Best Cold Weather Motorcycle Gloves

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There can be two types of motorcycle riders: ones that tend to ride their motorcycles during the warmer days for fun and enjoyment but simply store their motorcycle during the winters, while others who ride their motorcycles throughout the year for commuting to work/college or simply because they love riding motorcycles.

If you belong to the latter group, this article is for you. We are going to take you through the different subtopics like the types of cold weather motorcycle gloves, a review of a few best available cold weather motorcycle gloves on Amazon and Revzilla.com, and answer a few frequently asked questions on the topic.

Types of cold weather motorcycle gloves

You may need the cold weather motorcycle gloves once the ambiance temperature reaches 50º F (10º C) or below. Whether you are commuting to your workplace or touring, you need a pair of cold weather motorcycle gloves to protect your hands from cold, wind, rain, snow, and hail. Not wearing your cold weather gloves can cause frostbite and other medical problems to your fingers.

There are two types of cold weather motorcycle gloves:

• Cold weather motorcycle gloves without a heating mechanism.
• Cold weather motorcycle gloves with a self-heating mechanism.

Cold weather gloves without a heating mechanism are made with waterproof leather and have many branded materials (with waterproof features and breathability) to keep your hands warm and dry. These gloves may not be capable of keeping your hands warm and dry in extremely cold weather.

A good quality self-heating type of cold weather gloves has most of the qualities of a non-self-heating type, and in addition, has a self-heating system powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. These gloves are capable of keeping your hands warm and dry in extremely cold weather. The heating area and the battery life differ from brand to brand.

The other variants of cold weather motorcycle gloves you will find in the market are:

• The gloves normally have five fingers, but you may find some gloves with three fingers also (like a mitten). Some people may like this.
• The gloves can be with a long or short cuff.

Review of the best cold weather motorcycle gloves on Amazon

1. Cortech men’s Scarab 2.0 Winter Motorcycle Gloves

Key features of the product:

The Cortech cold weather motorcycle gloves offer you protection from cold weather, abrasion, and impact and are constructed from abrasion-resistant drum dried goatskin leather and Hipora three-layer breathable and waterproof liner.

Has 100G-3M Thinsulate (combination of the words thin and insulate and is a trademark of 3M) insulation, abrasion-resistant Hitena ^® molded knuckle, PU (polyurethane) foam protectors wrapped with Hitena ^® on the fingers and heel. Outside wrist guard.

Hook and loop type of fastener for the closure at the cuff.

The thumb and the index fingers have touch screen capability.

TPR shield wiper blade and 3M^TM Scotchlite (reflector pipe for visibility in dark).

Product dimension 10ʺ ×4ʺ ×2ʺ and 6.88 ounces (0.43 pound).

Pros:

• The gloves are of gauntlet style.
• Constructed from abrasion-resistant drum-dried goatskin leather and has Hipora three-layer breathable and waterproof liner
• User reviews are good.
• User review says these gloves are suitable for 40º F (4.44º C) at low speed.
• Affordable price

Cons:

• User review says this glove is not suitable for less than 40º F or high speed.
• One user commented that the insulation tends to come out during gloves removal (solved the problem by squeezing and pulling them off from the fingers).

View on Amazon

2. Alpinestars Men’s Valparaiso Drystar Motorcycle Riding Glove Black

Alpinestars Men's Valparaiso Drystar Motorcycle Riding Glove, Black, Large

Key features of the product:

The ALPINESTARS gloves are made of leather, suede, and advanced poly-fabric textile. They incorporate the novel MCFit material technology, and offer optimized grip, waterproofing, and breathability, due to the presence of the DRYSTAR membrane (ALPINESTARS’s DRYSTAR is 100% waterproof and offers breathability).

The MCFit’s triple-layer construction allows vastly reduced material construction and make the gloves responsive and sensitive to the motorcycle controls.

The insulated membrane offers excellent heat retention in cold weather conditions.

The ALPINESTARS patented third and fourth finger-bridge prevents contortion (twisted or bent condition) and separation of the fingers in the event of an impact slide.

The gloves offer over-molded, and advanced polyurethane (PU) knuckle protection (covered by leather for durability).

The VELCRO brand wrist closure (hook and loop type) offers a good and customized fit.

Their weight is 9.8 ounces (0.61 pounds).

Pros:

• Waterproof leather
• Insulated membrane offers excellent heat retention
• User reviews are good.
• User review says the gloves are comfortable and warm at 43º F (6º C) at 75 MPH.
• Affordable price

Cons:

• These gloves are not suitable for very cold weather.

