Finding a pair of motorcycle gloves that balance protection, comfort, and affordability can be a challenge. The latest offering from Alpinestars, the SP5 gloves, seems to check all the boxes on paper with their mixture of leather and textile materials.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for hot weather for you?
Do the perforations and ventilation features outweigh any potential safety compromises compared to premium alternatives? After thoroughly testing the SP5s myself, I’ll cover whether these gloves live up to expectations or leave you empty-handed.
Alpinestars SP-5 Gloves Review
Our Alpinestars SP-5 Gloves Verdict
So, what’s my final verdict after extensively testing the new Alpinestars SP5 gloves? I dig the lightweight feel, supreme ventilation, and flexible comfort they provide.
Breathability is excellent thanks to perforations and mesh panels between fingers. They allow full dexterity for operating controls.
While I wish Alpinestars used full-grain cowhide leather instead of cheaper synthetic suede in places, the strategic reinforcements prevent premature wear failure.
For less than $100, you get decent quality and useful protection for warm weather riding. Just don’t expect winter insulation!
If you ride track or canyon carving in hot temperatures, I can certainly recommend the SP5 gloves. They represent a slightly cheaper alternative to the race-oriented SMX-2 Air Carbon gloves with improved comfort and airflow. Consider them as a lightweight brother to the burlier Seller Evo gloves.
The Alpinestars SP5 gloves aim to strike a balance between protection and comfort, using a mixture of materials to cut down on weight.
They feature goatskin leather panels along with synthetic suede and stretch microfiber fabric. Perforations provide airflow to keep your hands cool, even on hot summer rides.
These gloves also have touchscreen-compatible fingertip patches for using mobile devices without removing your gloves.
Comparison to Similar Gloves
| Product Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Revit Dirt 3 | Full grain goatskin construction, Mesh panels for ventilation, Plastic knuckle protection, Hook-and-loop wrist closure |
| Bilt Spirit 3 | Leather palm, Mesh backhand, Pre-curved design, Touchscreen compatible fingertips |
| Alpine Stars SMX-1 Air V2 | Perforated leather & mesh, Rubberized knuckle protection, Lycra finger gussets, Silicon grip palm |
The Alpinestars SP5 gloves are similar to the Revit Dirt 3 with their combination of leather and textile materials for ventilation. However, the SP5 uses more synthetic suede instead of full-grain leather in high-wear areas.
Compared to the affordable Bilt Spirit 3 gloves, the SP5 offers more substantial palm and knuckle protection for aggressive riding while matching the mesh panel airflow.
Finally, the Alpinestars SMX-1 Air V2 gloves are the most direct comparison as a lightweight, perforated sports glove. The SP5 looks like a viable budget alternative with some compromises on materials.
Sizing and Fit
I’m wearing an XL size in the SP5 gloves, which is consistent with Alpinestars’ sizing chart. I typically wear XL with most Alpinestars gloves unless they run small. The SP5 gloves have a pre-curved design that allows for a natural grip position on the handlebars.
There’s also an elastic insert on the wrist closure for flexibility when signaling turns or operating controls. I appreciate gloves that allow full mobility without restriction.
Alpinestars Men’s Glove Sizing
| SIZE | HAND (IN) |
|---|---|
| SM | 7.5-8 |
| MD | 8-8.5 |
| LG | 8.5-9 |
| XL | 9-9.5 |
| 2XL | 9.5-10 |
| 3XL | 10-11 |
Materials and Build Quality
The choice of materials is where the SP5 gloves seem to cut some corners compared to premium options like the Seller Evo.
While the Seller uses full-grain cowhide leather throughout, the SP5 opts for a lighter combo of goatskin, cowhide strips, and synthetic suede panels.
There’s perforated goatskin on the backhand, fingers, and palm. On the positive side, this perforated leather is extremely breathable for hot riding conditions.
However, I do notice the thinner feel of materials compared to my Seller gloves. For only $10-15 more, the Seller seems more hardwearing.
That said, Alpinestars hasn’t compromised much on safety features. You still get injected rubberized knuckle protection,
EVA foam padding in the palm and finger bridges to prevent seam failure. I just wish they used full-grain leather instead of synthetic suede on the outer fingers.
External stitching stands up better against abrasion. The TPU shinier plastic on the knuckles looks cool and adds impact resistance.
Comfort and Breathability
With mesh paneling between the fingers, perforations on the backhand leather, and stretch fabric inserts, the SP5 gloves offer superb airflow for warm-weather riding.
I rode for hours on a hot, sunny day, and my hands remained cool and dry throughout. The gloves are clearly designed for lightweight comfort, not winter weather protection.
The wrist closure features a micro Velcro strap, which secures the gloves firmly without pinching. It’s easy to tighten or loosen the fit on the go. Alpinestars nailed the comfort factors besides the slightly thinner leather.
Safety and Protection
While these gloves don’t provide quite as much coverage or insulation as some touring gloves, they still include useful safety features.
The hard rubberized knuckles supply extra impact absorption in a crash while remaining flexible for comfort. EVA foam padding dampens vibrations and relieves pressure in the palm area.
I would have preferred full-fingered bridge construction for extra tear resistance, but the double-layer bridge on the middle and ring fingers boosts safety.
Hopefully, the outer leather holds up against abrasion should you take a slide. For $100 gloves designed for hot weather sport riding, I think Alpinestars made reasonable choices.
Fit for Intended Use
So, who are the SP5 gloves designed for? As the successor to the SP-2 gloves, I consider them lightweight warm/hot weather sport-riding gloves.
They strike a nice balance between flexibility and protection. The perforations and cooling mesh make them unsuitable for cold weather, so look elsewhere if you ride through winter. In my opinion, they lack the insulation and weather protection required for cold or wet riding.
Value and Cost
With an MSRP under $100, I think the SP5 gloves deliver decent value. The main caveat is that for another $15-20, you could get Alpinestars’ premium Seller Evo glove.
It uses full-grain leather instead of cheaper synthetic panels, so it should withstand crashes better. However, the Seller isn’t perforated, so they would be miserable in the summer heat! For hot weather riding, the cooling performance of the SP5 is a plus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the Alpinestars SP5 and Seller Evo gloves?
The SP5 uses a combination of goatskin leather, perforated panels, and synthetic suede, while the premium Seller Evo relies on full-grain cowhide for maximum abrasion resistance. However, the SP5 offers much better ventilation and breathability by design.
How do the SP5 gloves fit?
They are very consistent with Alpinestars glove sizing, so follow the size chart. I wore my usual glove size in XL, and they fit perfectly with enough adjustability at the wrist.
Are the SP5 waterproof gloves?
No, they are summer riding gloves only. The perforated leather and mesh panels will soak through quickly in wet weather. They lack any waterproof membrane.
Can you use touchscreens with the SP5 gloves on?
Yes, conductive fingertip patches allow the use of touchscreen mobile devices without removing the gloves. This a handy feature you don’t always get on racing gloves.
And Finally…
Overall I rate the Alpinestars SP5 gloves 4 out 5 stars. The superb airflow and ventilation make them some of the best summer riding gloves for under $100. While I prefer the construction of Alpinestars’ premium options, the SP5 gloves still perform well for spirited sports riding and Canyon carving in hot temperatures.
I’m curious: What has your experience been with lightweight summer motorcycle gloves? Do you prioritize ventilation and dexterity over ultimate crash protection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment (1)