As winter approaches, staying warm and safe on your motorcycle becomes essential. Our guide to the best winter motorcycle gloves helps you navigate the myriad of options available, ensuring you find the perfect pair to keep your hands cozy and protected from the elements. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend warrior, these gloves combine comfort, style, and functionality to enhance your riding experience in chilly conditions.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Winter Motorcycle Gloves

Riding a motorcycle in winter presents unique challenges, primarily due to the cold weather that can quickly chill your hands, affecting grip and control. Therefore, investing in high-quality winter motorcycle gloves is essential for safety and comfort. This shopping guide will walk you through the different types of winter motorcycle gloves, their features, materials, sizing, and usage recommendations, so you can make an informed decision.

Comparison Table of Winter Motorcycle Gloves

Model	Type	Insulation	Waterproof	Touchscreen Compatible	Price Range
Alpinestars HT-7 Heat Tech	Heated	PrimaLoft Gold	Yes	Yes	$$
Dainese Scout 2 Gore-Tex	Affordable	Primaloft	Yes	Yes	$
Merlin Minworth Heated	Heated	Battery-powered	Yes	Yes	$$
Rukka R-Star 2 In 1 Gore-Tex	Adventure	Fleece & Insulation	Yes	Yes	$$
REV’IT! Liberty H2O Heated	Heated	High loft fur	Yes	Yes	$$$
Joe Rocket Windchill	Budget-friendly	Thinsulate	Yes	Yes	$
Klim Hardanger HTD	Premium	100g Thinsulate	Yes	Yes	$$$

Types of Winter Motorcycle Gloves

1. Heated Gloves:

2. These gloves feature built-in heating elements powered by batteries or your motorcycle’s electrical system. They are ideal for extremely cold conditions, providing adjustable warmth to keep your hands comfortable.

3. Insulated Gloves:

4. These are designed with materials like Thinsulate or Primaloft to trap warmth. They do not have heating elements but offer sufficient insulation for moderate cold.

5. Waterproof Gloves:

6. Essential for wet conditions, these gloves often use Gore-Tex or similar materials to keep moisture out while allowing breathability.

7. Adventure Gloves:

8. These are versatile gloves designed for touring and off-road riding. They provide a balance of insulation, waterproofing, and protection.

9. Sport Gloves:

10. Designed for high-speed riding, these gloves offer a snug fit and superior protection but may sacrifice warmth for aerodynamics.

11. Work Gloves:

12. While not specifically designed for riding, some heavy-duty work gloves can serve as winter motorcycle gloves. However, they may lack the necessary protection for riding.

Size Guide for Winter Motorcycle Gloves

Choosing the right size is crucial for comfort and safety. Here’s a simple size guide to help you find the perfect fit:

• Measure Your Hand: Use a measuring tape to measure around the widest part of your hand (excluding the thumb).
• Size Chart:
• Small: 7-8 inches
• Medium: 8-9 inches
• Large: 9-10 inches
• X-Large: 10-11 inches
• XX-Large: 11-12 inches

Tips for Sizing:
– Always try gloves on with the base layers you intend to wear.
– Ensure that the fingers are snug but not cramped, and there’s no excessive material at the fingertips.

Material Used in Winter Motorcycle Gloves

1. Leather:

2. Offers excellent abrasion resistance and durability. It can be treated for waterproofing but may require additional lining for insulation.

3. Textiles:

4. Typically lighter and more breathable than leather. High-tech materials like Gore-Tex provide waterproofing and insulation.

5. Insulating Materials:

6. Thinsulate: Lightweight and effective at trapping heat.
7. Primaloft: Similar to Thinsulate but often considered more breathable.

8. Fleece: Provides warmth and comfort but may not be as durable.

9. Membranes:

10. Gore-Tex: Known for its superior waterproofing and breathability.
11. Hipora: A budget-friendly alternative that also offers good waterproofing.

Usage Recommendations for Winter Motorcycle Gloves

• For Commuting: Look for gloves that offer a balance of warmth, waterproofing, and comfort. Insulated gloves with touchscreen compatibility are ideal.

