Best Winter Motorcycle Gloves for Warm, Safe Riding
Evan Rally
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You ever hit that 30-minute mark on a cold ride and suddenly realize you can’t really feel your fingers? Not just a little chilly, like actually numb. Clutch feels vague, brake lever’s a guess, and it’s starting to feel sketchy. It’s not just uncomfortable. It’s dangerous.
That’s the winter riding problem. For the longest time, the advice was to just tough it out or throw on some bulky ski gloves. But frozen hands can’t react fast, and ski gloves are made for snowmen, not motorcycles. Wrong seams, no slide protection, and you lose all feel at the controls.
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The reality now is that winter riding gloves have come a long way. Modern ones use proper insulation, windproof and waterproof materials, and better construction that doesn’t kill your feel at the bars.
This guide breaks down well-built gloves that keep your hands warm and functional when it’s cold out.
The Top Picks for Winter Motorcycle Gloves
If you’re tired of cutting rides short because of cold hands, start here. These insulated gloves are praised for their warmth, weather protection, and features built for serious riding. For the ultimate solution in extreme cold, check out our Best Heated Motorcycle Gloves guide, especially if you ride below 40°F or for long highway miles.
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The gold standard for winter weather. A Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, premium PrimaLoft® insulation, and top-tier construction make this the go-to for serious touring and commuting. | A perfectly balanced glove that delivers excellent warmth and weather protection without the premium price tag. Ideal for three-season commuting and touring. | A go-to for cold-weather riders who need real warmth and waterproofing at an affordable price. It features 100g of Thinsulate™ insulation, a waterproof mid-liner, and a full leather chassis that holds up to everyday use. |
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The gold standard for winter weather. A Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, premium PrimaLoft® insulation, and top-tier construction make this the go-to for serious touring and commuting.
- Excellent warmth down to ~45 °F
- Waterproof yet breathable Gore‑Tex
- Rolled fingertips retain extra heat
- Leather palm for reliable grip & durability
- SP Lite knuckles offer discreet protection
- Insulation adds slight bulk around fingers
- Long cuff may feel snug over thick sleeves
A perfectly balanced glove that delivers excellent warmth and weather protection without the premium price tag. Ideal for three-season commuting and touring.
- Goatskin leather palm for durability & control
- Hydratex|Z-liner waterproofing with 3M Thinsulate insulation
- TPU hard knuckle & Temperfoam palm slider for impact protection
- Runs small—order one size up for best fit
A go-to for cold-weather riders who need real warmth and waterproofing at an affordable price. It features 100g of Thinsulate™ insulation, a waterproof mid-liner, and a full leather chassis that holds up to everyday use.
- Warmth holds up to sub‑freezing temps
- Fully waterproof Dry Tech liner
- Soft leather palm with vibration padding
- Knuckle protection without stiffness
- Pre‑curved design enhances throttle feel
- Fit runs small—consider sizing up
- Moderately bulky under thick jacket cuffs
Common Myths About Winter Gloves & Staying Warm
Don’t get stuck with cold hands because of bad advice. Let’s bust a few myths.
“Any thick glove is a good winter glove.” False. Bulk does not equal warmth if it restricts blood flow. Modern motorcycle gloves use thin, highly efficient insulation like Thinsulate™ or PrimaLoft® that traps heat without compromising your grip and control on the handlebars.
“Ski gloves work just fine on a motorcycle.” This is dangerous advice. Ski gloves are not built to withstand pavement abrasion. Their seams are in the wrong places and will burst on impact, and they lack the knuckle and palm armor needed for a motorcycle crash.
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“As long as they’re waterproof, my hands will be warm.” Nope. A waterproof liner stops water, but it doesn’t stop heat loss. In cold, windy conditions, wind chill will pull heat right through a non-insulated shell, leaving your hands dry but still frozen. This is why you need both waterproofing and insulation.
“You can’t have both warmth and a good throttle feel.” Not anymore. While winter gloves will always be thicker than summer ones, manufacturers have made huge strides. Pre-curved fingers, high-quality insulation, and materials like goatskin on the palms ensure you can still feel and operate your controls safely.
Best Insulated Motorcycle Gloves for Cold Weather
These are our detailed recommendations for insulated gloves that keep you warm and dry without plugging in. They’ve been chosen for their performance in adventure, touring, and daily commuting scenarios. Pair your gloves with one of our top-rated Winter Motorcycle Jackets for complete cold-weather protection.
Alpinestars WR-X Gore-Tex Gloves
When you need a glove that’s actually going to keep your hands dry and warm in real-world winter riding, the Alpinestars WR-X checks all the boxes. It’s built around a Gore-Tex membrane, so it’s fully waterproof while still letting your hands breathe, a big deal on longer rides when sweat buildup can ruin even the warmest gloves. This one keeps the water out without turning your gloves into a sauna.
For insulation, it uses 133g of PrimaLoft® Gold, which is about as good as it gets for synthetic warmth. It traps heat even when compressed against grips or controls, and it doesn’t feel overly bulky. The long gauntlet design seals up nicely over your jacket sleeve, which means no wind or water sneaking in from the cuff. On the protection side, it’s got a covered SP Lite knuckle protector, a leather palm for grip and abrasion resistance, and solid overall construction that feels ready for whatever the weather throws at you.
