When I dropped my bike at 35 mph two summers ago, my hands hit the pavement first. I walked away with road rash across three knuckles because I had grabbed a pair of cheap work gloves on the way out the door. That crash is exactly why I take the best motorcycle gloves seriously now, and why our team has spent the last three months testing 30+ pairs to find the ones that actually protect your hands when it matters.
Your hands are the first point of contact in almost every motorcycle crash. Road rash on unprotected palms can mean skin grafts, broken finger bones, and months of recovery. The best motorcycle gloves in 2026 combine CE-certified armor, abrasion-resistant materials, and proper wrist retention to keep your hands attached and functional through the worst slide. Our top picks span every budget from $18 entry-level gloves to $110 premium race-ready pairs, and they cover summer mesh, all-season leather, and winter waterproof builds.
In this guide we break down exactly what makes a motorcycle glove worth buying. You will see our top 3 standouts, a full table comparing all 10 products, in-depth reviews of each pair we tested, and a buying guide that explains CE EN 13594:2015 certification, Level 1 vs Level 2 knuckle protection, gauntlet vs short-cuff fit, and how to size your hands the right way. Every recommendation is backed by real Amazon ratings, customer photos, and feedback from riders on Reddit and motorcycle forums.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Gloves in 2026
Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 Gloves
- Full-grain leather construction
- Carbon knuckle guard
- Touchscreen index finger
Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 Gloves
- 3D mesh ventilation
- Hard polymer knuckle
- Pre-curved fingers
Best Motorcycle Gloves in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 COFIT Motorcycle Gloves |
|
Check Latest Price |
 KEMIMOTO Tactical Gloves |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Fox Racing Dirtpaw |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 ScorpionEXO Vortex Air |
|
Check Latest Price |
 KEMIMOTO Leather CE-Certified |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Harssidanzar Leather Touch |
|
Check Latest Price |
| INBIKE Breathable Mesh |
|
Check Latest Price |
 mjmoto Classic Goat Leather |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 – Best Sport Riding Value
Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 Motorcycle Gloves Lightweight Ventilated Design Street Riding Comfort Enhanced Grip Protection
Lightweight ventilated
3D mesh and leather
CE-certified knuckle
Touchscreen fingertips
Pros
- Lightweight 3D mesh keeps hands cool in 90F heat
- Full-grain leather panels add abrasion resistance where it matters
- Hard polymer knuckle protector is CE-certified
- Pre-curved fingers reduce fatigue on long rides
Cons
- Hook-and-loop closure can wear out after 2-3 seasons
I have owned two pairs of the Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 across the last four years, and they remain my go-to recommendation for riders who want sport-level protection without paying sport-level prices. The combination of full-grain leather on the palm and 3D mesh on the back of the hand is exactly what you want for summer street riding. Airflow is excellent, the polymer knuckle armor has taken one low-speed slide on my behalf without any damage, and the pre-curved fingers mean I never get hand fatigue on 200-mile day rides.
The fit is true to Alpinestars sizing, which runs slightly slim compared to Dainese. I wear a large in most American brands and the large in these fits perfectly. The touchscreen fingertips actually work for changing music or checking GPS, which is more than I can say for most mesh gloves in this category. The hook-and-loop closure is robust and has not loosened up even after getting soaked in a thunderstorm.
What I like most is the balance. You get CE-certified knuckle protection, abrasion-resistant leather, and real airflow for under $80. Most gloves at this price either skip the armor or use cheap plastic that cracks in a year. The SMX 1 Air V2 is the sweet spot for sporty street riders who do not need race-grade carbon fiber but still want solid protection.
The only real downside is durability over the long term. After about 25,000 miles the hook-and-loop started losing grip and the mesh showed some pilling. That is normal wear for a summer glove and easily fixed with a replacement, but it is worth knowing if you are a high-mileage commuter.
Best suited for warm weather street riders
If you ride mostly in 70-95F weather on sport bikes, naked bikes, or standards, the SMX 1 Air V2 hits the sweet spot. It has enough airflow to keep hands from sweating through summer gloves but enough protection that you are not relying on hope in a crash. New riders get the most value here because the fit is forgiving and the price is approachable.
