Remembering back to the time when I crashed on track and internally bruised my last 2 fingers due to the crash, Luckily I was wearing a good pair of motorcycle racing gloves if not it could have been much worse!
Gloves are not only essential for protecting your hands from injuries but also for enhancing your performance and comfort on the track. So let's review some of the best motorcycle racing gloves in 2023, based on their features, quality, durability, and customer feedback and I'll how to pick the right gloves for yourself.
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How do I pick the right gloves?
Choosing the right pair of gloves for motorcycle racing is not a headache if you don't see it that way. The most important factors to consider are the fit, the material, the protection, the comfort, and the quality. Here are some tips to help you find the best motorcycle racing gloves for your needs and preferences.
Fit: The fit of your gloves is crucial for your safety and performance. You want gloves that are snug but not too tight, that allow you to move your fingers and wrists freely, and that do not slip or bunch up. You should try on different sizes and brands of gloves and test how they feel.
Material: The material of your gloves affects their durability, breathability, and resistance to abrasion and impact. Leather is the most common material for motorcycle racing gloves, as it offers excellent protection and comfort. However, leather can be heavy, hot, and expensive. Synthetic materials, such as nylon or polyester, are lighter, cheaper, and more breathable, but they may not last as long or protect as well as leather. Some gloves combine leather and synthetic materials for a balance of benefits.
Protection: The protection of your gloves is essential for preventing injuries to your hands and wrists in case of a crash or a slide. You want gloves that have padding, armor, or reinforcement on the palms, knuckles, fingers, and wrists. Some gloves also have features such as finger bridges, wrist straps, or gauntlets that provide extra stability and support.
Comfort: The comfort of your gloves depends on their fit, material, and design. You want gloves that are soft, flexible, and breathable, that do not cause irritation or fatigue to your hands, and that suit the weather and temperature conditions. You should also look for gloves that have good grip, ventilation, and insulation.
Style: The style of your gloves is a matter of personal preference and expression and you probably don't need any advice on this.
Quality: Reputed brands tend to be more reliable and better
1. Alpinestars GP Pro R3 Gloves
The Alpinestars GP Pro R3 Gloves are designed to offer superior protection, comfort, and grip for riders who demand the best.
Features:
Made of premium leather and synthetic materials for durability and abrasion resistance
Incorporate Alpinestars Dynamic Friction Shield (DFS) knuckle protection system for impact and slide protection
Feature ergonomic stretch inserts, accordion panels, and external seams for enhanced fit and mobility
Have perforated leather on the backhand and fingers for ventilation and airflow
Have touchscreen-compatible fingertips for convenience and functionality
Have pre-curved fingers and a gauntlet-style cuff for optimal comfort and wrist coverage
PROS: | CONS: |
Offer a snug and comfortable fit that adapts to your hand movements | They are expensive compared to other motorcycle racing gloves on the market. |
Allow you to use your smartphone or GPS device without removing your gloves | They may require some break-in time before they fit perfectly into your hands. |
Keep your hands cool and dry in hot weather conditions | They may not be suitable for cold or wet weather conditions, as they are not waterproof or insulated. |
Enhance your grip and control on the handlebars and levers | |
Provide excellent protection for your hands and wrists in case of a crash or slide |
2. Alpinestars Supertech Gloves
Features:
Full-grain leather construction with kangaroo leather palm for durability and abrasion resistance.
Carbon fiber knuckle and finger protectors for impact protection and reduced weight.
Pre-curved finger design and external stitching for enhanced fit and dexterity.
Perforated leather panels and air vents for breathability and cooling.
Dual cuff closure with Velcro and zipper for a secure and adjustable fit.
PROS: | CONS: |
They provide excellent protection for your hands in case of a crash or slide. | They may not be suitable for cold or wet weather conditions, as they are not waterproof or insulated. |
They are comfortable and flexible, allowing you to control your bike with ease. | expensive |
They have a sleek and stylish design that you'd like | They may require some break-in time before they fit perfectly into your hands. |
3. Knox Handroid
The Knox Handroid is one of the most advanced motorcycle racing gloves on the market. It offers a high level of protection, comfort, and performance for riders who want to push their limits on the track.
Features:
Unique exoskeleton design that covers the fingers, knuckles, and wrist.
It uses a patented Boa closure system that allows you to adjust the fit and tension of the glove with a simple dial.
Scaphoid protection system that reduces the impact and abrasion on the palm in case of a crash.
Made of kangaroo leather, which is durable, flexible and breathable.
Has perforated panels and vents for airflow and cooling.
Has touchscreen compatible fingertips, so you can use your smartphone or GPS without taking off the glove.
