I continuously test the latest riding gear to provide fellow enthusiasts with thorough assessments. My recent analysis covers the Fox Racing Bomber gloves, an affordably priced model targeting trail and motocross riders.
Do these durable leather gloves provide adequate knuckle protection and comfort for multi-hour rides?
But the main question I will answer in this review is: Are these the best gloves for adventure motorcycles?
Let’s dive into the key details. Will the Bomber gloves’ rigid puck shape become hand-fatiguing over long distances?
Fox Racing Bomber Gloves
Key Takeaways
- Rigid knuckle overlay
- Good value under $100
- Durable leather outweighs the comfort
Outer Construction and Materials
The Bomber gloves feature durable goatskin leather on the palms and outer fingers reinforced with perforated paneling on the knuckle for flexibility.
The neoprene stretch material on the back of the hand enhances comfort, while silicone grips inside the palm help maintain control of the bike.
Overall, the materials provide an optimal balance of protection, breathability, and flexibility – three crucial factors for rider safety and comfort.
Abrasion Protection
- Diamond pattern goatskin leather palm
- Perforated knuckle protection
- Neoprene stretch panels
- Silicone palm grips
| Material | Purpose |
| Goatskin Leather Palm | Enhanced abrasion protection |
| Perforated Knuckle Padding | Impact protection and breathability |
The Issue with the Rigid Knuckle Design
Despite the useful protective materials, I discovered issues with the knuckle area while testing. The TPU plastic overlay provides impact resistance, but the flat shape causes discomfort, especially during longer rides.
For multi-hour trail usage, I’d recommend sizing up by half a size to allow more room. However, the rigid knuckle design could still limit all-day comfort.
Hopefully, the next iteration will curve the knuckle padding for ergonomic flexibility to match the high-performance materials.
Improving the Knuckle Shape
- Split or curved shaping
- Articulated padding
Cobra Moto Glove Comparison
Compared to other popular models like the Icon Cobra gloves, the Bombers offer similarly robust outer protection for about $30 less. However, the Cobra glove liner features more insulation and water resistance for cold-weather riding.
| Fox Bomber Glove | Icon Cobra Glove | |
| Price | $70 | $100 |
| Weather Protection | Minimal | Polar fleece liner |
| Knuckle Design | Rigid overlay | Curved split knuckle |
The Bombers prioritize flexibility and affordability over weather protection and long-haul comfort. Understanding these tradeoffs allows riders to select the best option based on their needs.
Final Impressions
For Motocross usage, the thick leather palm, grippy silicone, and plastic knuckle guard offer useful protection during ride sessions for under $100.
However, the hand-fatiguing knuckle shape limits trail riding comfort and should be updated. Once Fox improves the ergonomic design, these gloves will better compete with premium all-day models.
I welcome your thoughts in the comments below. Do you agree the knuckle needs refinement? Which protective gloves do you recommend? Ride on!
The Fox Bomber gloves have perforated leather panels compared to the full-leather Reax Tasker gloves. The Alpinestars SP8 gloves use higher-grade kangaroo leather instead of goatskin.
Finally, the Scorpion EXO Claw 2 gloves have TPR plastic knuckles that contour better to hands versus the rigid Bomber overlay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of motorcycle gloves?
Motorcycle gloves protect the hands by shielding the skin from abrasions and providing padding to absorb impact forces in a crash. Quality motorcycle gloves should have durable leather or textile construction with knuckle armor, palm sliders, and finger protection.
How should motorcycle gloves fit?
Motorcycle gloves should fit snugly without restricting movement. The glove fingertips should reach the end of the fingers inside the glove without excess material bunching. Allow a little room to layer beneath on colder rides.
Does glove padding thickness matter?
Thicker padding over knuckles and joints provides more impact protection but can limit feel and articulation. Finding the ideal balance depends on riding style and bike type. Off-road and motocross riders need more armor than casual street cruising.
Why choose goatskin leather for gloves?
Goatskin leather excels in abrasion resistance for motorcycle gloves. It also remains soft and flexible compared to cowhide. Kangaroo leather rivals and exceeds goatskin but costs more. High-quality leather withstands slides better, protecting the hands.
And Finally…
The Fox Bomber gloves offer useful features like goatskin leather, grippy silicone palms, and ventilated knuckle protection for under $100. However, the rigid flat knuckle causes discomfort during lengthy rides compared to premium glove options with articulated designs.
While useful for motocross, I believe tweaking the knuckle ergonomics would vastly improve comfort to make the Bombers all-day off-road ready.
I welcome your thoughts below on whether you agree the knuckle shape needs refining and if you have glove recommendations worth sharing. Ride safe out there, fellow enthusiasts!
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