If you are a motorcycle rider, then it is important to have the right gear. One of the most important pieces of gear is motorcycle gloves. After all, the only thing between your hands and an accident is a pair of motorcycle gloves. However, not all gloves were created equal. This is a guide to help you to size and buy motorcycle gloves that will keep your hands safe in any situation.
There are three things to consider before making that purchase:
- The first is the motorcycle glove size, which refers to how large or small of a hand they can fit. If you’re buying gloves for yourself and your hands are on the larger side, then go with an XL – it should provide enough room in there.
- Secondly, choose the right motorcycle glove type for you: full finger gloves or half finger? Full have more protection as they cover your entire hand from fingertips to wrist, but may be too warm in some climates and not provide enough dexterity when gripping the throttle and clutch levers on a bike. Half fingers are great for these excessive heat days because they keep your digits cool.
- Lastly, make sure to pay attention to the fit of the glove: it should be snug but not uncomfortable or too tight! Consider this when thinking about how you ride and what type of gloves will work best for you.
As a motorcycle rider, safety is always at the top of your priority list – especially when it comes to motorcycle gloves.
How To Size Motorcycle Gloves
To size motorcycle gloves, you will need to measure the length and width of your hand.
– To do this, start by placing a tape measure at the widest point on your palm below your thumb. The measurement should be in inches or centimeters – whichever is easier for you! Then wrap it around your hand to the point where you would like to wear your motorcycle gloves.
– The wider the span, the bigger your glove size. If you have a wide or long palm but short fingers and hand length, then get extra-large motorcycle gloves; if you are smaller in stature with shorter fingers, then go for a medium-sized pair of gloves!
– For more snug and tight motorcycle gloves, choose one that has an elastic band around your wrist. Alternatively, for a looser grip, go with a glove without this tightening feature.
There are five major types of gloves to choose from when you ride your motorcycle: street, race, touring, ADV and dirt.
- Street riding is the most common form of cycling, as it allows for more personal flexibility in both style and strategy without sacrificing safety.
- Race gloves are designed with a snug fit that minimizes air resistance while also protecting their hands against minor scrapes or abrasions caused by an occasional crash.
- Touring riders typically need thicker palms because they’re on the road longer than other commuters; these leather mitts optimize grip but don’t sacrifice comfort during long hours behind handlebars – not to mention protection. The adventure rider can find plenty of options out there thanks to this versatile category, which includes everything from ATGATT (all the gear all the time) to just light and packable windbreaker.
- ADV gloves are often made of Gore-Tex, GORE® Windstopper®, or other waterproof materials – so you can ride in any conditions! These mitts lack dexterity because they’re designed for riding at high speeds over long distances with your hands on the handlebars, but it’s a trade-off for those who want to explore in comfort.
- Dirt gloves are usually made of thick leather-like motorcycle racing suits. They maximize protection while still allowing you some control over your bike, and can be worn with or without hand guards (depending on speed). These mitts also offer substantial protection from heat and cold, but they’re bulky for street riding.
Motorcycle glove materials
Motorcycle gloves are made of a variety of materials, including leather, nylon, and spandex. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Leather gloves can be very comfortable to wear, but the stretchy material is not great for motorcycle riders who need their hands to flex in order to control the motorcycle. Nylon is a great option because it is stretchy enough to create a snug fit that will keep your hands safe from any potential accidents. However, nylon does not breathe well at all, so if you plan on being out in the sun for extended periods of time, then this probably isn’t the best option for you. Spandex is a stretchy material that breathes well, but the lack of palm padding can be very uncomfortable for riders.
Advice on motorcycle gloves for women
Women are often advised to wear a shorter glove, which will provide less protection but more dexterity. The pinky finger is usually not covered by the glove and there’s no wrist support because of that; however, this style does give better access to the throttle while also minimizing bulkiness in the hand area.
Gloves are a piece of safety gear that every motorcycle rider should wear, but it can be difficult to find the right size. If you’re shopping online, then make sure you measure your hand before heading out and know what type of riding will dictate which glove is best for you. There’s no shame in trying on multiple sizes or styles before you purchase.
