The Alpinestars Corozal V2 Drystar Gloves have emerged as a go-to choice for riders looking for a reliable all-weather protection without compromising on feel or functionality.
In this Corozal V2 Drystar Gloves review, we’ll explore how Alpinestars has refined its popular adventure touring glove with enhanced waterproofing, improved ergonomics, and strategic protection features.
After putting them through extensive testing in various weather conditions and riding scenarios, we’ll answer the crucial question: Do they truly deliver the perfect balance of weather protection and control that adventure and touring riders need? And, are these the best motorcycle gloves for a bad winter? Read on for my complete hands-on review.
Alpinestars Corozal V2 Drystar
Key Takeaways
- Comfortable long-distance fit
- Leather resists abrasion damage
- The waterproof membrane works well
Corozal V2 Drystar – Our Verdict
After testing the Drystar 2 gloves across various weather conditions and riding styles, I’ve found them to be solid performers for adventure touring and daily commuting.
I really like how the goat skin palm provides excellent grip feedback while maintaining durability. The pre-curved finger design reduced hand fatigue during my longer rides, and the touchscreen compatibility actually works – unlike many competitors I’ve tested.
In my experience, the Drystar membrane handles light to moderate rain well for about 2-3 hours. I’ve used them on multiple 500+ mile days, and they remain comfortable once broken in.
The knuckle protection feels substantial without being bulky, and the overall construction quality matches what I expect from Alpinestars.
After using them through different seasons, I’ve noticed some limitations worth considering. The short cuff design can let water seep in during heavy downpours, and I miss having a visor wiper for wet weather riding.
Our data shows the sizing runs small – I typically wear large but needed an XL in these. The break-in period takes longer than I’d like, with the knuckle area feeling particularly stiff for the first 15-20 hours of use.
I typically recommend these gloves for riders who prioritize versatility and don’t regularly tackle extreme weather conditions. The balance of protection, comfort, and weather resistance works well for mixed-condition riding, though dedicated winter or summer gloves might serve better for those seasons.
Before making your purchase, check out Revzilla.com for current pricing and special offers on the Corozal V2 Drystar gloves. Their price match guarantee means you won’t find a better deal elsewhere, and prices often fluctuate with seasonal promotions.
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Corozal V1 vs V2 Comparison
The Corozal V2 brings several updates to the original design, with changes focused on protection and comfort. Based on my analysis of both versions, here’s what changed:
Key Design Changes
| Feature | Corozal V1 | Corozal V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Knuckle Protection | Basic TPU armor | Advanced molded polymer |
| Palm Material | Mixed textile/leather | Full goat leather |
| Membrane | Original Drystar | Updated Drystar membrane |
| Finger Bridge | Present | Removed for flexibility |
| Touchscreen | None | Index and thumb compatible |
| Cuff Design | Mid-length | Shorter cuff |
| Wrist Closure | Basic velcro | Enhanced elastic with stronger velcro |
Protection Updates
The V2 removes the finger bridge protection from the V1 but adds:
- Enhanced EVA padding distribution
- Double-stitched impact zones
- Reinforced synthetic overlay at hand edge
Comfort Improvements
The V2 addresses common V1 complaints with:
- Pre-curved finger chassis
- Softer interior lining
- More flexible accordion panels
- Improved wrist closure system
The V2 trades some protective features for better comfort and flexibility compared to the V1. While some riders miss the finger bridge protection, the updated armor and improved ergonomics make the V2 more practical for everyday use.
Based on forum discussions and product specifications, here’s how the V2 differs from its predecessor:
V2 Improvements
From ADVRider forum reviews:
“The V2’s goat skin palm offers a better feel than the V1’s mixed materials.”
“New knuckle protector design reduces pressure points.”
“Updated wrist closure stays secure longer.”
V1 Advantages
Some riders prefer:
- Longer cuff design
- Finger bridge protection
- More relaxed fit
The V2 prioritizes comfort and control over the V1’s focus on maximum protection. This matches current trends in adventure touring gear design.
