Choosing the Right Motorcycle Gloves for Every Season: A Comprehensive Guide
One of the most crucial pieces of gear in a rider’s ensemble is often one that gets overlooked – the motorcycle gloves. They’re not just a fashion statement; they are designed with specific purposes in mind, from providing a secure grip on the handlebars to protecting your hands during an unfortunate slide. But just like the rest of your gear, the gloves need to be season-appropriate. Here's an extensive guide on how to select the perfect pair of motorcycle gloves for each season—keeping you comfortable and safe all year round.
The Anatomy of Motorcycle Gloves
Motorcycle gloves aren't your typical pair of woolly mittens or leather driving gloves. They're specifically engineered to provide the protection and functionality that bikers need.
Your ideal pair should consist of the following elements:
Material & Construction
The material used in your gloves will vary in thickness, durability, and flexibility. Summer gloves are usually made of mesh or lightweight leather to allow breathability. On the other hand, winter gloves are heavily insulated with materials like Gore-Tex or Thinsulate to keep your hands warm.
Protection
Protection features include extra padding on the palm and hard armor on the knuckles. Learn the different types of protection available in motorcycle gloves to ensure your selection can hold up to potential hazards.
Fit
A snug fit is crucial to ensure your gloves stay on your hands during a fall. You should be able to move your fingers comfortably, operate the bike's controls easily, and not have any loose material that could affect your grip.
Closure
Most gloves feature a closure at the wrist, often with a hook-and-loop system, to ensure a tight fit that prevents slippage in the event of a crash.
Visibility
Reflective panels and high-visibility color schemes can make a big difference, especially in the dark or adverse weather conditions, so make sure the gloves are easily spotted.
Understand the Seasons
In most regions, seasonal changes significantly affect the weather conditions and, consequently, a rider's experience. Each season has unique challenges that require specific gear, and motorcycle gloves are no exception.
Summer
During summer, the focus is on keeping cool. Ventilated gloves are a must; they offer breathability and airflow to prevent your hands from sweating excessively, which can lead to discomfort and a loss of grip.
Autumn/Fall
This season often brings unpredictable weather, so versatility is key. Look for mid-weight gloves that offer both thermal protection and some ventilation.
Winter
Winter motorcycle gloves will be your thickest, most insulated pair. In addition to motorcycling-specific materials, having a windproof layer is essential when cutting through icy winds.
Spring
Springtime can be just as unpredictable as autumn, so having a good all-weather pair is important, with a focus on keeping off the occasional late frost or downpour.
Tips for Selecting Seasonal Motorcycle Gloves
Choosing the right pair of gloves involves balancing a few key factors:
Insulation and Thermal Protection
Winter gloves should keep your hands warm, not just by insulating them but also by cutting the wind. If your rides are primarily under 50°F, consider heated gloves which run off your motorcycle's battery.
Waterproofing
For late spring, fall, and winter, having waterproof gloves is a valuable asset, as wet hands can lead to lower body temperatures, making the ride unsafe.
Dexterity
The more dexterous your gloves, the better you can handle mechanical tasks, such as operating buttons or zippers on your jacket, in cold weather.
Longevity
Quality comes at a price, so expect to pay more for gloves with reinforced stitching, long warranties, and durable materials that resist the wear and tear of daily riding.
Not All Gloves Are Created Equal
Different gloves serve different functions, and it's important to remind yourself that your comfort and safety are well worth the investment.
Commuting Gloves
For the daily commuter, gloves that emphasize comfort and convenience might be ideal. Look for touchscreen compatibility and a lightweight, slip-on design.
Racing and Sport Gloves
Safety is paramount in sports and racing, so gloves designed for this purpose often feature the highest level of protection at the expense of some comfort.
Touring Gloves
Durability and adaptability are crucial for touring, where you might encounter various terrain and weather conditions. Look for gloves that can be worn comfortably for long stretches.
Layering with Glove Liners
Sometimes a single pair of gloves is not enough, especially in the coldest weather. Glove liners can be added under your normal gloves to provide an extra layer of warmth without adding bulk.
Material Choices
Fleece, wool, and silk are common materials for glove liners, each offering different levels of warmth and moisture-wicking properties.
Sizing
When adding liners, the size relationship between the liners and gloves should be considered to avoid fingers feeling overly cramped and the loss of dexterity.
Durability
Liners need to be durable as they'll be taken on and off frequently and washed more often than an outer pair, so look for quality construction.
Maintenance and Care
Just as with the bike itself, your gear requires regular upkeep to stay in top condition.
Cleaning
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to clean your gloves properly. Many can be simply wiped down, while others might require special treatment for materials like leather.
Drying
Never dry gloves over a direct heat source like a radiator, as this can damage the materials. Instead, air dry them or use a fan-assisted dryer.
Storage
Store your gloves in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight, to prevent the breakdown of materials over time.
Conclusion
A pair of motorcycle gloves might seem like a small purchase in the grand scheme of a riding habit, but their importance cannot be overstated. By considering the seasonal demands, understanding the range of materials and features available, and thinking about the type of riding you do, you can select gloves that will enhance your experience year-round. Make an informed decision, and enjoy the ride, no matter the weather.
