Discover the top waterproof motorcycle gloves that keep your hands dry and warm during wet rides. Expert reviews, buying tips, and recommendations for all budgets.
Riding in the rain without proper gear can quickly turn from uncomfortable to dangerous. According to a recent motorcyclist survey, 78% of riders consider waterproof gloves essential for wet weather riding, yet many struggle to find pairs that truly keep water out while maintaining grip and dexterity. Whether you're commuting through unexpected showers or planning long-distance rides in unpredictable weather, this guide will help you find waterproof motorcycle gloves that balance protection, comfort, and value to keep your hands dry and in control when the skies open up.
#Best waterproof motorcycle gloves for rainy rides
Understanding Waterproof Motorcycle Glove Technology
When it comes to keeping your hands dry during wet rides, not all waterproof technologies are created equal. Gore-Tex remains the gold standard in waterproof membranes, offering superior water resistance while maintaining breathability. This microporous material contains over 9 billion pores per square inch – small enough to block water droplets but large enough to allow sweat vapor to escape.
Hipora and OutDry technologies represent more affordable alternatives that still provide reliable protection. Hipora uses a three-layer design that offers 10,000mm water resistance while maintaining some breathability, making it popular in mid-range gloves. OutDry, meanwhile, bonds the waterproof membrane directly to the outer shell, eliminating potential water collection between layers – a common issue in traditionally constructed gloves.
It's crucial to understand the difference between water-resistant and fully waterproof gloves:
- Water-resistant: Handles light rain for short periods
- Waterproof: Protects during sustained downpours, with ratings typically measured in millimeters (10,000mm+ being ideal for serious wet weather)
Breathability is equally important as waterproofing. Poorly breathable gloves might keep water out, but they'll trap sweat inside, leading to clammy, uncomfortable hands. The best waterproof gloves balance water protection with moisture-wicking properties that maintain comfort across temperature ranges.
Material quality directly impacts long-term performance. Premium full-grain leather with proper waterproof treatment will maintain its protective properties longer than synthetic alternatives, though it typically commands a higher price point. Many American riders prefer the investment in quality materials, noting that cheap waterproof gloves often lose their effectiveness after just one riding season.
What waterproof membrane technology have you found most reliable on your wet weather rides?
Essential Features for Wet Weather Riding
Grip becomes paramount when rain hits the road, making palm design one of the most critical features in waterproof motorcycle gloves. Silicone grip patterns and materials like Clarino or digital leather provide enhanced traction on wet controls. The best waterproof gloves incorporate strategic grip panels across the palm and fingers, with some premium models featuring vibration-dampening gel inserts that improve grip while reducing hand fatigue.
When considering cuff styles, you'll face a choice between:
- Gauntlet designs: Extend well over jacket sleeves to prevent water from running into your gloves
- Short cuffs: Offer greater flexibility but require proper integration with jacket sleeves
For American riders facing varied weather conditions, gauntlet designs typically provide superior protection during sustained rainfall. However, urban commuters sometimes prefer short cuffs for their ease of use and versatility.
Innovative features like integrated visor wipers – typically a rubber strip on the thumb or index finger – allow you to clear your face shield without stopping. This seemingly small addition can dramatically improve safety during heavy downpours. Similarly, touchscreen compatibility has evolved from luxury to necessity, allowing riders to navigate GPS or answer calls without removing gloves.
Temperature considerations shouldn't be overlooked when selecting waterproof gloves. Cold rain can quickly lead to numbing discomfort, making proper insulation crucial. Thinsulate and PrimaLoft insulation materials provide warmth without excessive bulk, while micro-fleece linings offer comfort against the skin.
Many experienced American riders recommend separate glove options for different temperature ranges:
- 40-60°F: Lightly insulated waterproof gloves
- Below 40°F: Heavily insulated waterproof gloves, possibly with heated elements
What additional features do you find essential when riding through unpredictable weather conditions?
Durability Factors in Waterproof Gloves
Seam construction represents the first line of defense in waterproof integrity. Even the most advanced waterproof membrane becomes useless if water penetrates through poorly sealed seams. Thermally welded seams provide superior waterproofing compared to traditional stitching, while taped seams offer a reliable compromise at lower price points.
