Motorcycle Riders: Protect Hands From Wind (Beyond Windproof Gloves!)
Posted by ROGER HEUMANN
Options To Protect Hands From Wind
Since hands are one of the most exposed body parts for a motorcycle rider, we make many styles of windproof gloves. But there are several non-glove options to block wind, such as hand covers and wind muffs, that are also worth considering.
While they DO NOT provide the warming layering effect of air trapped within textiles on your hands, these additions to your bike DO block wind and rain:
- Wind Deflectors/Wind Guards: usually heavy duty plastic, mount on the bars to shield from wind
- Hand Muffs: sewn covers that go over grips, with or without a hand guard, to add another layer of protection from wind
Some riders say that the combination of muffs plus electric bars is a nice recipe for warm hands … others say that it is a sure recipe for warm palms and freezing hands. With or without electric grip warmers or hand covers, protect hands from exposure to wind using a competent glove.
Motorcycle Glove Features For WInd Protection
What about the gloves you already have in your gearbox? While not technically windproof, some gloves naturally have features that add wind protection, and should not be discounted — such as:
- Leather Gloves: Leather is highly wind resistant. Though we stop short of calling it windproof without the lamination, it’s the best wind protection youll find in a glove that is not labeled “windproof”.
- Gauntlet Gloves: Let’s not forget the usefulness of a gauntlet glove style, designed to keep cold air from going up your sleeve! Whether the extended cuff goes over or under your jacket, it’s another way to stay comfortable while riding in wind.
WindProof Gloves: “The Basics” For Motorcycle Riders
What does it mean for a glove to be windproof?
A special film is laminated to either the exterior shell of the glove, or the interior lining, that adds wind blocking qualities and stops your body from feeling the chilling effects of wind.
This type of membrane goes by several names, such as WindTex and Windstopper.
Of note, Windstopper is known for total windproofness and optimized breathability, which maximizes comfort as it lets moisture vapor to easily escape and prevents overheating and perspiration build-up.
For a short guide to some of our Windproof glove styles, scroll down below!
BUYERS GUIDE: 12 Windproof Gloves from Olympia:
Style Name/# |
MSRP |
Men’s* / Women’s* | Description |
280 Windstopper Akita | $49.95 | Men’s only | Windstopper – windproof, water resistant, breathable material from W.L Gore. SoftInside™ flannel comfort lining to wick away moisture for extra comfort
|
4390 Aquatex Husky | $74.95 | Men’s only | Aquatex (waterproof, windproof, breathable insert), thinsulate insulation, SoftInside pile lining, nylon with full leather, textured palm, extended cuff, goggle wiper |
$99.95 |
Men’s only |
Gore-tex (waterproof, windproof, breathable insert) , thinsulate insulation, SoftInside pile lining, leather exterior with extended adjustable cuff, goggle wiper |
|
6500 Cold Zip | $29.95 | Men’s only | Dri-Lock waterproof/windproof insert, thinsulate insulation, waterproof zipper pocket, nylon shell, texturized palm grip, extended cuff |
6000 Mustang I | $24.95 | Men’s only | Dri-Lock waterproof/windproof insert, thinsulate insulation, nylon shell with thermo-fleece lining, extended cuff |
$54.95 | Men’s (180) and Women’s (181) | Aqua-Tex breathable, waterproof, windproof insert. Longer overall glove length tucks into jacket to keep air out. Adjustable velcro strap for comfort and security | |
1320 Voyager | $44.95 | Men’s only | Aquatex (waterproof, breathable insert), thinsulate insulation, texturized palm, extended cuff, goggle wiper |
$94.95 | Men’s only | Gore-Tex (waterproof breathable insert insert), thermolite insultation, extended cuff, leather, goggle wiper | |
GT 4100 Weatherking Extra II | $99.95 | Men’s only | Gore-Tex (waterproof, windproof, breathable insert), full wrap primaloft insulation, Hydrafil lining wicks moisture, leather, gauntlet |
4298 Gore-Tex 2 in 1 Commander | $79.95 | Men’s only | Gore-Tex (waterproof, windproof, breathable insert), primaloft insultation, leather/nylon 2 in 1 construction for warmth, extended cuff, texturized palm grip |
$74.95 | Men’s (4294) and Women’s (4295) | Gore-Tex (waterproof, windproof, breathable), extra primaloft insulation at fingertips, leather palm, goggle wiper, gauntlet | |
190 Hurricane | $39.95 | Men’s only | Aquatex windproof, waterproof, breathable insert. Nylon gauntlet with looped pull closure keeps weather out |
*Note: Men’s Styles may also fit women; use size chart or contact us to determine best size.