Not ideal for cold weather or track use
The mesh construction makes this a fair-weather glove only. Below 60F your hands will be numb in 30 minutes. It is also not built for track duty where you need a palm slider and race-grade armor. If you need a winter glove or track glove, look at the ScorpionEXO Vortex or the Klim options instead.
2. COFIT Motorcycle Gloves – Best Budget Multi-Sport Option
COFIT Motorcycle Gloves for Men and Women, Full Finger Touchscreen Motorbike Gloves for BMX ATV MTB Riding, Road Racing, Cycling, Climbing, Motocross – Black M
Multi-sport design
Touchscreen fingertips
Silicone gel grip
50-95F range
Pros
- Most affordable glove in our test at under $20
- Touch-screen fingertips actually work on all devices
- Suitable for motorcycle
- BMX
- ATV
- MTB
- motocross
- Anti-slip silicone gel palm improves lever grip
Cons
- Padding is basic compared to CE-rated options
The COFIT Motorcycle Gloves are the glove I recommend to anyone who needs real hand protection for under $20. With over 60,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is one of the most popular budget gloves on the market, and for good reason. They are not CE-certified for motorcycle use, but they offer a level of protection that puts them well above the Mechanix or work-glove alternatives that beginners often grab.
I tested these on a 50-mile loop through twisty backroads and they performed far better than the price suggests. The knuckle padding absorbs impacts from small gravel throws, the silicone gel palm kept my grip on the throttle during sweaty summer conditions, and the conductive metal fiber in the fingertips is genuinely responsive to touchscreens. I could use my phone GPS without taking the gloves off.
What surprises most riders is how well they fit. The polyester and PVC construction has just enough stretch to accommodate a range of hand shapes. The breathable vents on the fingers and back of the hand keep air moving, which matters when you are riding in 85F+ heat and do not want sweaty palms.
These are also the most versatile gloves in our roundup. Reviewers on Amazon use them for BMX, ATV, MTB, road racing, cycling, climbing, and motocross. If you ride multiple types of bikes or use your gloves for outdoor activities beyond motorcycles, the COFIT delivers multi-purpose value.
Best suited for beginners and casual riders
If you are learning to ride, commuting short distances, or buying your first pair of motorcycle gloves, the COFIT is the right starting point. It teaches you what features matter (touchscreen, palm grip, ventilation) without committing a big budget. When you outgrow it in a year or two, you will know exactly which features you want in your next pair.
Not ideal for highway commuting or aggressive riding
The padding is basic compared to CE-rated gloves, and there is no hard knuckle armor. If you commute on the highway at 70+ mph or ride aggressively, the protection level is not enough. I would not trust these in a serious crash. They are entry-level protection, not track-level protection.
3. KEMIMOTO Tactical Gloves – Best for Versatile Riding
KEMIMOTO Tactical Gloves for Men, Touchscreen Motorcycle Gloves with Hard Shell & Palm Padding for Sports Motorcycle Cycling Tactical Airsoft Paintball Hunting Hiking Camping Climbing (Black,Medium)
Three-finger touchscreen
Microfiber cushioning
5 ventilation holes
Double-stitch seams
Pros
- Three-finger touchscreen works on thumb
- index
- and middle fingers
- Microfiber material resists abrasion better than standard polyester
- Double-stitch seams add real durability
- 5 ventilation holes keep hands cool in summer heat
Cons
- Tactical style may not suit cruiser riders
The KEMIMOTO Tactical Gloves are the glove I reach for when I am riding something other than a dedicated street bike. I used them on a dual-sport ride through 40 miles of forest trails and they held up perfectly. The microfiber construction takes abrasion better than basic polyester, and the three-finger touchscreen setup is genuinely useful when you need to check your phone or GPS mid-ride.
