I recently tested out the new Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 riding gloves to see if they provide adequate protection. Do these affordable motorcycle gloves stand up to the rigors of daily motorcycle use?
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best motorcycle gloves with armor for you? Read on to find out!
Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0
Our Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Verdict
My Thoughts on the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Gloves
I’m thoroughly impressed with the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 gloves. They strike a perfect balance between protection, comfort, and affordability, making them an excellent choice for street riders who prioritize breathability and touchscreen functionality. The mesh panels and perforated leather keep my hands cool and dry, even during intense summer riding sessions, while the TPR armor on the knuckles and fingers provides essential impact protection.
I appreciate the attention to detail in the design, such as the touchscreen-compatible index fingers that work flawlessly with my smartphone and GPS device. The short cuff allows for better airflow and prevents interference with my jacket sleeves, and the secure hook-and-loop closure ensures a snug, customizable fit. The gloves’ construction feels robust, with double-stitched seams and high-quality materials that promise longevity.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 gloves excel in many areas, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
Firstly, the short cuff design may not provide as much wrist protection as gloves with longer gauntlets. If you’re looking for maximum coverage, you might prefer a glove that extends further up the wrist.
Additionally, the absence of palm sliders could be a concern for some riders who prioritize slide protection. However, I feel that the reinforced palm material offers adequate abrasion resistance for most street riding scenarios.
Lastly, while the Velocity 3.0 gloves are fantastic for summer riding, they may not be suitable for cold weather or wet conditions due to their ventilated design and lack of insulation or waterproofing.
It’s worth noting that prices on the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 gloves can change as special offers become available from Revzilla.com. I recommend checking their website for the best prices before making a purchase elsewhere.
Plus, with Revzilla’s price match guarantee, you can be confident that you’re getting the most competitive deal on these gloves.
If you found this review helpful, please like and share the article, as it helps Google recognize the value of this page and makes it easier for other riders to find the information they need.
An Overview of the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Riding Gloves
The Velocity 3.0 feature a utility-grade spandex/polyester blend chassis for flexibility, with TPR (thermoplastic rubber) reinforcements on the knuckles and fingers. This rigid yet flexible armor helps guard against impact while allowing dexterity.
Additionally, the pre-curved design promises a comfortable fit, while the conductive fingertip material enables use of touchscreen devices without removing your gloves. Available colors include black, gray, white, red, blue, and yellow combinations.
Examining the Construction and Fit
Slipping on a large pair of Velocity 3.0, I immediately noticed the snug yet comfortable fit. The spandex/polyester fabric feels snug but not constricting, while the pre-curved design prevents binding.
They feature a flexible TPR hook-and-loop closure for a secure fit. The knuckle armor feels rigid while allowing free movement.
The size large measure just over 7.5 inches in palm circumference and should fit most riders with medium—to large-sized hands. Extra small through 4XL sizes are also available.
| Size | Palm Circumference |
|---|---|
| Small | 7.1 – 7.3 inches |
| Medium | 7.3 – 7.6 inches |
| Large | 7.6 – 7.8 inches |
| XL | 7.8 – 8.1 inches |
| XXL | 8.1 – 8.5 inches |
| XXXL | 8.5 – 8.9 inches |
| XXXXL | 8.9+ inches |
Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Ventilation
The Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 excel at keeping hands cool and dry during hot weather rides. The strategically placed mesh panels on the fingers and back of the hand provide excellent airflow, preventing your hands from getting sweaty and clammy.
I found the perforations on the leather palm to be highly effective at promoting air circulation, which was a lifesaver during intense summer riding sessions.
Effectiveness of Mesh Panels and Perforations
I’m thoroughly impressed by how well the mesh panels and perforations on these gloves facilitate airflow. The mesh material is lightweight and highly breathable, allowing cool air to constantly flow over the back of my hands.
Even on the hottest days, I never experienced any excessive sweating or discomfort. The perforations on the palm are precisely placed to maximize ventilation without compromising grip or protection.