• For Long Rides: Consider heated gloves or gloves with excellent insulation. Ensure they are waterproof to handle unexpected rain or snow.

• For Off-Road Riding: Adventure gloves with a good grip and flexibility are essential. Look for models that offer both protection and warmth.

• For Casual Rides: Budget-friendly insulated gloves may suffice, but ensure they provide adequate grip and control.

Practical Tips for Choosing and Using Winter Motorcycle Gloves

1. Test for Dexterity: Ensure you can easily operate your bike’s controls. The gloves should not restrict movement.

2. Check for Waterproofing: Look for gloves with a reliable waterproof membrane to keep your hands dry.

3. Consider Heating Options: If you often ride in extreme cold, heated gloves may be worth the investment.

4. Look for Safety Features: Gloves should have knuckle protection, palm sliders, and abrasion-resistant materials for safety.

5. Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on gloves to ensure the right fit and comfort level.

Technical Features Comparison Table

Model	Protection	Insulation Type	Waterproofing Technology	Battery Life (Heated)	CE Certification
Alpinestars HT-7 Heat Tech	Knuckle & Palm	PrimaLoft Gold	Drystar	6 hours	Yes
Dainese Scout 2 Gore-Tex	Knuckle Armor	Primaloft	Gore-Tex	N/A	Yes
Merlin Minworth Heated	D30 Armor	Battery-powered	Waterproof membrane	4 hours	Yes
Rukka R-Star 2 In 1 Gore-Tex	Carbon Fiber	Fleece & Insulation	Gore-Tex	N/A	Yes
REV’IT! Liberty H2O Heated	Knuckle & Palm	High loft fur	H2O waterproofing	6.5 hours	Yes
Joe Rocket Windchill	High-density Knuckle	Thinsulate	Dry Tech	N/A	No
Klim Hardanger HTD	Full goatskin	100g Thinsulate	Gore-Tex	6 hours	Yes

Related Video

Conclusion

Finding the best winter motorcycle gloves is crucial for safety and comfort during your rides. Consider the type of riding you will be doing, the weather conditions you expect to encounter, and the features that matter most to you. With the right pair of gloves, you can enjoy riding even in the coldest weather while keeping your hands warm, dry, and protected.

FAQ

What are the best materials for winter motorcycle gloves?
The best materials include leather for durability and abrasion resistance, and textiles like Gore-Tex for waterproofing and breathability. Insulating materials like Thinsulate and Primaloft are also excellent for warmth.

Are heated gloves worth the investment?
Yes, heated gloves can significantly enhance comfort in extremely cold conditions, allowing you to maintain control of your bike without numbness.

How do I ensure a proper fit for motorcycle gloves?
Measure the widest part of your hand and consult size charts provided by manufacturers. Try gloves on with any base layers you plan to wear.

Can I use touchscreen devices while wearing winter motorcycle gloves?
Many modern gloves have touchscreen-compatible fingertips, allowing you to operate your devices without removing the gloves.

How do I care for my winter motorcycle gloves?
Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, typically involving cleaning with a damp cloth and allowing them to air dry. For leather gloves, use a leather conditioner periodically.

What should I look for in waterproof motorcycle gloves?
Ensure the gloves have a reliable waterproof membrane, like Gore-Tex, and check for sealed seams to prevent water ingress.

Can I wear regular gloves for motorcycle riding?
Regular gloves may not provide the necessary protection, insulation, or grip required for safe riding. It’s best to use gloves specifically designed for motorcycle riding.

What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 CE certification?
Level 1 certification offers lower protection but greater flexibility, while Level 2 certification provides increased protection with a potential sacrifice in flexibility.

How important is insulation in winter motorcycle gloves?
Insulation is crucial for maintaining warmth in cold conditions. The right amount will depend on the temperatures you expect to encounter.

What is the average price range for quality winter motorcycle gloves?
Quality winter motorcycle gloves can range from $50 to over $250, depending on materials, features, and brand reputation.