Alpinestars WR-1 V2 Gloves Review: Winter Ridiesng Game Changer?

As a leading manufacturer in the motorcycle gear industry, Alpinestars has designed the Alpinestars WR-1 V2 glov to cater to the needs of riders who demand exceptional functionality and a touch of classic style.

In this detailed Alpinestars WR-1 v2 GTX review, I’ll evaluate one of the top options for cold-weather gloves: the Alpinestars WR-1 V2 Gore-Tex model.

But, the main question I will answer in this review is: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for cold weather for you? Let’s find out!

Alpinestars WR-1 V2

Alpinestars WR-1 v2 GTX Gloves Review

Key Takeaways

  • Reliable Gore-Tex waterproofing
  • Pre-shaped curving enhances comfort
  • Shock-absorbing palm and knuckle protection

Final Verdict on the Alpinestars WR-1 V2

The Gore-Tex membrane provides air-tight protection that keeps my hands pleasantly dry without trapping interior moisture or heat.

Yet they (1) retain a good level of flexibility and road feel thanks to considered design elements like the pre-curved shape, stretch fabric inserts, and grip-enhancing Gore technology.

I particularly like how Alpinestars selectively mapped insulation thickness to balance comfort and function.

Keeping the backs well-insulated against the cold while using slightly thinner insulation across the palm and fingers enhances control and sensitivity.

At no point during my wear of the WR-1 V2 did I feel disconnected from my bike or unable to operate critical controls accurately.

In my experience, finding winter gloves to achieve both warmth and tactile feedback is difficult. But the Alpinestars WR-1 V2 model comes impressively close to nailing that tricky combination.

Their prices do tend to fluctuate over time, so you may get lucky and score an awesome bargain if you check back periodically or sign up for stock alerts.

Before buying elsewhere, make sure to check RevZilla.com for special discount pricingOpens in a new tab. or availability notifications on them.

Their prices do tend to fluctuate over time, so you may get lucky and score an awesome bargain if you check back periodically or sign up for stock alerts.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While the WR-1 V2 delivers excellent cold and weather performance in the raid, they aren’t without a few disadvantages compared to other options.

Most notably, their $150 retail pricing positions them squarely in the premium bracket. For riders on a tight budget, cheaper non-Gore can also provide sufficient protection.

You truly need regular exposure to the harshest conditions to justify the V2’s expense.

The s winter-weight also renders them a bit overkill during warmer seasons. Don’t expect to comfortably wear these past 50 degrees or so, especially with liner layers underneath.

Similarly, their insulation and armor do marginally inhibit feel and dexterity versus more minimalist summer mitts.

While fine for light unpaved and gravel use, the WR-1 V2 isn’t ideal for rigorous off-road or adventure riding either.

The materials withstand abrasion decently but can’t take the same punishment as true motocross or dual sport gloves fitted with exterior hard shell guards and listening padding.

Finally, some riders may need to contend with a longer-than-average break-in period. Expect around 100 miles or so before the pre-curved shaping and construction truly conform to your hand’s relaxed shape. Out of the box, stiffness takes some time to soften up with body heat and repeated wear.

So, while mightily capable overall, the Alpinestars isn’t flawless. Riders expecting maximum ventilation, sensitivity, or ruggedness may want to evaluate if alternatives better align with their needs and budget.

Comparison to Similar Products

Product NameKey Features
Revit Stratos 3 GTXBreathable Hipora membrane; Prialoft lining; molded knuckle protectors
Klim Adventure GTX ShortGore-Tex raidproofing and lining; reinforced palm; pre-curved design; touchscreen fingertips
Joe Rocket Windchillfull leather windchill lining; injected molded knuckles; gauntlet closure

The Alpinestars WR-1 V2 has the advantage over the Stratos 3 GTX model through the utilization of premium Gore-Tex rainproofing rather than the Hipora membrane.

The Klim Adventure GTX is the closest rival with similar Gore-Tex, but the Alpinestars option offers better lining coverage and armor shielding.

Compared to the non-water-tight Rocket Windchill, the WR-1 V2 supplies critical temperature sealing for cold and wet riding.

Finally, the Corozal V2 is a lightweight alternative lacking the advanced lining that rivals can provide.

A Quick Intro to the Alpinestars WR-1 V2

The Alpinestars WR-1 has earned a reputation as some of the best cold-weather riding mitts around.

They utilize Gore-Tex rainproofing insulation to create versatile mitts that keep your paws warm and dry in a range of temperatures.

In their second generation V2 iteration, they build upon that solid foundation with a few key upgrades. Those include:

  • Enhanced dexterity and grip feel from Gore Grip technology
  • Strategic utilization of multiple Primaloft lining weights
  • Reflective accents for visibility
  • An enlarged gauntlet cuff for shielding

With winter riding, keeping your paws warm while retaining feel and control can be a difficult balancing act.

The WR-1 V2 aims to achieve both through specialized materials and clever design. But do they actually deliver on that promise on the road? Let’s take a deeper look.

A Serious Cold Weather Pair Of Mitts

Material selection and construction techniques are critical when designing gear for riding in frigid conditions.

Alpinestars pulled out all the stops for the WR-1 V2. Here are some of the key elements that set them apart:

Water Tight and Breathable Protection from Gore-Tex

An image showing the Waterproof and Breathable Protection from Gore-Tex

The Gore-Tex membrane used on these is the heart of their shielding. It’s both water-tight, preventing liquid from reaching your pawss, and breathable, allowing sweat vapor to escape. That’s essential to avoid a clammy interior as your hands perspire.

Alpinestars bonded the