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WINTER MOTORCYCLE GLOVES BUYERS’ GUIDE
When the weather is freezing cold...
...many bikers will simply put their motorcycle away in the garage for the winter. However, some will still go out in the icy weather, either because they enjoy biking so much, or out of necessity. It's at times like this that the benefits of heated motorcycle gloves - and waterproof motorcycle gloves - become obvious. It's important, if you ride in winter, that you keep your body temperature comfortable. If you become freezing cold while riding your motorcycle, you can lose your concentration and are therefore more likely to have an accident. Similarly, if your hands are cold, you'll be less able to operate your motorcycle controls effectively, due to numbness and stiffness in your fingers. There are several types of winter motorcycle gloves that you might want to consider.
Although motorcycle gloves are not compulsory, never underestimate their importance when riding in freezing or wet conditions. They are vital for warmth and comfort, but in safety terms, a pair of high-quality motorcycle gloves is vital. Your hands could be badly damaged if you were to have an accident when travelling at 70mph and wearing a pair of gloves offering proper protection could help save you from serious injury.
In addition to protecting you from the windchill factor, which causes numb hands, your gloves will protect your fingers, knuckles and palms in particular from sustaining injuries. It's too easy to overlook gloves, when in reality they should be a major consideration before setting off on your motorcycle
Riding your motorcycle in wet weather can be demanding. Make sure you're ready for rain by having waterproof motorcycle gloves. If you're thinking of buying a new pair, check out some important factors, such as ensuring they have sealed seams and a waterproof barrier, while retaining their breathability.
You will benefit by investing in gloves which have a water-tight barrier such as Gore-Tex. This will ensure your hands are kept warm and dry, but won't sweat, which is a big bonus. Gloves labelled Gore-Tex and Dri-lock will all keep your hands warm and dry. It's also useful to buy waterproof gloves with a squeegee-type feature on the left thumb or forefinger. At slower speeds, you can use it to wipe away water which may obscure your view. This feature must be on the left, because motorcyclists shouldn't remove their right hand off the grip or brakes, for safety reasons.
Don't try to cut corners by spraying a water-repellent on your gloves! This won't work and you need a true waterproof glove. To benefit most when motorcycling in wet weather, choose a glove which is both waterproof and insulated.
Wearing heated motorcycle gloves will not only keep you warmer, but will also enable you to focus on road safety, rather than thinking about how cold you are. These obvious benefits should be enough to make even the hardiest of motorcyclists invest in some heated gloves.
The technology behind heated motorcycle gloves is simple. Most are powered by a rechargeable battery, which offers motorcyclists several hours' warmth against the cold winter weather. They are also waterproof and feature a zipped pocket in which to store the battery. They come in various sizes and designs, ensuring a comfortable fit, with protectors across the knuckles.
Make sure your gloves are fully charged before you set off and put them on the highest heat setting if it's particularly cold and snowy, to ensure maximum benefits, especially when you consider the wind-chill factor when riding a motorcycle will make it feel even colder, depending on the speed at which you're travelling.
Some motorcycle gloves feature Gore-Tex fabric, which is breathable and waterproof. Invest in a pair that maintain extra warmth, with insulation and a fleece lining.
Heated motorcycle gloves must fit snugly and feel like a second skin to ensure you feel the benefits of constantly warm hands, while also being in perfect control of your motorcycle's controls. When choosing heated motorcycle gloves, you must consider several factors.
First, the fit must be snug, but never too tight. Your hands must not be restricted in any way. Secondly, how do they feel? If they're too bulky, or the lining prevents your fingers from moving easily, they're not the gloves for you. Thirdly, how are they constructed? Is there an inner seam? What is the material? Decide if you prefer leather or fabric. Do you prefer hard or soft knuckles? Finally, what features do you require? Are you more comfortable in wrist-length gloves, or longer, gauntlet-type gloves?
Buying the perfect gloves will benefit you by making your trip safer, more comfortable and more enjoyable.