View on Amazon

3. KLIM Hardanger HTD Long Heated Gloves men’s Large Black

Key features of the product:

The KLIM HARDANGER HTD Long Heated Gloves have leather material along with a hook and loop type of closure. They keep your hand dry with Gore-Tex breathable and waterproof lining.

The heat elements wrap the fingertips and the backhand and the heat distribution can be rider specific. This has three adjustable heat levels and is suitable for your commuting in the cold morning as well as harsh weather touring.

Combines the insulation on the backhand with enduring 3 level heating elements and keeps your hands warm without disturbing your ability or dexterity on the motorcycle controls. Rechargeable long-lasting lithium batteries and the protection road-ready features are suitable for all your rides big or small.

• 100 G 3M Thinsulate insulation for backhand
• 3M Scotchlite reflective material for your visibility in the dark
• Goat leather for palm and fingers. Adaptable rubber knuckle protection with goat leather fit
• 5Mm XRD impact protection foam for the knuckles and palm pad
• Over the cuff gauntlet design with Velcro wrist/cuff closure
• DWR (durable water repellent finish) treatment
• MULT-E-TOUCH^TM functionality for operating smart devices
• Visor wiper to help you in rain or snow
• CE Level 1 KP rating certification to EN 13594 (check with the seller)
• No palm insulation for better tactile control
• Velcro battery compartment

Heating system: You can add heated grips for improved performance. This has three levels: (i) low heat (green light) up to 8 hours (ii) medium heat (blue light) up to 3 hours and (iii) high heat (red light) up to 1.5 hours (the time mentioned is per fully charged battery). After 10 minutes in high heat mode, the system automatically reverts to medium heat mode but can be brought to high heat mode once again.

Pros:

• Heated gloves are suitable for extreme weather
• Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable lining keep your hands dry
• CE Level 1 KP rating certification to EN 13594
• Flexible rider-specific heating system
• Visor wiper and MULT-E-TOUCH^TM functionality
• Over the cuff gauntlet design with Velcro wrist/cuff closure
• User reviews are positive.
• One user was comfortable with these gloves at 27º F (-2.8º C) and 70 MPH.

Cons:

• High-end product

View on Amazon

4. Sunwill Professional Heated Motorcycle Gloves, Electric Rechargeable Battery Gloves

Professional Heated Motorcycle Gloves,Electric Rechargable Battery Gloves for Men Women,Winter Waterproof Riding Ski Bicycle Cycling Hunting Fishing Snowboarding Gloves Hand Warmer

$139.99

Key features of the product:

Heated gloves with sheep leather palm, polyester outside, and windproof and waterproof material. Has knuckle protective hard shell on the back of the hand and also shock-absorbing foam for the hand. The inside of the glove has a cotton insulation layer, heating element, and breathable comfort fleece liners. Has an adjustable Velcro design for effective wrist protection.

Can be used for multiple activities including riding motorcycles in winter.

The heating system is powered by rechargeable 7.4 Volts 2200 MAH lithium-ion battery and has three levels of heating (i) high (140 to 150º F) 2-2.5 hours (ii) middle (122 to 131º F)  3-3.5 hours, and low (100 to 113º F) 6-6.5 hours (the time mentioned is per fully charged battery). The heating area includes the back of the hand and fingers (including fingertips).

• The scope includes 2× 7.4 V batteries, a dual charger, a portable bag, and instructions.
• Has touch screen functionality, a screen cleaner to help you in the rain, and a reflective strip for your visibility in the dark
• One-year limited warranty (please contact the seller for clauses and conditions)
• The infrared fiber heating elements cover the fingers including the fingertips and the heating starts within 30 seconds. Highly useful for people with issues like Raynaud, Arthritis, bad circulation, and stiff joints.
• This glove has sheep leather, soft velvet lining, and a waterproof membrane and you need not worry about sweaty hands.
• Conductive polyurethane (PU) on the index fingertip for operating your smart devices
• Waterproof nylon zipper for protection of the batteries
• The size adjustable fine quality Velcro gives a super seal grip
• Completely charge the batteries before using

Pros:

• Heated gloves with sheep leather palm, polyester outside, and windproof and waterproof material
• Affordable price
• For both men and women.
• Powered by rechargeable 7.4 Volts 2200 MAH lithium-ion battery and has three levels of heating.
• Has touch screen functionality
• Can be used for multiple activities including riding motorcycles in winter
• The user reviews are mixed. Bikers can use it at a temperature of 19º F (-7.2º C) and 39º F (4º C) at average speed

Cons:

• Did not work in the average rain
• The inner liner came out while removing the gloves.
• Had difficulty feeling the motorcycle controls

View on Amazon

Review of the best cold weather motorcycle gloves on Revzilla.

