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Have you ever taken a beautiful motorcycle ride through a winter wonderland that was tarnished by the numb feeling in your fingers?
Even with regular gloves, the harsh cold and wind can affect your hands to the point that they are too numb to move.
With the best winter motorcycle gloves, you can get out in that colder weather and enjoy the ride without worrying about your finger dexterity.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Winter Motorcycle Gloves
- OUR TOP PICK: Alpinestars Apex Drystar Gloves
- RUNNER-UP: REV'IT! Stratos GTX Gloves
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Joe Rocket Windchill Gloves
Comparison of the Best Winter Motorcycle Gloves
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Are All Winter Motorcycle Gloves the Same?
No, not all winter motorcycle gloves are the same!
While they all share one main purpose - keeping your hands nice and toasty - there are numerous different styles. For example, you can find winter gloves for racing, touring, and street cruising.
Since each motorcycle activity requires a different level of flexibility, warmth, and windproof elements, manufacturers need to create unique winter motorcycle gloves.
Each winter glove also has unique properties. While some may include a pre-installed eating service, others may focus on being waterproof in upcoming snowstorms or having multiple layers for warmth.
What to Look for When Buying Winter Motorcycle Gloves
While, in many ways, winter motorcycle gloves are just like their regular counterparts, there are several newer features you need to consider before purchasing.
Material
While leather is an overall favorite for motorcycle gloves, they might not be the best choice for winter gloves. Even though the leather material helps keep your hands warm, it is not waterproof, which you need in a winter glove.
Instead, look for gloves with a textile or hybrid form. The addition of textiles on your glove can make them resistant to water and protect you from snowstorms.
Heated Grips
Many gloves have heated grips, but these options are often all-season gloves, not specifically winter models.
If you prefer this particular style, look for year-long gloves with the added heat.
Insulation
Winter motorcycle gloves usually have some insulation or multiple interior layers. Just like you layer your clothes to keep warm, winter gloves layer materials to keep your hands from going numb.
Each glove has a particular amount of insulation; make sure you check how much each glove has. You don’t want to get stuck with a glove with so much insulation that it becomes bulky. Nor do you want a glove with just one layer of insulation if you like to ride in extremely cold temperatures.
Windproof
Have you ever been out in the cold with a strong wind? It can be brutal.
As you drive your motorcycle, you naturally feel the strong winds and create more with your motion. Since that air movement can numb your hands in winter, make sure to look for a glove that has a windproof feature.
Water-Resistant
Two primary types of gloves dispel liquid: water-resistant and waterproof. A water-resistant glove has an added protective layer but no sealed seams, whereas a waterproof glove has that additional layer and closed seams to keep all of the water out.
It’s up to you whether you would prefer a waterproof or water-resistant glove.
Review of the Best Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Choosing between dozens of winter motorcycle gloves can be confusing. Before you pick just any old model, check out the following list and find the best option for you.
Best Overall:
Alpinestars Apex Drystar Gloves
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers had varying opinions on this glove. While some raved about the high quality windproof and waterproof abilities, others said that those points were false advertising.
Still, the majority were extremely happy with the comfortable fit and warmth during the winter months.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Alpinestars has been a trusted winter motorcycle brand for years, and this model impresses just like the others.
The glove’s back has 100 grams of thermal insulation to keep heat within the glove and offer a warm ride. The Drystar membrane also focuses on creating the best winter motorcycle glove by including both waterproof and breathable additions.
On top of keeping you warm, the gloves include plenty of added support along the palm, knuckles, and fingers to protect you in a fall.
Bottom Line
With the softness, protective features, and toasty innovation, the Alpiestar gloves are a fantastic option for your winter rides.
Runner-up:
REV'IT! Stratos GTX Gloves
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers were fairly outspoken about what they didn’t like about this glove, the most prominent feature being the sizing. Many complained that the gloves were too small for them, especially in the cinching strap.
However, plenty more people shared how these gloves were able to keep their hands warm in extreme temperatures, thanks to the glove’s detailed design.
Why it Stands Out to Us
REV’IT makes sure your hands won’t suffer in the cold with this insulated model. It comes with a layer of Thinsulate G insulation as well as a tri-fleece liner. An added plus is the goatskin glam of the gloves that give a flawless look and soft feel.
For protection, you can enjoy EVA foam throughout the glove and the innovative Seesoft 3D knuckle protectors.
