Motorcycling is thrilling. When temperatures drop, it’s important to stay warm to stay safe. Gloves are often overlooked but crucial to this equation. Motorcycle gloves protect and enhance your riding experience, especially in cold weather.
Ordinary gloves won’t work in cold weather. Cold hands are dangerous. You may lose your clutch, brakes, throttle, and handlebar grip. Extreme cold can cause frostbite. Thus, cold-weather gloves are essential.
Given the number of options available, choosing the right motorcycle gloves for cold weather can be difficult. Before buying a glove for colder climates, consider material, insulation, fit, waterproofing, and functionality.
This guide will help you choose cold-weather motorcycle gloves from the many options available. We’ll discuss each factor’s importance, review the best gloves, and offer care tips. By the end of this guide, you should feel confident about choosing the best option to keep your hands warm, protected, and comfortable during winter rides.
How Cold Weather Motorcycle Gloves Are Desined?
Insulation is crucial for cold-weather motorcycle gloves. PrimaLoft, Thinsulate, and Gore-Tex are popular and effective materials for this.
Thinsulate
Thinsulate is a synthetic fiber thermal insulation material widely used in the clothing industry, including in the making of cold-weather motorcycle gloves. It provides a high level of insulation relative to its thickness, making it ideal for gloves where bulk can be a hindrance to dexterity.
It’s breathable and moisture-resistant, keeping hands warm and dry. Gloves with Thinsulate often come in different grades (measured in grams) to provide options for varying levels of cold protection.
PrimaLoft
PrimaLoft is another synthetic insulation material. It was originally developed for the US Army as a water-resistant alternative to goose down. PrimaLoft is extremely lightweight, breathable, and offers excellent warmth, even when wet. It also dries out quickly if it does get wet. This makes it a great choice for motorcycle gloves, particularly for riders who might face rain or snow in addition to cold temperatures.
Gore-Tex
In gloves, Gore-Tex is used with insulating materials. It’s a highly water-resistant and breathable material, which is crucial in cold weather gear to avoid sweat buildup.
When used in gloves, a Gore-Tex layer ensures your hands stay dry both from outside precipitation and from internal perspiration, enhancing the overall warmth and comfort. Furthermore, Gore-Tex is windproof, adding another level of protection against cold weather.
Understanding the different materials used in the insulation of motorcycle gloves can significantly help when deciding which pair to purchase. Consider how these materials work together and with other glove features to provide overall performance, protection, and comfort.
Just as important as the insulation in a cold-weather motorcycle glove is the material used for the outer shell. This keeps the glove warm and protects it from the elements and accidents.
Leather
Leather is a traditional material used in many motorcycle gloves due to its superior durability and abrasion resistance. High-quality leather protects in a crash and moulds to the wearer’s hand. In cold weather gloves, leather can provide a solid barrier against wind and light rain. Without a water-resistant coating, it may perform poorly in heavy rain.
Textile
Due to their versatility and functionality, synthetic gloves like nylon or polyester are becoming more popular. These materials are often lighter than leather and can be made to be water and windproof. Textile gloves can be designed with specific features such as improved flexibility or breathability, which can be beneficial in cold weather riding. They may be less abrasion-resistant than leather.
Hybrid Options
Hybrid gloves combine the best of both worlds by using a mix of leather and textile materials. These gloves often use leather in high-impact or wear areas, like the palms and fingers, for improved durability and protection. The rest of the glove may be made of textile materials to take advantage of their lightness, flexibility, and weather-resistance. This makes a glove that protects well in all weather, including cold.
By understanding these materials, their advantages, and drawbacks, you can make a more informed choice when choosing the outer shell of your cold-weather motorcycle gloves. Your needs and preferences, such as the climate you’ll ride in, comfort, and protection, will often determine the choice.
Features for Enhanced Cold Weather Protection
Staying dry and warm while riding your motorbike in cold weather is important. Certain motorcycle gloves features can improve cold-weather protection.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is a key feature for any cold-weather gear, including motorcycle gloves. Wet hands can quickly become cold hands, making your ride uncomfortable or even dangerous. Look for gloves made of Gore-Tex or a water-resistant coating. Some gloves are waterproof. Care for your gloves according to the manufacturer’s instructions because waterproofing can vary between products and fade over time.
