What Are The Different Types of Motorcycle Gloves?

What Are The Different Types of Motorcycle Gloves?

Posted by Team Motorcycle on Oct 12th 2023

When riding a motorcycle, the thrill of the open road goes hand in hand with safety and comfort. One key piece of equipment is a quality pair of motorcycle gloves. Motorcycle gloves come in various styles to suit riding conditions and personal preferences.

When choosing a pair of motorcycle gloves, consider factors like weather conditions, type of riding, and level of protection needed. Research the glove options available to select an option well-suited to your needs. Your hands and wrists will thank you for investing in a comfortable, durable pair of motorcycle gloves to keep you safe while enjoying the open road.

Why Wear Motorcycle Gloves?

Motorcycle gloves protect your hands and enhance your grip on the handles.

Safety

Motorcycle gloves provide a layer of protection in an accident or collision. Thick, durable materials like leather or Kevlar prevent abrasions and lacerations. Carbon fiber or plastic knuckle protectors shield fingers from impacts. Gloves also prevent burns from hot components on the bike.

Comfort

Padded palms and proper wrist support reduce numbness or soreness from vibrations during long rides. Waterproof or insulated gloves keep hands dry and warm in poor weather conditions. Ventilated gloves with breathable fabrics are ideal for hot summer riding.

Control

Textured palms or grip panels give you a firm grasp on the throttle and brakes. This control and traction are essential for safe operation and navigation. Anti-slip materials prevent your hands from sliding, even when wet or sweaty.

Wearing high-quality motorcycle gloves tailored to your specific riding conditions helps ensure a safe, comfortable journey each time you hit the road. Protecting your hands, enhancing bike control, and reducing fatigue are vital for responsible motorcycling.

Different Types of Motorcycle Gloves

Motorcycle gloves come in various types to suit different riding conditions and preferences:

Mesh Motorcycle Gloves

Mesh motorcycle gloves are designed for warm-weather riding. They are constructed of breathable mesh material and often minimal protective padding to allow for maximum airflow and dexterity.

The mesh material allows heat and moisture to escape, keeping your hands cooler and drier. Look for gloves with mesh on the back of the hands and fingers and between the fingers. Mesh gloves may have some leather or abrasion-resistant fabric on the palm for grip and protection.

For impact protection, mesh gloves typically only offer padding over the knuckles and wrist. The level of protection can vary, so assess your needs based on the type of riding you do. Rugged knuckle protection and carbon fiber knuckles can offer more protection for off-road riding.

Leather Motorcycle Gloves

For maximum protection while riding, leather motorcycle gloves are a must-have accessory. Leather gloves provide durable defense against abrasions and impacts in an accident. They also help shield hands from environmental elements like wind, heat, and cold.

When selecting leather motorcycle gloves, consider fit, comfort, dexterity, and additional protective features. Properly fitted gloves should feel snug but still allow for flexibility and movement. High-quality, full-grain leather and double stitching help ensure durability. Look for gloves designed for motorcycle riding that provide knuckle protection and palm padding. Some gloves also incorporate protective armor, insulated lining, and weatherproofing.

Vance Mens Black Unlined Leather Driving Gloves

The Vance Men's Black Unlined Leather Motorcycle Gloves take your driving experience to the next level, offering superior comfort and control with their Hook and Loop design. These gloves enhance ventilation through strategically placed air vents on the knuckles and back, ensuring a refreshing and comfortable ride. Crafted from fine-grained leather, they exude a premium look and offer a luxurious feel to your gear. With these gloves, riders of all ages can gear up confidently, knowing they have the perfect driving accessory for an enjoyable journey.

Vance VL440 Mens Black Unlined Leather Driving Gloves

Summer Motorcycle Gloves

You'll want a lightweight glove for warmer summer riding that provides adequate protection. Mesh gloves are a popular choice; they are breathable and help keep your hands cool. They typically offer reinforced palms and knuckles for impact resistance and abrasion protection. Some summer riding gloves incorporate protective pads, armor plates, or carbon fiber knuckles.

Look for gloves specifically designed for summer or warm-weather motorcycle riding. These will be made of breathable, moisture-wicking materials like mesh, textile, leather, or perforated leather. They should have padded palms for comfort control and reinforced stitching in high-wear areas. Choose gloves with knuckle guards, wrist straps, or Velcro® closures, padded knuckles, or carbon fiber armor for the most protection.

