When it comes to safety, not all motorcycle gloves are created equal. While you might think that this piece of gear is supposed to keep your hands protected, the truth is not all provide the same level of protection.
Luckily, there’s one type of motorcycle gloves that is designed to ensure your safety when you’re out on the roads — armored motorcycle gloves. Armored motorcycle gloves are like the tank of motorcycle gear; they’re tough, durable, and designed to take on the harshest conditions and impact.
Whether you’re a die-hard biker with years of riding under your belt and already knows a thing or two about armored gloves or a novice who’s only just heard about this piece of gear, armored motorcycle gloves are a worthwhile investment. By the time we get to the end of this article, I’m hoping to convince all of you riders out there to give armored gloves some serious consideration. And for those of you already wearing them — well, maybe I can help you find your next pair.
What Are Armored Motorcycle Gloves?
First things first — what even are armored motorcycle gloves?
Well, to put it simply, they’re a piece of gear that comes with “armor” built in. This protection often comes in the form of molded carbon fiber or reinforced padding, providing a hard shell over areas like your knuckles, palms, and the sides of your hands.
The placement of these protective armor might vary, depending on the brand and model. Still, their primary objective remains the same: to shield your hands from impact and abrasion in the event of a fall or collision.
Now, what sets them apart from regular motorcycle gloves is that they’re suited for higher-intensity and lengthier commutes. Standard gloves might have padded knuckles and reinforcements on high-wear areas, but they lack the tough armoring that’s required to withstand severe impacts, which are more likely during high-speed motor rides or off-road adventures.
Features of the Best Armored Motorcycle Gloves
Alright, so you’ve got a good grip on what armored motorcycle gloves are. But what types of aspects of them actually keep you safe, and what sets the best gloves apart from the average Joe’s?
In general, it boils down to a few key features:
- The materials
- The padding
- The stitching
- Knuckle guards
- The comfort and fit
Let’s take a deeper dive into each of these.
Materials
The finest armored gloves are commonly fashioned from premium leather or high-quality textiles. For instance, some gloves offer a premium full-grain leather construction.
Leather gloves, such as the Olympia 475 Diablo gloves, offer a remarkable blend of durability, resistance to wear and tear, and excellent tactile sensitivity, making it easy to grip and maneuver your motorcycle controls.
Superior Padding
The best gloves will add high-density padding to high-impact areas like the knuckles, fingers, and palms to safeguard against potential injuries. For instance, other gloves feature stainless steel inserts on the knuckles and back alongside a distal slider, providing top-notch protection.
An example of gloves with superior padding includes the 330 Men’s Protector gloves.
Stitching
Gloves stitched using synthetic threadlike Kevlar are more durable and are better at withstanding extreme wear and tear.
Knuckle Guards and Palm Protectors
Knuckle guards protect against impact and scrapes, while palm sliders shield against road rash if you happen to slide. One example of these is the Olympia 410 Men’s Gel Sport Gloves, which include injection molded plastic knuckle armor and leather palm for skid resistance.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit matter just as much as protection. Your gloves need to fit snugly but not restrictively. They should have features like pre-curved finger construction for less riding fatigue and, if possible, ventilation for breathability.
What to Think About When Choosing the Best Armored Motorcycle Gloves
Choosing the perfect pair of armored motorcycle gloves isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. It takes more than just picking the toughest-looking pair off the shelf. There are a few things you have to take into account when you’re searching for your ideal pair, including glove size, your biking habits, and more.
Let’s go deeper into a few of the different things to have in mind as you select the best armored motorcycle gloves for your ride.
Glove Size
Ill-fitting gloves can do more harm than good. You must consider the length and the circumference of your hand and fingers, and remember, sizes can vary between brands.
So, it’s always wise to review the sizing chart of the brand you’ve set your eyes on. Now, while you can snag some cool pairs online at stores such as Olympia Gloves, it also doesn’t hurt to go to physical stores and try on a pair before you buy as well.
Factor in your Biking Habits
This means how often and how far you ride. As a daily commuter, understand the importance of gloves that balance protection and comfort. If you engage in sport riding, you might need gloves that offer extra protection like carbon fiber or CE-rated armor. A good example could be the Olympia 715 Men’s Extreme Gel Gloves.
