Freedom with Vibration Control
Price: $9.95 (Sale)
When the summer swelter becomes unbearable, sometimes you need to ditch the full-finger gloves – but that doesn’t mean giving up all protection and comfort. The VL402 fingerless gloves are the perfect summer solution, offering maximum airflow and tactile feel while still cushioning your palms. Made from top-grain black leather, these half-finger gloves leave your fingers exposed from the knuckle onward, so you get direct air on your skin and full dexterity for tasks like adjusting zippers or sunglasses. The open-finger design is a favourite of many cruiser and casual riders for hot weather, quick trips, or even weightlifting and driving, because it’s just so breathable and easy to wear.
Despite their minimalist style, these gloves include gel-padded palms that deliver excellent vibration damping. If you ride a big twin or any bike that sends a buzz through the bars, the gel pads will noticeably reduce the tingling in your hands on longer rides. That means you can enjoy the freedom of fingerless gloves without suffering from road vibration fatigue. The VL402 also has thoughtful construction details: the back features a stitched leather design that adds a bit of style and reinforcement, and the seams are all double-stitched to prevent fraying under stress. An adjustable hook-and-loop strap combined with an elasticized wrist ensures a snug, custom fit on your hand – you won’t have to worry about them flying off when you hit highway speeds. And because they’re made of quality leather, they’ll break in to the shape of your hand and last for many riding seasons (with the classic leather patina to show for it).
Why we picked it: These fingerless gloves are a must-have for summer riders. We love how lightweight and freeing they feel – you almost forget you’re wearing gloves, yet you still have a layer of leather on your palms if you need to grip or in case of a scrape. Riders are enthusiastic about the gel padding, often commenting that these gloves make a huge difference when riding long distances in hot weather, since you’re not compelled to take breaks from numb hands. They’re also great for around-town cruising or rallies when you want that cool, classic fingerless look. At under ten bucks on sale, the VL402 gloves are an easy addition to your gear bag for those scorchingly hot days when full gloves just aren’t an option. They let you ride safely and stay cool, capturing that wind-in-your-hands feeling while still providing the basics of protection.
8. “Impulse” Waterproof Leather Gloves (VL410)
Rain-Ready Gear for All-Weather Riders
Price: $49.95 (Sale)
Don’t let rain or cold derail your ride. The Vance Impulse gloves are engineered for those who ride year-round, rain or shine. These gloves combine the classic strength of cowhide leather with modern waterproofing and insulation technology to keep your hands warm and dry in foul weather. On the outside, you have supple black leather that’s durable and abrasion-resistant. On the inside, there’s a fully bonded Dry Tech® waterproof membrane that stops water from seeping in during a downpour. Riders have tested the Impulse in heavy rain and come out with dry hands, which is a huge confidence booster if you commute or tour through unpredictable weather (think Pacific Northwest drizzle or sudden summer storms in the South). Additionally, a lightweight layer of 100g Thinsulate® insulation is integrated to provide thermal protection – it’s enough to cut the chill on a cold morning or winter ride without adding excessive bulk.
The Impulse gloves also mean serious business when it comes to protection. They feature integrated high-density knuckle armor, a rigid set of protectors over the knuckles that shield your hands against impact. You can feel the sturdy armor if you tap the knuckles, yet the gloves remain comfortable thanks to padding beneath and flexible expansion panels at the joints. Each finger has articulated stretch panels (Vance’s Full Flex™ design) that allow you to bend and grip easily despite the added armor and insulation. The palms are reinforced with extra leather and also include a vibration-dampening gel pad – this helps maintain good grip and feel on slippery, wet handlebars as well as absorb shock. The Impulse has a longer gauntlet-style cuff with both a Velcro wrist strap and a drawcord toggle at the top, so you can securely seal the glove over your jacket sleeve to prevent water ingress and block cold wind. That adjustability ensures a tight closure when you need it, or you can loosen it for more airflow in milder conditions. Of course, the index finger and thumb are touchscreen-friendly here as well, which is handy for operating a GPS or a smartphone mount in bad weather when you wouldn’t want to expose your skin.