For the hottest summer days, mesh gloves with open fingers (also called three-quarter gloves) maximize airflow while still providing some hand protection. The open-finger design is ideal for precision tasks like operating turn signals or a GPS device. However, they typically offer less impact and abrasion resistance than full-fingered gloves due to less coverage.

Men's Black Gel Palm Perforated Fingerless Biker Leather Gloves

Introducing the Men's Black Gel Palm Perforated Fingerless Biker Leather Gloves, crafted from real genuine top grain cowhide for an authentic motorcycle riding experience. These gloves feature a combination of quality and durability that ensures they'll withstand the test of time.

Plastic gel padding in the palms effectively dampens vibrations, reducing hand fatigue and promoting better circulation during rides. This unique gel application not only enhances comfort but can also provide relief for individuals dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, making these gloves a practical and comfortable choice for riders seeking protection and comfort on the road.

Vance GL2090 Mens Black Gel Palm Perforated Fingerless Biker Leather Gloves

Winter Motorcycle Gloves

For riding in cold winter conditions, insulated motorcycle gloves are essential to keep your hands warm and maintain control of the handlebars.

Winter motorcycle gloves are designed specifically for riding in cold, wintry weather. They are typically made of insulated and waterproof materials like leather, nylon, and fleece to protect from wind, rain, and snow. ThinsulateTM, a popular synthetic fiber thermal insulation, is often used. These winter gloves may also feature additional insulation like a removable thermal liner.

Look for gloves rated for the coldest temperatures you plan to ride in. For maximum warmth, consider gloves rated for sub-zero or arctic conditions. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips allow you to use your mobile device without removing your gloves. Reinforced palms, knuckles, and fingers provide impact and abrasion protection in the event of an accident or drop.

Joe Rocket Sub Zero Waterproof Men Motorcycle Gloves

Meet the Joe Rocket Sub Zero Waterproof Gloves, your go-to choice for braving cold weather conditions on motorcycle adventures. They are aptly named for their ability to keep you warm even in sub-zero temperatures. These gloves are designed with your comfort and performance in mind, featuring a wind and waterproof outer shell complemented by a DryTech midline for multi-layered protection against the harshest riding conditions.

With a slip-resistant palm, padded knuckles, and finger gussets that enhance flexibility, these gloves provide the grip and maneuverability you need for a safe and enjoyable ride in chilly weather. Stay warm and protected with the Sub Zero gloves, ensuring you can continue your motorcycle journey even as the temperature drops.

Joe Rocket Sub Zero Waterproof Mens Textile Motorcycle Gloves

Heated Motorcycle Gloves

For riding in colder weather, heated motorcycle gloves are an excellent option. These gloves have built-in heating elements, typically wires or pads, that generate and distribute warmth to the hands. The heat level can be adjusted for comfort using a controller that connects to the gloves.

Heated motorcycle gloves allow motorcyclists to continue riding during winter months or in locations with cooler temperatures. The generated warmth circulates throughout the gloves, keeping hands, fingers, and palms cozy. Riders can select from gloves with basic heat levels to more advanced gloves with multiple heat settings to customize warmth. Some higher-end heated gloves even have controllers attached to the bike for convenient access.

Battery-powered heated gloves provide cordless heat through rechargeable batteries. The batteries can typically last 6-12 hours per charge, depending on the heat setting. For continuous heat, some gloves use a cord to connect directly to the motorcycle battery. Either type of heated glove allows riders to ride longer during cold weather.

Joe Rocket Rocket Burner Heated Men Motorcycle Gloves

Introducing the Joe Rocket Rocket Burner Heated Men's Motorcycle Gloves, designed to keep riders warm and comfortable during chilly rides. These gloves feature a stainless core heating system with a 3-stage heat setting, providing up to 4 hours of warmth to keep hands cozy in cold conditions. For convenience, conductive materials at the fingertips allow instant touchscreen access. The gloves are equipped with a waterproof, breathable, and windproof HiPora® liner, ensuring your hands stay dry and comfortable. The Heavy Duty Nylon outer construction, Synthetic Suede palm with silicone print for superior grip, and Full-Flex™ wrist for increased mobility reduce fatigue during long rides. With an adjustable cuff closure, reflective logos for added visibility, 2 rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, and a multiple-port charging system for simultaneous charging, these gloves are your reliable companion for winter riding.

