Finding the Perfect Fit: How to Measure Motorcycle Gloves

Motorcycle gloves are an essential piece of safety gear for any rider. They protect your hands from abrasions, impacts, and the elements, potentially saving you from serious injuries in an accident. But ill-fitting gloves can be uncomfortable, hinder your grip on the handlebars, and even compromise safety. Finding the right size motorcycle glove is crucial for optimal comfort, control, and protection. This guide will walk you through the simple process of measuring your hands to ensure you get the perfect-fitting motorcycle gloves for your next ride.

Understanding Glove Sizing Systems

Before diving into measurements, it’s important to understand the different glove sizing systems used by motorcycle gear manufacturers. There are three main systems:

• Inches: This system uses your hand circumference in inches to determine glove size. It’s the most common system used by American manufacturers.

• Centimeters: Similar to the inch system, some European and Asian manufacturers use centimeters to denote hand circumference and corresponding glove size.

• Alphabetic Sizing (XS, S, M, L, XL): This simplified system uses letters to represent different size ranges. While convenient, it can be less precise than using actual measurements.

It’s always recommended to consult the manufacturer’s size chart, even if you’ve measured your hand. Size charts often account for variations in fit specific to the brand or model of glove.

Measuring Your Hands for Motorcycle Gloves

Now that you understand the different sizing systems, let’s get down to measuring your hands! You’ll need a soft measuring tape for this process.

1. Find a soft measuring tape. A tailor’s measuring tape works best, but any soft, flexible tape measure will do the trick.

2. Locate the widest part of your hand. This is typically just below your knuckles, excluding your thumb.

3. Wrap the measuring tape around your dominant hand. Hold the tape snug but not constricting. Make sure the tape lies flat around your hand, without twisting.

4. Take the measurement. Note the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on the system used by the glove manufacturer you’re interested in.

5. Repeat for your non-dominant hand. Some people have slight size differences between their hands. Take a measurement of your non-dominant hand as well and use the larger measurement to determine glove size.

Additional Considerations:

• Knuckle Measurement: While not always required, some size charts may ask for your knuckle circumference in addition to your hand circumference. To measure this, wrap the tape measure around your knuckles, excluding your thumb.

• Consider Your Preferences: Do you prefer a snug fit or a looser fit? If you’re between sizes, and you tend to prefer a snugger fit, choose the smaller size. Conversely, if you prefer a looser fit, opt for the larger size. Keep in mind that leather gloves may stretch slightly with wear, so if you’re unsure, err on the slightly larger size.

Using Your Measurements to Find the Perfect Glove Size

Once you have your hand measurements, refer to the manufacturer’s size chart for the specific glove you’re considering. The size chart will typically correlate your hand circumference measurement (in inches or centimeters) with the corresponding glove size (inches, centimeters, or alphabetic).

If your dominant hand measures 8.5 inches around the widest part, and you’re looking at a glove size chart that uses inches, you might find that an 8.5-inch measurement corresponds to a size Large glove. However, always double-check the specific size chart for the chosen glove model.

Beyond Measurements: Additional Tips for Finding the Perfect Fitting Glove

While measurements are a crucial starting point, here are some additional tips to ensure your motorcycle gloves fit perfectly:

• Try before you buy: Whenever possible, try on the gloves before purchasing them. This allows you to assess the fit, feel for any pressure points, and ensure they don’t restrict your movement.

• Consider the glove closure: Different gloves use different closure systems, such as velcro straps, zippers, or gauntlets. Try different closure styles to see which offers the most comfortable and secure fit for your wrist.

• Account for seasonal variations: Your hands might swell slightly in hot weather. If you plan to wear your gloves primarily during summer months, consider sizing up slightly to accommodate this.

• Break-in period: New leather gloves may feel a bit stiff at first. Allow for a break-in period as the leather conforms to your hand shape.

Safety Matters: Choosing the Right Motorcycle Gloves

Finding the right fit is not just about comfort; it’s also about safety. Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing motorcycle gloves:

• Protection Level: Motorcycle gloves come in various levels of protection, depending on the riding style and potential risks. Consider your riding style (touring, racing, off-road) and choose gloves with adequate padding, knuckle protection, and abrasion-resistant materials like leather or high-density textiles.

• Gauntlet Length: The length of the gauntlet (the part that covers your wrist and forearm) plays a role in protecting your wrists and forearms in a crash. Shorty gloves offer a more minimalist feel but less protection. Touring and racing gloves typically have longer gauntlets for increased coverage.

• Weatherproofing: If you ride year-round, consider waterproof gloves with a breathable membrane to keep your hands dry in wet weather.

• Touchscreen Compatibility: Many modern motorcycle gloves incorporate touchscreen compatible fingertips, allowing you to use your phone or GPS without removing your gloves.

The Perfect Fit Makes All the Difference

Finding the right-fitting motorcycle gloves goes beyond just comfort. A well-fitting glove:

• Enhances Dexterity and Control: Properly sized gloves allow for optimal finger movement and a secure grip on the handlebars, crucial for safe motorcycle operation.

• Provides Maximum Protection: Loose gloves can bunch up or slip off in a crash, reducing the effectiveness of the protective padding. A snug, secure fit ensures the gloves stay in place and absorb impact during an accident.

• Improves Riding Experience: Ill-fitting gloves can be distracting and uncomfortable, hindering your enjoyment of the ride. A perfect fit allows you to focus on the road and experience the thrill of riding without discomfort.

By following these tips and understanding the importance of proper measurement, you can avoid common sizing mistakes and find motorcycle gloves that fit like a second skin, optimizing your safety, comfort, and control on every ride.

Finding Your Perfect-Fitting Motorcycle Gloves

By following these tips and understanding the importance of proper fit, you can ensure your motorcycle gloves provide the comfort, control, and protection you need for a safe and enjoyable ride. Remember, your hands are crucial for controlling your motorcycle, so investing in a well-fitting pair of gloves is an investment in your safety and riding experience.