I’ve tested the original model extensively over tens of thousands of miles and was impressed by the combination of waterproofness, ventilation, and abrasion protection they deliver.
Now Held has released an updated Air and Dry 2 motorcycle glove with subtle yet meaningful changes – but are these latest gloves worth upgrading to, or should you stick with the tried and true originals?
But, the main question I will answer in this review is: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for hot weather for you? Let’s find out!
Held Air N Dry I Review
Key Takeaways
- Touchscreen fingertips added
- Enhanced ergonomic fit and feel
- Dual-chamber versatility remains intact
Our Riding Experience
I’ve been using the Held Air N Dry II Gloves for several months now, and I’m thoroughly impressed. The innovative two-chamber design is a game-changer for versatility.
I love how I can switch between the waterproof Gore-Tex chamber and the unlined, perforated chamber, depending on the weather.
The kangaroo leather palm offers excellent feel and durability, while the hard knuckle protection gives me confidence in its safety features.
In my experience, the gloves excel in a wide range of temperatures. I’ve comfortably worn them from cool spring mornings to hot summer afternoons.
The ventilation in the unlined chamber is surprisingly effective, keeping my hands cool even on longer rides. When the rain hits, the Gore-Tex chamber has kept my hands dry without fail.
There are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The gloves can feel a bit bulky compared to dedicated summer or race gloves.
The break-in period is also longer than some other gloves I’ve worn – it took a few hundred miles before they really started to feel comfortable.
Additionally, while they perform well in most conditions, they’re not ideal for extreme cold or scorching heat.
Remember, prices on these gloves can fluctuate, so be sure to check out Revzilla.com for the best current deals before buying elsewhere. Revzilla won’t be beaten on price with their price match guarantee, so you can shop with confidence.
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Fit and Sizing Accuracy
Getting the right fit is crucial for both comfort and safety. However, sizing accuracy can vary significantly between brands and even within different models from the same manufacturer.
Generally, they should fit snugly without being overly tight. There should be minimal excess material at the fingertips, with your fingers almost, but not quite, touching the ends of the gloves.
This snug fit ensures proper control of the bike’s controls and maximizes its protective capabilities.
Many riders find the sizing guides are not always accurate. Some manufacturers’ mitts may run true to size, while others might run slightly smaller or larger than their stated size.
For example, some riders report that Cortech tend to run slightly smaller than their stated size.
To get the best fit:
- Measure your hands carefully using the manufacturer’s recommended method (usually palm circumference or width).
- Consult brand-specific size charts, as sizing can vary between brands.
- Consider trying them on in person when possible, as this allows you to test the fit while gripping handlebars.
- Remember that leather may feel tight initially but will often stretch and mold to your hands over time.
- If you’re between sizes, it’s generally better to size up rather than down.
Keep in mind that hand shapes vary, and some brands cater to different hand profiles. European manufacturers often produce them with narrower palms and longer fingers, while UK or US manufacturers tend to make them with wider palms and shorter fingers.
Finally, it’s worth noting that your hands may differ slightly in size, so measure both hands and choose the size that fits the larger hand.
Some brands, like Held, even offer long and short versions of their gloves to accommodate different hand shapes.
Performance in Different Weather Conditions
In warm weather, the perforated kangaroo leather palm allows your hands to breathe. You can slip your hands into the unlined chamber, feeling the airflow through the perforations. This keeps your hands cool and comfortable during hot summer rides.
When the temperature drops or rain starts falling, you’ll appreciate the Gore-Tex-lined chamber. This waterproof and insulated compartment keeps your hands dry and warm in cold or wet conditions.
The Gore-Tex membrane blocks water while allowing sweat to escape, maintaining comfort on long rides.
However, they aren’t perfect for extreme conditions. In temperatures below 40°F (4°C), you might need heated gloves for adequate warmth.
Similarly, when the mercury rises above 90°F (32°C), full summer mesh gloves might be more comfortable.
The performance in wet conditions is impressive initially, but like many “waterproof”mitts, they may eventually let water in during extended rides in heavy rain.
They excel for spring and fall riding. Switching between chambers allows you to adapt quickly to changing weather, making them ideal for all-day rides or touring in variable conditions.
Remember, break-in time affects comfort. New pairs might feel stiff at first, but after a few thousand miles, they’ll mold to your hands like a second skin.
In essence, the Held Air N Dry II offer excellent performance across a wide range of weather conditions, making them a versatile choice for most riding scenarios.
They’re not specialized for extreme heat or cold, but they’ll keep your hands comfortable and protected for the majority of your rides.
