I’ve tested my fair share of gloves over the years, searching for the ideal balance of protection, comfort, and affordability. So when I discovered this new option from Icon claiming to check all those boxes, I knew I had to take them for a spin.
In this Icon Contra 2 review, I’ll provide my take on the Icon Contra 2 after logging hundreds of miles with them in real-world conditions.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best-armored motorcycle gloves for you?
Icon Contra 2 Review
Key Takeaways
- Leather resists abrasion
- Good value for money
- Padded armor absorbs impacts
Icon Contra 2 – Our Final Verdict
Real-World Performance
I’ve put the Icon Contra 2 through their paces, and here’s my take on how they perform in various real-world situations:
Riding Experience
These gloves feel great on the bike. The pre-curved fingers reduce fatigue on long rides, and I can easily operate all my controls without any awkward bunching or restriction. The Ax Laredo palm gives me an excellent grip on the handlebars, even in wet conditions.
Crash Protection
While I haven’t crash-tested these personally (thankfully), the D3O knuckle inserts give me confidence.
They’re flexible when you’re moving but harden on impact. The floating knuckle design means the armor stays in place if you need it.
Control Feel
I’m impressed by the tactile feedback these gloves provide. The synthetic leather palm is thin enough that I can feel the texture of my grips and the resistance of my brake and clutch levers. It’s almost like riding barehanded but with added protection.
Touchscreen Compatibility
The touchscreen compatibility is hit-or-miss. I can usually manage basic swipes and taps on my phone’s GPS, but typing is a no-go. It’s handy for quick checks at stoplights, but I wouldn’t rely on it for extensive phone use.
Weather Performance
Here’s a quick breakdown of how they handle different conditions:
| Weather | Performance |
|---|---|
| Hot | Breathable, but not as cool as full mesh |
| Mild | Comfortable, ideal conditions |
| Cold | Okay for short rides, but not insulated |
| Wet | Good grip, but not waterproof |
Comparison to Original Contra
Compared to the original Contra, the Contra 2s offer:
- Improved knuckle protection with D3O inserts
- Better ventilation with added mesh panels
- More precise fit with the hook-and-loop closure
- Slightly better touchscreen compatibility
Overall, the Contra 2s are a solid upgrade that addresses most of the shortcomings of the original model.
The Icon Contra 2, while popular among many riders, do have a few drawbacks worth considering.
One of the most common issues I’ve noticed is the sizing. They tend to run about a half size large, which can make getting the perfect fit a bit tricky.
If you’re between sizes, you might find yourself needing to size down, which isn’t always ideal for those with larger hands.
Weather protection is another area where these gloves fall short for some riders. They’re great for mild to warm conditions, but they lack insulation for colder rides and aren’t waterproof.
If you ride in varied weather conditions or year-round, you might need a second pair of gloves for chilly or rainy days.
The touchscreen compatibility, while a nice feature in theory, doesn’t always live up to expectations.
I’ve found it to be hit-or-miss, working well enough for simple swipes but not reliable for more complex interactions.
This can be frustrating if you rely on your phone for navigation or need to make quick calls during your ride.
When it comes to protection, the Contra 2 offer a good balance for street riding, but they’re not without limitations.
The short cuff design and lighter armor make them less protective than full-gauntlet race gloves. Some riders, especially those who prioritize maximum safety, might find palm protection lacking compared to gloves with dedicated palm sliders.
Lastly, while these gloves are generally well-made, there are a few long-term durability concerns. The velcro wrist closure, in particular, may wear out over time with heavy use.
And like many leather and textile gloves, they do require a break-in period before reaching peak comfort.
Overview of the Icon Contra 2
The Icon Contra 2 is a comfortable and durable option designed for street riding. Here are the key features and details:
Description and Key Features
- Constructed from a combination of textile and leather materials for durability
- Abrasion-resistant Ax Laredo synthetic leather palm with goatskin leather overlays for added protection
- D3O knuckle inserts underneath floating knuckles for impact protection without added bulk
- Pre-curved palm and finger design for improved comfort and dexterity on the controls
- Hook-and-loop wrist closure for a secure fit
Target Market
The Contra 2 are aimed at street riders looking for a protective, comfortable short cuff glove suitable for mild to hot weather riding conditions. They work well for:
- Any rider wanting a quality, protective short glove
- Commuters and city riders
- Sport and naked bike riders
- Cruiser and standard motorcycle riders
Comparison to Previous Model
The Icon Contra 2 builds on the success of its predecessor, offering some notable improvements. Here’s my breakdown of the key differences:
Enhanced Protection
The Contra 2 feature D3O knuckle inserts, a significant upgrade from the original model. This advanced material offers superior impact protection without sacrificing flexibility. I’ve found it gives me more confidence in high-risk situations.
