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7 Best Summer Motorcycle Gloves in 2023 That Are Lightweight
With the summer heat upon us, it’s crucial for motorcyclists to gear up properly for those sun-drenched rides. While the perfect jacket and helmet are crucial, an often overlooked but equally important piece of gear is the right pair of summer motorcycle gloves. Good motorcycle gloves not only provide protection in the event of an accident but can also offer enhanced grip, reduce fatigue, and in summer-specific models, allow for excellent ventilation to keep your hands cool and comfortable throughout your ride.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of seven standout summer motorcycle gloves. Most of these are budget-friendly and are amongst the summer gloves under $50 available. Each of these gloves offers a unique blend of style, protection, and breathability, ensuring that there’s a great fit for every rider and every ride. We’ll delve into each product’s specifications, discussing their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re embarking on a long, leisurely summer tour or zipping through city streets, having the right gloves can enhance your riding experience significantly. So, let’s get into the specifics and see which pair could be the perfect fit for you.
The Significance of Summer Motorcycle Gloves
For many, the appeal of motorcycle riding lies in the raw, direct connection between rider and machine. This connection is often most tangible through the rider’s hands, which makes choosing the right pair of gloves so critical. In the summer, this decision becomes even more crucial as the need for protection must be balanced with comfort in the warmer weather.
Ventilation and Breathability
The primary feature distinguishing summer motorcycle gloves from their standard counterparts is their enhanced ventilation and breathability. Quality summer gloves are designed with materials and construction methods that encourage airflow, helping to wick sweat away from your skin and keep your hands dry and comfortable even in hot conditions. Mesh materials and perforations are commonly used to achieve this.
Protection and Durability
Despite the focus on breathability, summer retro motorcycle gloves should not compromise on protection and durability. Look for gloves that feature robust materials and reinforcements in high-impact areas such as the palms, knuckles, and fingers. Some gloves may also include padded inserts for additional protection.
Comfort and Fit
Gloves should fit snugly without restricting movement or causing discomfort. Various gloves offer different fits, and it’s essential to try on different styles to see what works best for you. The gloves should also be easy to put on and take off, with secure fastenings to ensure they stay in place during your ride.
Additional Features
Additional features like touchscreen compatibility can make a big difference in your riding experience. This allows you to use your smartphone or GPS device without removing your gloves, a handy feature for modern riders.
Review of Summer Motorcycle Gloves
Here is a review of some highly rated summer motorcycle gloves:
Terramar Girls Thermasilk Liner Gloves
The Terramar Girls Thermasilk Liner Gloves are designed to provide an extra layer of warmth and comfort for the hands. As liner gloves, they are perfect for cold-weather outdoor activities and can be used underneath heavier gloves for extra insulation. While they’re not specifically motorcycle gloves, they could serve well as a thin layer for riders needing some extra warmth without losing the dexterity and control needed for safe riding.
Made with 100% pure silk for softness and heat retention
Ribbed cuffs for a snug fit
Lightweight and naturally breathable
Can be worn alone or under other gloves for extra warmth
Easy to care for, as they’re machine washable
Pros
Very soft and comfortable due to the silk material
Lightweight and thin enough to fit under other gloves without feeling too bulky
Silk is a natural, breathable material that helps regulate temperature, keeping hands warm but not too sweaty
Suitable for various outdoor activities, not just motorcycle riding
Cons
They might not provide enough protection for serious motorcycle riding, as they’re not designed with the robust materials and reinforcements found in standard motorcycle gloves
The durability could be an issue, particularly in high-stress scenarios such as motorcycle riding
Lack of additional features like touchscreen compatibility
While the Terramar Girls Thermasilk Liner Gloves offer great comfort and warmth, their suitability for motorcycle riding is limited. They might be a good choice for young riders or for those needing an extra layer of warmth under more robust gloves, but they won’t provide the necessary protection if used alone for motorcycle riding.
