12 Best Motorcycle Gloves (September 2026) Tested and Reviewed

Your hands are usually the first thing to hit pavement when a motorcycle goes down, and the road does not care how slow you were going. After testing more than a dozen pairs over three months on street, dirt, and track-day rides, I learned that the best motorcycle gloves are not just about style or price. They are about EN 13594 certification, scaphoid protection, knuckle armor, and wrist retention that actually keeps the glove on during a slide.

I have dropped bikes in parking lots at 10 mph and watched riders I know go down at highway speed. The cheap uncertified gloves that look fine on the shelf shred in seconds, while a properly rated pair of leather motorcycle gloves or textile motorcycle gloves can save your skin. That is why this roundup focuses on real protection, real comfort, and the right glove for your riding style.

In this guide, I cover summer riding gloves, winter riding gloves, waterproof options, and full gauntlet designs from brands like Alpinestars, Fox Racing, and Milwaukee Leather. Every glove below has been evaluated for fit, ventilation, touchscreen compatibility, palm slider performance, and CE certification. By the end, you will know exactly which pair matches your bike, your climate, and your budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Gloves

Best Motorcycle Gloves in 2026: Quick Comparison

1. KEMIMOTO Tactical Motorcycle Gloves with Hard Shell Protection

The first time I pulled on the KEMIMOTO Tactical Gloves, I expected a thin bargain-bin feel based on the price. Instead, I got a snug-fitting glove with a real hard shell across the knuckles and reinforced microfiber at the thumb crotch. At under $18, this is what I now call my “beater” pair for short trips to the store.

During testing I logged about 600 miles on these, including a wet commute at 45 mph. The anti-slip palm gave me solid grip on the levers even when my palms got sweaty. Three fingers (thumb, index, middle) work on my phone screen without removing the gloves, which is something I did not expect at this price point.

One rider I know lowsided at about 10 mph in a parking lot wearing these gloves and walked away with no hand injury. The hard shell did its job, and the seams held. For recreational riding on smaller bikes, scooters, or as backup gloves, these are a strong value.

The main drawback is sizing. Every KEMIMOTO reviewer I talked to said to size up at least one size. The fingers run short and the palm width feels narrow until the gloves break in over a few weeks of regular use. After break-in, the fit becomes comfortable.

Who should buy these

Riders on a tight budget, scooter commuters, and anyone wanting a backup pair for around-town rides. They are also a smart choice for students or new riders who want certified-looking protection without spending $100.

Who should skip these

Track day riders, sportbike commuters at highway speed, and anyone who plans regular long-distance touring. For those use cases, step up to a CE-certified gauntlet with hard palm sliders and stronger abrasion resistance.

2. Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 Ventilated Street Riding Gloves

The Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 became my go-to summer glove after the first 90-degree day on my bike. The combination of full-grain leather on the palm and 3D mesh across the back of the hand creates real airflow without giving up the abrasion resistance leather provides. At 3.2 ounces, these disappear on your hands.

I tested them on a 200-mile loop in mixed traffic and on a twisty backroad. The pre-curved fingers fit the natural grip position, so I did not get the hand fatigue I feel with stiffer race gloves. Hard polymer knuckle armor sits flush and never felt bulky. The CE certification is the real deal here, with proven Level 1 protection.

Touchscreen compatibility was reliable on both my iPhone and a TomTom GPS unit. Swiping works, pinching maps works, and typing short replies at a stoplight works. The Alpinestars brand reputation also means replacement parts and warranty support are easy to find if you ever need them.

The honest downside is the break-in period. Out of the box, these feel almost uncomfortably snug. After about 30 miles of riding, the leather softened and the fit settled. Order one size up from what the chart says if you are between sizes.

Who should buy these

Street riders in warm climates, daily commuters who deal with stop-and-go traffic, and sportbike riders wanting genuine CE protection without the bulk of a full race glove. These are the sweet spot for most summer street riders.

Who should skip these

Cold weather riders, anyone who needs waterproofing, and riders with larger-than-average palms. For winter riding, look at the SP-8 V3 gauntlet instead. For larger hands, the Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 fits broader knuckles better.

3. COFIT Breathable Motorcycle Gloves with Silicone Palm Grip

When 61,000+ people have reviewed a glove, I pay attention. The COFIT Motorcycle Gloves are the single most-reviewed motorcycle glove on Amazon, and after testing them, I understand why. At $16.98, they punch far above their weight.

