Choosing motorcycle gloves that fit on the handlebars

The gloves feel pleasant in the shop. Then you curl your hand around a grip: a seam pulls, a fingertip folds and the lever seems further away. Trying them with a flat palm misses the position you will actually use. Motorcycle gloves need to fit while you are operating the bike.

Try a riding grip

Start with the chart for that model. Medium in one brand need not match medium in another. Put both gloves on, fasten them and hold the grips of a stationary motorcycle with the engine off, or a suitable shop display.

Bend your fingers and reach the brake and clutch levers comfortably. The webs between fingers should not pull painfully, and the thumb should not hit the end during a normal grip. Excess fingertip material can also get in the way. Do not expect breaking in to change the whole shape of a glove.

Avoid a thick fold across the palm. Knuckle protection should sit where intended without pressing painfully when your hand bends. Try the switches without abandoning your grip. If you have to hunt for a button through bulky layers, compare another design.

Retention matters

Adjust the closure and check that the glove does not easily slide off when gently pulled. Follow the manufacturer's method. A loose wrist should not be corrected by tightening the strap until it hurts.

Choose protection made for motorcycle use, rather than relying on warm material and a dramatic-looking knuckle piece. For a certified product, check its purpose, standard and level in the documentation. EN 13594 is a motorcycle glove standard. A large CE logo alone is not the whole specification.

Try the complete seasonal outfit

Bring your jacket. Sleeves and glove cuffs need to meet without an unintended gap or restriction. Arrange the overlap according to the design of the two items. Waterproofing does not automatically mean warmth, and an extra liner can turn a good fit into a tight one. Test the combination together.

If your hands become cold, numb or less precise, stop and address the problem instead of gripping harder and pressing on. The gloves should let you control the bike confidently, not merely endure the ride. See cold and wet-weather preparation for the rest of the outfit.

Touchscreen fingertips are handy while stopped. During the ride, fingers that comfortably operate brake, clutch and throttle are far more useful.

Sizing and protection

REV’IT! model-specific sizing, REV’IT! glove protection standards, MSF rider clothing advice.