Selecting the appropriate motorcycle gloves is crucial for rider safety and comfort. This comprehensive guide explores safety standards, essential features, and considerations for various riding styles to help you make an informed decision when choosing motorcycle gloves.
When selecting motorcycle gloves, it’s crucial to understand the safety standards that govern their performance. The three key certifications to look for are EN 13594[1], CE marking[2], and impact protection ratings[3]. EN 13594[1] evaluates gloves for abrasion resistance, tear strength, seam strength, and impact protection, with Level 2 certification offering enhanced protection for high-risk riding scenarios.
The CE marking[2], mandatory for all motorcycle gloves sold in the EU since 2018, indicates compliance with European health and safety requirements. Impact protection ratings[3] assess the effectiveness of knuckle armor and palm sliders in reducing force transmission during impacts. By familiarizing yourself with these standards, you can make an informed decision about protective gear that aligns with your riding style and risk level.
Motorcycle gloves undergo rigorous testing for five critical protective properties that directly impact rider safety[1]. These include:
Each property receives numerical ratings, allowing riders to match protection levels to their specific needs. For instance, our high-performance Ducati gloves excel in abrasion resistance and impact dissipation, making them ideal for sport riding enthusiasts.
Certification marks serve as crucial quality indicators when selecting motorcycle gloves. Prioritize gloves with both CE and EN 13594 certifications[1][2], as these demonstrate compliance with rigorous safety testing protocols. When comparing certified options, examine the specific protection level ratings and actual test results for properties that match your riding conditions.
For example, if you’re planning long-distance tours, focus on weather resistance and durability ratings. Conversely, if you’re a track day enthusiast, prioritize maximum impact and abrasion protection scores. By considering these factors, you can ensure that your gloves provide the necessary protection for your riding style.
The choice between leather and textile materials for motorcycle gloves depends on your riding preferences and conditions. Premium leather gloves, particularly those made from full-grain leather, offer superior abrasion resistance and naturally conform to hand shape over time. This makes them ideal for high-speed riding and track use.
Modern textile gloves, on the other hand, combine materials like Cordura, Kevlar, and ripstop nylon to achieve specific performance characteristics[4]. These synthetic options often provide better breathability, weather resistance, and faster drying times than leather. Some manufacturers blend both materials, using leather in high-impact zones while incorporating textiles in flex points and ventilation areas.
When choosing between materials, consider your primary riding conditions. Leather excels in dry weather and high-risk scenarios, while textiles offer better versatility across varying weather conditions.
Strategic reinforcement in motorcycle gloves focuses on critical impact and wear zones that protect riders during accidents. Look for gloves with double or triple-row stitching reinforcing finger joints, palm areas, and thumb connections. These are typically the first points of failure under stress.
Impact protection zones should include TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or D3O armor covering knuckles, finger joints, and scaphoid areas[3]. Palm sliders, made from materials like SuperFabric or Knox SPS, prevent hand rotation during slides and reduce impact forces transmitted to wrist joints[3].
Key protection zones to consider include:
Modern motorcycle gloves incorporate specialized grip technologies to maintain control in varying conditions. Look for features such as:
Some advanced gloves even feature water-channeling grooves in palm materials to maintain grip performance in wet conditions[6]. These technologies work together to reduce hand fatigue during long rides while ensuring precise control over your motorcycle’s controls[5].
Sport riding and touring require distinct glove features to match their unique demands. Sport riding gloves prioritize maximum protection through rigid knuckle armor, palm sliders, and finger bridge protection for high-speed impacts. They use pre-curved fingers and minimal padding to maintain precise throttle control and feedback.
In contrast, touring gloves balance protection with all-day comfort and weather adaptability. They feature more flexible armor, enhanced ventilation systems, and moisture-wicking liners for temperature regulation during long rides. Touring designs often include waterproof membranes, insulation options, and wider gauntlets to seal against weather.
When selecting gloves, consider your primary riding style and the features that will best support your needs on the road.