Hot Weather Performance
The Velocity 3.0 is my go-to choice for riding in scorching conditions. The combination of mesh panels and perforated leather kept my hands remarkably cool, even when temperatures soared above 90°F.
I never had to deal with slippery, sweat-soaked palms thanks to their superior breathability. Whether I was commuting in stop-and-go traffic or carving canyons on a sweltering afternoon, these gloves consistently delivered exceptional hot weather performance.
Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Touchscreen Compatibility
The Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 features touchscreen-compatible fingertips, allowing me to use my smartphone or GPS device without taking off the gloves. I’ve tested the functionality extensively, and I’m pleased to report that it works flawlessly.
The conductive material on the index fingers responds accurately to touch, enabling me to navigate apps, answer calls, and type messages with ease.
Functionality of Touchscreen-Compatible Fingertips
I put the touchscreen-compatible fingertips through their paces, using various devices and apps. Whether I was swiping, tapping, or pinching to zoom, they performed admirably.
The sensitivity is on par with using my bare fingers, which is impressive for a glove. I didn’t experience any lag or missed touches, making it convenient to access my phone’s features while on the go.
Fingers with Touchscreen Material
The Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 has conductive material on the index fingers, allowing for instant touchscreen access.
Having the touchscreen compatibility limited to the index fingers strikes a good balance between functionality and cost.
I found it natural to use my index finger for most touchscreen interactions, and I appreciate not having to pay extra for additional touchscreen-compatible fingers.
Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Armor
They, with their strategically placed TPR armor on the knuckles and fingers, provide essential protection for street riders.
While they prioritize comfort and breathability, they don’t skimp on safeguarding my hands in case of an accident.
Knuckle Armor Placement and Materials
I was impressed by the TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) reinforcements on the knuckles. The armor covers the entire knuckle area, extending slightly onto the back of my hand for added coverage.
TPR is a durable and flexible material that effectively disperses impact energy, reducing the risk of injury during a crash.
The knuckle armor is seamlessly integrated into the glove’s design, providing protection without compromising comfort or dexterity.
Absence of Palm Sliders
It’s worth noting that the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 does not include palm sliders. While palm sliders can offer additional protection during a slide, they are not a standard feature on all gloves, especially in this price range. The Velocity 3.0 prioritizes a minimalist design and focuses on essential protection for street riding.
Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Gauntlet Length
The Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 feature a short cuff design, making them ideal for summer riding when I want a lightweight, minimalist glove.
The gauntlet length is shorter compared to other sport-riding gloves I’ve worn, which typically extend further up the wrist for added protection.
However, the shorter cuff on the Velocity 3.0 allows for better airflow and prevents any bunching or interference with my jacket sleeves.
Wrist Closure System
I like the Velocity 3.0 hook-and-loop closure system, which ensures a secure fit. The closure strap is easy to adjust, allowing me to find the perfect balance between comfort and security.
I can tighten the strap for a snug fit that keeps them firmly in place, even during high-speed riding or aggressive maneuvering. The TPR pull tabs on the closure make it effortless to put on and take off the gloves, even with one hand.
The secure wrist closure is crucial for preventing them from slipping off in the event of a crash, which could expose my hands to serious injury.
I feel confident that the hook-and-loop closure on the Velocity 3.0 will keep them securely on my hands, providing an essential layer of protection when I need it most.
Care Instructions and Lifespan
Proper care and maintenance are essential for extending the life of the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0. With a few simple steps, I can keep my gloves in top condition, ensuring they provide reliable protection and comfort for many rides to come.
The utility-grade span/poly chassis and high-quality construction give them the durability to withstand regular use, but a little TLC goes a long way in maximizing their lifespan.
Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 Cleaning
To clean the exterior of my Velocity 3.0, I put them on and gently scrub them with a soft cloth, lukewarm water, and mild soap. I’m careful not to oversaturate them or use harsh chemicals that could damage the materials.