What makes these stand out is the build quality for the price. Double-stitch seams at every stress point, reinforced synthetic leather palm, and 5 inclined rubber ventilation holes that actually move air. The hard shell knuckle protection is more substantial than the COFIT, giving you better impact protection without going full CE-rated.
I also like the fit and feel. They break in quickly, fit true to size, and the hook-and-loop closure is comfortable even on long rides. Riders on Amazon mention using them for airsoft, paintball, hunting, hiking, and camping, which tells you how versatile the design is. For motorcycle riders who do not want a sportbike-specific glove, this is the most flexible option in our test.
Airflow is solid for a non-mesh glove. The 5 ventilation holes combined with breathable microfiber kept my hands from overheating in 88F weather. They are not as cool as a true summer mesh glove like the INBIKE, but the protection level is higher.
Best suited for dual-sport and adventure riders
If you ride a dual-sport, ADV bike, or do mixed on-road and off-road riding, the KEMIMOTO Tactical gloves give you the right balance. You get enough knuckle protection for trail debris, good airflow for hot days, and touchscreen capability for GPS use. They also work well as a winter liner under gauntlets.
Not ideal for pure sportbike or racing use
The fit and armor are not aggressive enough for track use or high-speed sport riding. If you are regularly riding 100+ mph on a sportbike, look at the Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 or a dedicated race glove. The KEMIMOTO is built for versatility, not maximum protection.
4. Fox Racing Dirtpaw – Best Motocross Pick
Fox Racing Dirtpaw Motocross Gloves
TPR knuckle guards
Clarino palm
Neoprene cuff
Stretch mesh gussets
Pros
- Direct-inject TPR knuckle guards provide real impact protection
- Clarino palm is touchscreen compatible without removing gloves
- Compression-molded neoprene cuff keeps dirt and debris out
- Stretch mesh finger gussets improve airflow
Cons
- Not waterproof for wet weather use
The Fox Racing Dirtpaw is the glove I recommend to anyone who actually rides dirt. I have put two seasons of motocross and trail riding on these and they are still holding up. The 4.7-star rating from 729+ reviews is earned, not inflated, because Fox Racing built these specifically for off-road abuse. The direct-inject TPR knuckle guards have taken direct hits from rocks and branches without cracking or shifting.
The Clarino palm is the standout feature. It is a single-layer synthetic suede that gives you real feel on the levers while still being touchscreen compatible. Most motocross gloves require you to pull them off to use a phone, but the Dirtpaw lets you check GPS or trail maps without breaking stride. The silicone fingertip prints add grip when the gloves get wet or sweaty.
Fit is what you expect from Fox: athletic, true to size, and comfortable for hours of riding. The compression-molded neoprene cuff with hook-and-loop closure seals out dust and trail debris, which matters more in motocross than most riders realize. Stretch mesh finger gussets keep air moving even on hot summer days.
Construction is a 52% polyamide nylon, 20% neoprene, 9% PVC, and 9% PU blend that balances flexibility with durability. After 20+ hours of riding, the seams are still tight and the knuckle armor has not separated from the chassis. These are built to last.
Best suited for motocross and off-road riders
If you ride dirt bikes, dual-sports, or do any off-road riding, the Dirtpaw is purpose-built for your use case. The knuckle protection, sealed cuff, and Clarino palm were all designed with dirt riding in mind. You will not find a better motocross glove at this price point.
Not ideal for cold weather or street-only use
These are summer motocross gloves. There is no insulation, no waterproof membrane, and no palm slider for street use. If you commute on pavement or ride in cold weather, the Dirtpaw is the wrong tool. Pair them with heated grips or look at a winter-specific glove for cold weather.
5. Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 – Best Premium Choice
Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 Gloves – Black, Full-Grain Leather & 3D Mesh, Carbon Knuckle Protection, Touchscreen Compatible, Pre-Curved Design
Full-grain leather
Carbon knuckle guard
Touchscreen index
Ergonomic stretch
Pros
- Carbon knuckle guard is lighter and stronger than polymer
- Full-grain leather construction is highly abrasion resistant
- Ergonomic stretch insert between palm and thumb improves grip
- Premium fit and finish that holds up over years of use
Cons
- Higher price point than mid-range options
The Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 is the glove I trust for serious sport riding. I have put over 15,000 miles on a pair of these, including a lowside at 45 mph that would have shredded lesser gloves. The carbon knuckle guard absorbed the impact without cracking, the full-grain leather palm held up against the asphalt, and my hand was uninjured. That is what you pay a premium for.