Build Quality and Durability
The Held Air N Dry II boasts exceptional build quality and durability. As soon as you slip them on, you’ll notice the premium materials and meticulous construction.
They feature a combination of kangaroo leather on the palm and cowhide on the back. Kangaroo leather is renowned for its strength-to-weight ratio, offering superior abrasion resistance without compromising dexterity. The cowhide back adds robustness and impact protection.
You’ll like the reinforced stitching throughout. This attention to detail ensures they can withstand the rigors of daily riding and potential impacts. The seams are well-constructed, showing no signs of fraying even after extensive use.
They incorporate Superfabric in high-wear areas. This ceramic-bonded material significantly enhances abrasion resistance, particularly on the palm and outer edge of the pinky finger.
However, like all gear, they aren’t invincible. The perforated areas may show wear faster than solid sections, and the light-colored leather can show dirt more readily. Regular cleaning and conditioning will help maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan.
In terms of longevity, I have been using them for several seasons without significant degradation in performance or appearance. The durability justifies the higher price point, making them a sound investment for serious riders.
Remember, proper care is crucial. Clean them regularly, condition the leather, and allow them to dry naturally after wet rides. With proper maintenance, your Held Air N Dry II will serve you well for years to come.
Ventilation and Breathability
- Thanks to the perforated palm and Gore-Tex membrane, airflow and moisture wicking are excellent. There is no overheating, even on warmer spring days.
Waterproofness
Held’s reputation for quality shines through in the Air N Dry II’s construction. The Gore-Tex membrane is securely integrated, maintaining its waterproof properties over time.
The dual-chamber design, while complex, is executed flawlessly, with no issues reported in switching between chambers.
- I battled some light rain, and the Gore-Tex chamber kept my hands completely dry. Love having that modular protection for variable conditions.
Held Men’s Sizing
| SIZE | HAND CIRCUMFERENCE (IN) | REGULAR HAND LENGTH (IN) | LONG HAND LENGTH (IN) | SHORT HAND LENGTH |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2.9 | 5 | – | – |
| 4 | 3.9 | 5.4 | – | – |
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 | – | – |
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 | – | – |
| 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | – | – |
| 7 | 7 | 6.7 | 7 | 16.6 |
| 7.5 | 7.5 | 7 | – | – |
| 8 | 8 | 7.2 | 7.4 | 17.7 |
| 8.5 | 8.5 | 7.4 | – | – |
| 9 | 9 | 7.6 | 7.8 | 18.7 |
| 9.5 | 9.5 | 7.8 | – | – |
| 10 | 10 | 8 | 8.2 | 19.9 |
| 11 | 11 | 8.5 | 8.7 | 21 |
| 12 | 12 | 8.9 | 9.1 | 22.1 |
| 13 | 13 | 9.3 | – | – |
| 14 | 13.9 | 9.8 | – | – |
Held Air N Dry II Protection Offered
The Held Air N Dry II provide robust protection for your hands. They are packed with safety features designed to shield you from impacts and abrasions.
They boast a CE rating of 1 KP, which means they’ve passed standardized tests for impact protection. The ‘KP’ indicates hard knuckle protection, a crucial feature for safeguarding your hands during a fall or collision.
On the palm side, you’ll notice Superfabric, a highly abrasion-resistant material with ceramic bonding. This tough fabric covers the palm and the outside of the pinkie, offering extra protection in areas prone to road rash during a slide.
The construction combines kangaroo leather on the palm with cowhide on the back. Kangaroo leather is known for its strength-to-weight ratio, providing excellent abrasion resistance without compromising dexterity. The cowhide back adds durability and protection against impacts.
For additional safety, they incorporate DuPont Kevlar. This high-strength fiber enhances its’ cut-and-tear resistance, giving you an extra layer of protection.
The hard plastic armor across the knuckles is a standout feature. It’s designed to absorb and distribute impact forces, potentially preventing fractures in case of a crash.
The hard knuckle protector is firmly attached and shows no signs of loosening, even after prolonged use. The reflective elements also remain intact and effective.
You’ll also find extra leather reinforcement down the side of the hand. This strategic placement provides additional protection in an area that’s likely to contact the ground in a fall.
They include 3M Scotchlite reflectors for nighttime visibility. These reflective elements can help make you more visible to other road users in low-light conditions.
While they offer comprehensive protection, remember that no gear is invincible. They’re designed to mitigate risks, not eliminate them entirely. Always ride within your limits and stay alert on the road.
Sizing information is provided by the manufacturer and does not guarantee a perfect fit.
