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Valentino Rossi is one of the most recognizable names in MotoGP history, and gloves inspired by him remain popular with fans and riders alike. A point of accuracy first: Rossi announced his retirement from MotoGP at the end of the 2021 season, so gloves sold under a "MotoGP 2024" label are replicas and inspired designs, not current race equipment. This guide covers what to look for in them, from the to how any riding glove should fit and protect.
Key Takeaways
- Rossi retired from MotoGP after 2021; "2024" gloves are replica or inspired designs, not a current race issue.
- He won nine Grand Prix world titles, seven of them in the premier class, and raced with number 46.
- Riding gloves are covered by EN 13594, which has Level 1 and Level 2.
- Check fit, palm protection and knuckle protection before judging the design.
Who Valentino Rossi Is
Rossi won nine Grand Prix world championships, seven of them in the premier 500cc and MotoGP class, and rode with number 46, which was retired in his honor in the MotoGP class (see Wikipedia: Valentino Rossi). He rode for Yamaha in 2004 to 2010 and from 2013 to 2021, the last season with Petronas Yamaha SRT. After retiring from MotoGP, he moved to sports-car racing, so his 2024 activities were in GT and endurance racing rather than on a MotoGP bike.
What Makes a Racing Glove Work
A racing glove is a protective item first. Leather is used for abrasion resistance, and the shape is pre-curved to follow the hand on the grips. The fit should allow clear control of the throttle, brake and clutch without the glove bunching or twisting.
Protection and the Standard
In Europe, motorcycle gloves are tested to EN 13594. It sets minimum requirements for abrasion, cut and tear resistance, seam strength and impact, with two levels: Level 1 for gloves with low ergonomic penalties and Level 2 for increased protection. When a replica glove is chosen for riding, the maker's stated standard and level matter more than the design. The same applies to products such as the , which draw on a team look.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort affects control over a long ride. A snug wrist closure keeps the glove from moving, and a lining that handles sweat makes a difference in warm weather. Sizing should be checked against hand measurements, since gloves that are too large can slip on a slide.
Replica Style and Rossi's Colors
Rossi's style is closely tied to his number 46 and his years with Yamaha. Replica gear often borrows both. Valentino Rossi's follow that look as an inspired design, and the are another example. Riders building a matching set can also look at the , which is a replica of the 2018 look.
Choosing Replica Gloves
Design: Pick the era and team look you want, and check that the product is described as inspired by the rider.
Protection: Look for the stated standard and level, and for protection at the knuckles and palm edge.
Fit: Measure the hand and compare with the size guide.
Use: Decide whether the gloves are for riding or for display.
More rider-themed gear is grouped under .
Final Thoughts
Rossi-inspired gloves combine a recognizable design with the practical points that matter on the road: a snug fit, a clear standard and level, and sensible protection. They are tributes to a rider who retired from MotoGP in 2021, and they are most useful when chosen for fit first and style second.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Valentino Rossi race MotoGP in 2024?
No. Rossi announced his retirement from MotoGP at the end of the 2021 season. In 2024 he raced in sports cars, competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship with Team WRT in a BMW M4 GT3 that carried his number 46. Gloves labeled MotoGP 2024 are therefore replica or inspired designs.
What standard applies to motorcycle gloves?
Motorcycle gloves are covered by EN 13594 in Europe. It sets requirements for abrasion, cut, tear, seam strength and impact protection and has two levels. Level 1 gloves have low ergonomic penalties, and Level 2 gloves give increased protection. Always check which level the maker states.
How many world titles did Valentino Rossi win?
Rossi won nine Grand Prix world championships, seven of them in the premier class, which was 500cc and then MotoGP. His number 46 was retired in his honor in the MotoGP class after he stopped racing. He rode for Yamaha in two separate periods during his career.
How should replica racing gloves fit?
A racing glove should be snug without pinching, with fingertips reaching the end of the fingers and no loose material that can bunch on the grips. The wrist closure should hold the glove on and allow clear control of the throttle, brake and clutch. Measure the hand and compare it with the size guide.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.