PROS: | CONS: |
Offers excellent protection, comfort, and performance for motorcycle racing. | May not be great for wet conditions since it is not waterproof |
Futuristic and stylish look that will stand out from any rider in the pit's gloves | It may require some break-in time |
Good ventilation system that keeps your hands cool and dry. | Not suggested for riders with a tighter budget |
Snug and secure fit | It may require some break-in time |
high-quality construction and materials that last for a long time | May also not be compatible with some types of jackets or suits that have tight cuffs or sleeves |
It has a good balance of flexibility and rigidity keeping you protected |
4. Dainese Full Metal 6 Gloves
The first Dainese on this list, the Dainese Full Metal 6 gloves which have been consistently rated high are designed for high-performance riders who demand excellent protection and comfort on track days or races.
Features:
Made of premium leather and metal inserts for durability and abrasion resistance
Ergonomic design with pre-curved fingers and elasticated inserts for optimal fit and mobility
Carbon fiber and titanium knuckle protectors for impact protection
Quad elastication system for enhanced flexibility and control
Micro-injection reinforcements on the palm and fingers for grip and comfort
Dual cuff closure with velcro and zipper for a secure and adjustable fit
CE-certified according to EN 13594 Level 1
PROS: | CONS: |
Gives you more feedback and control over the bike | Need some time to adjust to the tight and stiff fit |
Great protection especially in serious crashes | Cost more |
comfortable and snug fit that does not restrict your movements | Not very versatile for different weather conditions |
5. REV’IT! Jerez 3 Gloves
REV’IT! Jerez 3 Gloves is an excellent motorcycle racing glove in 2023. Let's take a look at it.
Features:
Made of kangaroo leather, which is durable, flexible and lightweight.
Has a hard knuckle protector, a palm slider, and a finger bridge to protect your hands from impact and abrasion.
The gloves feature a perforated design for optimal ventilation and a pre-curved shape for a comfortable fit.
PROS: | CONS: |
high-quality materials that last long and feel great | Quite expensive |
excellent protection and grip for motorcycle racing | Not waterproof |
stylish and sporty look | Needs time to be adjusted on your hand |
6. Spidi Carbo Track EVO Gloves
The Spidi Carbo Track EVO Gloves are designed to offer maximum protection, comfort, and grip on the track. Here are some of the features, pros, and cons of these gloves.
Features:
Made of full-grain cowhide leather with carbon fiber knuckle protectors
Palm reinforced with Keramide and Clarino for abrasion resistance and durability
Velcro wrist closure and cuff adjustment for a secure fit
Pre-curved fingers and ergonomic design for optimal comfort and mobility
Vented leather panels for breathability and airflow
PROS: | CONS: |
Excellent protection from impact and abrasion | Expensive |
Comfortable and flexible fit | May require some break-in time |
Good grip and control on the handlebars | Not waterproof or windproof |
Available in different colors and sizes | |
Stylish and sleek design |
7. Alpinestars SP-8 V3
The Alpinestars SP-8 V3 are designed for high-performance riding and racing, and they have some features that make them stand out from the crowd.
Features:
The Alpinestars SP-8 V3 gloves are made of premium leather and synthetic materials, with perforations for ventilation and airflow.
They have a pre-curved finger construction that reduces fatigue and improves grip. They also have a patented finger bridge that prevents finger separation and twisting in case of a crash.
Have hard knuckle protectors that are ergonomically shaped and covered with leather for abrasion resistance.
They also have foam padding on the palm, thumb, and fingers for impact absorption and comfort.
The gloves have a Velcro wrist closure that ensures a secure and personalized fit.
PROS: | CONS: |
The gloves are comfortable to wear, with a pre-curved shape, perforations, and padding. | Expensive, but best value for money in the list |
The gloves are durable and well-made, with quality leather and stitching. | The gloves might run small or tight for some people, so you might need to order a size up or get them adjusted to your hand before using them. |
Comes in various colors and sizes. | The gloves are not waterproof or windproof, so they might not be suitable for cold or wet weather conditions. |
The gloves offer a high level of protection for your hands, especially your knuckles, fingers, and palms. |
8. Dainese Steel Pro In Gloves
If you are looking for a pair of short leather gloves that can offer you high-level protection and comfort on the track, check out the Dainese Steel Pro In Gloves.
These gloves are designed to be worn inside the sleeve of your suit or jacket, which reduces bulk and gives you a cleaner look. They also have some impressive features that make them stand out among other motorcycle racing gloves.
