Of all the different types of motorcycle gloves out there, nothing quite matches the sheer comfort and versatility of short-cuff motorcycle gloves. They’re great for many different types of riders’ biking adventures, whether tearing through city roads or navigating the grittier off-road tracks.
In this guide, we’ll go over what makes short cuff motorcycle gloves unique and what features they consist of. Plus, we’ll take a look into what to look for when you shop for a pair for yourself and what tips to keep in mind as you do so.
What Are Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves?
Before we dive into the nitty gritty of short cuff gloves, let’s take a second to break down what they actually are. Simply put, these are gloves extend just up to or slightly past your wrist, giving them protection past the palm.
Now, you may be thinking of the classic image of a motorcyclist decked out in full leather riding gear, including lengthy gloves that go halfway up their forearm — those are referred to as gauntlet gloves.
Short cuff gloves, however, present a more minimalist and less bulky approach, while still providing crucial protection and enhanced control during rides.
An example of short cuff gloves would be the Olympia 181 Ladies Monsoon Gloves. They’ve got a little bit of extra coverage on the arm, but aren’t lengthy the way gauntlet gloves are.
What Differentiates Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves from Other Motorcycle Gloves?
To help you better understand short cuff motorcycle gloves, let’s take a second to talk about what sets them apart. Although some features, such as padding, may be similar, there are other features that aren’t quite the same.
The Coverage
A short cuff means these gloves extend just to the wrist or slightly beyond it, as opposed to their gauntlet counterparts, which cover up to half the forearm. If you value convenience and ease of use, short cuff gloves cater to this need perfectly. They are compact and much easier to slip on and off compared to long cuff gloves.
Higher Level of Dexterity
While riding, be it turning the throttle or flicking the indicator switch, the added flexibility of these gloves allows you to perform activities with fewer restrictions.
Lighter and More Breathable
Short cuff gloves are also typically lighter and more breathable. If you live in a temperate or hotter climate, these gloves can be a more comfortable choice.
Not As Robust
Whilst short cuff gloves do offer a degree of safety with features like knuckle armor, palm sliders, and reinforced stitching, they might not be as robust as gauntlet-style gloves in this aspect.
When and Where Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves Can Be Used
Short cuff motorcycle gloves are quite versatile and can be put to use in various situations and conditions. However, they’re particularly effective for specific types of riding and environmental conditions. Let’s take a closer look at when and where these gloves really shine.
City Riders and Commuters
These are the riders navigating crowded city streets, where speeds are generally low and stops are frequent. For them, the convenience of easily slipping the gloves on and off to access their wallet, phone, or house keys is a significant upside.
For these types of rides, the Olympia 103 Men’s Easy Rider Gloves could be a good selection.
Hot Weather Conditions
Less coverage means more air-flow to your hands, reducing sweating and increasing overall comfort during those sunny, summer rides. One pair of short cuff gloves that can work in this type of weather include the Olympia 452 Men’s Perforated Full Throttle Gloves, which have breathable ventilation throughout them.
Off-Road
A favorite among motocross and adventure riders, short cuff gloves are preferred due to the enhanced motion range and breathability they offer. If you’re an off-road rider, you’ll appreciate the freedom and control these gloves provide when maneuvering through rough terrain.
A good pair for these types of rides might include the Olympia 760 Men’s Air Force Gel Gloves, which comes with additional padding and protection while still giving you the dexterity you need for tricky maneuvers.
When Should You Avoid Using Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves
While short cuff motorcycle gloves can undoubtedly be a beneficial and convenient choice for motorcycle riders, it’s important to understand that there can be certain situations and conditions where they might not be the safest or most efficient choice. Here are a few times when you might want to skip this particular style.
Long Distance Riders
You might need more protection than short cuff gloves can provide. High-speed crashes could lead to potential injuries that require more than just hand and wrist protection. In such situations, gauntlet gloves, which cover not just the hands but also a portion of the forearm, would be more appropriate.
Colder Climates
This is because short cuff gloves might not provide sufficient insulation, given their design doesn’t cover the wrist and lower arms completely. Cold hands can affect your control over the motorcycle, so for cold-weather riding, you’d want to opt for gloves that provide more coverage and insulation.
Racing Activities
Most racing authorities require full gauntlet gloves as part of the regulation safety equipment. This is due to the higher speeds and larger risk factors associated with racing on tracks, which require added protection.
What to Look for When Shopping for Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves
Choosing the right pair of short cuff motorcycle gloves is not a decision to be taken lightly. For one, these gloves serve as extensions of your body, enabling safer and more comfortable rides.
But beyond that, they can also be bearers of a personal style statement, reflecting your personality as a rider. Let’s delve deep into features you should look out for and some considerable examples.
Material
The most common materials are leather and textile, each with its own pros and cons. Many riders treasure the durability and abrasion resistance offered by leather. Not to mention, it molds to your hand over time, offering a custom-like fit.
An example of a great pair of leather short cuff gloves is the Olympia 140 Men’s Deerskin I Gloves.