Off-road and adventure riding demands specialized glove features that balance protection with control and environmental adaptability. These gloves need flexible armor systems that allow enhanced grip strength for technical terrain while maintaining impact protection. Look for:
Adventure-specific gloves often incorporate weather-resistant materials in critical areas while maintaining breathability for varying conditions. This versatility is crucial for long rides that may encounter diverse terrains and weather patterns.
Different weather conditions demand specialized glove features to maintain safety and comfort. Consider the following options based on your typical riding conditions:
Some manufacturers offer modular systems where different liners combine with shell gloves, providing year-round versatility from a single investment[6]. This approach can be cost-effective for riders who experience a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year.
Proper glove sizing is crucial for both comfort and safety. To measure your hand size:
Different manufacturers use varying size scales, so always refer to the specific brand’s sizing chart. When trying on gloves, ensure a snug fit without restricting blood flow or creating pressure points. The wrist closure should prevent the glove from pulling off while allowing enough movement for control inputs.
Remember that leather gloves typically stretch half a size during break-in, while textile gloves maintain their initial fit. If you’re between sizes, consider your riding style and glove material when deciding whether to size up or down.
Finding the right balance between protection and control requires understanding how glove construction affects riding performance[5]. Look for gloves with:
Test your range of motion by operating controls—you should be able to fully engage clutch and brake levers without restriction. The glove’s wrist closure system needs to prevent rotation during impacts without limiting the natural flex needed for control inputs.
New motorcycle gloves require a strategic break-in process to achieve optimal comfort and performance. For leather gloves, expect 15-20 hours of riding time to conform to hand shape. Accelerate break-in by flexing the gloves through their full range of motion while dry, focusing on high-movement areas like finger joints and palm creases.
Textile gloves require minimal break-in but may need several rides for padding to compress and adjust to pressure points. Watch for any persistent pressure points during break-in, as these indicate potential fit issues rather than normal adjustment periods.
Long-term comfort depends on maintaining proper material flexibility through regular conditioning of leather or cleaning of textile materials. By properly caring for your gloves and allowing for an adequate break-in period, you’ll ensure maximum comfort and performance throughout their lifespan.
Proper cleaning and care are essential for maintaining the protective properties and extending the lifespan of your motorcycle gloves[7]. Different materials require specific approaches:
Always air dry gloves at room temperature, avoiding direct heat or sunlight that can damage protective coatings or shrink materials. Shape gloves while damp to maintain proper fit, and treat impact protection components with plastic-safe cleaners to prevent degradation.
Regular inspection of your motorcycle gloves reveals critical wear indicators that signal replacement needs[7]. Check for:
Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 3-5 years, even without visible damage, as materials naturally degrade from UV exposure and environmental factors. Any crash impact, regardless of visible damage, necessitates immediate replacement since internal protection may be compromised.
Proper storage significantly extends motorcycle glove lifespan by preventing material degradation and shape distortion. Follow these tips:
During off-season storage, check gloves monthly for pest damage or mold development, especially in humid climates. By following these storage practices, you’ll ensure your gloves remain in top condition and ready for your next ride.
Choosing the right motorcycle gloves is a crucial aspect of rider safety and comfort. By understanding safety standards, considering essential features, and matching gloves to your riding style, you can make an informed decision that enhances your riding experience. Remember to prioritize proper fit, allow for break-in time, and maintain your gloves regularly to ensure long-lasting protection.
At Motor Cycle Center, we’re committed to helping riders find the perfect gear for their needs. Whether you’re a sport bike enthusiast, a long-distance tourer, or an adventure rider, we have a wide selection of high-quality gloves to suit your style. Explore our new inventory to find the perfect pair of gloves and other essential gear for your next ride. Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you in making the best choice for your riding needs.
While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors can occur. Please verify all pricing information with a customer service representative. This is easily done by calling us or visiting us at the dealership.
Save your favorite vehicles for later viewing on your desktop or mobile devices.
Keep track of all the vehicles you've viewed for a better car shopping experience.
Narrow your search by comparing your favorite vehicles.