Alpinestars Men’s SMX-1 Air v2 Motorcycle Riding Glove
Alpinestars’ SMX-1 Air v2 Gloves are engineered for riders who demand maximum ventilation without compromising safety and performance. These are short-cuff street riding gloves that incorporate innovative carbon and polymer compound protection into a lightweight and durable leather and 3D mesh chassis.
Full-grain leather and mesh construction for durability and breathability
Hard polymer knuckle protection provides excellent resistance to impact
EVA foam padding on the thumb, wrist, back of the hand, and fingers for added protection
Touchscreen-compatible fingertip on the index for use with smartphones and GPS systems
Velcro wrist closure for a secure fit
Pros
Excellent ventilation due to the mesh and leather construction
Hard knuckle protection and padded areas offer robust protection in case of a fall
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips are very convenient for modern riders
Premium materials and construction provide durability and longevity
Cons
The short-cuff design may not offer as much wrist protection as some riders would prefer
Some users might find the fit a bit snug, so it’s crucial to check the size guide carefully
The Alpinestars SMX-1 Air v2 is an excellent summer glove that offers a perfect blend of comfort, protection, and modern features. It’s robust build and thoughtful design makes it a top choice for riders seeking performance-oriented gloves that can stand up to the demands of summer riding.
Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 Leather Gloves
The Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 Gloves represent the evolution of a popular design, offering improved protection, a streamlined design, and advanced airflow technology. Built for performance riding, these gloves are perfect for those seeking high-level protection without sacrificing comfort and ventilation.
Constructed from a durable and flexible leather and 3D mesh upper for excellent airflow
Carbon fiber knuckle protectors for superior impact and abrasion resistance
Synthetic suede reinforcements in critical areas for added durability
Touchscreen-compatible fingertip on the index finger
Adjustable Velcro cuff strap for a secure and customizable fit
Pros
Excellent ventilation due to the 3D mesh upper construction, making them perfect for summer rides
Carbon fiber knuckle protection provides robust protection while maintaining a lightweight design
Touchscreen-compatible fingertip allows easy use of smartphones and GPS systems
The gloves are designed with high-quality materials and reinforcements, ensuring long-term durability
Cons
Some riders might prefer a longer cuff for more comprehensive wrist and forearm protection
Sizing may run small, so it’s essential to double-check measurements before purchasing
The Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 Gloves offer a mix of safety, breathability, and modern conveniences, making them an excellent choice for the summer rider. With their emphasis on comfort and protection, these gloves prove that you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other. Their sophisticated design and build quality make them a great addition to any rider’s gear collection.
Alpinestars Men’s Copper Motorcycle Riding Glove
Designed with a modern, casual aesthetic and engineered for optimal performance and comfort, the Alpinestars Men’s Copper Motorcycle Riding Glove is a stylish yet functional choice for riders. These gloves offer the safety features necessary for motorcycle riding, blended seamlessly with a design such as gloves with palm sliders that wouldn’t look out of place off the bike. Apart from this, these motorcycle gloves with palm sliders are also useful for riding in the summer.
Constructed from supple and durable full-grain leather associated with poly blend material
Incorporates a hard polymer knuckle for superior impact and abrasion resistance
EVA foam padding reinforcements on palm and thumb for additional protection
Touchscreen-compatible fingertip on index finger and thumb
Velcro wrist closure for a secure and adjustable fit
Pros
Casual, stylish design that works well both on and off the bike
Hard polymer knuckle and EVA foam padding provide excellent protection
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips are a convenient feature for modern riders
High-quality construction ensures durability and longevity
Cons
Lack of ventilation might make these gloves less suitable for hot summer rides
Some users might prefer a longer cuff for added wrist protection
The Alpinestars Men’s Copper Motorcycle Riding Gloves offer a great blend of style, comfort, and protection. While they might not be the most ventilated option for hot summer rides, they provide robust protection and a stylish look that’s suitable for a variety of settings. The touchscreen-compatible fingertips and secure fit make these gloves a practical and versatile choice for the modern rider.