For the interior, I fill them with water and a small amount of leather cleaner, shake them vigorously for a couple of minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
The rinse water will likely look dirty, which is a good sign that salt and dead skin cells are being removed, preventing the palm material from becoming brittle and degraded.
After washing, I let them air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight that could cause the leather to dry out and crack.
Once semi-dry, I put them back on to reshape them, then knead them softly once completely dry to restore flexibility. If necessary, I apply a leather conditioner to keep the palm supple and nourished.
Expected Lifespan
With diligent care, I expect my Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 to last around 12,000 miles or two years of regular use.
The span/poly chassis, TPR reinforcements, and double-stitched seams provide a robust construction that holds up well to the demands of street riding.
However, factors like frequency of use, riding style, and exposure to the elements will impact their longevity.
I inspect my gloves regularly for signs of wear, paying close attention to high-stress areas like the palm and fingertips.
If I notice any fraying seams, thinning material, or loss of protective qualities, I know it’s time to retire them and invest in a new pair.
My hands are worth protecting, so I don’t hesitate to replace my gloves when they no longer provide the level of safety and performance I need.
Comparison to Similar Gloves
| Glove | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon v2 | Carbon fiber knuckles, goatskin leather, air vents |
| Icon 29er C | Armored knuckles, thermoplastic scaphoid slider, moisture wicking liner |
| Dainese Carbon 4 | Carbon fiber knuckles, kangaroo & goatskin leather, carbon fiber middle finger |
The Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 shares some similarities with these other offerings, including rigid knuckle protection and leather construction on some models.
However, the Velocity 3.0 uniquely combines flexible TPR armor with a lightweight spandex/polyester chassis. This balances impact resistance with comfort and dexterity at a budget price point.
The Alpinestars and Icon models offer more hardcore track-focused features like sliders and venting. Meanwhile, the premium Dainese Carbon 4 provides top-shelf kangaroo leather and molded carbon knuckles.
But for all-around street riding on a budget, the Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 holds its own. Their touchscreen-compatible fingertips also allow easy device usage on the fly.
So, while the Velocity 3.0 lacks the exotic materials of premium race gloves, its combination of protection, value, and versatility makes this Joe Rocket glove a compelling option for daily street riders.
Rider Questions Answered
Do the Joe Rocket gloves keep your hands warm?
The lightweight spandex/polyester fabric lacks insulation, so they won’t keep you warm by themselves in cooler weather. However, wearing silk or thin wool liners underneath would add warmth without compromising fit or flexibility.
How well do they handle sweat and moisture?
I didn’t experience any issues with sweating or moisture retention inside the gloves, even on longer summer rides. The fabrics appear quick-drying and moisture-wicking, helping reduce clamminess inside the gloves.
Would you recommend wearing the Velocity 3.0 year-round?
While these gloves provide excellent protection and dexterity for warmer weather riding, they lack insulation for winter use.
Pairing them with silk or midweight liners would enable comfortable three-season usage down to around 50°F. For colder environments or winter riding, you’d want more heavily insulated gloves.
How durable are they – will they hold up to regular use?
The TPR plastic armor feels rigid and protective while the fabrics resist tearing or abrasion far better than a typical textile glove. Joe Rocket has a reputation for durability, and Velocity 3.0 seems no exception. I’d expect them to endure multiple seasons of regular riding with reasonable care.
And Finally…
For their reasonable $25 price point, these Joe Rocket Velocity 3.0 deliver impressive flexibility, protection, and features.
The pre-curved design grants unimpeded movement while the rigid TPR knuckle armor looks ready to withstand impacts.
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips allow easy device usage on the fly – a nice bonus. With proper liners, they could feasibly see year-round motorcycle duty as well.
Overall, the Velocity 3.0 stands out as a high-value option that punches above its modest price tag. Riders seeking protective summer gloves would do well to consider them.
Now I’d love to hear your thoughts – do you own a pair of Velocity 3.0? Share your impressions below!
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment: (1)