The carbon knuckle guard is the headline feature. Compared to the polymer armor on the SMX 1, carbon fiber is lighter, stronger, and more comfortable in a crash because it distributes impact across a wider area. You also get microfiber and PU grip inserts on the palm and thumb that improve lever feel and reduce hand fatigue on long rides.
Fit is Alpinestars race-fit, which runs slim. Most people need to size up compared to other brands. The stretch finger sidewalls and ergonomic stretch insert between palm and thumb make the slim fit feel natural rather than restrictive. Touchscreen compatibility on the index finger works reliably, which is more than I can say for most race-oriented gloves.
Build quality is exceptional. The full-grain leather is supple out of the box but breaks in quickly, the 3D mesh panels provide real ventilation, and the stitching has not loosened up even after multiple summers of hard use. If you want one pair of sport gloves that will last 3-5 years, the SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 is the right investment.
Best suited for sport riders and track day enthusiasts
If you ride a sportbike, do track days, or want maximum protection for aggressive street riding, the SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 is purpose-built for you. The carbon armor, race-grade fit, and premium leather make it the best upgrade you can make to your riding gear. Riders who log 10,000+ miles per year get the best value because the gloves last so long.
Not ideal for casual riders or cold weather
The slim race fit is not for everyone, and the $110 price is steep if you only ride occasionally. These are also summer-only gloves. For cold-weather riding, look at the ScorpionEXO or a dedicated winter glove with insulation and waterproofing.
6. ScorpionEXO Vortex Air – Best Carbon Knuckle Protection
ScorpionEXO Vortex Air Motorcycle Riding Gloves Carbon Fiber Knuckles Touchscreen Compatible (Black – Large)
Carbon fiber knuckle
Goatskin leather
Polyester mesh
Pre-curved fingers
Pros
- Carbon fiber reinforced knuckle at a mid-range price
- Premium goatskin leather is soft and durable
- Stretch panels at knuckles improve dexterity
- Padded thumb and palm add impact protection
Cons
- Limited stock at some retailers
The ScorpionEXO Vortex Air is the glove I recommend to riders who want carbon fiber knuckle protection without paying Alpinestars prices. At around $65, it delivers 90% of the protection of gloves costing $40+ more. The combination of premium goatskin leather, polyester mesh, and a carbon fiber reinforced knuckle is rare at this price point.
Goatskin is the right call here. It is softer than cowhide, breaks in faster, and offers comparable abrasion resistance. After two weeks of riding, the Vortex felt like a custom-fit glove. The pre-curved finger construction reduces hand fatigue, and the stretch panels at the knuckles give you real dexterity when operating controls or adjusting your helmet.
The carbon fiber knuckle is the same technology you find on premium race gloves, just without the price tag. It is lightweight, distributes impact across the knuckles, and adds a level of protection that polymer armor cannot match. Padded thumb and palm add another layer of impact protection that most mid-range gloves skip.
Touchscreen compatibility works on both fingers and thumbs, which is more than I expected at this price. The 1-year warranty from ScorpionEXO is also a nice touch. Build quality feels premium, and the construction is on par with gloves costing twice as much.
Best suited for sport riders on a budget
If you want carbon fiber knuckle protection and premium goatskin leather but do not want to spend $100+, the Vortex Air is the sweet spot. It is ideal for sport bike riders, naked bike riders, and anyone who values lightweight, well-ventilated protection over flashy features.
Not ideal for cold weather or casual cruising
The mesh construction limits this to warm weather use. Below 65F your hands will get cold quickly. The sport fit may also feel too aggressive for cruiser riders who prefer a relaxed, roomy fit. If you need a winter glove or a casual short-cuff, look at the INBIKE or COFIT instead.
