As an avid rider and gearhead always searching out quality motorcycle products, CE certification on apparel grabs my attention.
But do the budget-friendly credentials on these new Bilwell motorcycle gloves come at the cost of truly protective winter weather performance?
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for winter for you? Let’s find out!
Biltwell Belden CE Glove Review
Key Takeaways
- Leather glove construction
- Reinforced abrasion protection
- Questionable insulation properties
Biltwell Belden Gloves- Our Verdict
While the Belden winter glove checks many boxes, I’m skeptical about its insulating properties for truly cold riding.
The perforated palm likely won’t seal out icy winds, and there doesn’t appear to be much interior fleece or insulation.
For temperate Fall/Spring rides, it should perform fine, but I doubt it will suffice as a standalone glove once the mercury dips below 45°F or so.
Perhaps the Lycra liner provides more warmth than expected. And layering a silk liner underneath may help boost insulation.
Still, winter riding often demands more robust protection against frigid temps, snow, freezing rain, and other hazards. So, I’ll be interested to see some real-world feedback from riders using the Belden glove in cold weather.
Personally, when shopping for winter motorcycle gloves (1), I look for full leather construction, few (if any) perforations, substantial interior insulation, and proven water resistance for handling snow. Options like heated grips and glove liners help extend the temperature range, too.
For these reasons, I usually stick with dedicated cold-weather brands like Rukka, Held, and Winter. They cost more but deliver heavyweight protection when needed.
**The Belden likely makes an excellent Fall or Spring glove, providing protection from abrasion and impacts without overheating.
But relying on it to keep hands warm and dry during the depths of winter seems risky.** Riders in temperate climates may find it perfectly sufficient as a 4-season glove.
However, I suggest layering or upgrading to a more insulated winter glove if you ride year-round in colder northern areas. But don’t just take my word for it…let me know your experience with the Belden gloves below!
Comparison to Similar Gloves
| Highway 21 Radiant Glove | Designed for hot weather with mesh panels and perforations for maximum airflow. Lacks significant abrasion or impact protection. Better for summer and warm climates. More limited cold weather functionality compared to Bilwell. |
|---|---|
| Klim Adventure GTX Short Glove | Gore-Tex construction provides guaranteed waterproofing and weather protection. PrimaLoft insulation retains warmth in cold conditions. A more premium winter glove but at a higher price point than the budget-oriented Bilwell. |
| 100% Hydromatic Waterproof Brisket Glove | Fully waterproof with sealed external face fabric. Designed specifically for wet weather and cold environments. Insulation is rated to work in temperatures as low as 14°F. More confidence-inspiring for winter and cold weather riding vs. the Bilwell glove. |
The Bilwell glove offers CE-rated protection at an affordable price point but may lack the weatherproofing and insulation required for truly cold winter riding conditions.
The linked alternatives provide useful points of comparison in terms of maximizing airflow, guaranteed waterproof membranes, or insulation for frigid temps.
A Trusted Name in Motorcycle Gear
For those unfamiliar with the Biltwell brand, they’re the same company behind the wildly popular Belden helmet.
Bilwell is known for simple yet smartly designed gear emphasizing protection and value. The Belden, in particular, has attracted hordes of riders for delivering premium features at a budget-friendly price point.
So naturally, there’s a lot of excitement around Bilwell’s foray into motorcycle gloves carrying the CE stamp of approval.
The certification confirms these gloves meet the latest European abrasion and impact standards for protective moto gear.
Specifically, the Belden gloves comply with Level 1 impact tests and Level A tests for abrasion resistance.
The Belden: Designed for Colder Weather
The Belden model reviewed is the winterized version, made of 100% leather construction. It adds extra reinforcement to the palm and other high-wear areas.
Perforations on the palm should help moisture escape, while a moisture-wicking lycra liner boosts comfort. There’s also velcro wrist adjustment and a wide range of colors to choose from.
The Belden: A Summer Glove Alternative
The Borrigo is basically a perforated variant of the Belden for warmer weather. It uses the same materials but adds airflow via perforations on the back.
This allows riders to get protection and comfort across changing seasonal temperatures. Based on initial assessments, both versions seem to provide great feel and dexterity.
Bilwell Belden Gloves: Key Specs
- Full leather construction (goatskin & cowhide)
- Extra palm reinforcement
- CE Level 1 impact protection
- CE Level A abrasion resistance
- Perforated palm and back (Borrigo only)
- Lycra moisture-wicking liner
- Multiple color options
- Velcro wrist closure
Rider Testimonials
“These gloves provide a good feel through the bars without limiting flexibility. Leather construction gives peace of mind when riding aggressively or hitting the canyon roads.”
“Surprisingly lightweight and comfortable right out of the box. Time will tell, but they seem durable enough for regular use while providing excellent tactile feel.”
“Perforations on my Borrigo gloves make them perfect for hot summer riding without giving up safety. Great value for money considering the protection.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the gloves have touchscreen compatibility?
No, neither the Belden nor Borrigo have touchscreen-compatible fingertips or conductive padding for using phones/devices while wearing the gloves.
How long is the wrist closure?
The velcro-closure wrist strap is roughly 2.5 inches (6.5cm) long on both models.
What is the difference between CE Level 1 and Level 2 impact protection?
CE Level 1 impact protectors must absorb at least 50% of impact energy in testing. Level 2 requires absorbing over 75% of impact energy, providing more advanced protection.
Can I get replacement palm sliders?
Yes, Bilwell offers replaceable kangaroo or goatskin palm sliders for added abrasion resistance when the original material wears down.
And Finally…
While CE certification confirms these new Bilwell gloves meet quality benchmarks, only your personal experience can determine if they offer enough cold weather performance for winter riding.
I suggest seriously evaluating your risk tolerance and local climate before making these your go-to gloves in frigid conditions.
For riders dealing with milder temperatures or using them as part of a layered system, the Belden and Borrigo gloves seem like solid options worth trying. And at under $100 with verified impact/abrasion protection, the pricing remains attractive.
Let me know if you end up using either of these glove models, especially when the thermometer drops! I’m very interested in your feedback comparing their real-world insulation and weather resistance to other winter motorcycle gloves. Ride on and stay safe!
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment (1)
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