When the colder months arrive, it’s not just your bike that needs attention—your riding kit does too. The right motorcycle gloves help keep your hands warm or cool (depending on the season), maintain grip on the controls, and protect you in the event of a fall. In this guide, we’ll cover what to look for in winter motorcycle gloves, how they differ from summer motorcycle gloves, and how to choose the best option for year-round riding.
Winter motorcycle gloves: why they’re essential
As the colder months approach, it’s crucial to prepare not just your motorbike but also your winter riding gear. A good pair of winter motorbike gloves is vital to keep your hands warm, ensure better grip, and enhance safety while riding.
Within the biker's equipment, motorcycle gloves are extremely essential. Indeed, it works as a safety element, increasing protection in case of fall (hands are usually the first thing that touch the ground) or road debris. On the other hand, it works as protection against the harsh weather, such as rain or cold.
In addition, motorcycle winter gloves are essential to ensure maximum comfort, offering the best grip to the handlebar of the bike and avoiding annoying chafing or slips caused by sweat.
There are summer motorcycle gloves with different characteristics, some of them lighter and breathable, designed to be used in summer. Others, however, seek the best insulation against the cold or rain and, therefore, are more suitable for winter.
Why you need winter motorcycle gloves?
- Protection Against the Cold – Cold temperatures can cause numbness, reducing control over the handlebars.
- Enhanced Grip & Comfort – Prevents chafing, slipping, and discomfort during long rides.
- Safety in Case of Falls – Hands are usually the first to hit the ground during an accident, making gloves essential for protection.
- Weather Resistance – Offers insulation from rain, snow, and wind, keeping your hands dry and warm.
How to choose motorcycle winter gloves?
One of the keys when choosing winter motorcycle gloves is size. Ideally, do not be too tight and there is a small space between the tips of the fingers and the fabric of the glove. That way, you will create a a small warm air pocket and prevent cold from entering your hands.
- Motorcycle winter gloves should be thick and incorporate several layers, at least one of them waterproof. In addition, they must be of long cuff / gauntlet cuff, to reduce the gap between the jacket and the glove.
- With regard to materials, the ideal is to bet on the textile over the skin (leather, cow skin, etc.) as it has greater impermeability and better breathability. Synthetic textile (such as nylon) is one of the most desirable materials, provides protection against cold and wind and usually has good value and price.
- Other materials such as Goretex or Hipora, which is waterproof, provide greater resistance to abrasion (although not as much as leather motorcycle gloves). You can also choose winter motorbike gloves specifically designed to protect from the wind, the so-called wind stoppers, made of polyester and polyamide.
- Closures are also important, they must guarantee that there is no cold or water on hand. Ideally, gloves should be combined with a secure wrist closure (strap/zip/dual closure) to ensure a better fit.
- In rain, a non-slip palm helps prevent slipping the gloves easier to slide on the handlebar. Therefore, good winter gloves will incorporate a strip of non-slip material in the palm of your hand.
Just like summer motorcycle gloves, winter motorcycle gloves should incorporate protections for fingers, wrists and palms.
Winter Motorbike Gloves vs. Summer Motorcycle Gloves
Choosing between winter and summer motorcycle gloves depends on the weather conditions and the type of riding you do. Here’s how they compare:
1.Winter motorbike gloves (for cold and wet conditions)
- Long-cuff design for better insulation and coverage
- Multi-layered construction with waterproof materials like Gore-Tex or Hipora
- Thicker padding for warmth and extra impact protection
- Anti-slip grip for better control in wet or icy conditions
- Designed for cold temperatures, rain, and harsh weather
2. Summer motorcycle gloves (for warm and dry conditions)
- Short-cuff design for better airflow and ventilation
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics like mesh or perforated leather
- Minimal padding to allow more flexibility and comfort
- Standard grip suitable for dry riding conditions
- Summer motorcycle gloves Ideal for hot weather, offering comfort without overheating
Summer motorcycle gloves: what to consider
If you’re riding in warm weather, opt for gloves that allow maximum airflow and breathability. Mesh or perforated leather gloves are ideal for hot conditions but won’t provide warmth in winter.
Tip: If you get caught in the rain while wearing summer motorcycle gloves, consider carrying thin waterproof over-gloves or let them dry by placing them near your engine while taking a break.
Safety standards and protection
To improve durability and protection, look for gloves that meet recognised safety requirements. One widely referenced standard is EN 13594, which assesses factors like abrasion, tearing, seam strength, and impact protection.
Extra features worth considering
Some riders find these features useful depending on conditions:
- Touchscreen fingertips (phone/GPS use at stops)
- Visor wiper on the thumb (rain/fog)
- Reflective details (low-light commuting)
Next step: choose based on your conditions
If you ride through colder mornings, rain, or winter winds, prioritise insulation, wind protection, and water resistance. For hot climates, focus on airflow and comfort—while still keeping knuckle and palm protection.
If you’d like to compare winter-ready options, browse our winter motorcycle gloves collection here.