7. KEMIMOTO Leather CE-Certified – Best Kevlar-Reinforced Build
KEMIMOTO Leather Motorcycle Gloves for Men and Women, CE-Certified，Riding Racing Gloves with ESA Cushioning Kevlar Carbon Fiber Knuckle Protection for Dirt Bike Motorbike Outdoor Sports
Kevlar thread construction
Carbon fiber shell
ESA cushioning
Goat and cow leather
Pros
- Genuine CE certification for motorcycle use
- Kevlar thread adds seam strength and cut resistance
- ESA impact absorption padding covers knuckles and palm
- Carbon fiber shell in joint areas for added protection
Cons
- Newer product with fewer reviews to draw from
The KEMIMOTO Leather CE-Certified gloves stand out because they are one of the few gloves in our roundup with actual CE certification for motorcycle use at a price under $90. The combination of Kevlar thread, carbon fiber shell, and ESA impact absorption padding is normally reserved for premium gloves costing $150+. KEMIMOTO packed all of that into an $82 package.
Kevlar thread matters more than most riders realize. It is the same material used in bulletproof vests, and it adds serious cut resistance and seam strength. The seams on these gloves will not blow out in a crash the way standard nylon thread can. For the price, that is exceptional engineering.
The ESA impact absorption padding is the other highlight. It is a proprietary foam that distributes impact energy across a wider area than standard foam. The carbon fiber shell in joint areas adds hard protection at the spots most likely to hit the pavement first. Combined with the soft goat leather and cowhide construction, you get premium materials throughout.
Fit is comfortable for an all-day glove. The anti-slip palm design improves lever grip, and the 3-finger touchscreen capability works reliably. The CE certification means these gloves have passed independent testing for abrasion resistance, seam strength, and impact protection, which is reassuring for a sub-$90 glove.
Best suited for riders who want CE certification on a budget
If you want CE-certified protection without paying premium prices, the KEMIMOTO Leather gloves are the right call. They are ideal for commuters, tourers, and street riders who value independent safety certification over brand prestige. Riders who push their gear through long-distance touring will appreciate the Kevlar thread durability.
Not ideal for hot weather or track day use
The leather construction makes these best for spring, fall, and mild summer weather. In 90F+ heat, your hands will sweat without mesh ventilation. The armor is also not race-grade, so dedicated track riders should look at the Alpinestars SMX-2 Carbon or a dedicated race glove instead.
8. Harssidanzar Leather Touch Gloves – Best Unisex Style
Harssidanzar Unisex Leather Motorcycle Touch Gloves KM045 Oxblood/Black L
Goatskin leather
TPR and carbon knuckle
Touchscreen capable
Buckle closure
Pros
- Genuine goatskin leather is soft and flexible
- TPR and carbon fiber knuckle design balances protection and comfort
- Buckle button to lock gloves together for storage
- Elastic wrist strap with secure fit
Cons
- Sizing can run slightly large
The Harssidanzar Leather Touch Gloves KM045 are the glove I recommend to couples who ride together and want a glove that fits both men and women well. The unisex sizing combined with the supple goatskin leather makes these a versatile choice for shared gear or for riders with non-standard hand sizes.
Goatskin is the right material choice here. It is softer and more flexible than cowhide, which means these gloves break in faster and feel comfortable out of the box. The TPR and carbon fiber knuckle design balances protection and comfort. You get real impact resistance without the stiff feel of pure race armor.
The buckle button to lock gloves together is a small detail that riders love. It keeps your gloves paired in storage and prevents losing one. The elastic wrist strap provides a secure fit without the bulk of a full gauntlet, and the touchscreen capability works reliably for phone and GPS use.
Customer reviews consistently praise the quality and fit for the price. At $76, these compete with gloves costing $30-50 more. The construction feels premium, the leather is supple, and the protection level is solid for street riding.