Bottom Line
This glove is one of the ideal winter motorcycle gloves because it offers a bit of everything. You get waterproof material, protection from accidents, comfort, and insulation.
Best for the Money:
Joe Rocket Windchill Gloves
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The majority of customers were delighted with their purchase. They loved the warmth, flexibility, and superior materials.
One of the biggest complaints was about the fit. Like many other motorcycle gloves, the sizing on these Joe Rocket gloves runs very small. Likewise, you may not be able to pull the gauntlets over your sleeve.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love the insulation and protection features of this model. Not only do you get the Dry Tech midline that makes the glove waterproof, but you also get to enjoy the 100 G Thinsulate.
Additionally, the glove has an innovative gel area on the palm that calms vibrations for the smoothest ride.
Bottom Line
This affordable Joe Rocket model is a beautiful combination of ergonomics, insulation, and comfort, giving you a fantastic winter ride.
Best Leather Winter Motorcycle Glove:
Alpinestars Oscar Cafe Divine
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The customers were very satisfied with this purchase, raving that the gloves had a high quality and chic look. While there were some mishaps with sizing, as happens with many gloves, the buyers were still pleased overall with the glove’s performance.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This all-leather glove provides incredible insulation and protection for all your winter rides. With the combination of the Thinsulate thermal insulation and the Drystar waterproof membrane, you won’t be able to feel the cold or snow when wearing these gloves.
The design also focuses on protecting your hand with a PU foam compound knuckle guard and a soft protector.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a glove that combines style, comfort, protection, and warmth, the Alpinestars Oscar model could be a fantastic option for you.
Best Women's Winter Motorcycle Glove:
Dainese Tempest D-Dry Short Gloves
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers were more than pleased with these Dainese Tempest gloves. Most people agreed that they offer a killer combination of warmth, waterproof material, and ease of use when handling electronic devices.
The only possible downsides are the larger sizes and the glove’s inexpensive look when you see just the palm.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Our favorite feature of these Dainese gloves is the capability to use your electronic device while wearing your gloves. Unlike other options that have the finger pad only on the index finger, Dainese took it a step further and put an additional visor wiper on the thumb.
Now you don’t have to worry about exposing your hands to the elements while answering a call.
Some other steller features include the Comfortech knuckles. Elastic inserts and a waterproof membrane so you can use the gloves in the rain and snow.
Bottom Line
The Dainese glove offers warmth, waterproofing, and compatibility with your technical devices all in one package. With this glove, you won’t have to worry about taking it off to answer calls anymore. You can manage everything while keeping your hands nice and warm.
Best Waterproof Winter Motorcycle Glove:
Richa Arctic Winter Glove
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The most recent buyers have only good things to say about this waterproof glove. The customers raved about the effectiveness of the waterproofing, comfort, and protection.
A few people stated that the sizing ran very small, and the gauntlet wouldn’t reach over their jacket sleeve.
However, most people were delighted with their purchase.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is hard to find a glove that is 100% truly waterproof. It would be best if you found a truly waterproof glove to protect you from chilly snowflakes and ice in the wintertime, and this glove offers the perfect solution.
In addition to being waterproof, the gloves have durable Schoeller Kelprotec material and hard knuckle protection.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a stellar waterproof glove that will protect your hands in the winter months, look no further. Even though it doesn’t have as much insulation as other options, the waterproofing is next-level.
How Long Should Motorcycle Gloves Last?
The life of a motorcycle glove greatly depends on how often the person uses it and its material.
For example, winter motorcycle gloves may last longer than all-season gloves because you aren’t using them 12 months of the year.
If you purchase a cheaper glove made with subpar materials, it will likely wear out very quickly. Investing in motorcycle gloves with leather or high-quality textiles will ensure your gloves last you for at least a couple of years.
Of course, if you have an accident, you could ruin your gloves. Whether you crash or use the gloves continually, always check them for tears and open seams.
If you spot those signs, it’s time to buy a new pair of motorcycle gloves.
Heated Motorcycle Grips vs. Winter Gloves - Comparison Overview
As you look into which type of heated gloves you want to buy, you’ll probably run across those that have only heated grips versus full winter gloves. So, what’s the difference?
The main difference is that the gloves with heated grips are not specifically for winter weather. They have that added feature in case you come across cooler weather and need a boost of heat in your fingers. However, they are not ideal for extremely low temperatures or protecting and warming the whole hand.