Windproofing
Even if it’s not particularly cold, wind can quickly draw warmth away from your hands as you ride, making them feel much colder. This is why windproofing is an essential feature for cold-weather motorcycle gloves. Gloves made from materials like leather or certain synthetic textiles can provide good wind protection. Some gloves also feature special windproof membranes for added protection.
Adjustable Cuffs
Adjustable cuffs are a feature that might be overlooked but can make a significant difference in cold weather. The glove cuff covers your wrist or jacket sleeve. Having the ability to adjust this can help to prevent cold air and moisture from entering the glove. Look for gloves that have straps, buckles, or elastic at the cuffs to allow for adjustment. Some gloves even have extended or gauntlet-style cuffs that provide extra coverage for your wrists, further enhancing warmth and protection.
These features, combined with suitable insulation and the right outer shell material, can significantly improve the performance of your motorcycle gloves in cold weather. Choose features based on your riding conditions and preferences.
Top 5 Best Motorcycle Gloves for Cold Weather
1. Brand A – COFIT Motorcycle Gloves Breathable
Features:
Breathable Material: These gloves are crafted with highly breathable fabric to keep your hands dry and comfortable. This is particularly advantageous in humid climates or during long rides.
Protective Armor: For enhanced safety, the gloves come equipped with hard-shell armor on the knuckles, along with extra padding on the fingers. This provides robust protection in case of a fall or collision.
Touchscreen Compatibility: The COFIT Motorcycle Gloves are touchscreen compatible, enabling you to use your smartphone or GPS without removing your gloves.
Secure Fit: With their adjustable wrist strap, these gloves ensure a secure fit that helps keep the gloves in place even during high-intensity rides.
Versatility: These gloves are suitable for a range of outdoor activities, including motorcycling, ATV riding, and even cycling, giving them a versatile edge.
Cons:
Limited Cold Weather Suitability: While the breathable material keeps your hands dry, these gloves might not provide adequate insulation in colder weather.
Size Variations: Some users have noted that the gloves tend to run small, so it’s important to carefully check the size chart and perhaps order a size larger if you’re in between sizes.
Lack of Ventilation: While these gloves are breathable, they lack dedicated ventilation features, which could cause hands to become sweaty during hot weather or intense riding.
Pros:
Comfort: Users frequently praise the comfort offered by these gloves, which makes them suitable for long-distance rides.
Durability: The COFIT Motorcycle Gloves have been noted for their durability and ability to withstand regular use over time, which represents excellent value for money.
Protection: The hard-shell armor and additional padding provide solid protection, a feature appreciated by many users.
Easy to Use: The touchscreen compatibility is a significant convenience factor, allowing riders to operate electronic devices without exposing their hands to the elements.
Overall, the COFIT Motorcycle Gloves Breathable are a strong choice if you’re looking for versatile, comfortable, and durable gloves. While they may not be ideal for colder climates, their protective features and usability make them a sound investment for most riders.
2. Brand B – Touchscreen Gauntlet Windproof Snowmobile Gloves
Features:
Gauntlet Style: These gloves feature a long cuff, characteristic of gauntlet-style gloves, that offers extended coverage to your wrists and lower arms, providing an extra barrier against wind, rain, and snow.
Touchscreen Compatibility: These gloves are designed with special conductive material on the fingers, enabling you to operate touchscreen devices without taking off your gloves.
Windproof: The gloves are designed to be windproof, a vital feature for maintaining warmth in cold or high-speed conditions.
Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, these gloves are designed to perform well not only for motorcycle riding but also for ATV riding, Enduro racing, scooter riding, and snowmobiling.
Cons:
Not Ideal for Extreme Cold: While these gloves are windproof, they may not provide sufficient insulation for extreme cold conditions without the use of additional hand warmers.
Limited Durability: Some users have reported that the gloves’ durability could be improved, particularly in terms of the stitching.
Size Accuracy: There are reports suggesting the gloves may run large, so careful measurement and sizing are recommended.
Pros:
Great Wind Protection: The windproof design has been praised by users, who say it effectively blocks out chilling winds.
Good Touchscreen Functionality: Users appreciate the reliable touchscreen compatibility, which allows them to use their devices conveniently.