Why we picked it: The Impulse gloves are a touring and commuting favorite because they truly let you ride anytime. We selected them for riders who refuse to have an “off-season” – if you’re the type who will ride in November or through a rainstorm, these are made for you. Riders praise the way the Impulse glove manages to be armored, waterproof, and warm yet still comfortable for long periods. Unlike many bulky winter gloves, these give you a broken-in feel quickly, and the feedback from your controls isn’t lost. We also value the secure gauntlet design; when cinched up, these gloves form a reliable barrier against the elements, effectively keeping rain from running down into your sleeves. With the Impulse, you can set out on that cross-country trip or daily freeway commute with one less worry about the weather. They empower you to keep on riding while others might be parking their bikes, and they do it at a price far below some high-end European all-weather gloves on the market.
9. Men’s Leather Knuckle Armored Riding Gloves (VL432)
Maximum Impact Protection, Maximum Confidence
Price: $19.95 (Sale)
If top-notch protection is your priority, these Leather Knuckle Armored gloves have you covered with robust armor and reinforcement in a classic package. They are constructed from soft, premium black cowhide leather that feels great to wear yet can stand up to serious use. The standout feature, of course, is the set of hard molded knuckle guards across the back of the hand. Each knuckle (from the fingers through to the back of the hand) is backed by tough armor pieces that will take the brunt of impacts or abrasion in an accident, saving your fingers from direct trauma. This level of protection is similar to what you’d find in many track-oriented or high-end sport gloves, but here it’s delivered in a straightforward, street-rider style that anyone can pull off.
Beyond the knuckles, the gloves are reinforced where it counts. The palms have double-layer leather patches and strong stitching, prepared to resist tearing or wearing through if you’re in a slide. Riders who have used these gloves daily note that they hold up very well to regular throttle and brake use – the double-stitched seams and quality leather make them durable for the long run. The design includes small perforation holes along the fingers to allow a bit of airflow (you can spot these “porous” sections on close inspection), which helps reduce sweat build-up during hot rides. At the wrist, a leather strap with Velcro closure lets you snug the glove tightly, ensuring it stays on securely (a snug fit is crucial for the armor to do its job). The mid-length cuff provides coverage just past the wrist bone and fits easily under or over jacket sleeves. While not originally marketed as a tech glove, riders have mentioned that the index finger works on touchscreens reasonably well, likely due to the glove’s fit and leather sensitivity, meaning you might still be able to use your phone or nav without removing them.
Why we picked it: When it comes to serious hand protection on a budget, this knuckle-armored glove is a winner. We included it for riders who want that extra peace of mind, whether you’re an aggressive canyon carver, a track day beginner, or just someone who believes in ATGATT (All The Gear All The Time). Riders love the confidence these gloves provide; you can feel the sturdy knuckle shells and know that in a risky situation, your hands have a strong shield. Despite the armored focus, the soft leather and simple design make them comfortable for everyday riding – they’re not overly bulky or stiff, so you can commute or cruise in them easily. Essentially, these gloves deliver high-impact protection comparable to much more expensive gloves (think hard knuckles seen in $80+ name-brand gloves) at a fraction of the price. They give you maximum value in safety without sacrificing comfort, which is exactly what a lot of safety-conscious riders in the USA are looking for.
10. Vance Gel Palm Shock-Absorbing Gloves (VL475)
Vibration-Soothing Gloves Built for Comfort
Price: $21.95 (Sale)
Rounding out our list is a glove that focuses on one critical aspect of riding comfort: reducing vibration and hand strain. These Gel Palm Riding Gloves feature a straightforward, mid-length leather design packed with extra cushioning in the palms to combat the fatigue that can come from hours on the bike. Constructed from quality black leather, they have a solid one-piece back (no fancy graphics here), which gives them a clean, classic appearance. This also means fewer seams on top, which is great for durability and style. The wrists are secured with Velcro straps, and the fit runs a bit generous in length, which many touring riders appreciate since it doesn’t compress your fingertips on long rides.
What truly sets these gloves apart is the thick gel padding across the palms. As soon as you put them on, you’ll notice that pillow-like feel when you grip your handlebars. That padding is engineered to absorb engine buzz and road shocks, making a dramatic difference on bikes that vibrate or for riders who have issues with numbness. If you regularly ride on a rigid-mount cruiser, a thumper dual-sport, or even an ATV or snowmobile, these gloves can help keep your hands from going numb. The leather itself is soft and pliable, so the gloves are comfortable from day only get better with time. They don’t include hard knuckle armor – instead, they use light foam padding over the knuckles for a bit of impact protection without making the gloves stiff. This keeps the focus on comfort and control; your fingers can move freely, and you maintain excellent feel on the throttle, brake, and clutch. Like most of the lineup, the thumb and index fingers have touchscreen-friendly material subtly integrated, allowing you to check a map or change a song without pulling the gloves off.
