When it comes to motorcycle riding gear, gloves are an essential piece of the puzzle. We often get the question, which glove is perfect for every season and usage pattern. And the only correct answer to that is, none! Gloves are purpose-built equipment, and when that purpose is changed, good gloves can feel out of place. Which is why you need different motorcycle riding gloves for different seasons.
With so many options available, how do you choose the right ones for each season? Let's take a cruise through the world of motorcycle gloves tailored to different weather conditions.
Summer: Warm Weather Warriors
As the temperatures rise and the sun shines, you'll want gloves that provide protection without causing your hands to turn into mini saunas! Look for summer riding gloves that offer a balance between protection and ventilation.
Mesh Gloves: These are the superheroes of warm weather riding. Mesh gloves are designed with maximum airflow in mind, allowing your hands to breathe even on the hottest days. They often come with reinforced knuckles and palms for protection.
Perforated Leather Gloves: If you prefer the classic feel of leather, opt for perforated leather gloves. These gloves combine the timeless appeal of leather with strategically placed perforations that enhance breathability.
Fall/ Spring: Transitioning in Style
The transition seasons brings a mix of chilly mornings and nights and warm afternoons. Your gloves should be versatile enough to handle changing temperatures.
Textile Gloves: Textile gloves with removable thermal liners are your best friends during this season. As the day warms up, you can simply remove the liners for increased ventilation. In India, a lot also depends on which part of the country you live in. Day and night temperatures vary drastically in the northern part of the country as compared to the south. If you live in the southern half of India, chances are you can use summer gloves itself.
Hybrid Gloves: Some gloves come with a combination of leather and textile. These gloves offer the best of both worlds – leather for protection, and textile for flexibility and breathability.
Winter: Battling the Chill
Winter riding gloves keep your hands warm without compromising safety. Look for gloves with insulation and weather-resistant features.
Insulated Leather Gloves: Leather gloves with thermal insulation are your go-to choice for winter riding. They offer excellent protection against the cold and wind while maintaining a classic look.
Textile Gloves with Insulation: Insulation is mandatory for cold riding. Many brands make good textile gloves for winter. These also tend to be waterproof.
Heated Gloves: If you're really serious about staying warm, heated gloves are worth considering. These gloves have built-in heating elements that can be powered by your motorcycle's electrical system or batteries. You would need such gloves if you are riding in the mountains in sub-zero temperatures. For most parts of the country, you wouldn’t need heated gloves.
Rainy Days: Staying Dry
Rain can turn an enjoyable ride into a soggy adventure. For wet weather riding, focus on waterproof riding gloves.
Waterproof Textile Gloves: These gloves are designed to keep your hands dry even in heavy rain. Look for gloves with a waterproof membrane and sealed seams for maximum water resistance.
Rubberized Gloves: Some gloves have a rubberized outer layer that provides excellent water protection. These gloves are ideal for short rides in heavy rain.
The Fit Factor
No matter the season, the right fit is crucial. Ill-fitting gloves can affect your grip, comfort, and overall control of the bike. Always try on gloves before buying, and make sure they provide a snug yet comfortable fit. Check for mobility in your fingers and ensure that the gloves don't pinch or restrict movement.
All-Season Gloves?!
Just as you wouldn't wear a winter coat in the middle of summer, your choice of motorcycle gloves should be tailored to the weather. With options ranging from mesh gloves for summer to insulated leather gloves for winter, there's a perfect pair for every season. Yet, for some reason or the other, you might have to buy only one pair, in such a scenario, buy the style which works with your maximum usage case. If you ride in hot weather for most of the year, then buy a summer glove and ‘adjust’ in the winter months. Happy riding!