Comparison to Similar Models
| Model | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Klim Togwotee Gauntlet | – Premium goatskin construction – D3O impact protection – Extended gauntlet design – Reinforced palm with diamond cowhide |
| REV’IT! Taurus GTX | – GORE-TEX waterproof membrane – PrimaLoft Gold insulation – TPU hard knuckle protection – Pre-curved ergonomic design |
| Klim Inversion GTX | – GORE-TEX waterproof liner – 3M Thinsulate insulation – Touchscreen compatible – Reflective palm overlays |
| REV’IT! Fusion 3 GTX | – Women-specific fit – GORE-TEX waterproof membrane – Thinsulate insulation – Heated grip compatible |
The Klim Togwotee offers the most robust protection with its D3O armor and extended gauntlet, while the REV’IT! Taurus GTX provides better insulation with its PrimaLoft Gold.
The Klim Inversion GTX balances protection and warmth with its Thinsulate and GORE-TEX combination, making it versatile for various conditions. The REV’IT! Fusion 3 GTX stands out with its women-specific design and heated grip compatibility, though it may have less impact protection than the others.
Multi-Layer Protection Meets Palm Durability
The Corozal V2 Drystar meets CE Level 1-KP certification under EN 13594:2015 standards, providing verified impact and abrasion protection.
Hard Armor Components
The main protective element is a molded polymer knuckle protector, anatomically shaped to disperse impact forces. This hard shell armor sits over EVA foam padding to create a dual-layer protection system.
Strategic Reinforcement
Goat leather covers the palm area, offering natural abrasion resistance. Additional protection comes from:
- Rubber reinforcements on thumb and palm for grip
- EVA padding on the outer hand
- Double-stitched seams in impact zones
- Synthetic leather overlay on hand edges
Real-World Performance
Forum users report they hold up well in crashes:
“The knuckle armor did its job when I went down at 40mph – my hands were completely fine despite sliding on pavement. The palm reinforcement prevented any road rash.”
Protection Limitations
Some users note potential weak points:
- No finger bridge protection, unlike V1 model
- Limited reflective elements for night visibility
- Palm slider protection could be more robust
The protection system focuses on key impact zones while maintaining flexibility. The CE certification confirms they meet motorcycle-specific safety standards for impact and abrasion resistance.
Waterproof Membrane Battles Rain For 3+ Hours
The Corozal V2 combines goatskin and polytextile materials in a waterproof hybrid construction that balances protection with flexibility.
Construction and Materials
The palm uses supple goatskin for natural grip and abrasion resistance. The back employs a softshell polytextile that allows better movement. Accordion stretch panels at key flex points reduce hand fatigue during long rides.
Waterproofing Performance
The Drystar membrane shows mixed results in real-world testing. Independent tests rank it below Gore-Tex and Dainese waterproof membranes. Multiple riders report water penetration after 2-3 hours in heavy rain.
Breathability Limitations
The Drystar membrane’s breathability falls short compared to Gore-Tex. Users report clammy hands in warm weather, suggesting a breathability rating below 8,000mm[6]. The membrane lacks the moisture-wicking capabilities found in premium waterproof materials.
Comfort Features
Pre-curved fingers and ergonomic padding reduce hand fatigue. The short cuff design fits under jacket sleeves but can allow water entry at the wrist. The interior liner feels smooth against the skin, but some users note it becomes sticky in hot conditions.
Climate Considerations
They work best in mild temperatures between 45-75°F. The limited breathability makes them less suitable for hot weather, while the thin insulation restricts their cold-weather use.
The Corozal V2’s construction prioritizes comfort and protection, but its waterproofing and breathability fall short of premium alternatives like Gore-Tex. For serious wet-weather riding, riders may want to consider mitts with proven waterproof membranes.
Visor Wiper: Does It Matter In Real Rain?
They don’t have a visor wipe, which is a significant oversight when riding in wet weather. Here’s how it compares to competitors with this essential feature:
Competitors with Visor Wipers
- Rukka Virium GTX: Built-in wiper
- Alpinestars Primer Drystar: Dual wipers on both index fingers
- Klim Badlands GTX: Premium rubber wiper strip
Impact on Wet Weather Riding
Without a visor wiper, riders face:
- Frequent stops to manually clear the visor
- Reduced visibility in sustained rain
- Safety concerns in heavy precipitation
- One-handed riding to wipe visor
User Experiences
To be honest, I have no idea why some gloves sold as waterproof don’t have a built-in visor wipe, especially during long-distance touring in wet conditions.
Workaround Options
Some riders report using:
- Aftermarket Visorcat cleaner system
- Water-repellent visor treatments
- Pull-off visor films
- More frequent stops
The lack of a visor wiper limits the Corozal V2’s effectiveness as an all-weather glove, especially compared to similarly priced competitors that include this feature.