Features:
Metal protectors on knuckles and back of hand for impact protection and abrasion resistance
DCP system on the little finger to prevent twisting and unwanted movement
Quadruple elastication and pre-curved fingers for optimal fit and flexibility
One-piece leather panel on the side of the hand for enhanced grip and durability
Micro-injection reinforcements on the palm and fingers for extra protection
Perforated leather on the back of the hand for breathability
PROS: | CONS: |
excellent protection for your hands in case of a crash | may not be compatible with some suits or jackets that have tight sleeves |
They fit snugly and comfortably inside your suit or jacket sleeve | They may take some time to break in and soften up |
sleek and stylish design that matches well with Dainese suits and jackets | quite expensive |
9. Alpinestars GP Plus R V2
Features:
Made of premium leather with perforated panels for ventilation
Reinforced with aramid fiber and synthetic suede for abrasion resistance
Equipped with hard knuckle protectors and finger sliders for impact protection
Features a dual cuff closure system for a secure and adjustable fit
Has touchscreen compatible fingertips for convenience
PROS: | CONS: |
Compatible with most smartphones and devices (Touchscreen compatibility) | May require some break-in time to adapt to the shape of the hand |
Enhances the control and feedback of the motorcycle | May not be suitable for cold weather conditions |
Provides superior protection for the hands and wrists | May be expensive for some riders |
Offers a comfortable and snug fit with good flexibility |
10. Dainese 4 Stroke Evo Gloves
Features:
Made of cowhide leather and synthetic suede for abrasion resistance and grip
Reinforced with thermoplastic resin inserts on the knuckles, fingers, and back of the hand for impact protection
Pre-curved fingers and elasticated inserts for optimal fit and flexibility
Perforated leather on the back and fingers for ventilation and breathability
Velcro wrist strap for secure closure and adjustment
Touchscreen-compatible index fingertip for convenience
PROS: | CONS: |
Provide excellent protection for your hands in case of a crash or slide | May be a bit pricey compared to other gloves on the market |
Enhance your control and feedback from the bike with a good grip and sensitivity | May not be suitable for cold or wet weather conditions as they are not waterproof or insulated |
Allow good airflow and moisture management to keep your hands cool and dry | require some break-in time to soften the leather and adjust to your hand size |
Offer a comfortable and snug fit that adapts to your hand shape |
Why are my gloves so tight and how to fix it?
All new gloves when purchased, especially leather will naturally not perfectly fit your hand and will be rigid and uncomfortable. It will take some frequent wearing for the leather to soften up and adjust specifically to your hand shape and then it will have a snug fit.
This is also why it isn't recommended to use another rider's gloves since the gloves may have adjusted specifically for his hands, not yours, and also why you should never wear fresh out-of-the-box gloves to your track day.
A few days before your track day or race wear your gloves at home or wherever for a few minutes and move your wrists palms and fingers and this will soften the glove and prepare it for your track day.
All gloves provide good insulation due to leather and are quite waterproof naturally so they are fine to use in regular wet conditions and some cold weather.
You should get specifically waterproof and insulated gloves only if the conditions are much more extreme and you will be riding for a long time.
Summary of the 10 Best Motorcycle Racing Gloves in 2023
Here's the summary of the 10 Best Motorcycle Racing Gloves in 2023:
- Alpinestars GP Pro R3 Gloves: These gloves are designed for maximum comfort, protection, and grip. They feature a leather and textile construction, a knuckle protector, a palm slider, and a finger bridge.
- Alpinestars Supertech Gloves: These gloves are the ultimate choice for professional racers. They are made of kangaroo leather and have a carbon fiber knuckle guard, a dual compound palm slider, and an ergonomic cuff closure.
- Knox Handroid: These gloves are the most innovative and futuristic gloves on the market. They have a patented exoskeleton system that protects the fingers, knuckles, and wrist. They also have a Boa lacing system that allows you to adjust the fit with a twist of a dial.
- Dainese Full Metal 6 Gloves: These gloves are the evolution of the legendary Full Metal series. They are made of titanium, carbon fiber, and steel and have a pre-curved shape, a thermoplastic resin insert, and a velcro strap.
- REV’IT! Jerez 3 Gloves: These gloves are inspired by the MotoGP champions. They are made of cowhide leather and have a hard-shell knuckle, a TPU palm slider, and a ventilated finger protector.
- Spidi Carbo Track EVO Gloves: These gloves are the result of years of research and development. They are made of goat leather and have a carbon fiber knuckle shield, a Keramide palm reinforcement, and a wrist strap.
- Alpinestars SP-8 V3: These gloves are the best value-for-money gloves on this list. They are made of full-grain leather and have a synthetic suede palm, a foam knuckle protector, and a velcro cuff closure.
- Dainese Steel Pro In Gloves: These gloves are the perfect combination of style and functionality. They are made of cowhide leather and have a metal knuckle cover, a polyurethane palm slider, and an elasticated insert.
- Alpinestars GP Plus R V2: These gloves are the upgraded version of the GP Plus R series. They are made of premium leather and have a dynamic friction shield, a finger bridge, and an ergonomic stretch insert.
- Dainese 4 Stroke Evo Gloves: These gloves are the minimalist option for racers who want to feel every detail of their bike. They are made of goatskin leather and have a thermoplastic resin knuckle guard, an elasticated insert, and a micro-injection reinforcement.
I hope this blog post has helped you find the best motorcycle racing glove you need. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below❤️
Faster. Better. Safer.
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