Knuckles, palms and outer wrists are the areas most likely to hit the ground in a crash. Gloves keep them guarded, and make sure they’re warm and flexible.
MOTORCYCLE GEAR
GLOVES
GLOVES OVERVIEW
What to look for when buying motorcycle gloves.
01
SAFEST STYLES
02
ABRASION RESISTANCE
03
EXTRA REINFORCEMENT
04
STRONG STITCHING
01 - SAFEST STYLES
SPECIALTY DESIGNS
The best motorbike gloves fasten securely and extend to about 5cm above the wrist joint. They’re made from strong leather or layers of textiles. The fastening should be on the inside, away from the impact point of the outside wrist.
02 - ABRASION RESISTANCE
TOUGH MATERIALS
Choose between leather or textile gloves. Opt for abrasion resistance proven to last 2.5 seconds in a crash. Leather needs to be at least 0.9mm thick. The code EN 13594 indicates CE approval.
03 - EXTRA REINFORCEMENT
IMPACT PROTECTION
Seek out protection for vulnerable areas including knuckles and wrists. Wrists need reinforcement. Webbing between the ring and little fingers will give extra protection when your hand makes contact with the ground during a crash.
04 - STRONG STITCHING
MULTIPLE ROWS
Designs with multiple rows of stitching won’t bust on impact or fray when sliding across an abrasive road. Feel the inside to check at least one row of stitching is covered to protect it from impact. Avoid sharp edges or buckles and ensure fasteners are on the inside of the wrist.
BUYING GUIDE
Gloves need to be designed for on or off-road riding to provide abrasion protection or padding in the right places. Comfortable styles will keep your hands warm and flexible. Look for designs with CE approval, marked EN 13594.
01 - Snug fit
Grip the handlebars, check for a pinch of free fabric at each fingertip and make sure the material doesn’t bunch under your hand.
02 - Full movement
Try operating each one of your bike’s controls comfortably. Make sure you can easily adjust your visor. The gloves must fasten securely.
03 - Impact protection
The backs of hands and knuckles need a hard surface protector to spread the load during impact. Wrists need reinforcement.
04 - Waterproof
You don’t want hands so cold you can’t operate the controls. Beware dyes in some gloves that run when wet. Look for ISO 11642.
TYPES OF GLOVES
Use MotoCAP to check the safety features of motorcyle gloves. If you’re not sure where to start, the site helps you search for the safest options.
BUYING SECOND HAND
Buying second hand can be a good option for the budget conscious rider wanting the safest gear. When shopping for second hand gear, use the information below check the safety features to look out for and search the safest options for jackets, pants and gloves.
01 - Test the fit
Try the gear on with clothing you normally wear while riding. Check that it is snug and comfortable in your normal riding position.
02 - Impact protectors
Impact protectors must remain securely in place to work effectively. Check your protectors fit with the gear, especially over your shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.
03 - Seams and stitching
Make sure there’s no splits at the seams. They should have two or three lines of stitching to prevent seams bursting on impact.
04 - Shop local
Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace are good places to snag bargain second hand gear. Use their filters to search locally. Always try the gear on before you buy.
FIND A STOCKIST
We’ve compiled a list of Victorian motorcycle retailers where you can buy the latest and safest gear. If you decide to buy gear online, it’s a good idea to shop around and find gear that fits you best first. Most online retailers have physical stores and the larger retailers offer all popular motorcycle gear brands.
