The Klim adventure gore-tex short glove is back with some updates. But is it still the best summer riding glove with waterproofing?
They provide gore-tex waterproof protection without insulation – perfect for warm-weather riding. I tested them to see how the changes impact comfort, protection, and value.
But, the main question I will answer in this review is: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for cold weather for you? Let’s find out!
Klim Adventure GTX Short Glove
Key Takeaways
- Hard knuckles increase safety
- Waterproof protection guaranteed
- Pre-curved fingers with enhanced grip
Our Klim Adventure GTX Verdict
After testing the Klim Adventure GTX for three months over a very wet winter, I must say I am really impressed.
The goatskin leather construction feels premium and durable, while the GORE-TEX membrane has kept my hands dry in various weather conditions. I particularly liked the short cuff design, which allows for easy under-jacket wear and quick on/off.
The carbon fiber knuckle protection made me feel safe when it comes to protection in a crash without feeling bulky. The touchscreen compatibility is a game-changer for using my GPS or phone without removing them.
The pre-curved design and KLIM-engineered grip articulation make them comfortable right out of the box, with minimal break-in time needed.
In my experience, they perform well in a wide range of temperatures, though they’re not ideal for extreme cold. The moisture-wicking liner helps keep my hands comfortable even on warmer days.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The price point is relatively high, which might be a deterrent for some riders. Additionally, while the short cuff design is convenient, it may not provide as much protection as a longer cuff in certain situations. Some users have reported that the fingers run slightly long, which could affect dexterity for those with shorter fingers.
Remember, prices can change as special offers are available from Revzilla.com, so check out the best prices before buying elsewhere. Revzilla won’t be beaten on price with their price match guarantee, ensuring you get the best deal possible.
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Comparison To Similar Gloves
| Model Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| REV’IT Cassini H2O | Waterproof and breathable H2Out membrane, PWR |
| KLIM Adventure GTX | Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable insert, Premium grade leather construction, Lightweight and flexible |
| 100% Hydromatic Waterproof Brisket | Hydromatic waterproof and breathable membrane, TPR moldings for knuckle impact protection, Airprene cuffs with Velcro closure |
| REV’IT! Liberty H2O | Hydratex waterproof liner, PWR |
The KLIM Adventure GTX stand out for their use of premium leather and Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing while remaining lightweight and flexible.
The REV’IT options both feature their proprietary waterproof/breathable membranes (H2Out and Hydratex). The Cassini adds Thermolite insulation for colder weather. Both have protective knuckle armor.
The 100% Hydromatic gloves are the most affordable but still provide a waterproof/breathable membrane and TPR knuckle armor. However, overall construction and materials may not be as premium as the higher-priced options.
In summary, the KLIM and REV’IT gloves offer the most advanced protection and weatherproofing features, while the 100% is a solid budget choice. Selecting the best option depends on your specific needs for warmth, protection, and budget.
Intro to the Klim Adventure GTX Short
The “GTX” in the name tells us they have gore-tex waterproofing. This latest version updates the popular outgoing model with changes to styling, materials, and design.
I’ll be comparing it to the previous version throughout this review. But know that they cost around $180 and come in black or brown. They fit those with wider palms and shorter fingers best.
What’s New on the Klim Adventure GTX Short?
Outer Construction Updates
They have a goatskin leather and textile outer construction. The textile looks like Kevlar in high abrasion zones. You also get a single velcro wrist closure and a velcro tab.
On the outer shells, the stretch accordions under the knuckles were removed. The knuckles themselves changed from their “super fabric” to a hard plastic armor style. The new knuckles feel more rigid and less flexible than before.
Finger & Hand Design
The pre-curved fingers have less curve than the old model – more on that below. You also get:
- Split reliefs on fingers
- More slide protection material on bottoms
- Wider, thicker palm
- Branded pull tab
On the Inside
Inside, they sport a smooth liner with minimal seams. The sizing accommodates thicker palms and shorter fingers.
In use, they feel well-made, but I noticed some bunching around my primary fingers. The pinky and ring fingers fit pretty well, though. Key Features of the Klim Adventure GTX Short
Waterproofing
The Klim Adventure GTX Short provide exceptional waterproofing, keeping my hands dry and comfortable in even the nastiest downpours.
Klim’s use of a Gore-Tex membrane creates an impenetrable barrier against the elements, allowing me to focus on the ride instead of worrying about soggy gloves.
Gore-Tex Membrane Blocks Water and Wind
At the heart of the Adventure GTX waterproofing is a Gore-Tex membrane that’s bonded to the outer shell. This microporous membrane contains billions of tiny pores that are too small for water droplets to pass through but large enough for water vapor to escape.
