Motorcycle gloves are an essential piece of protective equipment for riders, offering protection, comfort, and improved control. Here’s a comprehensive overview of motorcycle gloves:
Purpose and Function:
Motorcycle gloves serve multiple purposes:
- Protect hands from abrasion injuries in case of accidents
- Shield hands from weather elements (wind, rain, cold)
- Improve grip and control on handlebars
- Reduce vibration and fatigue during long rides
Materials:
Motorcycle gloves are typically made from:
- Leather (most common, especially for protective gloves)
- Synthetic materials (e.g., Cordura, Kevlar)
- Textile blends (for improved breathability and weather resistance)
Types of Motorcycle Gloves:
- Racing Gloves:
- Pre-curved finger sections for better fit and reduced fatigue
- Advanced protection features (titanium or carbon panels for knuckles and joints)
- Additional wrist and palm protection
- Often have pinky finger attached to ring finger to prevent overextension
- Touring Gloves:
- Focus on comfort for long rides
- May include advanced insulating materials
- Often feature waterproof, breathable fabrics
- Balanced protection and comfort
- Summer/Mesh Gloves:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Offer less protection but better ventilation
- Suitable for hot weather riding
- Winter/Thermal Gloves:
- Insulated for cold weather protection
- Often waterproof and windproof
- May have longer gauntlets to seal out drafts
- Off-road/Motocross Gloves:
- Emphasis on flexibility and ventilation
- Reinforced palms for improved grip
- Less focus on impact protection compared to road gloves
Key Features:
- Reinforced palms for abrasion resistance
- Gauntlets to protect wrists and seal out drafts
- Knuckle protection (plastic, carbon fiber, or armored padding)
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips for device use
- Ventilation systems for improved airflow
- Closure systems (velcro, zippers, or snaps) for secure fit
Safety Standards:
In Europe, protective motorcycle gloves must display CE marking. The European Standard EN 13594:2015 classifies gloves into two levels:
- Level 1: Basic protection
- Level 2: Advanced protection (includes mandatory knuckle protection)
Scaphoid Protection:
- Scaphoid injuries are common in motorcycle accidents
- Some gloves feature hard plastic scaphoid protectors
- These protectors aim to reduce fracture risk by encouraging the hand to slide rather than grip the road surface during a fall
- Some manufacturers use materials like stingray leather or SuperFabric for similar protective effects
Fit and Sizing:
Proper fit is crucial for both comfort and protection:
- Gloves should be snug but not restrictive
- Fingers should reach the end of the glove fingers without excess material
- No gaps should be present between the glove and the wrist
Maintenance:
- Clean according to manufacturer’s instructions
- Leather gloves may require conditioning to maintain suppleness
- Replace gloves if they show signs of wear or damage
Comparison of Glove Types:
| Type | Protection Level | Weather Suitability | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Racing | Highest | Moderate | Advanced armor, pre-curved fingers |
| Touring | High | All-weather | Insulation, waterproofing |
| Summer | Low to Moderate | Hot | Ventilation, lightweight |
| Winter | Moderate to High | Cold | Insulation, windproofing |
| Off-road | Moderate | Varied | Flexibility, ventilation |
When choosing motorcycle gloves, riders should consider their riding style, typical weather conditions, and desired level of protection. It’s often recommended to have multiple pairs of gloves to suit different riding conditions and seasons[1].
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