The best waterproof motorcycle gloves feature:
- Rolled finger seams positioned away from direct water contact
- Double-stitched impact areas with waterproof tape backing
- Minimal external stitching to reduce potential water entry points
Reinforcement zones play a dual role in waterproof gloves, maintaining both impact protection and water resistance. Strategic use of materials like SuperFabric® or Kevlar® overlays provides abrasion resistance without compromising the waterproof membrane beneath. Look for reinforced areas between the thumb and forefinger – a high-stress zone that often fails first in lower-quality gloves.
The lifespan of waterproofing technologies varies significantly. Gore-Tex typically maintains effectiveness for 3-5 years of regular use, while proprietary membranes might begin failing after 1-2 years. The degradation often appears gradually – first allowing moisture to penetrate during extended exposure, then eventually failing during even brief rain encounters.
Proper care dramatically extends the life of waterproof gloves. Never machine wash waterproof motorcycle gloves, as this can damage membranes and deteriorate adhesives. Instead:
- Wipe down with a damp cloth after rides
- Allow to dry naturally away from direct heat sources
- Apply appropriate leather conditioner (for leather gloves) or tech wash (for textile gloves) 2-3 times annually
- Store properly when not in use, maintaining their natural shape
American riders in particularly wet regions like the Pacific Northwest report success using specialized products like Nikwax Glove Proof to restore water repellency to aging gloves, potentially extending usable life by an additional season.
Have you found certain waterproof glove designs to fail more quickly than others? What maintenance routines have extended the life of your gear?
Top 7 Waterproof Motorcycle Gloves for 2023
Rukka R-Star Gore-Tex Gloves represent the pinnacle of wet weather protection, featuring Gore-Tex's most advanced "Gore Grip Technology" that bonds the membrane directly to the outer shell, eliminating slippage between layers. These premium gloves incorporate SuperFabric® reinforcement, knuckle armor, and a visor wiper – all while maintaining remarkable dexterity. The extended gauntlet design with dual-closure system creates a virtually waterproof seal with any jacket sleeve. American touring riders report these gloves remaining completely dry inside even after 300+ miles in continuous rain.
Klim Element Gloves set the standard for adventure riders facing unpredictable conditions. The OutDry technology creates a one-piece waterproof barrier with no seams in critical areas, while the goatskin leather exterior offers exceptional abrasion resistance. These gloves include Gore-Tex Primaloft insulation and reflective elements for visibility in poor conditions. The articulated fingers and strategic stretch panels maintain excellent control feel – crucial when navigating slippery terrain.
REV'IT! Fusion 2 GTX Gloves perfectly balance protection and dexterity. These Gore-Tex gloves feature a shorter cuff design that works well for sport-touring riders who prioritize flexibility. The tri-fleece liner provides warmth without bulk, while the goatskin palm with digital leather overlays ensures exceptional grip in wet conditions. The TPU knuckle protection and SEESOFT palm slider offer impact protection without compromising feel.
Dainese X-Travel Gore-Tex Gloves excel in versatility, with a design that performs well across three seasons. The combination of Dainese's proprietary Amica suede and textile construction creates a lightweight yet protective glove that doesn't sacrifice feel for waterproofing. The articulated knuckle armor and palm reinforcement provide protection without bulk.
Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar Gloves utilize Alpinestars' proprietary Drystar membrane to deliver waterproofing at a more accessible price point. The synthetic suede palm features silicone grip patterns that maintain control even in downpours, while the touchscreen-compatible fingertips allow device use without exposure to the elements.
Held Rain Cloud II Gore-Tex Gloves are purpose-built for extreme wet conditions, featuring an innovative dual-chamber design. This allows riders to switch between maximum grip and maximum insulation depending on conditions – a feature particularly appreciated by American riders in northern states where temperatures fluctuate dramatically.
Racer Rally Gloves round out our premium selections with their minimalist approach to waterproofing. These gloves use OutDry technology with a kangaroo leather palm to deliver exceptional feel for sport riders who refuse to compromise control in wet conditions.
Which of these premium options would best suit your typical riding conditions and style?
