A Great Motorcycle Street Glove
By Komodo Gear
With so many different Motorcycle Gloves on the market it can be a little overwhelming at times.
Here’s a short list to ask yourself:
a) What are you looking for (fit and feel)?
b) What do you desire the most (protection/quality)?
c) Does it really matter what brand it is – and why?
d) What’s your riding style (cruiser/street/track day/race)?
e) Is price your motivation?
Let’s begin with the basics. Motorcycle Gloves are intended to be worn, so they must feel right when you put them on. “Feel right” means that they are comfortable. If they’re not comfortable, chances are you won’t wear them or they will be a distraction while you ride (not good). It’s ok if they’re a little snug, most gloves will break in with time and use. However, you must have the ability to articulate your fingers and also have a snug, but comfortable fit on your palm.
In addition to fit and feel; you need to take a good look at what protective features are included. What type of leather are the constructed of? Ask what kind of leather the Motorcycle Gloves are made of (a lot of gloves today use buffalo; goat and other less than desirable materials that will not hold up in a crash). Yes, the type of leather does make a difference! Cowhide (top grain or full grain) is preferred for the overall structure because it is very durable and easy to maintain. So, make sure you look over the gloves thoroughly to understand how they are made as quality control is also an important feature. Other nice features to consider is Kevlar stitching, padding in the palm, composites on
knuckle/fingers, extra layers of leather in the palm or even Kevlar panels on the palm or on the pinky (or both). You need to also ask if there is reinforcement in the critical areas to avoid road rash. Also, check the closure system. Is it a Velcro tab or strap? Does it offer a dual enclosure system with a latch, snap or Velcro? You need to make sure the glove is secure when it’s on your hand.
The type of riding you do is also important. For example, riders who just cruise around usually do not stress their gloves a great deal because they are not putting much pressure on the grips. You know what kind of rider you are. If you do general riding, then it’s likely you will not be putting a lot stress onto the glove and enjoy your gloves for many years. However, if you race, then you placing a great deal of stress on the glove due to pressure, temperature, sweat – then repeat. Race gloves take a beating and their life is accelerated by hard use or crashing. An interesting reality of glove “life” is also related to sweat and temperature. Yes, I said sweat! Sweat is either alkaline or acidic; either way both will break down the leather and can accelerate its deterioration. A quick remedy is to rinse your gloves out with water after a ride; let them dry and them apply a quality mink oil (remember, leather is skin; so clean and add moisturizer often
for long life).
