How to Break In Motorcycle Gloves: A Complete Guide

Motorcycle gloves are essential gear for every rider, offering protection, comfort, and grip. However, new gloves, especially leather ones, can feel stiff and uncomfortable. Properly breaking them in enhances the comfort, flexibility, and fit, allowing for better control and performance. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to break in motorcycle gloves, from choosing the right techniques to extending the life of your gloves.

Why Breaking In Motorcycle Gloves is Important

Breaking in motorcycle gloves is crucial because it allows the material, often leather, to conform to the shape of your hands. This process enhances both comfort and safety. New, unbroken gloves may restrict movement, causing discomfort and reducing grip. By softening and shaping your gloves, you’re improving their fit and durability, which can make a difference in your riding experience.

What to Know Before Breaking In Your Gloves

Before you begin breaking in your motorcycle gloves, it’s important to understand the materials they’re made of, as different materials require unique approaches. While leather is a popular choice for motorcycle gloves due to its durability and flexibility, synthetic materials, textile blends, and waterproof options may also require specific care. Leather gloves generally take longer to break in but deliver a snug, custom fit once shaped. On the other hand, textile gloves may break in quicker but don’t offer the same flexibility as leather.

Key Materials in Motorcycle Gloves

1. Leather: Durable and flexible, leather gloves are best broken in through gradual wear and specific conditioning.
2. Synthetic Leather: Easier to break in but often lacks the long-term durability of genuine leather.
3. Textile: Lightweight and breathable, textile gloves need minimal breaking in and typically rely on a more immediate fit.
4. Waterproof Materials: Often require a gentler approach to prevent compromising the water-resistant layer.

Preparation: Gather the Right Supplies

Breaking in gloves doesn’t require a lot, but having the right supplies can make the process smoother. Here are some recommended items:

• Leather conditioner (if your gloves are leather)
• Warm water
• Microfiber cloths
• A set of gloves liners (optional)
• Water-resistant spray (for waterproof gloves)

With these supplies, you’ll be ready to soften and shape your gloves comfortably and effectively.

Methods to Break In Motorcycle Gloves

Let’s dive into several methods to break in motorcycle gloves. These approaches range from wearing them during everyday activities to using moisture and conditioning treatments to soften the material.

1. Wear the Gloves for Short Periods

One of the simplest and most effective ways to break in motorcycle gloves is to wear them frequently for short periods.

Instructions:

1. Start by wearing your gloves around the house, or even while doing light tasks, for about 15–30 minutes daily.
2. Focus on flexing your hands, bending your fingers, and moving them in a way that mimics how you would grip the handlebars.
3. Gradually increase the time as the gloves begin to mold to your hands.

Benefits: This gentle method gradually stretches the gloves to match your hand shape, reducing stiffness without risking any damage to the material.

2. Use Warm Water for Leather Gloves

Warm water helps soften leather, making it more pliable. This technique is especially effective for genuine leather gloves but should be used with caution.

Instructions:

1. Fill a bowl with warm water (not hot, as it can damage the leather).
2. Dip a microfiber cloth into the water and wring out the excess.
3. Gently rub the damp cloth over the gloves, focusing on areas that feel stiff.
4. After slightly dampening the gloves, put them on and flex your hands to allow the leather to conform to your hand shape.
5. Allow the gloves to air-dry naturally, away from direct heat, which can damage leather.

Tip: Avoid soaking the gloves completely, as this can weaken the leather over time. A light dampening is sufficient for breaking in.

3. Use Leather Conditioner

Leather conditioner softens and nourishes the material, making it an excellent option for breaking in leather gloves without causing damage. This method works well for stiff, thick leather gloves that need extra flexibility.

Instructions:

1. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a microfiber cloth.
2. Rub the conditioner evenly over the gloves, especially around knuckle joints and finger areas.
3. After applying the conditioner, wear the gloves for 10–15 minutes to help them mold to your hands.
4. Wipe away any excess conditioner and allow the gloves to dry in a cool, shaded area.

Benefits: Leather conditioner keeps the material soft and prevents it from cracking or drying out, prolonging the life of your gloves.

4. Flex and Stretch the Gloves by Hand

Manually stretching the gloves is another effective technique to improve fit without adding any moisture or product.

Instructions:

1. Place your hands inside the gloves and make fists, then relax and repeat several times.
2. Press and stretch the gloves at the knuckles, palm, and fingers.
3. Take your fingers and gently stretch each part of the glove, focusing on any areas that feel particularly tight.

Tip: Be gentle to avoid overstretching, especially with gloves made of thinner leather or textile materials.

5. Wear Gloves During Warm Activities

Wearing gloves in warm conditions, like while riding or during physical activities, helps the material loosen up naturally.

Instructions:

1. Use the gloves while engaging in light activities, like cleaning your bike or taking a short ride.
2. The warmth generated by your body will help soften and shape the gloves, enhancing their fit.

Benefits: This method is natural, effective, and works gradually, making it ideal for leather gloves.

6. Using Glove Liners for Faster Break-In

Glove liners add an extra layer between your hands and the gloves, helping to stretch the gloves out slightly more than wearing them alone.

Instructions:

1. Put on a pair of thin glove liners before wearing your motorcycle gloves.
2. Wear the gloves as you normally would, allowing the liners to add a bit more stretch.

Benefits: Glove liners can also be useful for cooler weather, providing a bit of insulation while you break in your gloves.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Comfort and Durability

Once your gloves are broken in, maintaining them properly will help them retain their flexibility, comfort, and protective qualities. Here are some tips for long-lasting glove care:

Clean the Gloves Regularly

Regular cleaning prevents dirt and sweat from breaking down the material. For leather gloves, use a leather cleaner and avoid water as much as possible. Textile gloves can often be spot-cleaned or hand-washed, depending on manufacturer instructions.

Condition Leather Gloves Periodically

Leather gloves benefit from occasional conditioning to prevent dryness and cracking. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner every few months or after heavy use.

Avoid Excessive Heat

Direct heat can cause leather to dry out, crack, or shrink. Keep gloves away from heaters, car dashboards, or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Proper storage keeps gloves in good condition. Avoid leaving them in damp areas, as moisture can degrade both leather and synthetic materials. A dry, ventilated area is best for long-term storage.

Reapply Water-Resistant Coating if Needed

For gloves that are designed to be water-resistant, reapply a water-resistant spray if you notice that water no longer beads up on the surface. This will help maintain their water resistance.

How Long Does It Take to Break In Motorcycle Gloves?

The time needed to break in motorcycle gloves varies depending on the material and frequency of use. Leather gloves may take a few weeks to achieve a fully broken-in state, especially with occasional wear. Textile and synthetic materials, on the other hand, generally require less time to soften and conform to your hands. Wearing gloves consistently, applying leather conditioner, and following the techniques in this guide can help speed up the process.

Ready to Break In Your New Motorcycle Gloves?

Breaking in motorcycle gloves enhances both your comfort and control, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable ride. Whether you choose to condition your gloves, flex them by hand, or simply wear them during daily tasks, each method helps achieve a snug, custom fit. Take the time to break in your gloves properly, and you’ll enjoy a pair of gloves that offer superior comfort, flexibility, and protection on every ride.