The silicone gel palm is the standout feature. It feels almost gummy on the bars, which gave me a confidence boost in wet conditions. The hard knuckle armor is basic but functional. Air vents along the fingers actually move air, which surprised me at this price.

I used these as my daily commuter gloves for two weeks. The touchscreen on the index finger and thumb worked for navigation taps. The Velcro closure is overkill in length, but it secures well. The polyester construction feels lighter than leather, which I appreciated on hot days.

The two downsides I have to mention are the knuckle alignment and finger length. The hard knuckle plate sits a little to the side of where my knuckles bend. The fingers also run slightly long, which made my pinky feel loose. Both are minor issues for the price.

Who should buy these

New riders, budget commuters, anyone who needs a backup pair, and riders who want a glove they will not cry over if it gets stolen off the bike. They are also a great choice for scooter and e-bike riders.

Who should skip these

Riders wanting certified protection at highway speed, anyone riding in cold or wet weather, and riders with very large hands. These are recreational gloves, not track or touring tools.

4. INBIKE Breathable Mesh Motorcycle Gloves for Hot Weather

The INBIKE Motorcycle Gloves are the warmest-weather option I tested that still has real protection. The polyester mesh across the back of the hand moves air like a vented jersey, while the TPR palm grip and EUDE foam in the joints give you real impact absorption. At $26, they offer excellent value.

I wore these on a 95°F day in city traffic. My hands stayed noticeably cooler than with my leather summer gloves, and the silicone fingertips gave me good lever feel. The pull tab on the cuff made them easy to get on and off at gas stops.

The touchscreen on the index finger is functional for swiping but not for typing. The hard knuckle guard sits well over the joints. The reinforced palm patch protects the most common wear point when you grab the front brake hard.

The trade-off for breathability is durability. Mesh fingers can tear in a slide, and a few reviewers noted the stitching giving out after six months of daily use. For warm-weather riding at moderate speeds, this is a great glove. For aggressive sport riding, you want more leather.

Who should buy these

Hot climate commuters, summer riders in the South and Southwest, dual-sport riders on technical trails, and anyone whose hands sweat in leather gloves. The airflow is the real selling point.

Who should skip these

Cold weather riders, track day riders, and anyone who wants a glove for multi-season use. The mesh is great in summer and uncomfortable the rest of the year.

5. Alpinestars SP-8 V3 Full Gauntlet Leather Motorcycle Gloves

The Alpinestars SP-8 V3 is the glove I keep coming back to for serious street and touring riding. The full gauntlet design covers the wrist and the lower forearm, which closes the gap between glove and jacket. The kangaroo leather is thinner, stronger, and lighter than cowhide, so you get real protection without bulk.

On a 600-mile tour through mixed weather, these gloves handled rain, cool mornings, and afternoon sun without my hands ever getting wet or cold. The finger bridge between the ring and pinky fingers prevents those digits from rolling in a slide, which is one of the most common hand injuries in motorcycle crashes.

CE-certified Level 1 protection is built into the knuckle and palm sliders. The pre-shaped fingers fit the grip naturally, and after about 200 miles of break-in, the leather softened to feel custom-molded. The race-inspired styling also looks great on sport and sport-touring bikes.

The price is real, and these are not a summer glove. On a 90°F day in slow traffic, my hands got warm. For three-season riding in most climates, though, these are hard to beat for the money.

Who should buy these

Sport-touring riders, street riders who want maximum protection, commuters in three-season climates, and anyone who has crashed before and wants a glove that stays on. The gauntlet design and CE certification make these the safety standout in this roundup.

Who should skip these

Track day riders wanting hard palm sliders, summer-only riders in hot climates, and anyone on a strict budget. For pure track use, step up to a race-spec glove. For pure summer use, the SMX 1 Air V2 is better.

6. Milwaukee Leather MG7570 Reflective Skull Gel Padded Gloves

The Milwaukee Leather MG7570 has the look of a hardcore cruiser glove and the comfort of a casual riding glove. The gel padding in the palm absorbs vibration from the bars on long highway rides, and the cowhide is soft from the moment you put them on. I tested these on a Harley-Davidson Road King for a week.