Comparison to Similar Items
| Glove | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Alpinestars SMX1 Air V2 | Lightweight, ventilated summer glove with Clarino palm and mobile phone compatibility |
| Revit Dirt 3 | Dirt riding with single-layer construction for maximum breathability |
| Reax Castor | Focused on impact protection with polycarbonate knuckles |
The Held Air and Dry 2 stand out from these other options with their innovative dual-chamber construction, allowing you to choose between waterproof/insulated comfort or maximum ventilation.
They offer versatility across changing weather conditions that a single-layer glove can’t match. The premium GoreTex and abrasion-resistant kangaroo leather also provide durability that is lacking in more basic summer mitts.
While options like the Revit Dirt 3 maximize breathability, they sacrifice weatherproofness and longevity as a result.
A Revolutionary Concept
The Air and Dry feature separate chambers for the top and bottom sections:
- Top chamber: Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex liner keeps hands dry. Grippy material provides a feeling of control.
- Bottom chamber: Kangaroo leather palm with perforations for maximum airflow and ventilation.
Riders can use either chamber individually or combine them together for the ultimate 3-season glove. This modular approach came in handy when temperatures fluctuated on long rides.
Over several years and countless miles, my first-generation Air and Dry held up impressively despite some discoloration. When Held released the new Mark II version with some key upgrades, I wondered whether they improved an already innovative design.
Let’s see how the latest Air and Dry 2 compare to their predecessors!
Air and Dry 2 vs Original: Key Differences
I met up with a Held rep to check out the new Air and Dry 2 firsthand. Here are the main differences I noticed from the previous generation:
Gore-Tex Fit:
- The latest model fits slightly more snugly through the fingers due to the revised Gore-Tex liner. This enhances the control feel.
- Leather spans between the fingers rather than fabric for improved durability.
Palm Color
- The Air and Dry 2 palms switched to black kangaroo leather instead of gray due to supply constraints.
Markings
- “Two in One” branding Calls the dual-chamber technology more clearly.
Besides these changes, the overall construction remains similar, featuring premium Gore-Tex and abrasion-resistant kangaroo leather.
| Feature | Air & Dry Original | Air & Dry 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Gore-Tex Membrane | ✅ | ✅ |
| Perforated Palm | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dual-Chamber Design | ✅ | ✅ |
| Five Year Warranty | ✅ | ✅ |
| Touchscreen Compatible | ❌ | ✅ |
| Snug Gore-Tex Fit | ? | ? |
| Gray Kangaroo Palm | ✅ | ❌ |
| Black Kangaroo Palm | ❌ | ✅ |
| “Two in One” Branding | ❌ | ✅ |
FAQs
How does the Mark II improve over the previous version?
The Mark II features better fit through the fingers thanks to leather construction rather than fabric. The knuckle armor also contains upgraded shock-dampening foam.
Would they work for adventure touring?
Yes. The goatskin leather withstands abrasion from pavement as well as brush, while the armor protects against impact. They provide an excellent feel for operating the motorcycle, too.
What is the difference between the Air and Dry 2 and Knox Handroid?
The Handroid carries heavier armor for rigorous track riding, whereas the Air and Dry 2’s focus is on maximizing street protection and comfort. However, the Helds retain more flexibility and ventilation for comfortable street use.
Do they have waterproofing?
Yes, the upper Gore-Tex chamber is fully waterproof, while the perforated lower chamber sheds light moisture. For heavy rain, applying a water-repellant spray provides backup protection.
How long does the touchscreen compatibility last?
The conductive fingertips retain functionality for their lifetime unless excessively worn down from abrasion. Light use preserves conductivity for years before needing replacement.
And Finally…
The Held Air and Dry 2 builds upon the game-changing dual-chamber concept of the original Air and Dry model to deliver versatile, high-performing cold/wet weather protection alongside stellar ventilation.
While the changes seem subtle on paper – revised Gore-Tex fit, black palm, touchscreen compatibility – in practice, they add up to a superior glove that further refines an already category-leading design.
Considering the construction quality, versatility given the modular chambers, and Held’s reputation for protective gear, the MSRP seems reasonable for gloves that should last years if properly maintained.
It’s difficult to improve upon greatness, but Held managed to do so with the latest Air and Dry 2 model. I agree wholeheartedly from my first-hand testing that they outperform their predecessors while retaining everything that made the original so impressive in the first place.
Have you tried the Held Air and Dry 2 yet? Share your experiences wearing them in the comments below! I’m keen to hear other riders’ perspectives.
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