Comfortable: Many reviews commend these gloves for their comfortable fit, making them suitable for long rides.
Extended Coverage: The gauntlet-style design is appreciated for its extended coverage, offering more warmth and protection to the wrists and lower arms.
In summary, the Touchscreen Gauntlet Windproof Riding ATV Enduro Scooter Snowmobile Gloves offer solid wind protection and convenient features like touchscreen compatibility. While they may not be the best option for extremely cold weather, they provide comfortable and extended coverage that makes them a worthy choice for many riders in a variety of outdoor activities.
Insulation: These gloves are specially designed for winter use, with thick insulation to provide warmth in cold weather conditions.
Waterproof: Kemimoto Winter Motorcycle Gloves feature a waterproof material that helps keep your hands dry even in wet weather.
Touchscreen Compatibility: These gloves have touchscreen-friendly fingertips, enabling you to use your smartphone or GPS without having to take off your gloves.
Protective Features: The gloves are equipped with hard armor for the knuckles and foam padding on the palm for increased protection during a fall or collision.
Adjustable Strap: An adjustable wrist strap ensures a secure fit and helps prevent cold wind from entering the gloves.
Cons:
Limited Breathability: Due to their thick insulation, these gloves may not be as breathable, potentially causing your hands to sweat in warmer conditions or during intense rides.
Sizing Issues: Some users have reported that the gloves can run small, so it may be advisable to order a size up if you’re in between sizes.
Not Ideal for Extreme Cold: While these gloves are warmer than many other options, in extreme cold weather, additional hand warming might be necessary.
Pros:
Excellent Warmth: Users report that these gloves provide excellent warmth in cold weather, thanks to their thick insulation.
Good Water Resistance: The waterproof nature of these gloves is a much-appreciated feature, particularly for those riding in wet conditions.
Enhanced Protection: The hard armor and foam padding offer good protective features, providing extra safety for the rider.
Secure and Comfortable Fit: Many riders have noted the gloves’ comfortable fit and secure wrist strap, making them suitable for longer rides.
In conclusion, the Kemimoto Winter Motorcycle Gloves offer excellent warmth, protection, and water resistance, making them a solid choice for winter riding. While they might not offer the best breathability and could require sizing adjustments, their benefits in cold and wet conditions make them a noteworthy option.
Warm Lining: The GORELOX Winter Warm Gloves are equipped with a thermal lining to keep your hands warm in chilly conditions.
Waterproof and Windproof: These gloves are designed to be both waterproof and windproof, providing optimal protection against inclement weather.
Touchscreen Compatibility: The gloves feature touchscreen-compatible material on the fingertips, allowing you to use your smartphone or GPS without having to take off your gloves.
Anti-Slip Design: An anti-slip silicone design on the palm ensures a secure grip on the handlebars.
Adjustable Wrist: The gloves include an adjustable wrist strap to provide a secure fit and further shield against the cold.
Cons:
Limited Insulation for Extreme Cold: While these gloves offer a warm lining, they may not be sufficient for extremely cold temperatures without an additional heat source.
Durability Concerns: Some users have reported durability issues, particularly with the stitching and the touchscreen functionality over extended use.
Sizing Discrepancies: There have been reports that the sizing can be inconsistent, making it crucial to measure your hands accurately before purchasing.
Pros:
Good for Moderate Cold: Users have praised these gloves for providing sufficient warmth in moderate cold weather conditions.
Effective Waterproofing and Windproofing: The gloves have been recognized for their effective waterproof and windproof qualities.
Secure Grip: The anti-slip design is highly regarded by users who appreciate the increased control it provides.
Comfortable Fit: Many users have commended the gloves for their comfortable fit, particularly noting the adjustable wrist strap.
In summary, the GORELOX Winter Warm Gloves offer a good balance of warmth, water resistance, and wind protection, along with a secure grip and comfortable fit. While they may not be ideal for extremely cold conditions and have some durability concerns, they perform well in moderate winter weather, making them a sound option for many riders.
Double-Layer Warmth: The TRENDOUX Winter Gloves feature a double-layer design with a warm inner lining to provide increased heat retention.
Touchscreen Compatibility: These gloves are designed with high sensitivity conductive material on the thumbs, forefingers, and middle fingers, allowing for convenient touchscreen use.