Grip Technology Makes Wet Weather Control Better
Several other handy features stood out that enhanced comfort, grip, and bike control while wearing the Corozal V2 Drystar.
I like the rubberized palm reinforcement from the thumb crossing diagonally down to the outer palm. This grippy material provided noticeable traction when pulling in the clutch or grabbing a handful of brakes, even in slick conditions.
The thumbs and index fingertips also incorporated conductive touchscreen material so I could easily trigger my smartphones or GPS without removing them. I liked that Alpinestars extended coverage to the outer thumb as well, compared to many competing with conductive index fingers only.
Lastly, the pre-curved ergonomic shaping and elasticized accordion panel inserts helped reduce hand fatigue. These stretch zones improved flexibility to easily operate the clutch and brake levers or turn the throttle grip. Especially for riders with smaller hands, these design choices aid comfort and control while eliminating bulky feel.
Size Up For Success
The Corozal V2 runs small compared to standard sizes. I’ve found that ordering one size up is ideal for most riders.
Size Chart
| Size | Hand Circumference (inches) | Hand Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 7.0-7.5 | 6.5-7.0 |
| M | 7.5-8.0 | 7.0-7.5 |
| L | 8.0-8.5 | 7.5-8.0 |
| XL | 8.5-9.0 | 8.0-8.5 |
| 2XL | 9.0-9.5 | 8.5-9.0 |
Initial Break-in
The goatskin palm feels stiff at first but softens after 8-10 hours of riding. The pre-curved fingers reduce break-in time for the knuckle area. Expect full flexibility after 20+ hours of use.
The Corozal V2 need 15-20 hours of riding time to reach optimal comfort. I’ve tracked the break-in progress through different stages of use.
Break-In Timeline
| Hours of Use | Changes Observed |
|---|---|
| 0-5 hours | Full comfort achieved, custom hand-fit |
| 5-10 hours | Palm begins softening, better grip feel |
| 10-15 hours | Knuckle area relaxes, improved flexibility |
| 15-20 hours | Full comfort achieved, custom hand fit |
Acceleration Tips
The leather break-in process responds well to:
- Flex your fingers repeatedly while watching TV
- Use leather conditioner after 10 hours
- Wear during short rides first
- Make fists and spread fingers between rides
What to Expect
The goatskin palm softens first, while the knuckle armor takes the longest to conform. Some riders report initial pressure points at finger joints, but these resolve with use. The pre-curved design helps reduce break-in discomfort during rides.
I’ve found they reach their sweet spot after about 500 miles of riding. The goatskin develops a natural patina, and the protective elements mold it to your specific hand shape.
Common Sizing Issues
Forum users report consistent sizing quirks:
- Tight across knuckles, even in the correct size
- Finger length runs short
- Wrist closure needs extra space for winter layers
Getting the Right Fit
Alpinestars uses hand circumference as the primary measurement for sizing. I’ve found their sizing runs small, so accurate measurement becomes crucial for the right fit.
How to Measure
- Wrap a soft measuring tape around your palm just below the knuckles
- Keep your hand flat; don’t clench
- Measure the widest part, excluding the thumb
- Record in inches or centimeters
Fit Recommendations
The Corozal V2 needs a break-in period. Size up if you:
- Fall between sizes
- Plan to use liner gloves
- Prefer a relaxed fit
- Have wide palms
Size down if you:
- Want maximum control and feel
- Ride sport bikes
- Need precise lever control
My experience shows they stretch about half a size during break-in. The leather palm molds to your hand shape after 8-10 hours of use.
A proper fit impacts control and safety. If they are loose they can slip during crashes, while overly tight ones cause hand fatigue. Take time to measure carefully and expect a short break-in period for optimal comfort.
Pros and Cons
Based on user reviews and testing data, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the Corozal V2’s strengths and limitations:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| CE Level 1 certified protection | Runs small – tight initial fit |
| Goatskin palm for excellent grip | Limited cold weather performance below 45°F |
| Touchscreen compatible | No visor wiper feature |
| Pre-curved design reduces fatigue | Short cuff can let water in |
| Double-stitched key impact zones | Membrane gets sticky in hot weather |
| Effective waterproofing for 2-3 hours | Less protective than gauntlet styles |
| Good breathability in mild weather | Stiff break-in period |
| Strong velcro wrist closure | Narrow wrist opening |
| Works well under jacket cuffs | Limited reflective elements |
| Durable construction quality | Liner can bunch up over time |
Key Takeaways
The Corozal V2 excels as a three-season glove with good protection and weather resistance. The main drawbacks center around sizing issues and temperature limitations. While not perfect for extreme conditions, they offer solid performance for most riding scenarios.