Improved Ventilation
Icon has added more mesh panels to the Contra 2, particularly between the fingers. In my experience, this has made a noticeable difference in airflow, keeping my hands cooler on hot rides.
Refined Fit
The pre-curved finger design of the Contra 2 feels more natural than the original. I’ve noticed less fatigue on long rides, and they seemed to break in faster.
Touchscreen Compatibility
While not perfect, the Contra 2 offers better touchscreen functionality than the original model. I can now manage basic phone operations without removing my gloves.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Contra (Original) | Contra 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Knuckle Protection | Basic | D3O inserts |
| Ventilation | Good | Excellent |
| Finger Design | Standard | Pre-curved |
| Touchscreen | Limited | Improved |
Overall, the Contra 2 feels like a thoughtful evolution of the original. They’ve addressed key areas for improvement without losing what made the original Contra gloves popular.
Icon Contra 2 Protection Features
The Icon Contra 2 offers robust protection for street riders. Here’s my breakdown of their key safety features:
Materials and Construction
They use a mix of textiles and leather for their chassis. The palm features abrasion-resistant Ax Laredo synthetic leather with goatskin overlays. This combo gives you excellent grip and durability where you need it most.
Impact Protection
The standout feature is the floating knuckle design with D3O knuckle inserts. This setup lets your hand move naturally while still shielding your knuckles from impacts. It’s like having a flexible shield on your hand.
Abrasion Resistance
The Ax Laredo palm material isn’t just for show. It’s engineered to match leather’s abrasion resistance and performance. You’ll get solid protection if you ever need to slide on pavement.
Construction Quality
I’m impressed by the pre-curved palm and finger design. It reduces fatigue on long rides and gives you better control of the bike. The stitching looks solid, though I haven’t crash-tested them personally.
Certifications
While I couldn’t find specific safety ratings for these gloves, Icon is known for meeting industry standards. The inclusion of D3O armor, a trusted name in impact protection, is a good sign.
In my experience, they strike a nice balance between protection and comfort for everyday street riding. They’re not race gauntlets, but they’ll have your back (or hands) in most situations you’ll encounter on the road.
Comparison To Other Gloves
| Product Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 | Full goatskin leather construction, carbon fiber knuckle protection, foam padding, perforated panels |
| Dainese Steel Pro & Pro | Goatskin leather and cowhide construction, carbon fiber and plastic protectors, adjustable wrist closure |
The Icon Contra 2 stand out in this group as a budget-friendly option, retailing for around $60-70. That’s considerably more affordable than premium racing gloves like the $400+ Dainese or Alpinestars models.
However, the Icon gloves use a mix of leather and textile rather than full premium leather. They also lack some of the high-end protection features like carbon fiber knuckles.
So, while the Icon Contra 2s provide good value for daily street use, track riders or those wanting maximum protection may need to spend more.
Icon Contra 2 Price and Value
As of today, the Icon Contra 2 has an MSRP of $80 USD. At this price point, they offer a lot of value and premium features:
- Quality, durable construction with reinforced high-wear areas
- D3O armor inserts for added impact protection
- Comfortable, ergonomic pre-curved design
- Abrasion-resistant materials in key slide zones
For riders looking for a well-made, protective short-cuff glove without breaking the bank, the Contra 2 is a strong contender in the $80-100 price range. Their combination of comfort, protection, and quality materials makes them a solid value.
Icon Contra 2 Comfort and Ergonomics
The Icon Contra 2 offers a blend of comfort and functionality that I’ve found impressive in my testing. Here’s my breakdown of their ergonomic features:
Fit and Sizing
I’ve noticed these gloves run slightly large. I usually wear a large, but the Contra 2s in large felt roomy. If you’re between sizes, I’d recommend sizing down for a snug fit. The pre-curved fingers match your hand’s natural position, reducing fatigue on long rides.
Interior Comfort
The unlined interior lets you feel the quality of the materials directly. The goatskin overlays are supple against your skin, while the Ax Laredo synthetic leather provides a smooth, comfortable surface.
Flexibility and Dexterity
I’m impressed by how they balance protection with flexibility. The floating knuckle design allows for great range of motion. I can easily operate my bike’s controls without feeling restricted.
Ventilation
They breathe well in warm weather. The mesh inserts between the fingers and on the back of the hand allow good airflow. They’re not as cool as full mesh gloves, but they strike a nice balance for spring and summer riding.