The result is a glove that’s completely waterproof yet still breathable, preventing that clammy feeling you get with non-breathable waterproof gloves.
I’ve ridden through hours of heavy rain in these gloves and my hands have stayed bone dry. The Gore-Tex membrane also blocks 100% of the wind, adding insulation and preventing evaporative cooling.
This windproofing is a huge plus in cold, wet conditions where the combination of moisture and airflow can quickly lead to numb fingers.
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Coating Sheds Water
In addition to the Gore-Tex membrane, Klim applied a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating to the outer shell of the Adventure GTX. This coating causes water to bead up and roll off the surface of the instead of soaking in.
The DWR treatment helps them shed water quickly, reducing the chances of the outer shell becoming saturated and heavy.
I’ve been impressed by how well the DWR coating has held up over time. Even after multiple washes and exposure to dirt and oil, they still cause water to bead up and roll off like they’re fresh out of the box. This durability is a testament to the quality of the materials and construction Klim put into these gloves.
In summary, the Klim Adventure GTX Short offer best-in-class waterproofing thanks to their Gore-Tex membrane and Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating.
They have kept my hands dry and comfortable through some of the worst weather Mother Nature can dish out, allowing me to ride with confidence no matter the forecast.
If you’re looking for a glove that will keep you protected from the elements, the Adventure GTX is a top performer.
Klim Adventure GTX Short Comfort
The Klim Adventure GTX Short are incredibly comfortable, making long days in the saddle a pleasure rather than a pain. Klim’s attention to detail and use of premium materials create a glove that feels like a second skin.
Supple Goatskin Leather Conforms to Your Hands
The goatskin leather used in the Adventure GTX is remarkably supple and flexible, allowing them to conform to the shape of your hands for a custom-like fit.
There’s no stiffness or bunching, just a soft, pliable feel that moves with you. I’ve worn them on multiple 8+ hour rides and never experienced any discomfort or pressure points.
Moisture-Wicking Liner Keeps Hands Dry
Inside the liner, Klim used a moisture-wicking liner that does an excellent job of keeping your hands dry and comfortable.
The liner material pulls sweat away from your skin and allows it to evaporate, preventing that clammy feeling you get with lesser gloves. My hands stay pleasantly dry even when I’m working up a sweat on challenging terrain.
Accordion Stretch Panels Enhance Flexibility
Klim incorporated accordion stretch panels on the backs of the fingers and thumbs to enhance flexibility and reduce fatigue.
These textured panels allow them to move with your digits, making it easier to operate the controls and reducing strain during long days of riding. I appreciate how they feel like an extension of my hands rather than a bulky hindrance.
In summary, the Klim Adventure GTX Short offer outstanding comfort thanks to their supple goatskin leather construction, moisture-wicking liner, and accordion stretch panels.
They keep my hands happy mile after mile, allowing me to focus on the ride and enjoy the scenery.
If you’re looking for a glove that won’t leave your hands sore and fatigued at the end of a long day, the Adventure GTX is a top choice.
Abrasion Protection
The Klim Adventure GTX Short provides excellent abrasion protection, giving me peace of mind when I’m pushing hard on rough terrain. Klim used a combination of premium materials and strategic reinforcement to create a glove that can survive serious crashes.
Goatskin Leather Palm and Chassis
The main body of the Adventure GTX is constructed from supple yet strong goatskin leather. Goatskin has a tighter grain structure than cowhide, giving it outstanding abrasion and tear resistance for its thickness.
This allows Klim to keep them lightweight and dexterous while still providing serious protection. I’ve taken a couple of spills in them and the leather barely shows a scuff.
Superfabric Ceramic Print Reinforcements
In high-wear areas like the palm and outside of the pinky, Klim added Superfabric ceramic print reinforcements.
This innovative material uses tiny ceramic plates bonded to a fabric backing to provide extreme abrasion resistance.
It’s like having built-in skid plates for your hands. The Superfabric panels give me extra confidence when I’m bracing during technical maneuvers or pushing branches out of the way on overgrown trails.
Poron XRD Impact Pads
For added protection against impacts, Klim included Poron XRD pads on the knuckles, fingers, and palm. This viscoelastic foam stiffens upon impact to absorb and dissipate energy, reducing the risk of hand injuries.
I’ve whacked my hands on my handlebars and even some trees while wearing them, and the Poron XRD pads have spared me from any serious bruising or pain.
In summary, the Klim Adventure GTX Short offers top-notch abrasion protection thanks to its premium goatskin leather construction, Superfabric ceramic print reinforcements, and Poron XRD impact pads.
