Motorcycle riders know the importance of protecting themselves while they are on their bikes. One of the most important pieces of safety gear is a good pair of gloves. But, is it really necessary to wear gloves when you’re riding? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of having gloves on while riding a motorcycle. We’ll look at the safety benefits, as well as how gloves can impact your comfort and grip on the handlebars. With this information in mind, you can make an informed decision about whether or not wearing gloves is right for you.
The Case for Gloves
Some riders feel that gloves provide an extra layer of protection in the event of a fall, while others find them to be bulky and prefer to ride without them. So, is it better to have gloves on when you are riding a motorcycle?
There are a few key reasons why gloves can be beneficial for motorcycle riders. First, they can help protect your hands from the elements. If you are riding in cold weather, gloves can help keep your hands warm and prevent frostbite. In addition, gloves can also help protect your hands from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Another key reason to wear gloves while riding is for grip. Gloves can help provide a better grip on the handlebars, which can be helpful if your hands get sweaty or slippery. They can also help provide cushioning if you happen to take a spill.
So, there are a few good reasons to consider wearing gloves while riding a motorcycle. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not they are right for you. But if you are looking for an extra layer of protection and comfort, gloves may be worth considering.
The Case Against Gloves
While it is certainly true that gloves can protect your hands in the event of a fall, there are several compelling reasons to forego gloves when riding a motorcycle. For one, gloves can actually impair your grip on the handlebars, making it more difficult to control the bike. Additionally, gloves can make it harder to feel the bike’s vibrations, which can give you a false sense of security and lead to dangerous situations. Finally, if you do happen to have an accident while wearing gloves, they can actually make it more difficult to escape from the bike, as they can catch on debris or get tangled in the bike’s parts.
The Best Type of Gloves for Motorcycle Riding
When it comes to motorcycle gloves, there are a few things you should look for. First, you want gloves that will protect your hands from the elements. This means they should be made of a durable material like leather or Kevlar. Second, you want gloves that will provide a good grip on the handlebars. This means they should have a textured surface or be lined with grippy material. Third, you want gloves that will keep your hands warm in cold weather. This means they should be insulated and/or have a heated lining.
There are many different styles of motorcycle gloves available, so you should be able to find a pair that meets your needs. If you do a lot of long-distance riding, then you might want to invest in a pair of electric heated gloves. These can make a big difference in comfort on those cold morning rides. For everyday riding, however, any good quality leather or Kevlar glove will do the trick.
How to Choose the Right Size Motorcycle Gloves
It’s important to choose the right size motorcycle gloves so that they fit snugly and comfortably. If your gloves are too loose, they could come off in an accident. If they’re too tight, they can restrict blood flow and make it difficult to grip the handlebars.
To find gloves that fit well, start by measuring the circumference of your hand at the fullest part (excluding the thumb). Then, consult a size chart to find the corresponding glove size. It’s usually best to err on the side of slightly larger gloves so you can more easily layer them with other clothing in colder weather.
Once you have an idea of what size gloves you need, try them on to make sure they feel comfortable. Pay attention to how snugly they fit around your fingers and palm, as well as how well you can move your fingers. The cuff of the glove should be tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
Finally, consider the type of motorcycle riding you’ll be doing. If you’ll be mostly on paved roads, you can get away with lighter-weight gloves that don’t offer as much protection. However, if you plan on doing any off-road riding, you’ll need thicker, sturdier gloves to protect your hands from branches and other debris.
Care and Maintenance for Motorcycle Gloves
Motorcycle gloves are an important part of your riding gear, and it is important to take care of them. Here are some tips on how to care for your motorcycle gloves:
- Store them in a dry, cool place when you’re not wearing them.
- Clean them regularly with a mild soap and water.
- Inspect them for wear and tear, and replace them if they are starting to show signs of wear.
- If you ride in cold weather, make sure your gloves are properly insulated and waterproof.
Conclusion
Riding a motorcycle is an incredibly liberating experience, but it’s important to stay safe and protected while doing so. Wearing gloves while riding is one of the best ways to ensure your hands are covered in case of any accidents or mishaps. Gloves also help provide extra grip on the handlebars as well as protection from wind chill and debris that can be kicked up from the road. With all these benefits, there’s no question that wearing gloves when operating a motorcycle is always a good idea.
