How to Choose Motorcycle Racing Gloves for Track Riding

Three pairs of racing gloves can look similar on a shelf: one snug at the wrist, one with bulky armor, one from an unfamiliar brand. The differences that matter are the protection standard, the leather, the construction and above all the fit. This guide explains what to check when choosing motorcycle racing gloves for track riding.

What the Standard Says

Motorcycle gloves sold in Europe are tested to EN 13594:2015. SATRA's summary of the standard describes two performance levels: Level 1 gives protection with low ergonomic penalties, and Level 2 gives greater protection with possible weight and restriction penalties. Knuckle impact protection is optional for Level 1 and mandatory for Level 2, and the minimum cuff length measured from the wrist is 5 mm for Level 1 and 50 mm for Level 2.

According to SATRA, palm abrasion is tested on the Cambridge abrasion machine, while Intertek's testing overview lists tear, cut and ergonomic and sizing assessments. A CE marking and a glove's stated level show which tests it passed, but not how well it fits a particular hand, so fit still has to be checked separately.

Match the Glove to the Riding

Racing gloves differ from street and commuter gloves in priorities. They emphasize protection over ventilation, with thicker leather, more armor and reinforced stitching. Street gloves balance protection with comfort and airflow for long rides, and commuter gloves focus on dexterity for daily use.

• Track days and club racing: race-specific gloves with reinforced palm sliders, knuckle protection and a wrist closure that stays fastened in a slide.

• Spirited road riding with occasional track days: mid-range sport gloves that combine solid armor and wrist support with better ventilation.

• Touring and commuting: street gloves with impact protection, airflow and enough dexterity to operate the controls.

Safety Features to Check

Armor and Placement

Armor placement matters as much as armor thickness. A well-designed glove protects the heel of the palm, the knuckles and the outer edge of the hand, and the armor stays in place without restricting grip.

Wrist Support

The wrist is exposed when a crash forces the hand backwards. According to SATRA, EN 13594 sets a minimum cuff length and wrist restraint strength, so the closure and cuff are worth checking on any glove.

Leather and Stitching

Leather type and thickness largely determine abrasion resistance. Cowhide is a common glove leather. Kangaroo leather can be made thin and light while keeping its strength, according to Wikipedia's article on kangaroo leather, and it is popular for motorcycle leathers. Material and construction both affect abrasion resistance.

Stitching at stress points such as the wrist closure, palm edges and finger bases is worth inspecting, and thumb and finger construction also varies between gloves.

Fit and Sizing

Fit decides whether armor stays over knuckles and palm in a crash. Racing gloves should feel snug but not restrictive:

• Palm: the leather should lie flat against the palm without bunching. Loose leather that can be pinched up from the palm is a sign the glove is too large.

• Fingers: fingertips should reach the end of each finger without being cramped, and padding should sit over the knuckles.

• Wrist: the closure should fasten firmly and hold the glove on the hand without cutting into the skin.

• Riding position: hold the glove on the handlebar in a riding position for a few minutes. Tingling, numbness or pressure points mean the fit is wrong.

Leather breaks in slightly but does not reshape itself, so a glove that is loose in the shop will stay loose on the track.

Materials and Construction

• Lining: a stitched lining usually holds up better than a glued one, and removable liners are easier to clean.

• Armor backing: check how the armor is backed; the standard level, not the construction description, indicates tested performance.

• Closures: hook-and-loop, buckle or strap closures should stay fastened after repeated use.

• Price: higher price does not mean a better fit; riding frequency and hand shape should drive the choice.

Standard Size or Custom Size

Most riders fit standard sizes. Custom gloves are worth considering if the hands are unusually narrow or wide for their length, if standard sizes create pressure points, or if the gloves need to match a custom racing suit. Riders ordering a suit such as the Aero racing leathers often choose gloves to match it, and the race suits range shows what a complete setup can look like.

Riders who want protective gear for track and road use can explore the

for gloves designed around safety, fit and racing performance.

For a closer look at how armor placement, reinforced construction and fit work together, the

is a useful reference.

Care and Replacement

Follow the care label or the maker's instructions; the right cleaning method depends on the leather finish and lining. Before each ride, check for torn seams, loose armor or worn padding. After a crash, follow the maker's guidance on whether the gloves should be replaced.

Final Buying Advice

Three decisions matter most: the protection level that suits the riding, the fit, and the leather and construction. Make them in that order, and treat fit as the deciding factor.

Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.