Mid-Range Waterproof Selections ($80-150)
Alpinestars WR-V Gore-Tex Gloves deliver remarkable value by incorporating genuine Gore-Tex technology at a mid-range price point. These gloves feature a goatskin leather construction with synthetic reinforcements at critical impact zones. The pre-curved finger design reduces fatigue during longer rides, while the thermal insulation provides adequate warmth for temperatures down to about 45°F. American commuters particularly appreciate the touchscreen-compatible index finger and thumb, allowing GPS adjustments without exposing hands to rain.
The standout feature of the WR-V is its excellent waterproofing-to-dexterity ratio – maintaining nearly the same control feel as non-waterproof gloves. This makes them ideal for riders who prioritize connection to the bike's controls in varying conditions.
Dainese Tempest D-Dry Gloves utilize Dainese's proprietary D-Dry membrane instead of Gore-Tex, offering very good water resistance at a more accessible price. The Tempest features:
- Composite textile construction with goatskin reinforcements
- Hard knuckle protectors integrated into a flexible chassis
- Visor wiper on left index finger
- Pre-curved fingers to reduce riding fatigue
- Extended gauntlet with dual closure system
The D-Dry membrane provides excellent waterproofing for rides up to 3-4 hours in moderate rain, though some riders report minor moisture penetration during extended downpours. The Tempest excels in temperatures between 45-65°F, making it perfect for spring and fall riding in most American regions.
Tourmaster Cold-Tex 3.0 Waterproof Gloves offer impressive cold-weather performance with their 100g Thinsulate insulation and Hypora waterproof liner. Despite the substantial insulation, these gloves maintain reasonable dexterity through their pre-curved design and accordion stretch panels. The Tourmaster includes reflective piping for improved visibility and an extended gauntlet that works well with most touring jackets.
American riders in the Midwest and Northeast particularly value these gloves for their balance of warmth and water resistance at a reasonable price. They perform exceptionally well in temperatures from 30-50°F, making them ideal for the transitional seasons where cold rain is common.
Scorpion EXO Tempest Waterproof Gloves represent an excellent value proposition with their 100% waterproof Hipora liner and goatskin palm. These gloves include molded knuckle armor, reflective accents, and a visor wiper – features typically found only on more expensive options. The mid-length gauntlet design works well with most jacket styles, while the hook-and-loop closure ensures a secure fit.
Sedici Ultimo Waterproof Gloves round out our mid-range selections with their impressive feature set at the lower end of this price bracket. The leather and textile hybrid construction offers good abrasion resistance, while the Hipora waterproof liner keeps hands dry in most conditions.
How do you typically balance budget considerations against feature requirements when shopping for motorcycle gear?
Budget-Friendly Waterproof Choices (Under $80)
Joe Rocket Ballistic Ultra waterproof gloves prove that effective rain protection doesn't require breaking the bank. These gloves feature a RockTex outer shell with a waterproof Dry Tech liner and 100g Thinsulate insulation. The design includes reinforced leather palms with silicone grip overlays that maintain decent control feel even in wet conditions. The reflective piping improves visibility during rainy rides – a crucial safety feature often overlooked in budget options.
While they lack the refined construction of premium alternatives, the Ballistic Ultra gloves deliver surprisingly effective waterproofing for their price point. American commuters report staying dry during 30-45 minute rides in moderate rain, making these gloves ideal for daily riders on a budget.
Cortech GX Air 5.0 waterproof gloves balance breathability and rain protection through their unique design. These gloves incorporate:
- Clarino synthetic leather palm with silicone grip patterns
- Waterproof and breathable Hipora liner
- Pre-curved fingers to reduce fatigue
- TPR knuckle protectors for impact resistance
- Hook-and-loop wrist closure system
The GX Air 5.0 performs admirably in temperatures between 50-75°F, making them excellent three-season gloves for riders in warmer American regions like the South and Southwest. Their shorter cuff design works well with sport and sport-touring jackets but may allow water penetration during extreme downpours if not properly integrated with jacket sleeves.
