Don’t Forget Your Gloves!  The 4 Main Types of Motorcycle Gloves and How to Choose Them.

Motorcycles have been a symbol of freedom and adventure for decades.  They provide a sense of exhilaration that I feel is difficult to get anywhere else, however, with that reward comes risk, which is why it’s important not to neglect proper gear.  One of the most overlooked pieces of gear is motorcycle gloves.  This blog will discuss why motorcycle riders should wear gloves, the different types of motorcycle gloves, and some tips on choosing the right pair.

Why Wear Gloves?

I know it seems obvious but the primary reason we wear motorcycle gloves is protection.  I’m sure you remember as a kid the dreaded gravel rash on the palms of your hands when you fell off your BMX.  When we fall off something our instinct is to usually try and stop the fall with our hands.  This is why gloves are a necessity and not just an accessory.  They provide a layer of protection against road rash, cuts, and scrapes. Gloves protect our hands from debris, bugs, and other flying objects.  Don’t forget the protection from the elements. The dreaded cold mornings and rain hitting your hands when travelling at 60MPH is not a joyful experience and a slippy grip and numbness can cause you to not be in full control.

Another important aspect of motorcycle gloves is visibility. Gloves that are brightly coloured or have reflective materials can help increase your visibility to others on the road, especially in low-light conditions.  Wearing gloves can help maintain a secure grip on the handlebars. Grip-enhancing materials like silicone or rubber can help prevent your hands from slipping while riding, especially in wet conditions.  Finally, wearing gloves can help reduce fatigue and discomfort while riding.  Providing cushioning and support for your hands, it reduces the impact of vibration and shock on your joints, muscles, and nerves. This can help you ride longer and more comfortably, without experiencing as much fatigue or soreness.

What Types are Available?

There are many types of motorcycle gloves on the market. The most common are leather, textile, and mesh gloves. Leather gloves provide the most protection and are the most durable. Textile and mesh gloves are lighter and more breathable, making them ideal for hot weather riding. There are also heated gloves for cold-weather riding.

Leather Gloves

Leather gloves are the most popular type of motorcycle gloves. They are made from high-quality leather and provide excellent protection against abrasion and impact. Leather gloves are water-resistant and can keep your hands dry in damp conditions. They are also durable and can last for several years with proper care.

However, leather gloves can be hot and uncomfortable in warm weather. They are also more expensive than other types of gloves.  Leather gloves have various wrist covering lengths.  Gauntlet gloves cover a few inches above the wrist helping to keep wind and rain out.

Textile Gloves

Textile gloves are made from synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, or Kevlar. They are lighter and more breathable than leather gloves, making them ideal for warm-weather riding. Textile gloves are also more affordable than leather gloves.  However, textile gloves may not offer as much protection as leather gloves. They are also not as durable and may need to be replaced more frequently.

Mesh Gloves

Mesh gloves are similar to textile gloves but are made from a mesh material that allows for more airflow. They are the most breathable type of motorcycle gloves and are ideal for hot-weather riding. However, mesh gloves offer less protection than leather or textile gloves and are not recommended for long-distance riding or high-speed riding.

Heated Gloves

Heated gloves are designed for cold-weather riding. They have heating elements inside the gloves that keep your hands warm and prevent numbness. Heated gloves are battery-powered and can be adjusted to different temperature settings. They are ideal for riders who live in colder climates or who ride during the winter montThere are many types of motorcycle gloves on the market. The most common are leather, textile, and mesh gloves. Leather gloves provide the most protection and are the most durable. Textile and mesh gloves are lighter and more breathable, making them ideal for hot weather riding. There are also heated gloves for cold-weather riding.

So What Should I Consider When Buying Gloves?

Material

As mentioned above, the different types of materials.  Leather is a popular choice for its durability and abrasion resistance. Synthetic materials like nylon and polyester are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for warm weather. Some gloves also have a combination of materials, such as leather and mesh, for maximum protection and ventilation.

When choosing the material of your gloves, consider the weather conditions you’ll be riding in, as well as your personal preferences for comfort and protection.

Fit

A proper fit is crucial for both comfort and safety.  Gloves that are too loose can slip off your hands in an accident, while gloves that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort.  When trying on gloves, make sure they fit snugly but not too tight, and that you can easily move your fingers and grip the handlebars.  Leather gloves will stretch a bit the more you wear them and will also become more supple.

It’s also important to consider the length of the gloves. Gloves that are too short may leave your wrists exposed, while gloves that are too long can interfere with your jacket sleeves. Look for gloves that fit comfortably over your jacket sleeves and cover your wrists adequately.

Padding

Padding can help absorb shock and protect your hands in an accident. Look for gloves with padding on the palms and fingers, as these areas are most susceptible to injury.  Some gloves also have additional padding on the knuckles for added protection.  However, too much padding can make the gloves bulky and affect your grip and control.  Find a balance between protection and comfort that works for you.

Fastening

The way your gloves fasten can affect both comfort and safety.  Velcro closures are common and allow for easy adjustment, while a zip or button provides a secure fit. Some gloves also have elastic cuffs for added comfort and flexibility.  Whatever fastener you choose, make sure it’s secure and doesn’t come undone while riding. 

Ventilation

Good ventilation is important for keeping your hands cool and dry in hot weather.  Look for gloves with breathable materials, such as mesh or perforated leather. Some gloves also have vents on the fingers or knuckles for added airflow.  But also be mindful that too much ventilation can compromise protection. Find a balance between ventilation and protection that works for the weather conditions you’ll be riding in.

Waterproof

If you’ll be riding in wet weather, waterproof gloves are essential for keeping your hands dry and comfortable. Look for gloves with a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, or gloves made from waterproof materials like neoprene or rubber.  Unfortunately, waterproof gloves can be less breathable and may not be suitable for warm weather.  Consider the weather conditions you’ll be riding in and choose gloves that provide the right balance of comfort and protection.

Visibility

Visibility is important for safety, especially when riding at night or in low-light conditions. Look for gloves with reflective materials or bright colours that increase your visibility to other drivers.  Too much visibility can be distracting though and affect your concentration. Find a balance between visibility and comfort that works for you.

And Finally…….

I have 8 pairs of gloves.  They are a mix of leather, waterproof, textile, gauntlet, short, velcro, zip, and button.  In short, one pair of gloves won’t suit every type of riding you’ll do, so over time you’ll find yourself buying numerous pairs.  Most importantly, buy what you like, buy what fits and feels right and buy the best you can afford.  Gloves are a really important piece of safety equipment, but, surely everyone wants to look good on a motorcycle right?