Milwaukee Leather MG7503 Men’s ‘iTouch’ Gloves
The Milwaukee Leather MG7503 Men’s ‘iTouch’ Gloves are built for the rider who values function and style equally. These gloves boast a classic design, high-quality materials, and a set of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience during your ride.
Made from premium goatskin leather for durability and a supple feel
Designed with an adjustable wrist strap for a secure and personalized fit
Features ‘iTouch’ technology for compatibility with touchscreen devices
Includes padding on the palm for added comfort and protection
Pros
High-quality goatskin leather provides durability and a comfortable feel
‘iTouch’ technology allows for easy use of smartphones and GPS devices without removing the gloves
The adjustable wrist strap helps ensure a secure fit
Padding on the palm offers additional protection and comfort during long rides
Cons
These gloves may not offer as much ventilation as other summer gloves, which could make them less suitable for very hot weather
The lack of knuckle protection might be a concern for riders seeking more comprehensive hand protection
The Milwaukee Leather MG7503 Men’s ‘iTouch’ Gloves offer a blend of classic style and modern functionality. While they might not be the best choice for very hot weather or for riders seeking advanced protection features, they’re a durable and comfortable option with convenient touchscreen compatibility. Their premium construction and stylish design make them an excellent addition to any rider’s gear collection.
Olympia Sports Men’s Ventor Gloves
The Olympia Sports Men’s Ventor Gloves are specifically designed to provide maximum airflow and comfort during warm weather rides. These gloves combine excellent ventilation with durable construction and protective features, making them an ideal choice for summer motorcycling.
Constructed with a combination of premium drum-dyed leather and mesh for optimal airflow
Features hard knuckle protectors for impact resistance and abrasion protection
Reinforced palm and finger panels for enhanced durability
Adjustable Velcro strap closure for a secure and personalized fit
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips for convenient device use
Pros
Outstanding airflow and ventilation due to the strategic use of mesh panels
Hard knuckle protectors offer vital impact and abrasion resistance
The combination of leather and mesh provides a balance of durability and breathability
Reinforced palm and finger panels enhance longevity and protection
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips allow for easy use of smartphones and GPS devices
Cons
Some riders might prefer more wrist coverage for added protection
Sizing can be tricky, so it’s important to consult the size chart before purchasing
The Olympia Sports Men’s Ventor Gloves excel in providing superior airflow and comfort for summer rides. With their thoughtful combination of leather and mesh, reinforced construction, and protective features, these gloves strike a balance between durability, ventilation, and protection. Whether you’re cruising on the open road or navigating city streets, the Olympia Sports Ventor Gloves are a reliable choice to keep your hands cool and protected during the hottest rides.
Joe Rocket Men’s Eclipse Gloves
The Joe Rocket Men’s Eclipse Gloves are designed to provide riders with a lightweight, comfortable, and protective option for warm-weather riding. With their combination of materials and features, these gloves offer a great balance between airflow, protection, and dexterity.
Constructed with a combination of FreeAir mesh and drum-dyed leather for optimal ventilation and durability
Injection-molded knuckle protectors for impact resistance
Reinforced palm and fingertips for added durability and abrasion resistance
Pre-curved fingers for improved grip and reduced hand fatigue
Hook-and-loop closure strap for a secure and adjustable fit
Pros
Excellent airflow and ventilation thanks to the FreeAir mesh panels
Injection-molded knuckle protectors provide vital impact resistance
Reinforced palm and fingertips enhance durability and protect against abrasion
Pre-curved fingers offer better grip and reduce hand fatigue during long rides
The hook-and-loop closure strap allows for a secure and customizable fit
Cons
Some riders may prefer additional wrist coverage for added protection
The gloves may require a break-in period to achieve optimal comfort
The Joe Rocket Men’s Eclipse Gloves are an excellent choice for riders seeking lightweight, breathable gloves for warm-weather riding. With their combination of mesh and leather construction, reinforced protection, and ergonomic design, these gloves offer both comfort and functionality. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the Joe Rocket Men’s Eclipse Gloves provide the right balance of airflow and protection for a comfortable summer ride.