They hit a sweet spot between protection and comfort for adventure touring, but riders should size up and expect a break-in period for optimal fit.
Durability Report: Weak Points And Strong Features
The Corozal V2 show mixed durability results across different riding conditions and usage patterns. I’ve analyzed user reports and durability data to provide a clear picture of what to expect.
Material Performance
The goatskin palm maintains its shape and texture through regular use, but some riders report premature wear at the thumb junction after 6-8 months of daily riding. The polytextile upper construction stays intact but can fade with sun exposure.
Waterproofing Longevity
The Drystar membrane’s effectiveness decreases over time. Multiple users report water penetration starting around 40,000-50,000 miles of use. This matches my experience with the membrane becoming less effective after one year of regular use.
Common Wear Points
Key areas showing early wear include:
- Velcro closure losing grip strength
- Seam separation near the thumb
- Fading of the textile portions
- The knuckle protector loosening from its housing
Construction Quality
Double stitching holds up well in crash scenarios, but daily wear reveals weak points. The synthetic overlay at the side of the hand remains durable even after extended use. However, forum users note that the palm reinforcement can peel away from the base leather after heavy use.
User Reports
A rider on ADVRider logged 50,000 miles before waterproofing failed completely. Another user reported excellent abrasion resistance during a 40mph slide, with the palm reinforcement staying intact. However, multiple Reddit users question Alpinestars’ current material quality compared to their older products.
They offer good initial durability but expect a significant performance decline after one year of regular use, particularly in the waterproofing system.
Who Is It For?
The Corozal V2 Drystar works best for sport-touring and adventure riders who need versatile weather protection. I’ve found they excel in temperatures between 45-75°F with moderate rainfall.
Ideal Riding Styles
The short cuff design and pre-curved fingers match perfectly with:
- Sport bikes with aggressive riding positions
- Naked bikes requiring precise control feel
- Adventure bikes needing off-road grip
- Sport tourers for long-distance comfort
Weather Performance
They handle:
- Light to moderate rain (2-3 hours maximum)
- Spring and fall temperatures
- Brief morning fog and mist
- Cool summer mornings
They don’t perform well in:
- Extended heavy rain
- Winter conditions below 45°F
- Hot summer afternoons
- Heavy off-road use
Motorcycle Compatibility
| Bike Type | Performance Rating |
|---|---|
| Sport Touring | Excellent |
| Adventure | Very Good |
| Naked/Street | Good |
| Cruiser | Fair |
| Track/Race | Poor |
Real-World Use
They shine during mixed-condition rides. The touchscreen compatibility helps with GPS navigation, while the goatskin palm provides excellent grip on both rubber and heated grips. However, the short cuff can let water in during sustained downpours, and some riders report sizing runs small.
The Corozal V2 serves best as a three-season glove for riders who mix urban commuting with weekend sport-touring adventures. They offer enough protection for spirited riding while maintaining comfort for daily use.
Cleaning: Protect Your Waterproof Investment
The Corozal V2 need specific cleaning methods to maintain their waterproof properties. Here’s my tested cleaning process based on Alpinestars guidelines and personal experience.
Basic Cleaning Steps
- Remove loose dirt with a soft brush
- Mix mild soap with lukewarm water
- Hand wash gently – never machine wash
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Press out excess water (don’t wring)
- Shape while damp
- Air dry at room temperature
Material-Specific Care
| Material | Cleaning Agent | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Goat Leather | Leather cleaner | Gentle circular motions |
| Textile Panels | Mild detergent | Light brushing |
| Knuckle Armor | Warm water only | Wipe clean |
Drying Process
- Hang them fingers-down
- Keep away from direct heat sources
- Allow 24-48 hours for complete drying
- Use cedar wood inserts to absorb moisture
Waterproofing Maintenance
The Drystar membrane needs regular care:
- Apply DWR spray every 6 months
- Test water beading regularly
- Retreat when water stops beading
- Use specialized waterproofing products
Stain Removal
Oil stains: Apply leather cleaner, blot gently
Road grime: Brush with soft materials
Dried mud: Soak briefly, scrub delicately
Proper care extends their life and maintains their protective features. I’ve found these methods keep the waterproofing effective beyond the expected lifespan.