They have saved my hands from injury on multiple occasions, giving me the confidence to ride hard and focus on the trail ahead.
Ventilation
The Klim Adventure GTX Short struggles to flow much air or manage heat in warm riding conditions due to its unperforated, full-leather construction.
While they use premium, supple goatskin leather, the lack of any perforation or mesh panels severely limits their ability to ventilate.
No Dedicated Venting Features
I carefully examined the Adventure GTX and couldn’t find any dedicated venting features like perforations, mesh, or zip-open panels.
They are made almost entirely of solid leather with only small stretch woven textile portions on the backs of the fingers.
This construction, while very protective and abrasion-resistant, creates a pretty hot environment for your hands in warm weather[2].
Gore-Tex Membrane Blocks Airflow
The Gore-Tex membrane built into these gloves provides outstanding waterproofing but also acts as a total wind barrier.
It prevents any air from flowing through the glove chassis and carries away heat and moisture. In fact, Gore-Tex is so effective at blocking airflow that the Adventure GTX actually run too warm for most summer riding.
Gets Steamy in High Temperatures
I tested the Klim Adventure GTX in temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 80s Fahrenheit. Once the mercury climbed over about 75°F, my hands started to feel quite hot and sweaty inside the gloves, especially in direct sunlight.
The moisture-wicking liner helped delay heat build-up but couldn’t overcome the lack of venting. For serious hot weather use, you’ll want to look for a more ventilated glove.
In summary, the Klim Adventure GTX Short prioritize weather protection and durability over ventilation and hot weather comfort.
Their full leather chassis and Gore-Tex membrane make them run too warm for most riders in the heat of summer.
Consider these gloves for spring, fall, and mild winter temperatures where the insulation and wind-blocking are assets rather than liabilities.
Visibility
For nighttime visibility, the white palm helps reflect light. I’d probably still wear a hi-viz jacket though, instead of relying solely on the gloves.
Sizing and Fit: Klim Adventure GTX Short
I’ve found that the Klim Adventure GTX Short offers a versatile fit for various hand shapes and sizes. Here’s my breakdown of their sizing and fit characteristics:
Hand Shapes
They accommodate different hand shapes well:
- Wide palms: The goatskin leather stretches nicely, conforming to wider hands.
- Narrow hands: The hook-and-loop wrist closure allows for a snug fit on slimmer wrists.
- Long fingers: The pre-curved finger design comforts those with longer digits.
Sizing Guide
Klim uses palm width for sizing.
| Size | Palm Width |
|---|---|
| XS | 6 – 6.5 cm |
| S | 7 – 7.5 cm |
| M | 8 – 8.5 cm |
| L | 9 – 9.5 cm |
| XL | 10 – 10.5 cm |
| 2XL | 11 – 11.5 cm |
Fit Considerations
- Break-in period: The leather softens after a few rides, molding to your hand shape.
- Finger length: I noticed the fingers run slightly longer, which is great for grip coverage.
- Thumb fit: The articulated thumb provides excellent mobility without excess material.
Adjustability
The wrist closure allows for about 1 inch of adjustment, helping you fine-tune the fit.
My Experience
I have average-width palms with shorter fingers. The medium size fit me perfectly after a short break-in period. They felt snug initially but loosened up just right after a few hours of riding.
Remember, personal preference plays a role in their fit. Some riders prefer a tighter fit for better control, while others like a bit more room for comfort on long rides.
Durability and Longevity
The Klim Adventure GTX Short are built to withstand the rigors of adventure riding over the long haul. After testing them on numerous multi-day trips and daily commutes, I can attest to their impressive durability.
Rugged Materials Hold Up Over Time
Klim selected premium materials like goatskin leather and Superfabric ceramic print to ensure the Adventure GTX can handle whatever abuse you throw at them.
The stitching has held up flawlessly, with no loose threads or blown seams, despite constant use in all conditions.
I’ve subjected them to everything from rocky trails to bushwhacking through overgrown single track, and they look nearly new after a quick wipe-down.
No Premature Wear or Common Failure Points
Even after thousands of miles of use, I haven’t noticed any areas of premature wear or common failure points on the Adventure GTX.
High-wear areas like the palm and thumb/forefinger junction show barely any signs of abrasion or thinning, which is a testament to the quality of the goatskin Klim used.
The armor, padding, and protective panels are also perfectly intact. I expect to use them for many more seasons before they need to be retired.
In summary, the Klim Adventure GTX Short delivers outstanding durability and longevity that lives up to Klim’s reputation for quality.
If you’re looking for a pair of adventure gloves that will go the distance and then some, these are a solid choice that should provide years of trouble-free use.