1. Rukka R-Star 2 in 1 Gore-Tex Glove

Key features of the product:

The advantage of the Rukka R-Star 2 in 1 Gore-Tex glove is that it has dual chambers and you have a choice of keeping your palm more flexible to the motorcycle controls (extra grip) and have extra warmness on the back of the hand that is exposed. Alternately, you can shift the extra warmness to the palm by slightly compromising the flexibility (grip).

When you are in extra grip mode the insulation is only on the back of your hand and if you shift to extra warmness mode the effect of the insulation will be on all the sides of the fingers. The Gore-Tex (a breathable and waterproof material) keeps your hands dry.

• Full cowhide leather construction
• Completely waterproof, windproof, and has Gore-Tex breathable and waterproof material in it
• Ingenious 2 in 1 or dual chamber technology. Fleece-lining.
• Additional warmness with light insulation for cold riding conditions
• Carbon fiber knuckle protection with leather overlap
• Scaphoid (one of the wrist bone) protection system of Super Fabric (a material resistant to abrasion and cuts)
• A visor wiper is provided in the left hand to help you in rain.
• This glove provides you with quality closure with its waterproof zip and VELCRO® brand strap.
• 2-years limited warranty by Rukka (contact the seller for terms and clauses of the warranty)

Pros:

• Dual-chamber technology
• Waterproof, and windproof leather with Gore-Tex material
• 2-year limited warranty
• Waterproof zip and VELCRO® brand strap
• Carbon fiber knuckle protection
• One user commented that this glove is comfortable if you are riding in places that do not go below 50º F

Cons:

• Higher price

User reviews:

• Suitable only for a temperate climate
• Not happy with the craftsmanship
• Difficult to put on gloves on wet hands

View on Revzilla

2. Alpinestars Winter Surfer Gore-Tex Gloves

Key features of the product:

The ALPINESTARS Winter Surfer Gore-Tex Gloves is made of Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable material and PrimaLoft (patented thermal insulation) lining and a short cuff and all these make it an ideal cold-weather urban glove.

These gloves ensure your hands are warm and dry so that you can concentrate on your city riding. Its short cuff design gives you the advantage of easy slip-on and off. The stretch fabric and softshell give you comfort and protection and the PrimaLoft insulation ensures the warmth of your hand.

The main chassis construction has stretch fabric and softshell material. Has leather at the palm.

• The 100g PrimaLoft lining provides the insulation.
• This glove uses waterproof and breathable material from Gore-Tex®.
• Has slim fitting and reduced material strap cuff (hook and loop type closure)
• Well-positioned accordion leather inserts on finger
• Polyurethane (PU) over-molded hard knuckle protection
• Touch screen technology in the index finger for your smartphone and GPS
• Polyurethane (PU) coated reinforcements on the thumb and palm
• Extended stretch insert between the thumb and the palm for flexibility
• Aramid fiber and polyamide reinforcements provide abrasion resistance performance on the fourth finger.
• CE-certified CAT II Level 1

Pros:

• Has stretch fabric and softshell material construction and leather at the palm
• CE-certified CAT II Level 1
• Touch screen technology in the index finger
• Waterproof and breathable material from Gore-Tex®
• 100g PrimaLoft lining for insulation
• User review says these gloves are good for 40º F to 60º F (4.4º C to 15.5º C).
• Reasonable price

Cons:

• Users are not happy with the fit and say that the entrance is tight and the index finger is not proportionate (it is long).
• Not suitable for low temperatures

View on Revzilla

3. REV’IT! Kryptonite 2 GTX Gloves

Key features of the product:

The Kryptonite 2 GTX is Gore-Tex short gauntlet gloves suitable for short trip commuting. These gloves are good for chilly or rough weather.

The Kryptonite 2 GTX gloves have superior quality waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex material, short cuff, and are good for all kinds of rides. The drum-dyed goatskin leather palms provide you the abrasive resistance, and the Ripstop (a woven fabric) stretch shell along with Thinsulate G liner and Gore-Tex membrane keeps your hands warm and dry. Gore-Tex is a branded waterproof and breathable material.

The outer shell has a goatskin drum dyed with a water repellent finish, PWR Shell, ripstop stretch, connect fingertip fabric, synthetic PU leather, and flock PU.