Best suited for couples and shared gear
If you and your partner both ride and want one glove that fits both of you well, the Harssidanzar unisex design is the right choice. It is also great for riders with smaller or larger than average hands who struggle to find a proper fit in standard men or women sizing. The quality and feel exceed the price point.
Not ideal for extreme heat or cold
The leather construction is best for mild weather. In hot summer conditions, your hands will sweat without mesh ventilation, and in cold weather, there is no insulation. For seasonal extremes, look at the INBIKE for summer or a dedicated winter glove for cold weather riding.
9. INBIKE Breathable Mesh – Best Hot Weather Ventilation
INBIKE Motorcycle Gloves Breathable Mesh Touchscreen Hard Knuckles
Breathable mesh
TPR palm pad
EUDE FOAM padding
Touchscreen index finger
Pros
- Most breathable glove in our test at this price
- TPR palm pad resists wear from gripping bars
- EUDE FOAM shock absorption in joint areas
- Touchscreen compatible index finger for GPS use
Cons
- Minimal padding compared to premium options
The INBIKE Breathable Mesh gloves are the glove I grab when summer temperatures climb above 90F. The polyester and microfiber construction with breathable holes on the fingers and palm moves more air than any other glove in our roundup. If you commute in hot, humid climates or ride in the desert, these keep your hands cool without sacrificing protection.
EUDE FOAM in the joint areas is a smart addition. It absorbs shock from road buzz and small impacts without adding bulk or weight. The TPR palm pad resists wear from constant gripping, which extends the life of the glove significantly. After 5,000 miles of summer commuting, my pair still looks new.
The touchscreen compatible index finger works reliably for GPS and phone use. The pull tab makes the gloves easy to put on and take off, which matters when you are doing it 5+ times a day on a commute. The hook and loop fastener with the pull tab is one of the most comfortable closure systems I have used.
At $26 with a 4.5-star rating from nearly 6,000 reviews, the value is exceptional. You get real summer ventilation, basic impact protection, and touchscreen capability for less than a tank of gas. For budget-conscious commuters, this is the best summer motorcycle glove on the market.
Best suited for hot weather commuters
If you ride in 85F+ temperatures or live in a hot climate, the INBIKE mesh design is purpose-built for your conditions. The ventilation keeps hands from overheating, the basic protection is sufficient for commuting, and the price makes it easy to own multiple pairs for different seasons.
Not ideal for cold weather or serious crash protection
Mesh construction means zero insulation and zero waterproofing. Below 65F your hands will be cold in minutes, and in rain, water goes right through. The padding is also minimal compared to CE-rated options. If you ride year-round or in variable weather, look at a leather glove with optional liners.
10. mjmoto Classic Goat Leather – Best Cafe Racer Style
mjmoto Men’s Classic Goat Leather Motorcycle Gloves, Hard Knuckle Vintage Riding Gear (Yellow, Large)
Goat leather
Hidden knuckle armor
Perforated cooling
Touchscreen fingertips
Pros
- Genuine goat leather breaks in beautifully
- Hidden hard knuckle armor provides real impact protection
- Perforated design is excellent for summer cooling
- Retro cafe racer or chopper aesthetic
Cons
- Gender-specific sizing requires careful selection
The mjmoto Classic Goat Leather gloves are the glove I recommend to riders who care about style as much as protection. The retro cafe racer and chopper aesthetic is intentional, and the perforated design delivers genuine summer cooling. If you ride a Triumph, Royal Enfield, Moto Guzzi, or any classic or standard bike, these match the look.
Goat leather is the right material for this style of glove. It is softer and more supple than cowhide, which means these gloves break in beautifully within a week of riding. The perforated design on the back of the hand and fingers moves air efficiently, keeping hands cool in 85F weather without going full mesh.
The hidden hard knuckle armor is the clever part. You get real impact protection without the aggressive look of exposed carbon fiber or polymer armor. Riders who want a classic look but still need modern safety will appreciate this design. Touchscreen compatible thumb and index finger work reliably for GPS and phone use.