Touchscreen Compatibility
The Klim Adventure GTX Short work exceptionally well with touchscreen devices, making it easy for me to interact with my GPS, smartphone, and other gadgets without removing them.
Mult-E-Touch™ Fingertips for Seamless Operation
Klim incorporated their proprietary Mult-E-Touch™ technology into the index fingertips of these gloves. This touchscreen-compatible material allows the electrostatic screen to recognize input, enabling precise and responsive control.
I tested the Adventure GTX with my iPhone, Garmin Zumo XT, and iPad, and the touchscreen functionality worked flawlessly across all devices.
Tapping, swiping, and pinch-zooming gestures registered accurately, letting me navigate maps, answer calls, and reply to messages while keeping my hands protected.
Conductive Yet Durable
What impresses me most is how Klim managed to integrate touchscreen compatibility without compromising the gloves’ durability or safety.
The goatskin leather construction remains intact, providing excellent abrasion resistance. The Mult-E-Touch™ fingertips don’t alter the feel or feedback of the controls, and they’ve shown no signs of wearing out prematurely.
In summary, the Klim Adventure GTX Short deliver outstanding touchscreen compatibility that enhances convenience without sacrificing protection.
Being able to easily operate my devices is a huge plus on long adventure rides where I frequently need to check navigation or communicate with my group.
Klim Adventure GTX Short Care and Maintenance
Proper care is crucial for maintaining their waterproof properties and extending their lifespan. Here’s my guide based on my experience with Gore-Tex gear and Klim’s recommendations:
Cleaning
- I brush off dirt after each ride using a soft brush.
- For deeper cleaning, I use lukewarm water and mild soap.
- I avoid harsh detergents or solvents that could damage the Gore-Tex membrane.
- I gently hand wash, focusing on the goatskin leather areas and ceramic-printed slide zones.
- I rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap.
Drying
- I always air dry at room temperature.
- I never use direct heat sources – they can damage the leather and Gore-Tex.
- I stuff them with paper towels to maintain shape while drying.
- It usually takes 24-48 hours for complete drying.
Waterproofing
- Every few months, I apply a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) spray designed for Gore-Tex.
- I focus on the goatskin leather and seams.
- I let them air dry for 24 hours after applying DWR.
Leather Care
- I use a leather conditioner made for motorcycle gloves every 3-4 months.
- I work a small amount into the goatskin using circular motions.
- I let them sit overnight to absorb the conditioner fully.
Storage
- I store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- I use glove shapers to maintain form during storage.
- I avoid airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup.
By following these steps, I’ve kept my Klim Adventure GTX Short in great condition. The Gore-Tex membrane stays effective, and the goatskin leather remains supple. Remember, consistent care is key for these high-performance gloves.
Comparison to the Outgoing Klim Adventure GTX Model
Comparison to Previous Model
The Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves are an evolution of Klim’s popular Caldera gloves, which were discontinued a few years ago.
While I loved my old Calderas, the Adventure GTX gloves incorporate several improvements and changes compared to their predecessor.
Updated Sizing and Fit
One notable difference is that Klim seems to have adjusted their sizing with the Adventure GTX gloves. I wore a size Large in the Calderas, but find I should have sized up to an XL in the Adventure GTX for a comparable fit.
The Adventure GTX gloves feel snugger, with less room for adding thicker liners. If you’re between sizes, I recommend going with the larger option.
Streamlined Design and Features
The Adventure GTX gloves have a somewhat simpler, more streamlined design compared to the feature-rich Calderas.
The Calderas had hard titanium knuckle armor, while the Adventure GTX uses lighter padding across the knuckles, fingers, palm, and wrist.
This change makes the Adventure GTX gloves a bit less bulky and more comfortable for all-day wear, though they may offer slightly less impact protection.
Improved Gauntlet Closure
Klim upgraded the gauntlet closure on the Adventure GTX gloves. The large Velcro strap is more effective than the setup on the Calderas, creating a secure, weatherproof seal against the arm. This improvement helps keep wind and water out, a welcome change for cold weather and wet conditions.
Overall, while I still miss my trusty Calderas, the Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves are a worthy successor.
The updated fit, streamlined design, and improved gauntlet closure make them a go-to choice for a wide range of riding conditions.
They may not be an exact replacement for the Calderas, but the Adventure GTX gloves have quickly become my new favorite all-around riding gloves.
Is the Klim Adventure GTX Short Worth It?
The Klim Adventure GTX short hits the mark if you want 3 season protection in a short gauntlet riding glove. The updates bring extra protection and improved aesthetics.
