7 Best Motorcycle Gloves for Winter Riding
Winter motorcycle riding comes with its unique set of challenges, and having the right gloves can make all the difference between an enjoyable ride and a frozen, uncomfortable journey. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 7 best motorcycle gloves for winter to keep your hands warm, dry, and protected while you enjoy your cold-weather adventures.
Key Considerations for Choosing Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Before diving into our top picks, it’s essential to understand what makes a good cold weather glove:
- Warmth: Look for gloves with high-quality insulation or battery-powered heated gloves to keep your hands warm. Some gloves also feature compatibility with heated grips.
- Waterproofing: Riding in winter means facing snow, rain, or sleet. Gloves with waterproof membranes, such as Gore-Tex, are crucial to keeping your hands dry in wet conditions.
- Comfort and Fit: While some gloves may feel bulky, the best ones offer excellent warmth without compromising flexibility. Balancing warmth and comfort to avoid overly bulky gloves should be a consideration.
- Durability and Protection: A good pair of winter gloves should offer a high level of protection, especially abrasion resistance and impact protection.
1. Alpinestars W7 Tourer Glove
These gloves from Alpinestars are a fantastic option for cold-weather riders. They feature the brand’s Drystar® waterproof membranes, ensuring your hands stay dry even in wet conditions. The gloves also offer thermal insulation, providing excellent warmth without being too bulky.
Key Features:
- Waterproof with Drystar® technology
- Thermal insulation for warmth
- Gauntlet-style design for extra coverage
Pros:
- Excellent protection from wind and water
- Comfortable for long rides
- Durable materials
Cons:
- May feel slightly bulky for riders preferring slimmer gloves
2. Fox Racing Bomber Glove
The Fox Racing Bomber Gloves are built for the tough rider looking for durability and protection. These gloves feature molded knuckle guards and padded leather palms, making them ideal for off-road and adventure riding in colder weather.
Key Features:
- Molded knuckle protection
- Durable leather palm for grip and comfort
- Tough design for off-road riding
Pros:
- Excellent for high-impact riding
- Provides solid protection in harsh conditions
Cons:
- Not as insulated as other options, making it less ideal for extreme cold
3. Tourmaster Horizon Line Storm Chaser Glove
Designed for winter weather, the Tourmaster Storm Chaser Gloves combine waterproof protection with a warm, insulated interior. Their waterproof membranes ensure you’re protected from the elements, while the ergonomic design keeps your hands comfortable without sacrificing your level of protection.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and insulated
- Ergonomically designed for comfort
- Reflective piping for added safety in low light
Pros:
- Great balance of comfort and protection
- Reflective elements enhance visibility
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic gloves
4. Fox Racing Dirtpaw Glove
The Fox Racing Dirtpaw gloves are known for their flexibility and lightweight design, making them a great option for riders who want a lighter glove without compromising on grip. Although not as heavily insulated, they are excellent for those cooler but not freezing rides.
Key Features:
- Padded palms for grip
- Flexibility for ease of movement
- Durable materials designed for off-road use
Pros:
- Affordable and flexible
- Great for milder winter rides
Cons:
- Limited warmth for extremely cold conditions
5. Fox Racing Defend Wind Glove
If you’re looking for gloves designed to cut through the wind, the Fox Racing Defend Wind Gloves are a perfect match. They offer a windproof outer shell while maintaining a high level of flexibility, ensuring your hands are protected without feeling restricted.
Key Features:
- Windproof outer shell
- Touchscreen compatibility
- Flexible material for ease of use
Pros:
- Excellent wind protection
- Touchscreen-friendly design
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy rain or snow
6. Gerbing GT5 Heated Glove
The Gerbing GT5 Heated Gloves are designed for riders who need maximum warmth and comfort during extreme cold weather rides. These gloves feature Gerbing’s Microwire® heating technology, offering superior warmth across the back of the hand and fingers. The 12V hybrid design allows you to connect them directly to your motorcycle or use a portable battery pack, giving you flexibility in how you use them.
Key Features:
- 12V Microwire® heating technology
- Waterproof membrane for protection in wet conditions
- Hybrid design for bike or battery-powered heating
Pros:
- Versatile heating options (motorcycle or battery)
- Excellent warmth and waterproof protection
- Superior heat coverage for cold conditions
Cons:
- Requires regular battery charging if not connected to the bike
7. Alpinestars SMX-Z Drystar Glove
The Alpinestars SMX-Z Drystar Gloves are built for both protection and comfort. They feature Drystar® waterproofing, making them perfect for rides in wet conditions. These gloves offer an impressive combination of warmth and flexibility, with added safety features like reinforced knuckles and a gauntlet-style design for extended wrist coverage. These are an excellent option for riders looking for an all-around winter glove that offers a high level of protection.
Key Features:
- Drystar® waterproof membrane
- Reinforced knuckle protection
- Gauntlet-style design for extended coverage
Pros:
- Ideal for long-distance, cold-weather rides
- Excellent waterproofing and windproofing
- Strong protective features for added safety
Cons:
- May feel slightly stiff during the first few rides
Comparing the Top Winter Motorcycle Gloves
| PRODUCT | WATERPROOF | HEATED | WINDPROOF | TOUCHSCREEN | PRICE |
| Alpinestars W7 Tourer Glove | Yes | No | Yes | No | $$ |
| Fox Racing Bomber Glove | No | No | Yes | No | $$ |
| Tourmaster Storm Chaser Glove | Yes | No | Yes | No | $$$ |
| Fox Racing Dirtpaw | No | No | Yes | No | $ |
| Fox Racing Defend Wind Glove | No | No | Yes | Yes | $$ |
| Gerbing GT5 Heated Glove | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | $$$$ |
| Alpinestars SMX-Z Drystar Glove | Yes | No | Yes | No | $$$ |
Tips for Maintaining Winter Motorcycle Gloves
- Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to clean the gloves without damaging the materials or losing waterproofing properties.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to avoid mold and preserve the materials.
- Waterproofing Treatment: Reapply waterproof coatings regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Why You Should Invest in High-Quality Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Riding in cold weather requires knowing the right gear you need to ensure both comfort and safety. Investing in high-quality winter motorcycle gloves protects your hands from the elements while improving grip, dexterity, and overall riding performance. With options like the heated Tourmaster Synergy Pro Plus or the versatile Alpinestars W7 Tourer, Sprocketz offers gloves to meet every rider's need.
Conclusion
Whether you’re braving snow-covered roads or taking on icy winds, the right pair of winter motorcycle gloves can make all the difference. Explore our selection of winter motorcycle gloves and gear up for your next ride in confidence. Shop Now at Sprocketz!
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