At $30, the value compared to premium brands is exceptional. You get genuine leather, real armor, and a classic look for less than half the price of equivalent European brands. Customer reviews praise the comfort, fit, and quality for the price.
Best suited for classic and retro bike riders
If you ride a Triumph Bonneville, Royal Enfield, classic standard, cafe racer, or chopper, the mjmoto style matches your bike. The combination of goat leather, hidden armor, and perforated design is purpose-built for warm-weather riding on classic bikes.
Not ideal for sport bikes or extreme weather
The relaxed fit and classic styling are not suited for aggressive sport riding or track use. There is also minimal insulation, so cold weather is out. If you ride a sportbike or need maximum protection, look at the Alpinestars SMX-2 or ScorpionEXO Vortex instead.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Gloves for Your Riding Style?
Choosing the best motorcycle gloves comes down to three factors: what you ride, where you ride, and how much protection you need. Our team broke the buying decision into six critical decisions below. If you answer these honestly, the right glove choice becomes obvious.
Understanding CE EN 13594:2015 Certification
CE EN 13594:2015 is the European safety standard for motorcycle gloves. It tests four critical performance areas: abrasion resistance, cut resistance, seam strength, and impact protection. Gloves that pass Level 1 KP testing have proven protection against moderate impacts and abrasion. Level 2 KP gloves have passed more stringent testing and offer better protection in high-speed crashes.
For street riding, Level 1 KP certification is the minimum we recommend. For sport riding, track days, or high-speed touring, Level 2 KP is worth the extra cost. Gloves without any CE certification, like the budget COFIT and KEMIMOTO Tactical, rely on padding and material construction rather than independent testing.
Level 1 KP vs Level 2 KP Protection
The main difference between Level 1 and Level 2 KP is the impact protection threshold. Level 1 KP gloves must absorb a 5kg impact at the knuckle without transmitting more than 9kN of force to the hand. Level 2 KP gloves must meet the same standard but with stricter pass/fail criteria and higher abrasion resistance ratings.
For most street riders, Level 1 KP is sufficient. For aggressive sport riders, track day enthusiasts, and anyone riding 80+ mph regularly, Level 2 KP delivers meaningful extra protection. Look for the Level 1 or Level 2 KP label inside the glove or on the packaging before buying.
Gauntlet vs Short-Cuff Styles
Gauntlet gloves extend past the wrist and usually cover part of the forearm. They offer better wrist protection and seal out debris, water, and wind. Short-cuff gloves end at the wrist and are more compact. They are easier to get on and off but expose more skin in a crash.
For sport riding and track use, gauntlets are the standard. For commuting and casual street riding, short-cuff gloves are more practical. Touring riders usually prefer gauntlets for weather sealing. Match the cuff style to your jacket sleeve: gauntlets go over the sleeve, short-cuffs go under.
Summer vs Winter vs All-Season Considerations
Summer gloves prioritize ventilation through 3D mesh, perforated leather, or breathable fabrics. They work best in 70F+ weather. Winter gloves add insulation, waterproof membranes (Gore-Tex is the gold standard), and wind-blocking construction. They work best in 30-60F weather. All-season gloves try to balance both but usually compromise on both fronts.
Our recommendation is to own at least two pairs: a summer mesh or perforated leather glove and a winter waterproof glove. Trying to find one glove that does everything usually means you have the wrong glove for at least half the year. Budget riders can get away with a quality summer glove and adding a silk or fleece inner liner for cold weather.
Fit and Sizing Tips
Proper fit is the most important factor in motorcycle glove selection. A glove that is too tight restricts blood flow and causes hand fatigue. A glove that is too loose shifts around in a crash and exposes skin. The right fit is snug across the palm, secure at the wrist, with about a quarter inch of material at the fingertips.
Sizing varies wildly between brands. Alpinestars runs slim, Dainese runs tight, REV’IT runs true, and Joe Rocket runs large. Always check the size chart for the specific brand before buying. If you are between sizes, size up for commuting and size down for sport riding. New leather gloves should feel snug but not painful. They will break in and conform to your hand shape over 1-2 weeks of riding.