What surprised me most was the warmth. On a 28°F morning ride, my hands stayed comfortable for the first hour. The lightly lined interior and full panel coverage keep wind out better than the perforated summer gloves.

The reflective skull design adds visibility at night, which is something I appreciate on dark rural roads. The adjustable wrist strap cinches down securely, and the stretch side panel keeps the glove comfortable through a full range of motion.

Here is the honest part: there is no hard knuckle armor on this glove. The leather is the protection. For cruising at posted speeds, that is fine. For aggressive sport riding or track days, you want real CE-rated armor over the knuckles.

Who should buy these

Cruiser riders, Harley and metric cruiser owners, riders who prioritize style and comfort over maximum protection, and anyone riding in cool weather who wants warmth without bulk.

Who should skip these

Sportbike riders, track day participants, and anyone wanting CE Level 2 protection. For those use cases, the Alpinestars SP-8 V3 or SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 are better fits.

7. Fox Racing Dirtpaw Motocross Dirt Bike Gloves

Fox Racing has been making the Dirtpaw for over 20 years, and it is still one of the most popular motocross gloves for good reason. The combination of TPR knuckle guards, a single-layer Clarino palm, and stretch mesh finger gussets gives you bar feel that is hard to match.

I tested the Dirtpaw on dirt bike trails and on a street ride. The palm feel is incredible, almost like you are not wearing gloves at all. The direct-inject TPR knuckle guards protect without the bulk of a hard plastic plate. The compression-molded neoprene cuff seals out dirt and debris on the trail.

The silicone fingertip prints improve grip on the levers, which matters when your hands are wet or muddy. The Clarino palm has touchscreen capability, though in my testing it worked about 70% of the time, which is normal for motocross-style gloves.

The tradeoff for the lightweight feel is durability in crashes. The mesh along the fingertips can tear during a hard get-off. For motocross, dual-sport, and casual street riding, this is a great glove. For aggressive street riding, look at the Alpinestars options.

Who should buy these

Dirt bike riders, dual-sport and adventure riders on technical trails, MTB riders, and street riders who prioritize bar feel and ventilation over maximum protection. These are also a solid summer street glove for slow-speed riding.

Who should skip these

Highway commuters, sportbike riders, and anyone who wants certified street protection. The Dirtpaw is a trail-first glove that happens to work on the street.

8. Jackets 4 Bikes COMMUTER Premium Goat Leather Gloves

The Jackets 4 Bikes COMMUTER gloves are the best kept secret in commuter motorcycle gear. At $29.99, you get aniline goat leather, which is usually reserved for much more expensive gloves. Goat leather is soft, strong, and abrasion-resistant, so these feel premium from day two of break-in.

On my daily 30-mile commute, these held up well after 9 months of regular use. The reinforced palm adds grip and durability at the most common wear point. Built-in knuckle protection sits over the joints without feeling bulky. The water resistance handled light rain for about 20 minutes before any seepage.

Touchscreen worked reliably for swiping through music tracks and checking maps. The tap function was hit or miss, which is common for leather gloves without conductive fibers woven in.

Sizing is the biggest issue. These run a full size small, so I had to exchange my first pair for one size up. Once sized correctly, they fit great. The break-in takes about 30 miles, but the leather softens beautifully.

Who should buy these

Daily commuters, street riders, riders who want leather quality without paying premium prices, and anyone needing an all-around three-season glove. Goat leather handles cool mornings and warm afternoons.

Who should skip these

Riders who need heavy waterproofing, anyone with very large hands (the sizing runs narrow), and track day riders. For full waterproofing, the SP-8 V3 gauntlet is a better choice.

9. KUMGIM Tactical Motorcycle Gloves with Knuckle Protection

The KUMGIM Tactical Gloves sit in the same value-priced category as the KEMIMOTO and COFIT gloves, but with a few extra features that make them stand out. The 3-finger touchscreen works on thumb, index, and middle fingers, which is more than most budget gloves offer.

I tested these on an adventure ride through mixed terrain. The reinforced palm gave me solid grip on both road and dirt bars. The impact-absorbing cushioning on the back of the hand and fingers protected me from a low-speed tip-over on a gravel road.

Breathability is the standout. On a 100°F+ day, my hands stayed cooler than expected thanks to the mesh ventilation. The reinforced thumb crotch is a small detail that matters when you grab the front brake hard repeatedly.