Winter gloves, though, are fully equipped to keep your whole hand warm in freezing temperatures. While they may provide you with more warmth, the extra bulk of the multiple insulation layers could steer you away.
As you choose between gloves with heated grips or a winter model, think about what type of weather you will experience. You could even invest in both pairs and use the heavier gloves for winter and the ones with heated grips for spring and summer.
Conclusion
Finding the best winter motorcycle gloves is crucial to staying warm and protected as you ride during those chilly months. Of course, there isn’t just one winter glove style, but many different models to choose from.
Take your time, think about what you need in a winter motorcycle glove, and then start experimenting with some of the options listed above.
Alpinestars Apex Drystar Gloves (Source)
People Also Ask
Every motorcycle rider needs a unique glove to fit their needs. Even when you are looking for the best winter motorcycle gloves, each style and brand is different.
As you consider the above options, questions will probably come to mind. Here are our answers to some of the most common inquiries we receive about winter gloves.
Do Leather Motorcycle Gloves Break-in?
While leather motorcycle gloves do not stretch as much as other materials, you can break them in overtime.
One of the best ways to break in leather gloves is by wearing them. After a couple of uses, you will start to feel that they are softer and more comfortable.
You can also apply leather oil, rubbing alcohol, and wax to soften the leather and make it fit more comfortably on your hand.
What Material Is Best for Winter Motorcycle Gloves?
There are three main motorcycle glove materials: leather, textiles, and a hybrid leather-textile material.
Motorcycle gloves that are entirely leather are not the best option for winter motorcycle gloves because they do not have as much insulation, nor are they waterproof.
Your best options would be a textile or hybrid material that includes waterproofing features (in case of snow) and thermal linings.
Alpinestars Oscar Cafe Divine (Source)
How Are Motorcycle Gloves Measured?
To find your perfect size, get out a measuring tape (if you have a tailor’s tape, that works best).
There are two ways to measure your hand and glove: using the width of your palm or the circumference. Check to see which sizing method your favorite brand uses, and then measure accordingly.
For the palm width, place your measuring tape flat on the table and put the widest part of your palm on top of it.
The circumference is the size of your hand at the knuckles. Wrap the measuring tape around the knuckles of your four fingers - not your thumb! - and record the measurement.
How to Prevent Motorcycle Gloves from Bleeding When Wet
The easiest way to prevent motorcycle gloves from bleeding when wet is to buy gloves with a lighter color or that don’t include a dye.
However, if you absolutely love that dyed look, try washing the gloves a few times or soaking them in water. As you wash or soak them, keep changing the water until you notice little or no dye coming off the gloves.
How to Dry Motorcycle Wet Weather Gloves
Just because a motorcycle glove is for wet weather doesn’t mean they magically stay dry all the time.
If you have waterproof textile gloves, you can stick them in the dryer - but without fabric softener - on a low tumble-dry setting.
If you have leather gloves, don’t put them in the dryer. Make sure to lay them out to dry somewhere, not in direct sunlight.
How Thick Are Motorcycle Gloves?
The thickness of a motorcycle glove depends on the materials. Of course, if you invest in a winter glove with multiple insulation layers, your glove will be much significantly thicker than your regular cruising glove.
In general, your standard leather glove can range from one millimeter to 2 millimeters in thickness. Expect this to increase if you invest in winter gloves.
Joe Rocket Windchill Gloves (Source)
How to Make Motorcycle Gloves Warmer
The go-to solution for warming motorcycle gloves is adding liners. Pick from technical or silk lines and add them to your normal gloves or an added layer of warmth.
If you don’t want to increase your glove’s bulk, you can try Hippo Hands, which are tube-like covers that you can hook onto your handlebars. By covering your hands with these devices, you will keep them safe from the elements.
Should You Use a Liner Under Motorcycle Gloves in the Winter?
Ultimately, the decision is up to you whether you want to just add liners to your regular gloves or invest in a new pair dedicated to warming your hands.
With a liner, you can save money and easily warm up your hands. However, they may not be as effective as insulated winter gloves.
Why Do Some Motorcycle Gloves Only Have Two Fingers?
Several motorcycle gloves have a bridge that connects the pinky finger to the ring finger, leaving only two fingers and a thumb free. While it may take some time to get used to the feeling, this bridge is a safety measure that prevents your pinky from bending backward.
