Motorcycle gloves are essential protective gear with styles ranging from minimalist to full-armor designs. Below is a breakdown of the varying types:
Leather Gloves
Full Gauntlet Racing Gloves: The pinnacle of protection, these extend well past the wrist with long cuffs that tuck under jacket sleeves. Made from thick cowhide or kangaroo leather with carbon fiber knuckle protectors, palm sliders, finger bridge connections (to prevent hyperextension), and reinforced seams. They feature pre-curved fingers for reduced fatigue and may include touchscreen-compatible fingertips. Designed for track and aggressive sport riding where maximum protection is paramount.
Cruiser/Classic Leather Gloves: Traditional leather gloves with a timeless aesthetic, typically made from cowhide or deerskin. They offer moderate protection with basic knuckle padding and reinforced palms but prioritize comfort and style over extensive armor. They come in both gauntlet and short-cuff versions, developing character and suppleness over time.
Short Cuff/Summer Leather: Ending at or just above the wrist, these provide easier on-off convenience and better ventilation. They sacrifice some crash protection for comfort in warm weather and casual riding. Often feature perforated leather for airflow.
Textile Gloves
All-Weather/Touring Gloves: Constructed from materials like Cordura, Gore-Tex, or proprietary waterproof fabrics with insulated liners. These are designed for long-distance riding in varying conditions, featuring gauntlet cuffs, knuckle armour, palm reinforcements, and excellent weather sealing. Often include multiple layers that can be removed for different seasons.
Summer Mesh Gloves: Heavily ventilated with mesh panels throughout while maintaining protective materials in critical impact zones. They provide adequate protection while maximizing airflow for hot weather riding. Some use perforated leather combined with mesh textile.
Winter/Heated Gloves: Heavily insulated gloves, sometimes with built-in electrical heating elements powered by the motorcycle's battery or rechargeable batteries. They feature waterproof membranes, extended gauntlets, and often sacrifice some dexterity for warmth. Essential for cold-weather riders.
Specialized Types
Adventure/Dual-Sport Gloves: Designed for both on-road and off-road use with reinforced palms for grip strength, knuckle protection, and materials that balance protection with flexibility. Often feature touchscreen compatibility and moderate weather resistance. May have textured palms for better grip in varied conditions.
Dirt Bike/MX Gloves: Lightweight with minimal armour, prioritizing flexibility, grip, and ventilation. They feature padded palms for vibration absorption, reinforced fingertips, and are designed for the demands of off-road riding where mobility is critical. Usually not waterproof.
Track Day/Race Replica: Premium racing gloves with maximum protection features including titanium sliders, extensive carbon fiber armour, and leather construction. They're designed to withstand high-speed crashes and abrasion.
Key Features to Consider
Protection Elements:
- Knuckle armour: Hard plastic, carbon fiber, or TPU protectors
- Palm sliders: Prevent wrist injuries by allowing hands to slide rather than grip pavement
- Finger bridges: Connect fingers to prevent separation and hyperextension
- Reinforced palms: Extra leather or Kevlar in high-impact areas
- Wrist protection: Some include hard armour or additional padding
Functional Features:
- Gauntlet vs. short cuff: Protection and weather sealing vs. convenience
- Closure systems: Velcro straps, zippers, or combination closures
- Touchscreen compatibility: Conductive fingertips for device use
- Visor wiper: Rubber blade on index finger for clearing face shields
- Pre-curved fingers: Reduces hand fatigue on long rides
- Perforation/venting: For temperature regulation
Material Considerations:
- Kangaroo leather: Strongest and most abrasion-resistant, lightweight
- Cowhide: Durable, affordable, widely available
- Goatskin/Deerskin: Softer, more supple, less protective
- Gore-Tex/Hipora: Waterproof breathable membranes
- Kevlar: Often used in palms for cut and abrasion resistance
Fit Considerations
Proper fit is crucial - gloves should be snug without restricting circulation, with no bunching in the palm when gripping the bars. Armour should align with knuckles and not shift during movement. Many riders own multiple pairs for different riding conditions and seasons.
The right gloves depend on your riding style, climate, typical trip length, and whether you prioritize maximum protection or comfort and convenience.