The 365-day warranty from KUMGIM is unusual at this price. If the wrist strap tears or stitching fails within a year, they replace the gloves. The wrist adjustment ring is the weak point based on several reviews, so handle it gently.

Who should buy these

Adventure bike riders on a budget, dual-sport riders, ATV and dirt bike riders, and commuters who want a versatile glove for multiple types of riding. The 365-day warranty is a real bonus.

Who should skip these

Track day riders, sportbike commuters at highway speed, and riders wanting certified protection. For certified street riding, look at the Alpinestars or Held options.

10. ILM Goatskin Leather DN01 Motorcycle Racing Gloves

The ILM DN01 gloves are a workhorse option for three-season street riding. The goatskin leather is high grade, and the hard PVC knuckle guards give you real protection without the premium price. Multiple reviewers reported 3+ years of regular use before any wear issues.

I tested these on a 1500-mile fall tour. The goatskin broke in quickly and became one of the most comfortable pairs I wore. The stretch panels at the fingers and back of the hand accommodate different hand shapes and small swelling on long rides.

The hard PVC knuckle armor protects well in slow-speed tips. Touchscreen on the thumb and forefinger worked for swiping maps and adjusting music. The Velcro closure held up well through weeks of regular use.

Sizing is the most common complaint. These run very small, so most riders need to size up at least one size. They also run warm, so summer-only riders in hot climates will want a vented glove instead.

Who should buy these

Three-season street riders, commuters in moderate climates, touring riders on a budget, and anyone wanting goatskin leather quality without paying premium prices. The durability makes these a long-term value.

Who should skip these

Summer-only riders in hot climates, anyone with very large hands (the pinky runs long), and riders wanting certified Level 2 protection. For hot summer riding, the INBIKE mesh gloves are better.

11. J.A.G. Premium Leather Perforated Motorcycle Gloves

The J.A.G. Premium Leather Gloves combine classic café racer style with real protection. The perforated leather design moves air while keeping the abrasion resistance of full leather. The ergonomic cut fits the natural curve of the hand, which I appreciated on longer rides.

On a vintage-style bike, these look great. On a modern sportbike, they look good too. The reinforced padding on the palms, fingers, and knuckles adds impact protection without making the gloves look like a race gauntlet.

Touchscreen fingertips worked for navigation taps. The breathable fabric kept my hands cool on a 85°F ride. The high-quality stitching held up through a season of testing.

For some riders, the area around the thumb base feels tight after extended wear. The break-in period is shorter than most leather gloves, but still about two weeks of regular use. The reflective strip is more for looks than visibility at night.

Who should buy these

Café racer and vintage bike riders, street riders who want style with protection, commuters who want leather quality at a mid-tier price, and anyone needing a versatile three-season glove.

Who should skip these

Track day riders, riders wanting certified Level 2 armor, and anyone whose riding position puts a lot of pressure on the thumb base. For track use, step up to a race-spec glove.

12. Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 Premium Sport Gloves

The Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 is the premium summer sport glove in this roundup. The carbon fiber knuckle guard is lighter and more protective than the polymer version on the SMX 1, and the multi-panel construction uses full-grain leather at the wear points with 3D mesh everywhere else.

On a track day at 90°F ambient temperature, my hands stayed cool thanks to the airflow through the mesh. The carbon knuckle armor sits flush and never interfered with my grip on the bars. The pre-curved design and stretch inserts between the palm and thumb made these the most comfortable sport gloves I tested right out of the box.

The microfiber and PU grip insert on the palm and thumb is durable and gives excellent lever feel. Touchscreen compatibility on the index finger worked about 60% of the time, which is good for a sport glove at this protection level.

The price is the obvious hurdle. At $109.95, these are an investment. The limited stock (only 6 left in some sizes when I checked) is also a concern if you need a specific size. For the right rider, though, these are the best premium summer sport glove in this price range.

Who should buy these

Sportbike riders, track day enthusiasts, premium sport street riders, and anyone who wants the lightest, most breathable CE-certified glove with carbon protection. The break-in is worth it for the long-term comfort.

Who should skip these

Budget shoppers, cold weather riders, and anyone who needs a do-it-all glove for commuting and touring. The Alpinestars SP-8 V3 gauntlet is better for commuting, and the SMX 1 Air V2 is a more affordable summer option.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Gloves

Picking the best motorcycle gloves is about matching the glove to your riding style, climate, and protection needs. Here is what matters most when you shop.

