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