Non-Slip Grip: The gloves include a triangle silicone grip on the palm to provide a secure grip on the handlebars, even in wet conditions.
Elastic Wrist Cuff: An elastic wrist cuff ensures a snug fit, helping to keep the cold out and the warmth in.
Versatile Design: These gloves have a unisex design and are suitable for a range of activities beyond motorcycling, including running, hiking, and other outdoor winter sports.
Cons:
Not Specifically Designed for Motorcycling: As these gloves are designed for general winter use, they lack some motorcycle-specific features like knuckle armor and abrasion-resistant materials.
Limited Waterproofing: While the gloves provide warmth, they are not fully waterproof and may not perform well in wet conditions.
Inadequate for Extreme Cold: Despite the double-layer design, these gloves may not offer enough insulation for extremely cold temperatures.
Pros:
Comfortable and Warm: Users have praised the comfort and warmth provided by the double-layer design, making these gloves suitable for moderate cold weather conditions.
Effective Touchscreen Compatibility: The touchscreen-friendly design is well-received, allowing users to operate devices without removing their gloves.
Good Grip: The silicone grip is appreciated by many users for providing a secure and firm hold on various surfaces.
Snug Fit: The elastic wrist cuff is noted for keeping the gloves snug and preventing wind or cold air from entering.
TRENDOUX Winter Gloves are a good option for those seeking a comfortable, warm glove for general winter use. While they may not be suitable for extremely cold or wet conditions and lack some features specific to motorcycle riding, their comfort, warmth, and touchscreen compatibility make them a practical option for various winter activities.
Proper sizing is critical when choosing your cold weather motorcycle gloves. Too tight gloves restrict movement and cause discomfort, while too loose gloves may not provide enough warmth or fall off during a crash.
Moreover, poorly fitting gloves can reduce your ability to control your motorcycle effectively. Thus, fitting gloves can improve comfort, safety, and riding experience.
Measuring Your Hand for Accurate Sizing
Measure your hand to determine size. Here’s how:
Measure around the hand: Measure your hand to determine size. This measurement, usually in inches or centimeters, will give you the glove size.
Measure the hand length: Measure from the tip of your longest finger to the crease under your palm. This is particularly useful for certain brands that base their sizes on hand length.
It’s important to note that manufacturers and even models within a manufacturer can vary in size. Check the glove’s sizing guide.
Considerations for Different Glove Styles (Gauntlet, Short Cuff, Heated)
Different styles of gloves can also influence the size and fit you need.
Gauntlet Gloves: Gauntlet style gloves have an extended cuff that covers part of the forearm. They provide extra protection against the elements and can fit over the sleeves of your jacket. When choosing gauntlet gloves, make sure the cuffs are large enough to fit over your jacket but have adjustable closures to secure them in place.
Short Cuff Gloves: Short cuff gloves only cover the hand and wrist and are typically less bulky than gauntlet gloves. They may provide less protection against cold air but can be more comfortable and easier to put on and take off.
Heated Gloves: Heated gloves incorporate heating elements to provide extra warmth. They can be battery-powered or plug into your motorcycle’s electrical system. Because of the additional components, heated gloves may fit differently than non-heated ones. Make sure the heating elements do not create uncomfortable pressure points or restrict your movement.
Remember that comfortable, well-fitting gloves are most important. They should not restrict your movement or motorcycle control, regardless of style.
Factors to Consider for Cold Weather Riding
Choosing the right pair of motorcycle gloves involves a balancing act between various factors. When riding in cold weather, some additional considerations come into play.
Insulation vs. Dexterity Trade-off
One of the key challenges in choosing cold weather motorcycle gloves is balancing insulation and dexterity. Thicker, more insulated gloves will keep your hands warmer, but they may also be bulkier, potentially reducing your ability to operate your motorcycle’s controls effectively.
Look for gloves that offer a good balance — enough insulation to keep you warm, but not so much that they compromise your control.
Compatibility with Touchscreen Devices
In today’s connected world, many riders use touchscreen devices like smartphones or GPS units while riding. If this is the case for you, consider looking for gloves with touchscreen-compatible fingertips.
This feature, usually found on the index finger and thumb, allows you to operate touchscreen devices without having to remove your gloves, which can be particularly beneficial in cold weather.
