The Short Answer
Choose motorcycle gloves that are CE or UKCA certified to EN 13594:2015, with knuckle protection as a minimum. Beyond that, the right choice depends on the season and type of riding: vented leather or textile for summer, waterproof and insulated for winter, and a mid-weight option if you ride all year round.
Why Gloves Matter
Hands are usually the first thing to hit the ground in a fall. Motorcycle gloves are not a legal requirement in the UK, but the Highway Code notes that gloves, along with suitable clothing and boots, help protect you in a collision. On UK roads, the rougher, surface-dressed tarmac makes abrasion resistance particularly important.
Understand the Safety Rating
All motorcycle gloves sold in the UK must be CE or UKCA certified to EN 13594:2015. This standard tests:
- Abrasion resistance
- Cut resistance
- Seam and tear strength
- Impact protection
Within that certification, gloves are rated Category 1 or Category 2 (sometimes called Level 1 or Level 2). Level 1 is a baseline pass. Level 2 requires a higher standard of impact protection, typically including reinforced knuckle armour. If a glove has no visible CE/UKCA label, treat it as uncertified, regardless of how it looks.
Choosing by Season
| Glove type | Best for | Key features to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Summer / vented | Warm weather, town and countryside riding | Perforated leather or mesh panels, short cuff, breathability |
| Winter / touring | Cold, wet UK commuting and touring | Waterproof membrane (such as Gore-Tex or Hipora), thermal lining, long gauntlet cuff |
| Three-season | Riders who want one glove for most of the year | A balance of ventilation and weatherproofing, though few true three-season gloves exist |
Materials: Leather vs Textile
- Leather: excellent abrasion resistance, moulds to the hand over time, generally the most durable choice for regular riders.
- Textile: often lighter, can include built-in waterproofing more easily, and dries faster after rain, but abrasion resistance varies more between brands.
- Hybrid: leather palms (the area most likely to hit the ground) combined with textile backs for flexibility and ventilation.
Fit and Feel
A glove that is too tight restricts blood flow and grip strength on longer rides. Too loose, and the glove can bunch inside your jacket sleeve or reduce feel on the controls. When trying gloves on:
- Make a fist. There should be no excess material bunching in the palm.
- Check finger length. Fingertips should reach the end without excess space or being cramped.
- Test grip on the clutch and front brake lever if possible, since thick winter gloves can affect lever feel.
- Check touchscreen compatibility if you rely on a phone or sat nav mounted on the bike.
Breaking In New Gloves
Leather gloves in particular often feel stiff out of the box. Wearing them for short rides before a long trip lets the leather flex and mould to your hand, which improves both comfort and control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are motorcycle gloves a legal requirement in the UK?
No, but the Highway Code recommends them alongside other protective clothing, and they are strongly advised by every UK training organisation.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 gloves?
Level 2 gloves meet a higher impact protection standard within the EN 13594:2015 test, typically with more robust knuckle armour, while Level 1 is the baseline certified standard.
Can I wear ski or cycling gloves on a motorcycle instead?
No. Gloves designed for other sports are not tested to motorcycle abrasion and impact standards and will not offer comparable protection in a fall.
How do I know if my gloves are waterproof or just water-resistant?
Check for a named waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex or Hipora, in the product description. Gloves marketed only as “water-resistant” will usually let water through in sustained rain.