Ventilation stands out as being good enough even for hot summer weather riding. And waterproof breathability makes these some of the most versatile adventure gloves out there.
The catch is that pinky-to-index fit. You may want to size down or try a different model if you have longer, thinner fingers like me. Riders with shorter, wider fingers will appreciate the roomier design.
So, while not perfect, the new Klim Adventure GTX short still does enough right to satisfy serious ADV and dual sport riders looking for waterproof gloves usable through summer.
I give them my seal of approval and recommend checking them out if you want guaranteed dry hands without a heavy winter glove.
Gauntlet Fit and Jacket Compatibility
The short gauntlet design of the Klim Adventure GTX provides a versatile fit that works well with a variety of adventure and dual-sport jacket cuffs.
I’ve used them with several different jackets and found that achieving a secure, weatherproof seal is generally easy.
Slim Profile Slides Under Most Cuffs
The compact gauntlet on the Adventure GTX has a low-profile shape that slips under most jacket cuffs without bunching up or creating pressure points.
I’ve had success fitting them under the cuffs of my Klim Badlands Pro, RevIt Sand 4, and Mosko Moto Woodsman jackets. The glove gauntlet is slim enough to slide into place smoothly, providing a clean, bulk-free interface.
Adjustable Velcro Closure for a Snug Fit
Klim equipped the Adventure GTX with an adjustable Velcro closure at the wrist, allowing me to cinch down the gauntlet for a snug, customized fit.
This adjustability helps create a reliable seal against the elements, preventing cold air or moisture from sneaking in. I appreciate being able to dial in the fit depending on the jacket I’m wearing and the conditions I’m riding in.
Minor Challenges with Some Cuff Designs
While the short gauntlet fits well under most jacket cuffs, I did encounter a couple of minor challenges.
With jackets that have thick, heavily reinforced cuffs like my Klim Kodiak, the glove gauntlet can be a bit trickier to slip into place. It’s not a major issue, but it sometimes takes a bit of wiggling to achieve a comfortable, crease-free fit.
Additionally, when I’m wearing them over the top of a jacket cuff, the shorter gauntlet length doesn’t provide quite as much overlap and coverage as a full-length gauntlet would.
This can potentially allow a bit more air and moisture in during prolonged wet weather riding. However, for most conditions, I’ve found the seal to be more than adequate.
Overall, the Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves offer a versatile gauntlet design that’s compatible with a wide range of adventure and dual-sport jackets.
The slim profile and adjustable closure make it easy to achieve a secure, weatherproof fit in most situations, with only minor limitations in extreme conditions or with certain cuff styles.
Klim Adventure GTX Short Long-term Durability
When it comes to long-term durability, the Klim Adventure GTX Short stand out as a reliable choice for adventure riders.
They are constructed from high-quality goatskin leather, known for its exceptional durability and flexibility. The addition of a Gore-Tex membrane ensures they remain waterproof, even after extensive use.
Real-world Examples
After putting more than 30,000 miles on the pair I tested, they showed minimal signs of wear, with only slight color fading on the palms and no loose stitching. This kind of durability is a testament to Klim’s robust materials and construction methods.
Key Features Contributing to Durability
- Goatskin Leather: The primary material, goatskin leather, is not only durable but also supple, requiring minimal break-in time.
- Gore-Tex Membrane: This waterproof layer is laminated to the leather, providing excellent resistance to water while maintaining breathability.
- Poron XRD Palm Protection: This feature enhances their ability to withstand impacts and abrasion, further extending their lifespan.
After extensive use in various weather conditions, they remained in great condition, with no significant degradation in performance. They were comfortable and waterproof right from the start, with no need for a break-in period.
FAQ
What is the difference between the Badlands and Adventure versions?
The Badlands gloves add insulating thermal liners for cold weather, whereas the Adventure is lightly insulated for warmer temperatures. Both have Gore-Tex waterproofing.
What color options are available?
You can choose from all black or black with brown panels. No hi-viz colorway for those concerned about visibility.
What is the sizing like on these Klim gloves?
They fit shorter, wider fingers best. Riders with longer, thin fingers may need to size down for a good pinky-to-index fit.
Can you wear them in light rain? Heavy rain?
Yes, the Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproofing even in heavy rain. Just be aware they lack insulation for cold and wet conditions.
How long do the Klim Adventure GTX last?
With proper care, the leather and textile construction should provide multiple seasons of use. High abrasion zones use textiles for extra durability against wear and tear.
And that wraps up this complete review of the updated Klim Adventure Gore-Tex short motorcycle gloves! Let me know if you have any other questions. Ride safe out there.
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