Alpinestars Stella Sp-8 V3 Gloves Review: MotoGP Protection for Women Riders?

With so many options on the market ranging from cheap to ultra-premium, it can be tricky to find the ideal balance of safety, comfort, and value.

When I came across the Alpinestars SP-8 women’s gloves boasting MotoGP-derived technology for women for just over $100, I had to put them to the test. Do these gloves deliver professional levels of impact protection at an affordable price point?

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best women’s motorcycle track gloves?. Let’s find out!

Our Verdict On The Alpinestars Stella Sp-8 V3 Gloves

Having tested my fair share of motorcycle gloves (1), I’m quite impressed by the Alpinestars SP-8 model. Its robust protection brings a level of safety typically reserved for high-end women’s racing gloves down to an accessible price point.

According to my research, these race gloves incorporate technology derived from much costlier MotoGP gear intended for professional competition.

In my experience, most sub-$150 gloves cut corners on armor to save money, leaving riders underprotected. By contrast, the molded knuckle protector on the SP-8 feels reassuringly sturdy.

I’ve been involved in a low side crash wearing cheaper Icon gloves, resulting in minor hand injuries—something I believe the Alpinestars could have prevented.

I strongly believe the SP-8 gloves occupy a sweet spot between hardcore track gloves and basic street gear.

While they understandably lack some premium features like waterproof membranes or insulation, their combination of MotoGP pedigree protection, flexible comfort, and ventilation remains unmatched for all-around street use in my opinion.

For riders seeking more reassurance than style-focused options without breaking the bank, the SP-8 earns my recommendation.

Comparison with Similar Gloves

Glove	Key Features
Alpinestars SP-8	Moto-GP-derived protection, pre-shaped comfort, ventilation
Icon Anthem 2	Minimal armor, stretch panels, patterns
Held Sambia 2	Waterproof GORE-TEX, PrimaLoft insulation, hard knuckle
Sedici Lucca	Leather palm, flexible panels, touchscreen fingertips
Bilt Tempest	Mesh for airflow, foam padding, hook-loop closure

Introduction

Choosing quality motorcycle gloves is crucial for impact and abrasion resistance in a slide. While racing gloves offer extreme protection, they sacrifice flexibility and ventilation.

Meanwhile, I find most street gloves lack adequate armor despite constant traffic risks. That’s why I was eager to evaluate if the Alpinestars SP-8 gloves could bridge this gap with MotoGP-level safety for street use.

Overview of Features

• Gauntlet-style coverage – Long cuffs reinforce the wrist area and integrate straps for a locked-in fit.
• MotoGP derived knuckle – Hard TPU armor similar to Alpinestars MotoGP gloves.
• Finger protection – Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) foam finger sliders with ventilation holes.
• The bridge connects fingers and prevents finger separation during crashes.
• Reinforced landing zones – Extra abrasion resistance in high-impact zones.
• Pre-curved design – Shaped to match natural hand contour.

Pros

Serious Protection

• The molded knuckle protector feels firm and provides excellent coverage.
• Finger sliders seem durable, with no squishy foam parts that could easily tear.
• Hardshell TPU cuff armor boosts coverage.
• Extra palm padding shields the vulnerable heel of the hand area.
• Materials feel thicker than typical street gloves.
• Bridge prevents finger separation.

Secure and Comfortable Fit

• The pre-curved shape allows great feel and flexibility.
• Gauntlet opening wide enough for jacket sleeve overlap.
• Closure straps prevent slipping and customize the fit.
• Spandex gussets aid wrist flexibility when tightened.
• Works fine; operating clutch/brake controls are even fully secured.

Impressive Airflow

• Mesh liner underneath perforations circulates airflow.
• Finger sliders have holes to prevent heat buildup inside.
• Thin, supple feel doesn’t trap heat like bulky gloves.

Partial Water Resistance

• Goat leather and nylon materials bead light moisture well initially.
• However, no waterproof liner, so heavy rain or puddles will soak through over time.

Cons

• Minimal pinky protection
• Limited touchscreen compatibility
• Insufficient cold weather insulation

The Alpinestars SP-8 gloves stand out in this group for their robust protection from technologies used in professional racing gloves.

By contrast, the other street and touring-focused gloves here prioritize maximum comfort and airflow over impact resistance.

However, the SP-8 retains impressive flexibility and breathability despite the armor. So, riders looking for more protection for street use will appreciate the Alpinestars’ blend of safety and comfort compared to the alternatives.

Summary: The Alpinestars provide the best combination of protection, comfort, and airflow for street riding based on my testing.

Key Features Explained

Full Gauntlet Coverage

Gauntlet-style gloves fully enclose the wrist for safety against hyper-extension injuries. Long cuffs also overlap jacket sleeves effectively.

MotoGP Derived Protection

Alpinestars utilizes similar knuckle armor across its racing and street gloves. Therefore, the SP-8 incorporates technology trickled down from MotoGP rather than minimal parts re-purposed for cost savings.

Pre-shaped Comfort

Many gloves utilize flat patterns stitched together, but pre-shaping each SP-8 to match the natural grip position enhances the fit. This anatomical design removes any binding or tightness when riding.

FAQs

Would these gloves work for adventure touring?

Yes, the combination of abrasion, impact, and tear-resistant materials provides excellent protection for on and off-road riding. The SP-8 strikes an ideal balance of flexibility for operating controls all day long during multi-day trips.

How does the sizing run?

I suggest ordering a size down from your usual glove size. Alpinestar gloves typically fit looser for layering under race suits. So unless you need room for gauntlet liners, get the smaller size for security.

How durable is the conductive fingertip?

Alpinestars doesn’t specify how long the conductive panel lasts. Moderate use should maintain touchscreen compatibility for a few seasons before abrasion wears through the thin coating.

And Finally…

The Alpinestars SP-8 gloves punch far above their price bracket for features, quality, and protection. While lacking some premium components like full waterproofing and insulation, the gloves still hold up for serious street riding needs.

I award top marks for abrasion resistance against tarmac. The molded knuckles with high-density padding should perform admirably in most crashes traveling street speeds.

Overall, the SP-8 now represents my new go-to street riding gloves. I eagerly recommend them to fellow riders seeking ultimate protection balanced with long-distance comfort.

Let me know your thoughts on these gloves versus other options you’ve tested!

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Sources: MOTORCYCLE PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: (1)