Why we picked it: These gel palm gloves are the go-to choice for riders who prioritize comfort, especially on long rides or rough roads. We included them because not every rider needs race-level armor – some of us need a glove that prevents tingling hands more than anything else. And in that department, this model delivers. Riders who have used them report significantly less fatigue after adding these to their gear; it’s like having a built-in bar snake or foam grip, but on your hands. We also love that they manage to stay fairly lightweight and flexible, so you don’t feel like you’re wearing overly padded winter gloves. They’re a clutch choice (literally!) for cruisers, tourers, and adventure riders who want to soften the ride and maintain full control. At just around $20, they’re an easy investment in comfort that can pay off every time you hit a long stretch of highway or a bumpy backroad.
How to Choose Your Perfect Pair
Not sure which gloves are the best fit for your needs? Here are some quick pointers to guide you based on USA riding conditions and your style:
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Weather Check: Consider your local climate. If you’re often riding in hot weather or Southern states, prioritize breathable gloves like the perforated cruiser gloves or fingerless gloves to keep your hands cool. For those in rainy or cold regions (Pacific Northwest, Northeast, etc.), a waterproof and insulated glove (“Impulse”) is a smart choice so you can ride year-round without frozen, wet hands. You might even own two pairs for summer and winter to cover all bases.
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Vibration & Comfort: Think about how far and what you ride. If you do long-distance touring, commute daily, or have a bike known for vibrations (Harley big twins, single-cylinder engines), look for gloves with gel padding or extra cushioning. Models like the Gel Palm gloves or the Fingerless Gel gloves excel at reducing fatigue on long rides or bumpy roads. Your hands will thank you after a 300-mile day.
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Protection Level: Every glove on this list offers basic protection, but the amount varies. If you’re an aggressive rider or value maximum safety, choose gloves with hard knuckle armor and reinforced palms – for example, the Knuckle Armored gloves or the Premium Cruiser gloves with knuckle protection. These will give you more confidence at higher speeds or in dense traffic. On the other hand, if most of your riding is laid-back cruising or short trips around town, a lighter glove like the VL480 series or the Skull Design gloves might be all you need for comfort and style.
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Style vs. Stealth: Finally, match the glove to your style and the rest of your gear. Brown leather or denim-mix gloves offer a cool vintage flair that looks great with cruiser outfits, brown boots, or a classic bike. Black gloves (nearly every item has a black option) provide a sleek, no-nonsense look that complements any jacket or helmet. And if you want to stand out, something like the Reflective Skull gloves adds personality to your ride. Remember, the best gloves are the ones you’ll wear every time, so pick a pair that you feel good in!
Final Lap
Every glove in this top 10 lineup comes ready to ride with championship-worthy specs, crafted to deliver protection, comfort, and style for riders of all stripes. Whether you’re threading through city traffic on your daily commute, rumbling down backroads on the weekends, or embarking on a cross-country adventure, Team Motorcycle has a glove tailored for your journey. Best of all, these options prove you can get premium features like touchscreen fingertips, armored knuckles, and gel palms without breaking the bank.
Pair your new gloves with premium-quality motorcycle jackets for full-body protection that doesn’t compromise on style. Don’t forget a quality motorcycle helmet to complete your safety gear and ensure head protection on every ride. And for those in warmer states or riding through the summer heat, be sure to explore our specialized summer motorcycle jackets section, designed to keep you cool and comfortable without sacrificing safety.
Ride smarter and ride safe by gearing up with gloves that suit your needs. From staying cool in summer to braving the rain, from reducing fatigue to upping your style game, the right gloves make a world of difference in your riding experience. We’re confident you’ll find a perfect pair (or two) among these favorites that will keep you gripping those handlebars with a smile. For more information about proper glove use and safety tips, consult the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Rider Handbook. Ensure your gloves and helmets comply with the DOT standards for maximum protection.
Ready to upgrade your glove game? Tap on any of the picks above to check current pricing, see more photos, and snag your perfect pair from Team Motorcycle today. Happy riding and keep the rubber side down!