Breathability and Flexibility
If you ride often in hot conditions or prioritize breathability and flexibility, textile gloves might serve you better. Some gloves can combine the best of both worlds, providing both the rigidity of leather and the breathability of a textile mesh.
A breathable pair of short cuff gloves includes the Olympia 750 Men’s Ventor Gloves.
Safety Mechanisms
Look out for features such as armored knuckles that can protect your hands from impact during mishaps. If you need short cuff gloves that can stand up to high impacts, the Olympia 715 Men’s Extreme Gel Gloves might be for you.
Touchscreen Capabilities
This feature allows you to use your phone or GPS without the inconvenience of taking off your gloves. An example of a pair of touchscreen short cuff gloves is the Olympia 730 Men’s Touch Screen Gloves.
Closure System
Hooks, loops, and elastic systems offer different levels of security and convenience. For instance, a velcro system is known for its hassle-free ease of use. An example of a pair of short cuff gloves with this feature includes the Olympia 180 Men’s Monsoon Gloves.
Tips for Choosing Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves That Fit Well
When it comes to choosing the perfect pair of short cuff motorcycle gloves, the fit is as important as the features. A well-fitted glove can significantly enrich your riding comfort and experience, while also ensuring optimal safety. So, how do we find that perfect fit?
For starters, you’ll need to know how to properly measure your hands. Place a measure around the palm of your hand at its widest point, excluding the thumb. It’s essential to measure both hands, as they may have slight size variations.
Additionally, don’t forget about the finger length. The glove should cover your hand completely without your fingers pushing against the tips of the glove. You don’t want the gloves too tight on your fingertips when riding, as that could trigger fingertip numbness or soreness.
For instance, a pair of gloves may fit well around the palm but if they’re too tight around the fingers, this can lead to discomfort during longer rides.
Lastly, remember that a good transition from end of the glove to the cuff of the jacket is important so that no bear skin is left exposed. Usually it’s important for the end of short cuff glove to fit under the cuff of the jacket to keep your hands toasty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves
Still have questions about choosing short cuff gloves? Here are a few frequently asked questions to help you out.
Q: Are Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves Safe Enough?”
A: Yes, short cuff gloves are designed with safety in mind. They typically feature reinforced palms and knuckles to protect against road rash and impact. However, they don’t offer the same level of wrist and forearm protection as gauntlet gloves. So, if you’re a high-speed or long-distance rider, gauntlet gloves may be a safer choice.
Q: Do Short Cuff Gloves Provide Enough Grip?
A: Absolutely. Most short cuff gloves are designed with silicone grips or leather palms to ensure a secure hold on your handles.
Q: Can I Use Touch Screen Devices Without Removing Them?
A: It depends on the model. Some short cuff gloves, like the Icon Anthem 2, have touchscreen-compatible fingertips allowing you to use GPS or smartphones without removing your gloves.
Q: How Long Do Short Cuff Gloves Generally Last?
A: With proper care, a quality pair of short cuff gloves can last for years. Factors such as the quality of materials used, the frequency of use, and how well they’re maintained can all affect their longevity.
How to Care for and Maintain Your Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves
Taking care of your short cuff motorcycle gloves is paramount for extending their lifespan and preserving their functionality and appearance. Here’s what to know about cleaning, maintaining, and storing your motorcycle gloves.
Cleaning
Just as getting the dust and grime off your bike is important, cleaning your gloves should be part of your routine, too.
For leather gloves, it’s recommended to use a legitimate leather cleaner as traditional soap can dry out the leather, making it brittle. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently wipe your gloves.
For textile gloves, a soft, damp cloth should do the trick. It’s important to remember that machine washing is usually not suitable, as it can damage the structure and protective features of your gloves.
Drying
After cleaning your gloves, the next step is drying. Never wring them out as this can misshape the gloves and lead to damage. Instead, blot them with a dry towel and then air dry. Avoid drying them under the sun or near a heater as extreme heat can cause leather to shrink or warp.
Conditioning
If your short cuff motorcycle gloves are made of leather, a conditioner is recommended to keep the material supple and prevent it from cracking.
For instance, a product like a beeswax-based waterproofing wax can do wonders. However, remember to make sure that the conditioner is suitable for your glove’s specific leather type.
Storage
Store your gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Storing them in a crumpled state can lead to creases and deterioration over time. Instead, the gloves should be stored flat with the fingers extended.
Snag a Pair of Short Cuff Gloves
Choosing motorcycle gloves is a critical decision and highly personal to each rider. Remember, gloves are more than just a style accessory — they’re an integral part of your protective gear.
Short cuff gloves can be great for moments when you need a bit more dexterity while still providing you with comfort and protection. Just remember that they might not be suited to specific types of rides, such as high-speed or winter commutes. With that in mind, if you’re ready to purchase a pair of short cuff gloves, head over to Olympia Gloves and browse what we have on offer. And, don’t forget sign up for our newsletter to receive access to exclusive sales and deals as well as more tips to help you choose a great pair.