Joe Rocket Rocket Burner Heated Men's Textile Motorcycle Gloves

Gauntlet Motorcycle Gloves

Gauntlet motorcycle gloves provide extended protection for your hands and wrists. The elongated cuff covers part of your forearm, shielding it from wind, debris, and impacts. For colder weather riding, gauntlet gloves help seal in heat while still allowing flexibility and grip.

Look for gauntlet gloves made of durable, abrasion-resistant leather, Cordura, or Kevlar. Reinforced palm sliders and knuckle protectors add impact resistance in case of a fall or collision. For warmth, consider insulated gloves or glove liners. Adjustable wrist closures like Velcro straps, snaps, or zippers allow you to tighten the gauntlet for maximum protection and seal out wind while still being able to remove the gloves easily.

Men Black Lined Biker Leather Motorcycle Gauntlet Gloves

The Men's Black Lined Biker Leather Motorcycle Gauntlet Gloves are specially designed for winter riding, offering a range of features to keep motorcyclists warm and protected during cold weather journeys. These gloves have a durable and stylish black leather construction that looks great and stands up to the demands of the road.

With an extended cuff, the gauntlet style helps seal out the cold air and provides extra coverage for the wrists. A warm lining ensures that hands stay cozy even in frigid temperatures. The gloves also have a secure closure system to keep them snugly in place while riding. Whether cruising through winter landscapes or commuting in the cold, these gloves are reliable for comfort and protection on your motorcycle adventures.

Vance GL2064 Mens Black Lined Biker Leather Motorcycle Gauntlet Gloves

Touch Screen Motorcycle Gloves

For motorcyclists who prefer to use touch-screen mobile devices while riding, touch-screen motorcycle gloves are an excellent option. These gloves have unique conductive materials sewn into the fingertips, allowing you to operate touch screens without removing your gloves. conductive thread or microscopic conductive dots are stitched into the fingertips of touchscreen motorcycle gloves.

When picking touchscreen motorcycle gloves, opt for leather or synthetic materials like polyurethane for durability and protection. Ensure they have conductive material on the index finger and thumb for touchscreen use, with some high-quality options having it on all fingers. Test their responsiveness with your devices before buying.

Look for added features like insulation, protective knuckles, and a non-slip palm. Secure closures like Velcro or wrist straps keep them in place. Prioritize gloves with safety certifications like CE level 1 or higher for the best combination of tech and safety.

Vance Gloves with Knuckle Protection - Touchscreen Motorcycle Gloves

Experience the ultimate convenience and comfort with these touchscreen motorcycle gloves. Designed to keep riders cool and well-ventilated, these gloves feature a perforated design that maximizes airflow during rides. The padded gel palm offers superior comfort, reduces hand fatigue, and provides essential cushioning and support.

Safety is provided through the soft knuckles that offer added protection without sacrificing flexibility. Their touch-enabled functionality sets these gloves apart, featuring touchpads on the fingers, allowing riders to stay connected on the go, effortlessly using their smartphones while on their motorcycles. These gloves offer a winning combination of comfort, protection, and connectivity for an enhanced riding experience.

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

Snow Motorcycle Gloves

For riding in cold winter conditions, snow motorcycle gloves are essential. These gloves are designed specifically for use in snow and freezing temperatures. They are typically insulated, waterproof, and offer maximum dexterity and grip for operating a motorcycle.

Standard features of snow motorcycle gloves include:

  • Insulation like Thinsulate to provide warmth without bulk
  • Waterproof and windproof outer shell, often made of materials such as Gore-Tex
  • Pre-curved fingers and knuckle panels for maximum flexibility and comfort
  • Thermal lining to retain heat
  • Long gauntlet cuffs to keep snow and wind from entering

Invest in insulated, waterproof gloves for warmth and dryness for winter motorcycle riding. Choose durable materials on palms and fingertips for grip and protection. Try different sizes and styles for the perfect fit. For extra insulation, think about heated gloves or liners.

