Choosing the Right Motorcycle Gloves: Summer, Touring, and Rain

In short: Good motorcycle gloves are certified to EN 13594, have a knuckle protector and fit snugly without being too tight. Choose them according to use: airy summer gloves for hot days, waterproof gloves with a membrane for rain and cool weather. Most riders get the best out of the season with two pairs.

In a crash, your hands are the first to touch the ground, and for the rest of the time they are your only connection to the throttle, clutch and brake. Good motorcycle gloves protect, keep your hands comfortable in heat, cold and rain, and still let you feel the brake lever. This is how you find the right gloves for your style of riding.

Why motorcycle gloves are so important

In a crash, you reflexively put your hands out. The palms and knuckles take the first impact and the first slide. Work or fashion gloves are not made for this. Motorcycle gloves are tested for abrasion resistance, knuckle protection and a secure fit on the hand.

The standard: EN 13594

Motorcycle gloves are certified in Europe according to EN 13594. The standard tests, among other things, abrasion resistance, seam strength, cut resistance and whether the glove stays on the hand in a crash. Gloves with a knuckle protector are additionally tested for impact absorption. Look for EN 13594 on the label when comparing. All North of Berlin gloves are certified according to EN 13594:2015.

Certified gloves carry the Level 1 or Level 2 rating; Level 2 has higher requirements, for example for abrasion resistance. The abbreviation KP indicates that the knuckle protection has been tested.

Choose by area of use

Dryzone Gloves: lightweight summer gloves with leather palms and stretch fabric for air circulation. Unisex.

Moto 65 Gloves: the all-rounder for touring and everyday use, matching the Moto 65 suit. Also available in a dedicated women's fit.

Stormrider Gloves: made entirely of leather, with a waterproof, breathable membrane for long rides in the rain. Unisex.

How motorcycle gloves should fit

• Snug, but not too tight. With your hand flat, the fingertips should just touch the end of the glove.
• Test on the grip. Close your hand around a handlebar or something similar: The glove should not be tight over the back of the hand and should not form creases in the palm.
• The knuckle protector should sit on the knuckles, not behind them.
• Close the wrist strap. A glove that slips off in a crash does not protect.
• Leather gives a little. If you are between two sizes, try both.

One pair or two?

If you ride from spring to autumn, you will rarely get by with one pair. Many riders use a lightweight summer glove and a waterproof glove for cooler, wetter days, and carry the second pair on longer tours.

How to properly care for gloves

Hang wet gloves in a well-ventilated place to dry, never on a radiator. After drying, treat the leather with a suitable product so that it remains soft and water-repellent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are waterproof motorcycle gloves really waterproof?

Gloves with a waterproof membrane keep the rain out. In prolonged heavy rain, water can enter at the cuff. Therefore, wear the cuff either under or over the jacket sleeve so that water drains off.

Can I wear summer gloves all year round?

Lightweight summer gloves quickly become cold and wet on cool or wet days. A second, waterproof pair makes spring and autumn significantly more comfortable.

Do I need gloves for short distances too?

Yes. Many accidents happen on short everyday routes, and hands are almost always affected.

Conclusion

Choose gloves for the conditions you ride in most often, pay attention to EN 13594 certification and a secure fit with the knuckle protection in the right place. Then add a second pair for the weather that your first pair does not cover.

Discover all motorcycle gloves.