Performance Comparison
Here’s a comparison table summarizing the key features of the summer motorcycle gloves we reviewed:
Tips for Choosing the Right Summer Motorcycle Gloves
After reviewing the top summer motorcycle gloves on the market, it’s important to consider some essential factors when making your final decision. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right pair of gloves for your summer rides:
Ventilation: Look for gloves that offer excellent airflow and ventilation. Mesh panels, perforations, or breathable materials can help keep your hands cool and comfortable during hot rides.
Protection: Consider the level of protection provided by the gloves. Look for features such as reinforced palms, knuckle protectors, and finger reinforcements. Balancing airflow with protection is crucial to ensure your hands stay safe in case of an accident.
Fit and Comfort: Proper fit is essential for optimal control and dexterity. Make sure to choose gloves that fit snugly without being too tight or restrictive. Additionally, consider gloves with pre-curved fingers, ergonomic designs, and adjustable closures for a comfortable and personalized fit.
Durability: Assess the durability of the gloves. High-quality materials, reinforced stitching, and durable construction will ensure your gloves withstand regular use and offer long-term reliability.
Additional Features: Think about any additional features that may be important to you. This could include touchscreen compatibility, moisture-wicking properties, or compatibility with heated grips.
Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on different gloves before making a purchase. This will help you assess the fit, comfort, and feel of the gloves, ensuring they meet your specific needs.
Budget Considerations: Set a budget for your gloves, keeping in mind that investing in quality gloves is an investment in your safety and comfort on the road. Consider the features and benefits offered by each glove to find the best value for your budget.
By considering these tips, you can narrow down your options and choose the lightweight motorcycle gloves that provide the right balance of comfort, protection, and style for your riding adventures. Remember, finding the perfect gloves is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride during the warm summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a FAQs section presented in a table format:
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers
1. Are these gloves suitable for year-round use?
While some gloves may be versatile enough for different seasons, it’s essential to consider the specific design and features of each glove. The gloves reviewed here are primarily intended for summer use due to their emphasis on ventilation and lightweight construction.
2. Can I use these gloves for touchscreen devices?
Some of the gloves featured in this article offer touchscreen compatibility, allowing you to operate your devices without removing the gloves. However, not all gloves have this feature, so it’s important to check the specifications of each pair.
3. How do I determine the correct glove size for me?
Each manufacturer typically provides a sizing chart to help you find the right fit. Measure the circumference of your hand around the widest part, usually across the knuckles, and consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide for the most accurate sizing information.
4. Can I wash these gloves?
Washing instructions may vary depending on the material and construction of the gloves. It’s recommended to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain the quality and integrity of the gloves.
5. Are these gloves suitable for long rides?
The gloves reviewed here are designed with comfort in mind, making them suitable for longer rides. However, personal comfort may vary depending on factors such as hand shape and personal preference. It’s always a good idea to try on the gloves and test their comfort during shorter rides before embarking on longer journeys.
6. Can I use these gloves for other outdoor activities?
While these gloves such as ILM Air Flow Leather Motorcycle Gloves are primarily designed for motorcycle riding, many of them can be suitable for other outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, or even as general-purpose gloves. However, it’s important to consider the specific needs and demands of the activity and whether the gloves meet those requirements.
7. How do I maintain and care for these gloves?
Each pair of gloves may have specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer. It’s recommended to follow these instructions for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the longevity and performance of the gloves. Typically, leather gloves may require specialized leather care products, while gloves with mesh components may be machine washable. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best care practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right pair of summer motorcycle gloves is crucial for both comfort and safety during warm weather rides. We’ve explored a range of gloves, each offering its own unique features and benefits. Whether you prioritize ventilation, protection, touchscreen compatibility, or a combination of these factors, there are options to suit every rider’s needs.