Ease of Use
Putting them on and taking them off is a breeze. The short cuff design means no struggling with long gauntlets. The hook and loop wrist closure is easy to operate, even with one hand.
Adjustability
The single wrist strap provides enough adjustability for most riders. It’s not as customizable as some more expensive gloves, but I found it sufficient for getting a secure fit.
In my experience, they offer a great mix of comfort and usability for everyday street riding. They’re not the most feature-packed gloves out there, but they nail the essentials for most riders.
Icon Contra 2 Durability
I’ve found the Icon Contra 2 to be pretty tough, but like any gear, they have their limits. Here’s my take on their durability:
Expected Lifespan
With regular use, I’d expect them to last about 1-2 years. That’s based on my experience and what I’ve seen from other riders. If you’re a daily commuter, you might be on the lower end of that range.
Common Failure Points
In my observations, the most common issues are:
- Stitching at the palm: This area takes a lot of stress from gripping the handlebars.
- Velcro closure: It can wear out over time, losing its grip.
- Fingertips: Especially if you use your phone a lot while wearing them.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I’ve found these gloves pretty easy to care for:
- Wipe them down with a damp cloth after rides
- Use a soft brush to remove dirt from the textile parts
- Apply leather conditioner to the leather sections every few months
Don’t machine wash them – that’ll break down the protective materials faster.
Warranty Coverage
Icon offers a 1-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. It doesn’t cover normal wear and tear, but if a seam splits or a knuckle protector falls out within the first year, you’re covered.
Remember, taking care of your gloves extends their life. I always hang mine up to dry after sweaty rides and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight. These small habits can add months to your gloves’ lifespan.
Icon Contra 2 Style
The Icon Contra 2 offers a sleek, modern look that balances form and function. Here’s my breakdown of their style features:
Color Options
I’ve seen them available in:
- Black
- White
- Red
- Blue
The range gives you options to match your bike or other gear. I’m partial to the black for its versatility.
Visual Design
The Contra 2s have a sporty, aggressive look:
- Floating knuckle design adds a dynamic element
- Mix of textile and leather creates visual interest
- Carbon fiber-look knuckle plates give a high-tech vibe
It’s a design that says, “I’m serious about riding,” without being overly flashy.
Branding and Logos
Icon keeps the branding subtle:
- Small Icon logo on the wrist closure
- Debossed Icon name on the knuckle armor
It’s there if you look for it, but it doesn’t scream, “Look at my brand-name gloves!”
Matching with Other Icon Gear
These gloves play well with Icon’s other gear:
- Perfect match for the Contra 2 jacket
- Complements the Airform helmet line nicely
- Works with Icon’s Stryker vest for a cohesive look
I’ve found they look especially sharp with Icon’s more urban-styled gear, giving you a coordinated but not overly “matchy” appearance.
FAQ
Q: What materials are used in the construction of the Icon Contra 2?
A: The Icon Contra 2 is constructed from a combination of textile and leather materials. They feature an abrasion-resistant Ax Laredo synthetic leather palm with goatskin overlays, providing durability and natural leather-like performance.
Q: Do the Icon Contra 2 offer any impact protection?
A: Yes, the Contra 2 includes D3O knuckle inserts underneath floating knuckles. This design provides impact protection without adding bulk and allows for maximum articulation.
Q: Are they suitable for warm-weather riding?
A: The Contra 2 are designed for spring and summer use. They feature ventilated mesh textile inserts for good airflow, making them suitable for warm-weather riding while still offering protection.
Q: How does the Icon Contra 2 fit?
A: The Contra 2 tends to run slightly large. Many users report that sizing down from their usual glove size provides a snug fit. The pre-curved palm and finger design also contribute to a comfortable fit.
Q: Are the Icon Contra 2 touchscreen compatible?
A: While Icon doesn’t officially claim touchscreen compatibility for these gloves, some users report limited success with basic touchscreen operations. However, the functionality may not be consistent or reliable for all users.
And Finally…
At the end of the day, finding high-quality riding gloves that check all the boxes without destroying your budget can be difficult.
My experience with the Icon Contra 2s has been uniquely positive, and they provide excellent protection and comfort, considering the affordable price.
I appreciate that Icon isn’t cutting corners to keep them inexpensive. For daily motorcycle use focused on the street and commuting, they have my strong endorsement.
Have you tried the Icon Contra 2 or something similar? Let me know your thoughts and recommendations by dropping a comment below! I’d be curious to hear about your experiences finding that perfect pair of riding gloves. Ride safe out there and enjoy the journey!
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