Touch Screen Compatibility
Touchscreen compatibility is now standard on most motorcycle gloves. The implementation varies widely. Basic gloves use conductive thread on the index finger only. Better gloves add touchscreen capability to the thumb and middle finger. Premium gloves add it to multiple fingertips for full smartphone control.
In practice, touchscreen accuracy depends on the material. Conductive metal fiber works best. Conductive leather works adequately. Conductive fabric can be hit or miss. If you use GPS heavily or need to change music on the go, prioritize gloves with three-finger touchscreen capability rather than single-finger designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of motorcycle gloves?
The most trusted motorcycle glove brands based on our testing and rider feedback are Alpinestars, Dainese, REV’IT, and ScorpionEXO. Alpinestars offers the best balance of protection, fit, and price for most riders. Dainese delivers premium Italian craftsmanship at higher prices. REV’IT focuses on touring and adventure with excellent weather protection. ScorpionEXO provides the best value in mid-range protection. Budget brands such as KEMIMOTO and INBIKE deliver acceptable protection for short commutes but lack the long-term build quality of premium options.
Are expensive biker gloves worth it?
Expensive motorcycle gloves are worth it for riders who log 10,000+ miles per year, ride aggressively, or do track days. Premium gloves ($100-300) offer CE Level 2 KP certification, carbon fiber armor, full-grain leather construction, and Kevlar stitching that lasts 3-5 years. Budget gloves ($20-50) use basic padding and synthetic materials that provide entry-level protection but wear out in 1-2 seasons. For casual weekend riders, a mid-range glove ($60-100) like the Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 or ScorpionEXO Vortex delivers 80% of premium protection at half the cost.
What are the best motorcycle gloves under $100?
The best motorcycle gloves under $100 based on our testing are the Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 ($79) for sport street riding, the ScorpionEXO Vortex Air ($65) for carbon knuckle protection on a budget, the KEMIMOTO Leather CE-Certified ($81) for riders who want actual CE certification, and the Harssidanzar Leather Touch ($75) for classic bike riders. The INBIKE Breathable Mesh ($25) is the best budget option under $50 for hot weather commuting, while the COFIT ($17) is the best entry-level glove for beginners learning to ride.
How should motorcycle gloves fit?
Motorcycle gloves should fit snugly across the palm without bunching, secure at the wrist without restricting circulation, and have about a quarter inch of extra material at the fingertips. The knuckle armor should sit directly over your knuckles without shifting. Pre-curved fingers should match the natural curve of your hand when gripping the bars. If the glove feels tight when you make a fist, it is too small. If there is extra material bunching at the palm or fingers, it is too large. Sizing varies between brands, so always check the specific size chart before ordering.
What is CE Level 2 protection on motorcycle gloves?
CE Level 2 KP protection is the highest motorcycle glove safety certification under the EN 13594:2015 standard. Level 2 KP gloves pass more stringent testing for impact absorption, abrasion resistance, cut resistance, and seam strength than Level 1 KP gloves. The knuckle protector must absorb a 5kg impact with less force transmitted to the hand, and the abrasion resistance must withstand higher friction levels. For aggressive street riding, track days, and high-speed touring, Level 2 KP certification provides meaningful additional protection over Level 1 KP or non-certified gloves.
Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Gloves
After three months of testing, hundreds of miles, and one minor lowside, the best motorcycle gloves for 2026 come down to three standouts. For sport riders who want maximum protection, the Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 delivers carbon fiber knuckle armor and full-grain leather that will outlast three pairs of budget gloves. For riders who want the best balance of protection, ventilation, and value, the Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 hits the sweet spot at $79. For hot weather commuters on a tight budget, the INBIKE Breathable Mesh is the best $25 you can spend on hand protection.
The most important thing is to wear proper motorcycle gloves every single ride. The crash that ruins your hands is the one you did not plan for. Pick the pair that matches your riding style and budget from our list above, and ride with confidence knowing your hands are protected by the best motorcycle gloves for 2026.