Highway 21 Trigger waterproof gloves deliver remarkable value with their full-grain leather construction and Hipora waterproof liner. Despite their budget price point, these gloves include features normally found on more expensive options:
- Touchscreen-compatible index finger and thumb
- Double-stitched critical seams for durability
- Gel palm padding for vibration reduction
- Reflective piping for increased visibility
- Pre-curved fingers for reduced fatigue
The classic styling of the Trigger gloves appeals to cruiser and touring riders looking for waterproof protection without sacrificing traditional aesthetics. They provide adequate insulation for temperatures down to about 50°F, making them suitable for mild winter riding in southern states.
Fly Racing Boundary waterproof gloves offer exceptional value for off-road and adventure riders. These gloves feature a nylon/polyester shell with Hipora waterproof liner and light insulation. The synthetic leather palm includes silicone grip patterns that maintain decent traction on wet controls, while the neoprene cuff creates a comfortable seal against the elements.
Bilt Spirit waterproof gloves round out our budget selections as the most affordable option that still delivers functional wet weather protection. These basic gloves feature a textile construction with waterproof membrane and light insulation. While they lack the refinement and durability of more expensive options, they provide essential rain protection for occasional riders or those just starting out.
Have you found any budget-friendly waterproof gloves that performed better than their price would suggest?
Making the Right Choice for Your Riding Needs
Touring riders face unique waterproofing challenges due to extended exposure to the elements. For these long-distance enthusiasts, investing in premium Gore-Tex gloves with gauntlet designs typically provides the best return on investment. Features like visor wipers, reflective elements, and robust insulation become essential rather than optional when spending hours on the highway in changing weather conditions.
American touring riders particularly benefit from gloves with:
- Extended gauntlets that overlap jacket sleeves by at least 3-4 inches
- Dual closure systems to prevent water ingress at the wrist
- Multiple insulation zones to balance warmth and dexterity
- Integrated visor wipers for maintaining visibility during sustained rainfall
Sport riders prioritize different aspects of waterproof gloves, focusing on maintaining precise control feel while keeping hands dry. Short-cuff designs with pre-curved fingers and tactile reinforcements typically serve these riders best, allowing for aggressive riding positions without restriction. The trade-off comes in reduced rain protection during extreme conditions, but many sport riders accept this compromise for the improved feedback from the bike.
Commuters often seek the most practical waterproof glove solutions, balancing protection with convenience. For these daily riders, features like easy-on/easy-off designs and touchscreen compatibility take precedence. Many American commuters report preferring gloves with:
- Single-hand adjustment systems for quick donning at traffic lights
- Reflective elements for early morning or evening visibility
- Versatile insulation suitable for temperature variations throughout the day
- Durable palm materials that withstand the repetitive gripping patterns of urban riding
Adventure riders require the most versatile waterproof gloves, as they frequently encounter rapidly changing conditions and varied terrain. These riders benefit from modular designs that adapt to different temperatures while maintaining consistent water resistance. Features like articulated knuckles, reinforced impact zones, and enhanced grip patterns prove essential when navigating challenging off-road sections in wet conditions.
The best approach for any rider is to honestly assess your typical riding conditions rather than occasional extremes. A Florida rider might prioritize breathability with moderate water resistance, while a Pacific Northwest enthusiast needs maximum waterproofing with adequate ventilation. Consider your average ride duration, typical weather patterns, and the consequences of inadequate protection in your usual environment.
What type of riding do you do most frequently, and which waterproof glove features matter most for your specific needs?
Sizing and Fit Considerations for Waterproof Gloves
Waterproof gloves present unique sizing challenges compared to their non-waterproof counterparts. The additional layers created by waterproof membranes and insulation typically reduce interior space, often necessitating selection of a size larger than your standard glove size. Gore-Tex gloves generally run true to size as their construction accounts for the membrane thickness, while proprietary waterproofing systems like Hipora often run smaller.
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Conclusion
Finding the perfect waterproof motorcycle gloves means balancing protection, comfort, and functionality for your specific riding needs. The best gloves will keep your hands dry without sacrificing grip or control, ensuring your rainy rides remain safe and enjoyable. Consider your typical riding conditions, budget, and the features that matter most to you when making your selection. Have you found a pair of waterproof gloves that exceeded your expectations? Share your experience in the comments below, or ask any questions about the options we've covered—we're here to help you ride confidently through whatever weather comes your way.
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