We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›
It’s a good idea to wear protective gear when you ride a motorcycle. In addition to a helmet, boots, and jacket, you need a high-quality pair of gloves. Gloves are available in a variety of different materials and textiles, but one of the most popular options is leather. Leather is warm, water-resistant, and protective. Plus, it’s stylish.
All types of riders wear leather gloves, from Harley-Davidson enthusiasts to sport bikers. There are a variety of leather gloves available in stores and online, so it can be tough to choose the right pair for your needs. Our buying guide below features some of the best, most popular brands.
Our Methodology
The Drive’s editors have been riding motorcycles for a collective 50+ years. We’ve had almost every single type of motorcycle glove available. As well as those from each and every name brand manufacturer. We’ve had good gloves and bad ones. Too small and too large. And we’ve had those stand up to wrecks. We came up with this list that features gloves for those looking for the best and those looking for a deal. Each, however, meets our stringent requirements for safety.
Best Leather Motorcycle Gloves Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Dainese Blackjack Gloves
Best Value
Cortech Scrapper Gloves
Premium Pick
Tour Master 12V Synergy 2.0 Heated Leather Gloves
Honorable Mention
Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Gloves
Honorable Mention
REV'IT! Fly 3 Gloves
Honorable Mention
Joe Rocket Cafe Racer Gloves
Honorable Mention
Firstgear Kinetic Gloves
Honorable Mention
Held Rodney Gloves
Honorable Mention
Joe Rocket Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding Gloves
Honorable Mention
Indie Ridge Premium Leather Motorcycle Gloves
Leather Motorcycle Gloves Buying Guide
Here’s everything you need to know before hitting Buy It Now!
Types of Leather Motorcycle Gloves
Short Cuff Gloves
Short cuff leather motorcycle gloves can be used in the spring, summer, and fall. Leather is naturally breathable, so they won’t feel too hot in the warmer months, yet they are also a good choice in cooler weather. These gloves cover the hand and the wrist and are easy to put on and take off.
Gauntlet Gloves
Gauntlet gloves are longer by design and extend a couple inches past the wrist towards the elbow. If you ride in colder temperatures, this type of glove is preferable because it provides more coverage. They typically go over your jacket sleeves and keep cold air from penetrating into the wrist and arm areas.
Armored Gloves
Some leather gloves feature knuckle protectors made of carbon fiber, TPU, and other materials. A few brands also include palm sliders. This extra protection is good if you are involved in an impact. These added features can make a big difference if you crash and your hands and body slide across the pavement.
Key Features
Size
It’s vital to wear gloves that fit properly. If they’re too small, they will feel constrictive, and you’re less likely to wear them. If they’re too large, it can be hard to operate the controls properly. Plus, they may slide around uncomfortably and let air in.
Breathability
While leather is naturally breathable, some types of gloves provide more airflow than others. You can opt for a fingerless option, which keeps your fingers and hands cooler during the summer months. Other types of gloves are perforated for ventilation. You don’t want your hands to sweat when you ride because it can be distracting and uncomfortable.
Quality
It can be tempting to opt for cheap leather motorcycle gloves, but it’s a good idea to choose a pricier, higher-quality pair. Some brands put less effort in the manufacturing process and use lower-quality materials. Read reviews to see what users say about durability and how the product stands up to the elements.
Type of Leather
Many motorcycle gloves are made of cowhide, which is durable and abrasion-resistant. There’s also goatskin leather, which provides a little more dexterity and tensile strength, so it’s a good option. You can also find deerskin leather gloves, which are dexterous, flexible, and feel very soft and comfortable.
Leather Motorcycle Gloves Pricing
It can be a challenge to find a glove that’s reasonably priced, but it can be done. In all, you’ll likely find leather motorcycle gloves, those with armor and protection, to be between $50 and $150. That’s a good span, but it’ll really depend on which manufacturer you go with and how much armor and protection you want.
Our Verdict
Our pick for the best motorcycle gloves are the Dainese Blackjack Gloves. They are great summer and spring riding gloves because they provide good ventilation. They’re also comfortable, flexible, and are high quality overall. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Cortech Scrapper Gloves.
Tips
- Leather gloves are a great way to keep your hands warm. They protect against harsh weather and make you feel comfortable during the ride. Choose a pair according to the season. Winter gloves are thicker and have longer cuffs. Summer gloves are thinner and more breathable.
- Test your new gloves before riding to make sure they fit properly. It’s very important that you can move your hands and fingers freely. You should be able to react quickly and steer with precision.
- Regardless of the material, all gloves need to be maintained regularly. You can clean the leather by rinsing it in lukewarm water. This way, they’ll preserve the shape and last longer. Don’t put them in a washing machine because you may ruin them.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: Do leather gloves stretch?
Gloves made from 100 percent leather stretch only slightly. To stretch them, steep the gloves in lukewarm water, and let them dry on your hands. When leather is combined with other types of material, the gloves may stretch about one hand size larger.
Q: How should leather motorcycle gloves fit?
The gloves should fit snugly without restricting your movements. They shouldn’t be tight around the wrist or in the knuckles. Make sure that you can move your hands and fingers freely. They shouldn’t be too loose either because your hands may slip from the handlebars.
Q: Can I shrink leather gloves?
Yes, you can shrink them by using warm water. Soak the gloves for about five to 10 minutes. Let them dry on a flat surface, preferably overnight. Don’t use hair dryers or any other source of external heat. It will only cause the leather to crack.