Joe Rocket Rocket Burner Heated Men Leather Motorcycle Gloves

Introducing Joe Rocket's Heated Leather Motorcycle Gloves - your ideal winter riding companion. Crafted from premium leather, they offer durability and style while keeping hands warm. With three-stage heating and up to four hours of warmth, these gloves ensure comfort. They're touchscreen-friendly, waterproof, and windproof, with safety features like reflective panels and knuckle armor. Plus, they come with rechargeable batteries and a convenient charging system, making them the ultimate winter riding gear.

Joe Rocket Rocket Burner Heated Men's Leather Motorcycle Gloves

Cruiser Motorcycle Gloves

You'll want gloves designed for this style when riding a cruiser motorcycle. Cruiser gloves typically have distinctive features like padded knuckles, reinforced palms, and adjustable wrist closures for maximum protection and comfort.

Look for gloves with breathable, flexible materials like leather, mesh, or perforated synthetics for cruising long distances. Thinsulate or a similar thermal lining helps warm hands on more relaxed rides, allowing moisture to wick away. Pre-curved fingers, padded knuckles, and a reinforced palm shield your hands from wind and vibration fatigue and impacts in the event of a fall or collision.

With the right pair of cruiser gloves, you can hit the open road and enjoy the ride, knowing your hands will remain protected and comfortable for however long the journey may be. Look for a trusted brand that offers high-quality, durable gloves explicitly designed for cruiser motorcyclists. Your hands will thank you.

Touring Motorcycle Gloves

Touring motorcycle gloves are designed specifically for long-distance riding. They provide protection and comfort for many hours in the saddle.

Materials

Touring gloves are typically made of durable yet flexible materials like leather, textile, or a combination. Leather offers the most protection but can be less breathable. Textile or mesh panels help improve ventilation and comfort. Some gloves also have waterproof or water-resistant membranes to keep hands dry in wet weather.

Padding and Protection

Padding, armor, or reinforced areas on the fingers, knuckles, and palms provide impact protection during a crash. Many touring gloves also have extra padding along the ulnar nerve in the wrist to prevent discomfort. Protective features may include carbon fiber or plastic knuckle guards, padded palm sliders, and reinforced stitching in high-stress areas.

Comfort Features

For long rides, comfort is key. Padded palms, pre-curved fingers, and stretch panels make touring gloves comfortable. Other features like touchscreen-compatible fingertips, nose wipes, and wrist straps allow you to operate electronics and adjust without removing your gloves.

Touring motorcycle gloves provide protection, comfort, and convenience for extended days exploring the open road. By considering factors like materials, padding, protection, and comfort features, you can find a pair of gloves ideally suited to your needs.

Sports Bike Motorcycle Gloves

For high-performance sports bikes, you'll want a pair of gloves specifically designed for the task. These gloves typically offer:

  • Sports bike gloves provide extra padding or armor on the knuckles, fingers, and palms to shield them from impact and abrasion in the event of a crash at high speeds. Some offer sliders on the palm to allow your hand to slide across the pavement.
  • The fingers are pre-shaped to naturally curve around sport bike handlebars for maximum comfort and control.
  • Materials like leather, mesh, and stretch textiles are common in sports bike gloves to keep hands cool and allow unrestricted movement.
  • Sports bike gloves should fit snugly but comfortably to maintain agility and ensure the glove does not shift or come off during aggressive riding. Adjustable closures like Velcro straps, zippers, or elastic help achieve a tight yet flexible fit.
  • Some sports bike gloves offer touchscreen-compatible fingertips so you can use GPS devices and smartphones without removing your gloves.

A purpose-built pair of sports bike motorcycle gloves is essential safety gear for the sport bike enthusiast seeking the ultimate in performance, protection, and comfort. With suitable gloves, you'll have peace of mind to enjoy your high-performance machine's capabilities fully.

The world of motorcycle gloves is as diverse as the riders who wear them. From racing to touring, cruiser to off-road, there's a glove type tailored to every riding style and season. The key is to match your gloves to your unique needs, ensuring comfort and safety on the open road. So, whether you're chasing speed on the racetrack or cruising through scenic routes, make an informed choice and gear up with the perfect pair of motorcycle gloves for a thrilling and safe ride.

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