With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which gloves are right for your needs and budget. That’s where the Alpinestars SP8 V3 gloves come in.
In this Alpinestars SP8 V3 review, we’ll dive into the standout qualities that make these gloves a top choice for riders seeking protection and performance. Discover whether the SP8 V3 is the ultimate glove for your street rides or track days.
But first, the main question I will answer in this review is: Are the SP8 V3 gloves the best gloves for protection with maximum comfort? Let’s find out!
Alpinestars SP8 V3 Gloves
The Verdict – Ideal for Safety-Focused Street & Light Track Riding
The Alpinestars SP8 V3 gloves live up to expectations as the brand’s superior street riding glove, offering an optimal blend of flexibility, airflow, and impact protection.
While priced under $100, these thoughtfully engineered gloves can handle aggressive canyon riding while remaining comfortable during multi-hour days.
Consider the SP8 V3 glove if:
- You demand substantial protection for street & light track riding
- Breathability and comfort are concerns
- You want robust protection WITHOUT extreme racing ergonomics
However, I’d still choose a track-focused glove for hardcore racing or competition use.
For most riders who log serious street miles or occasional track days while insisting on security, Alpinestars’ upgraded SP8 V3 glove should top your wish list. These do-it-all gloves raise the bar for premium riding gear below $100.
A Complete Overview of Alpinestars’ Flagship SP8 V3 Gloves
The SP8 V3 is Alpinestars’ flagship street riding glove, redesigned this year to offer upgraded protection and improved comfort. As of this review, the SP8 V3 has an MSRP of $99.95.
This robust glove uses a combination of goatskin leather, synthetic leather, and textile panels strategically placed to balance protection, breathability, and flexibility.
Key features include:
- Goatskin leather & abrasion-resistant synthetics
- Knuckle and finger protection
- Gauntlet closure for secure fit
- Touchscreen-compatible index finger
- Pre-curved design
- Silicone finger grip
- Flex panels for comfort
With a completely redesigned construction featuring the latest technology, could the SP8 V3 claim the title of the ultimate riding glove? Let’s analyze how these gloves (1) perform.
Sizing & Fit – True to Size for Comfort
I typically wear a size 2XL glove, and the SP8 V3 in 2XL fits me perfectly. Based on my experience, these athletic-fitting gloves seem true to size.
I’d recommend ordering your usual glove size for a comfortable fit that moves with your hands. The pre-curved design and stretch fabric gussets aid flexibility when operating controls.
Thanks to the adjustable wrist closure, secure gauntlet, and TPR hook-and-loop tab, the SP8 V3 stays firmly in place without squeezing. This glove should accommodate most riders seeking a precise fit.
A Protective Design Improving Upon Alpinestars’ Past Gloves
Unlike basic riding gloves relying solely on leather, the SP8 V3 incorporates multiple protective features designed to shield your hands.
The molded rubberized knuckle guard offers impact absorption should your hands hit the ground or another object. Finger bridges add support between the pinky and ring fingers, while injected memory foam padding on the fingers protects from abrasion.
Synthetic leather overlays bolster high-wear areas, and silicone grip print on the inner fingers enhances the feel and control of the bars and controls.
Balancing Protection, Breathability & Flexibility
While robust leather and abrasion-resistant textiles provide substantive impact protection, Alpinestars strategically located perforated leather, textile fabric, and stretch microfiber panels to allow greater airflow and flexibility compared to fully leather options.
The SP8’s combinations of materials masterfully balance key elements every rider wants:
Protection – Leather, rubber shields, memory foam
Breathability – Perforations and textile insets
Flexibility – Pre-curved shape, articulated fingers, stretch fabric
This ingenious design remains protective while ensuring comfort mile after mile.
Everyday Usability – Touchscreen Fingertip Adds Modern Convenience
Beyond offering hardcore hand protection for riding, the SP8 V3 glove incorporates subtle amenities, making it more pleasant to wear daily.
The conductive index fingertip allows easy use of touchscreen phones and GPS systems without removing your glove. Whether tapping out a text or programming your next destination, you can access your devices on the go.
A handy squeegee on the left thumb clears visor moisture, keeping your line of sight clear when you need it most.
Value – Robust Features Justify The Price Point
Considering its robust protective construction, the SP8 V3 glove provides commendable value.
The premium materials, engineered flex zones, and protective features incorporated into its design solidly justify this moderate price point.
While costing less than elite racing gloves, the SP8 still outperforms many comparably priced options.
Given its balance of premium elements and reasonable cost, value-focused riders should view the SP8 V3 as a high-quality glove punching above its price.
FAQ: Alpinestars SP8 V3 Gloves
Are the SP8 V3 gloves fully waterproof?
No. Although abrasion-resistant, the materials used allow some water seepage during heavy rain. For complete water protection, choose Alpinestars’ waterproof gloves.
How long should these gloves last?
With proper care, you can expect 1-2 seasons of frequent use before considering replacement. High-wear areas may show earlier signs of aging.
What is the wrist closure made of?
The SP8 V3 uses a Velcro brand hook-and-loop wrist strap for secure closure.
Do these provide more airflow than older SP-8 models?
Yes. Strategic mesh panel placement allows better airflow compared to past versions for improved comfort, especially in warmer weather.
Can I get replacement palm sliders?
No, palm sliders were not incorporated in the SP8 V3 glove. Alpinestars offers several track-focused gloves featuring replaceable sliders.
And finally…
The Alpinestars SP8 V3 glove demonstrates why this brand remains an elite manufacturer after over 55 years.
Blending premium construction with comfort features at an attractive sub-$100 price point, the SP8 V3 is built for aggressive riders who value security on demanding rides.
If ultimate impact protection matters most for logging street miles and occasionally attacking corners on a closed course, the SP8 V3 remains an excellent choice, earning our recommendation.
Riders needing race-grade performance should look to Alpinestars’ higher-tier offerings.
Now, we want to hear from you – share your experience with the SP8 V3 gloves in the comments below!
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment: (1)