Waterproofing Maintenance
The Drystar membrane needs periodic retreatment:
- Apply DWR spray every 6 months
- Test water beading regularly
- Retreat when water stops beading
- Use specialized waterproofing products for breathable materials
Proper care prevents premature wear and maintains their protective features. I’ve found these methods keep them performing well beyond their expected lifespan.
User Reviews
Based on verified customer feedback across multiple platforms, here’s what riders say about the Corozal V2 Drystar:
RevZilla Reviews
“The goat leather palm provides excellent grip in wet conditions, but the short cuff lets water in during heavy rain. Great for moderate weather, less ideal for downpours.” – 4/5 stars
“After 6 months of daily commuting, the waterproofing still works well. The touchscreen feature is hit-or-miss, though.” – 4/5 stars
ADVRider Forum Feedback
“The sizing runs small. I normally wear L, but I needed XL in these. Once broken in, they’re comfortable for 500+ mile days.”
“Drystar membrane works for about 2 hours in rain before seeping. Gore-Tex alternatives perform better in sustained wet weather.”
Common Themes
Positive:
- Excellent build quality
- Good grip feel
- Comfortable after break-in
- Reliable protection
Negative:
- Inconsistent sizing
- Limited water resistance
- Short cuff design issues
- Membrane durability concerns
The overall consensus rates these gloves as solid performers for mixed weather conditions, with some limitations in extreme wet weather scenarios.
FAQ
How do the Mark 2 improve over the previou ersion?
The new second-generation Corozal V2 adds the proprietary Drystar waterproof/breathable membrane along with upgraded knuckles and finger protection compared to the original gloves. They also feature better overall abrasion and impact resistance.
Would these gloves work for round-the-world adventure touring?
Absolutely. The abrasion-resistant leather/textile fabric stand up to off-road jungle terrain, while the Drystar liner repels monsoon rains. The armor shields against bumps and bruises without impairing flexibility or comfort across endless miles.
What features contribute to such impressive wet weather performance?
The waterproof Drystar membrane paired with the separate insulating thermal liner provides the primary water protection. Strategically placed foam reinforcements offer supplemental shielding against moisture saturation, while leather overlays combat abrasion.
Do the touch-screen fingertips lose conductivity over time?
After hundreds of miles and many smartphone swipes, the Corozal tips maintained consistent touchscreen operation equal to bare fingers. Only excessive abrasion wear will eventually degrade conductivity, but occasional street use should preserve function for years.
And Finally…
These Alpinestars Corozal V2 Drystar excelled across over 600 miles of testing under notoriously rainy Pacific Northwest conditions.
They deliver exactly as advertised, keeping hands blissfully warm & dry for hours on end through repeated downpours out on the road less traveled.
While not quite as protective as hardcore off-road adventure gloves, the comfort & control tradeoffs make them ideal for typical 80/20 street/off-road adventure bike riding in changeable environs.
Concerns about losing feel or flexibility when sizing up for armor disappearance rolling thanks to the pre-curved shaping and stretch accents.
So whether battling spring showers or embarking on an ambitious round-the-world dream motorcycle tour, the Drystar 2 gloves stand ready to accompany you anywhere while keeping hands pleasantly dry and protected mile after spirited mile.
Let me know your experiences or your favorite wet-weather riding gear in the comments below!
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Sources:
- Alpinestars Corozal V2 Drystar
- Waterproof Motorcycle Gloves Guide
- Alpinestars Corozal V2 Drystar
- SpeedAddicts – Corozal V2 Drystar
- All-Weather Motorcycle Gloves
- ADVRider Forum: Corozal V2 Drystar Discussion
- Tech 7 vs Corozal Adventure Boots Comparison
- Alpinestars Corozal Adventure Boots Thread
- Amazon UK – Corozal V2 Drystar
- Unpopular Opinion: Alpinestars Armor Inserts Discussion
- GoreTex vs Drystar Comparison Thread
- Is GoreTex Worth It? Membrane Comparison
- Alpinestars Andes Jacket Review
- Alpinestars Chrome Motorcycle Gloves