Ventilation Options for Temperature Regulation
Even in cold weather, it’s possible for your hands to become too warm, particularly during vigorous riding or in changing weather conditions.
Some gloves feature ventilation options to help regulate temperature, such as zippered vents or breathable materials.
Keep in mind, however, that too much ventilation could also let in the cold, so consider your specific needs and riding conditions.
Reflective Elements for Increased Visibility
Visibility is always important when riding a motorcycle, but it can be even more critical in poor weather conditions often associated with cold temperatures.
Gloves with reflective elements can help to make you more visible to other road users. This could be in the form of reflective piping, patches, or even a full reflective material on the back of the glove.
Cold weather gloves, like motorcycle gear, don’t fit all. Your riding conditions, needs, and preferences will determine the best gloves. These factors should help you choose gloves for the winter.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Cold Weather Motorcycle Gloves
Proper care and maintenance of your cold weather motorcycle gloves can significantly enhance their lifespan and performance. Based on their materials, here are some gloves care tips.
Cleaning Procedures for Different Materials
Different materials require different cleaning methods, but there are some general rules that you can follow:
Leather Gloves: Leather gloves should be cleaned with a damp cloth and a mild soap. Soaking them can dry and crack the leather. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple.
Textile Gloves: Textile gloves can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Avoid fabric softeners and use mild detergent to keep gloves waterproof.
Hybrid Gloves: Hybrid gloves should be treated as leather gloves if they contain leather parts. The textile parts can be cleaned using mild soap and water.
In all cases, gloves should be allowed to dry naturally, away from direct heat sources, to avoid material damage.
Storage Recommendations to Prolong Lifespan
How you store your gloves can also affect their lifespan. Gloves should be kept cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight. Lay or hang them flat. This will keep them from wearing out.
Repairing Minor Damages
Gloves can break despite your best efforts. Minor damages, like small tears or loose threads, can often be repaired at home using a needle and thread. For leather gloves, a leather repair kit can be used to patch up small holes or tears. More significant damages, especially those affecting the gloves’ protective capabilities, may require professional repair or even replacement of the gloves.
Remember, taking care of your cold weather motorcycle gloves not only ensures they stay in good condition but also that they provide the maximum possible protection, which is, after all, their primary purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I know if a glove is suitable for cold weather?
Cold weather gloves are typically insulated to retain heat and keep your hands warm. They often feature materials such as Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, or Gore-Tex, and may also be waterproof or windproof. If a glove is marketed as being for cold weather, it should have these features. Ask the retailer or manufacturer if you’re unsure.
2. Can I wear heated gloves in extreme cold conditions?
Yes, heated gloves are especially useful in extreme cold conditions. They have built-in heating elements that provide additional warmth. They can be battery-powered or connect to your motorcycle’s electrical system. If you frequently ride in extreme cold, heated gloves can be a great option.
3. How often should I replace my cold weather motorcycle gloves?
How often and well you use your gloves determines how often you should replace them. Replace gloves if they have holes, thinning material, or worn seams. If your gloves aren’t keeping your hands warm or dry, replace them even if they’re not damaged.
4. Can I use regular winter gloves for motorcycle riding?
Motorcycle gloves provide better accident protection than regular winter gloves. Armor and reinforced areas protect motorcycle gloves from impact and abrasion. Riders benefit from adjustable cuffs, touchscreen compatibility, and waterproofing.
E. Are there any special considerations for Gore-Tex gloves?
Cold-weather Gore-Tex gloves are waterproof, breathable, and windproof. These properties require proper care. Fabric softeners can clog Gore-Tex glove pores, reducing breathability and waterproofness.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cold weather motorcycle gloves can affect your road safety and comfort. Understanding materials, fit, and cold-weather protection is crucial.
Insulation, touchscreen compatibility, ventilation, and reflective elements are all tailored to your needs and riding conditions.
Proper glove care maximises performance and longevity, maximising your investment. Finally, FAQs and other resources help you stay informed and make informed motorcycle gear choices.
Always prioritise your safety and comfort. Choose wisely to combat the cold and enjoy your ride. Bad weather is just inappropriate clothing, as the saying goes. So buckle up and enjoy the ride!