If you’re planning a long-distance tour, prioritize comfort and flexibility. A system for climate control, like ventilation holes or wicking liners, can be a lifesaver in gloves for long trips. An example of protected gloves with ventilation is the Olympia 340 Men’s Vented Protector Gloves.
Consider Weather Conditions You Often Encounter
For example, if you live in Seattle, where the weather can be quite wet, you would need your gloves to offer a waterproof or at least water-resistant feature. Similarly, if you live in a colder climate, winter motorcycle gloves might be the right choice for you. As you select armored gloves, consider what features you may need to look for to ensure your gear is appropriate for the weather.
Budget Matters
An expensive pair does not automatically imply that they are the best. You can find gloves with excellent armored protection within a reasonable budget. Olympia Gloves has tons of affordable hard knuckle and extra protective gloves at prices as low as just $50.
The Best Type of Armored Motorcycle Gloves for Different Types of Rides
Rides can vary quite a bit in nature, ranging from leisurely cruising to competitive racing or off-road adventures. Each type of ride demands its particular demand for protection, performance, and comfort. That’s why using a one-size-fits-all approach when choosing your armored gloves can be a significant misstep.
So, to help you avoid getting gloves that aren’t suited for your ride, here are a couple of situations where you might need armored motorcycle gloves and what types to look for.
Racetrack
On the racetrack, speed and precision become the name of the game. Here’s where you’d want gloves that are designed to offer superior protection without compromising control. The knuckle protection and palm sliders are typically made of carbon, ensuring impact and abrasion resistance while maintaining a glove’s lightweight nature.
A good pair of gloves for the racetrack could be the Olympia 475 Diablo.
Street Biking
A leisurely Sunday ride demands comfort as much as it does protection. Some gloves ideal for this setting offer impressive knuckle armor and reliable leather construction that stands up to the asphalt but also features reinforced goatskin palms that take comfort seriously.
A could pick here might be the Olympia 450 Men’s Full Throttle Gloves.
Off-Road Rides
From rocky trails to mud and dirt, the unpredictability of the terrain calls for gloves with maximum protection and grip. If it’s off-road rides you enjoy, the Olympia 476 APEX might be a fair choice.
Tours
If you’re a tourer, you know long rides can be taxing on the hand. Consider gloves designed for long hours in the saddle. Look for gloves with features like breathable waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, thermal padding for cold conditions, or Techno inserts on the knuckles and joints; they offer optimal comfort and protection for extended rides.
For touring, the Olympia 734 Men’s Digital Protector Gloves could be a good pick.
Cost of the Best Armored Motorcycle Gloves
I understand the temptation to cut corners on cost when it comes to gear. However, let me tell you, while saving a few bucks today might seem tempting, the potential long-term impact on your safety and comfort might cost you a lot more in the future.
The cost of armored motorcycle gloves varies greatly according to their brand, features, and overall quality. You can find fairly good gloves starting at around $50. For more mid-range models, you can expect to pay around $100 to $200.
On the other hand, high-end gloves can cost you upwards of $200. While these gloves may have some premium features, you can still get some great gloves at lower price points. So, as you select a pair, make sure to keep your budget in mind and think about how much you’re willing to spend.
Rev up Your Ride With the Right Armored Motorcycle Gloves
When you’re out there on the road, proper gear like armored gloves can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious, life-altering injury. What’s more, it’s not just about protection — a well-fitted, comfortable glove can significantly enhance your control of the bike and enable you to ride for longer periods without discomfort.
Of course, investing in a good pair of armored motorcycle gloves means investing in your safety and comfort as a rider. So, make the decision wisely. After all, your hands are one of the most vital tools you have as a rider — protect them as best as you can.
If you’re ready to pick up a pair of armored motorcycle gloves, head over to our shop at Olympia Gloves and browse our offerings. Or, sign up for our email list today and gain exclusive access to in-depth insights, modern trends, and incredible deals on a wide array of gloves. Knowledge and savings are just a click away – ensure you’re always safe, stylish, and smart with your glove choices.
