Dainese Steel Pro & Steel Pro Gloves Review: Ultimate Track Day Mitts?

These premium motorcycle gloves replace Dainese’s previous Four Stroke Long and Race Pro In options, combining features from both into two new flagship models.

I’ll break down the key upgrades over past versions and examine whether the changes warrant the $270+ price tags.

But, the main question I will answer in this Dainese Steel Pro In Gloves review will be: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for the track?

Dainese Steel Pro & Steel Pro In Gloves

Key Takeaways

• Superior crash protection
• Redesigned streamlined fit
• Enhanced flexibility and feel

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Four Key Changes Over Previous Versions

To quickly recap, the Steel Pro and Steel Pro In bring four vital improvements compared to past Dainese offerings:

1. Streamlined cuffs enhance fit
2. Added stretch panels boost flexibility
3. Extended hand/pinky protection
4. Upgraded foam dissipates impact

Dainese achieved all this with no price hike, making the new models a compelling proposition for safety-focused racers.

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Streamlined Design Improves Fit and Flexibility

At first glance, the most apparent change is the redesigned streamlined cuffs. The prior bulky TPR and TPU plastic armor has been trimmed down significantly.

This updated style wraps more comfortably around the wrist while reducing bulk. The cuffs’ slimmed profile enhances flexibility when gripping the handlebars.

Additionally, Dainese added elasticated panels across the knuckles, improving stretch compared to the previous two single points. Overall, four elastic points on the back of the hand, paired with the slimmer metal knuckle guard, boost ergonomics and ease of movement.

These design tweaks better match the gloves’ natural shape to your hand in a tucked race position. Less need to fight against the glove’s construction means fewer distractions while carving corners.

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Reinforced Fingers Deliver Crucial Impact Protection

While a streamlined shape caters to flexibility, many riders choose premium gloves (1) for their formidable protection against crashes. Here, the Steel Pro and Steel Pro In also deliver marked improvements.

Most notably, Dainese extended the knuckle armor system to wrap the side of the hand fully, safeguarding the vulnerable pinky and edge of the palm.

The brand also added finger shields at the mid-digit joint using coated TPU and layered leather for insulation. These deliver vital defense for such exposed areas in the event of spills.

The palm incorporates cowhide reinforcements with extra abrasion resistance on key zones. And just like the premium Full Metal 6 gloves, the Steel Pro line integrates impact-dissipating D3O foam into palm sliders and the main knuckle piece.

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So, in terms of protective upgrades:

• Full hand/pinky coverage
• Robust layered leather & shields across fingers
• D3O foam inserts
• Abrasion-resistant patches

For riders demanding hardcore protection, the Steel Pro gloves tick all the boxes.

Comparison to Similar Gloves

The Dainese Steel Pro gloves compare favorably to other premium motorcycle gloves, with an emphasis on hand protection and cooling performance through ventilated fourchette panels.

The streamlined design focused specifically on improving ergonomics in race position separates them from competitors.

Serious track enthusiasts or canyon carvers will appreciate the extended pinky/edge hand shielding and molded palm sliders engineered for hardcore riding.

FAQs

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Here, I’ll answer some common questions about the Dainese Steel Pro gloves:

Do the gloves run true to size?

Yes, the sizing remains consistent with all Dainese gloves. I wear a size large in American brands like Icon and Rev’It, so I opt for a large in Dainese as well. Always refer to the size chart if between sizes.

How long is the break-in period?

Due to the full goatskin leather construction, expect around a 10% break-in time. Budget a couple of weeks of regular wear before the gloves conform perfectly to your hands. The palms also develop a useful grip over time.

Are the gloves better for racing or aggressive street riding?

With their durable construction and formidable protection, the Steel Pro gloves cater specifically to racing and hardcore track riding. For regular street use, the Four Stroke Evo, with its shorter cuff, offers plenty of safety at a lower price.

How does the streamlined inversion style affect sizing?

The updated, streamlined design doesn’t impact sizing, just the general feel and ergonomics. The non-bulky cuff now better interfaces with leather racing suits as intended. Under-glove wear remains comfortable.

And Finally…

In my experience testing some intensely protective gloves, the new Dainese Steel Pro and Steel Pro In stand out regarding safety innovations.

The redesigned cuffs, improved flexibility, and extended shielding across vulnerable zones demonstrate a dedication to rider protection before all else. While premium-priced, these gloves deliver Tangible upgrades in fit, comfort, and crash protection compared to past versions.

For track riders or aggressive canyon carvers unwilling to compromise on quality, the Steel Pro line presents a sensible investment in maintaining your hands’ well-being. When failure could mean severe injury, maximum defense offers welcome peace of mind.

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What gloves do you rely on for hardcore riding protection? Share your recommendations below!

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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment (1)