Thinsulate G and high loft poly fur liner for insulation.

Waterproofing and breathability of the gloves come from Gore-Tex and Gore grip technology (Gore grip is a new construction method for bonding the waterproof and breathable membrane to the shell of the glove).

The composition of the outer shell is 55% goat leather, 7% polyester, 33% polyamide, and 5% polyurethane; lining is 100% polyester; and the membrane is 100% Gore-Tex membrane (ePTFE or expanded PTFE).

The protection is provided with PWR shell, hard-shell covered with ripstop stretch, Temper foam at thumb and palm (for better impact protection), PWR shield knit at palm, and PU injected finger knuckles.

• Laminated reflection at the backhand and little finger
• Adjustable strap at the wrist
• Visor wiper to help the rider in the rain

Pros:

• Gore-Tex short gauntlet gloves are suitable for short trip commuting
• The waterproofing and breathability of the gloves are from Gore-Tex and Gore grip technology.
• Thinsulate G and high loft poly fur liner for insulation
• Visor wiper
• Adjustable strap at the wrist

Cons:

• Price is slightly on the higher side
• There is only one user review. The user is happy with the gloves but says the connect fingertip does not work (on the smart devices).

View on Revzilla

Qualities of superior cold weather motorcycle gloves

When you are buying cold weather motorcycle gloves, concentrate only on the comforts, and do not bother about aesthetics. Also, you cannot be very stingy about the budget since this is for your safety. Good quality cold weather motorcycle gloves may cost you more due to the complex nature of construction but, they will come to your rescue when the winter is harsh. The heated grips on your motorcycle are not sufficient to save you from the cold.

The experience of riding your motorcycle with cold-weather gloves on will not be the same as riding with ordinary gloves. There will be a certain amount of inconvenience even with the best quality high-end gloves but, you have to bear it for the protection they provide.

Consider the following qualities that are desired in cold weather motorcycle gloves before you make your decision:

• The gloves should be waterproof and should be able to keep your hands warm, comfortable, and dry at the low temperatures of the winter. Verify the minimum temperature at which the gloves can work and compare that with your expectations/requirement.
• The gloves should withstand the cold, wind, rain, snow, and hail, protect your body heat, and keep the cold out, and keep your hands warm and dry under all these conditions. It should have armor features to safeguard your hands in an unfortunate fall.
• Your hand and fingers should feel comfortable controlling your motorcycle with the cold weather motorcycle gloves on and should be able to operate your clutch, throttle, buttons, and other controls comfortably. If you are not comfortable operating the controls, return the gloves, and do not use them. Your safety on road is important.
• The gloves have a branded internal lining to keep your hands dry and warm. This liner should stay in place when you remove the gloves.
• Look for features like touch screen capability, a visor wiper to help you in rain, and reflective pads to make you visible on a dark road.
• Safety armors like hard knuckles.
• Selecting the correct size/fit of the gloves is very important. Refer to the chart provided by the seller, discuss with the seller and ensure the size you are getting comfortably fits your hands. This is important since many buyers could not use their gloves since they do not fit correctly.
• Study the construction of the gloves like the type of leather used, quality of the inner lining, and similar features. The protection offered and the life of the gloves depend on these features.
• Check the cuffs are long or short. Are the gloves bulky? Should you wear the winter jacket sleeves (cuffs) under or over the gauntlets of the gloves?
• Bulky and heavy gloves are the common features of cheap and low-end cold weather motorcycle gloves. Keep away from them, they may keep your hands warm but will not allow you to operate your motorcycle safely.
• Check the specification and ensure it is suitable for the cold climate (temperature and rain or snow) in the area of your ride.
• If you are going for self-heating type cold weather motorcycle gloves, they must have all the qualities detailed above along with a dependable, safe, and comfortable self-heating system. It should provide heat to your hand as well as complete fingers (including fingertips). Confirm you can use them without the battery when the temperature improves.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Riding your motorcycle in harsh winter, whether you do it for commuting to your workplace or as an adventure, is not an easy task. A good pair of cold weather motorcycle gloves can make your task easier by keeping your hands warm, comfortable, and dry. Also, you must get a complete set of winter gear including winter gloves.

However, if you are new to riding in winter, do not venture into winter riding without preparing yourself. Riding in harsh winter in very low/subzero temperatures can be a great risk to your safety and health. It may be wise to consult your doctor before venturing into it. If you have decided to venture into it, join a group, do not do it alone.