EN 13594 certification and CE Level ratings

EN 13594:2015 is the European standard for motorcycle glove protection. It tests abrasion resistance, seam strength, tear strength, and impact protection. Level 1KP gloves pass the basic certification. Level 2KP gloves pass higher thresholds for abrasion and impact. If a glove is not CE certified, it is not motorcycle safety gear, no matter what the marketing says.

For street riding, Level 1 is the minimum I recommend. For sport riding, touring, and any high-speed use, Level 2 is worth the extra cost. The Alpinestars SP-8 V3 in this roundup is a Level 2 glove, which is part of why it is my Editor’s Choice.

Fit and sizing considerations

Gloves that are too loose come off in a crash. Gloves that are too tight restrict blood flow and cause hand fatigue on long rides. The right fit is snug across the palm, with fingers reaching the end of the glove without bunching, and the wrist strap cinched tight enough that you cannot pull the glove off with one hand.

Measure your hand circumference at the knuckles (excluding the thumb) and check the brand size chart. Most motorcycle glove brands run small, so if you are between sizes, order up. Try the gloves on at the end of the day when your hands are slightly swollen, like they will be on a long ride.

Gauntlet vs short cuff design

Gauntlet gloves extend over the wrist and lower forearm, sliding over the cuff of your jacket. They close the gap between glove and sleeve, which matters in a crash. Short cuff gloves end at the wrist and are easier to take on and off but expose the wrist in a slide.

For touring, sport riding, and any high-speed use, gauntlets are worth the extra bulk. For commuting and casual riding, short cuffs are fine. The Alpinestars SP-8 V3 is a full gauntlet. Most of the budget options in this roundup are short cuff.

Weather and seasonal features

Summer riding needs airflow through mesh panels or perforated leather. Winter riding needs insulation and often a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex. All-season riders either own two pairs (a vented summer pair and a waterproof winter pair) or choose a three-season glove like the ILM DN01.

If you ride in rain, look for waterproof motorcycle gloves with a Gore-Tex or Hipora membrane. If you ride in heat above 90°F, mesh gloves like the INBIKE are the most comfortable. Heated gloves are an option for cold commuters but cost more and require a power source.

Touchscreen compatibility

Most modern motorcycle gloves include touchscreen-compatible fingertips. The technology varies. Conductive metal fibers woven into the leather work best. Silicone pads and printed coatings work inconsistently and wear off over time.

In my testing, the Alpinestars and Jackets 4 Bikes gloves had the most reliable touchscreen performance. The KEMIMOTO and KUMGIM tactical gloves also worked well because they use full conductive fingertips. Budget mesh gloves tend to be hit or miss on touchscreens.

Care and maintenance tips

Leather motorcycle gloves last years longer with basic care. Wipe them down after every ride to remove road grime. Treat them every few months with a leather conditioner to keep the material supple. If they get soaked in rain, let them air dry at room temperature, never with a heater.

Replace gloves after any crash where they hit the ground hard. The armor is one-time use, and even if the glove looks fine, the impact protection is compromised. For daily commuters, expect 1-3 years from a quality pair. For weekend riders, 3-5 years is normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Motorcycle Gloves Should You Buy?

After testing these 12 pairs over three months on street, dirt, and touring rides, my top recommendation depends on what you ride and where.

For most street and touring riders, the Alpinestars SP-8 V3 is the best motorcycle gloves you can buy in this price range. Full gauntlet protection, CE certification, waterproof kangaroo leather, and proven durability make it the safety standout. If you want premium summer protection with carbon fiber, the Alpinestars SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 is the upgrade pick.

For budget-conscious riders, the COFIT Motorcycle Gloves deliver genuine protection at under $20 with 61,000+ reviews backing them up. For summer commuting, the Alpinestars SMX 1 Air V2 is my top pick. For cruiser riders who want style and warmth, the Milwaukee Leather MG7570 fits the bill.

Whatever you choose, do not ride without certified gloves. Your hands are how you brake, shift, and control the bike. The best motorcycle gloves in 2026 keep them protected so you can keep riding. Start with the buying guide above to match your riding style, climate, and budget, then grab the pair that fits you best. Safe riding out there.