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If you’re riding through winter or logging miles in cold, wet conditions, the WR-X is a legit option from a brand that knows what it’s doing. It’s warm, dry, protective, and doesn’t make you fight your controls just to stay comfortable.
The Catch? This level of quality and technology comes at a premium price. Like any heavily insulated glove, there is some bulk, which takes getting used to.
The Silver Lining: You get elite-level, guaranteed weather protection from the best names in the business (Alpinestars, Gore-Tex, PrimaLoft®). This is a true “fit-and-forget” solution for winter riding.
Alternative Option: The REV’IT! Cassini H2O offers a similar feature set with a proprietary waterproof membrane at a more accessible price point.
Premium winter gloves built for long-range riding: Gore‑Tex waterproofing, PrimaLoft insulation, and rolling-finger grip deliver warmth, weather protection, and control.
- Excellent warmth down to ~45 °F
- Waterproof yet breathable Gore‑Tex
- Rolled fingertips retain extra heat
- Leather palm for reliable grip & durability
- SP Lite knuckles offer discreet protection
- Insulation adds slight bulk around fingers
- Long cuff may feel snug over thick sleeves
Our Rating 4.8/5: The Alpinestars WR-X GTX holds strong in sub-freezing temps with 133g Primaloft insulation and full Gore-Tex protection, performing impressively even on unfaired bikes in winter conditions. Feel and dexterity are excellent for a glove this insulated. The only weak spot is the touchscreen functionality, which is inconsistent. Still, for cold-weather touring, this glove delivers where it counts.
REV’IT! Cassini H2O Gloves
The REV’IT! Cassini H2O is one of those winter gloves that punches way above its weight. It’s built for riders who want solid protection and real waterproofing without shelling out premium money. The Hydratex® Z-liner takes care of the waterproofing, and it’s bonded with McFit® tech, which means no annoying liner pullout or bunching when you take them off—something you’ll appreciate when your hands are wet or cold.
Warmth is handled by 3M™ Thinsulate™ G insulation, which does a great job of keeping the chill out without making the glove feel like a snow mitt. The outer shell blends abrasion-resistant materials with goatskin on the palm, giving you good grip and feel at the controls. Safety features like a hard knuckle, Temperfoam® palm slider, and PWR|Shield reinforcements make this a legit protective option, not just a winter commuter glove.
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For the price, it’s tough to find another glove that checks this many boxes, waterproofing, insulation, protection, and everyday usability. If you’re riding through cold mornings or rainy commutes and want something that just works without breaking the bank, the Cassini H2O is a smart pick.
The Catch? The Hydratex® liner, while very effective, is not as breathable as Gore-Tex. It’s a fantastic three-season glove but not warm enough for deep-winter rides in the coldest climates.
The Silver Lining: An incredible combination of warmth, CE-certified protection, and quality construction at a very competitive price. The fit and feel are excellent for a winter glove.
Alternative Option: For riders on a stricter budget, the Joe Rocket Windchill offers basic winter protection at an even lower price point.
Stay warm, dry, and protected in cold-weather rides.
- Goatskin leather palm for durability & control
- Hydratex|Z-liner waterproofing with 3M Thinsulate insulation
- TPU hard knuckle & Temperfoam palm slider for impact protection
- Runs small—order one size up for best fit
Our Rating 4.6/5: The REV’IT! Cassini H2O delivers serious cold-weather protection with solid armor and confidence-inspiring impact performance. Best for temps in the 40s and 50s, it runs slightly snug but breaks in well. Not ideal for deep winter, but for most riders, it covers 90% of the season with comfort and control.
Joe Rocket Windchill Gloves
The Joe Rocket Windchill has been holding it down for winter riders on a budget for years, and it still gets the job done. It’s not flashy, but it delivers where it counts—100g of Thinsulate™ insulation and a waterproof mid-liner keep your hands warm and dry during cold commutes or quick weekend rides. It’s exactly what you need to get through chilly weather without dropping premium money.
The build is straightforward but solid. You get a full leather chassis that holds up well to regular use, and the oversized gauntlet fits easily over jacket sleeves to block wind and water. Protection is basic but appreciated, with foam padding over the knuckles and a visor wiper on the thumb that actually comes in handy when the weather turns.
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No fancy tech, no carbon armor, but if you’re looking for a reliable glove to stretch your riding season without killing your budget, the Windchill still delivers. It’s a true workhorse for winter riders who just want to stay warm and keep rolling.
The Catch? It’s bulky, and the fit isn’t as refined as premium gloves, leading to a duller feel on the controls. The waterproofing can be less reliable over time compared to laminated membranes.
The Silver Lining: Amazing value. It provides legitimate warmth and water resistance for less than the price of a nice dinner out, making winter riding accessible to everyone.
Alternative Option: The FLY Xplore Gloves offer a different style with more of an adventure/dual-sport focus and slightly better dexterity.
Reliable winter riding gloves combining cowhide leather, 100 g Thinsulate insulation, and waterproof lining to keep hands warm, dry, and responsive on cold commutes.
- Warmth holds up to sub‑freezing temps
- Fully waterproof Dry Tech liner
- Soft leather palm with vibration padding
- Knuckle protection without stiffness
- Pre‑curved design enhances throttle feel
- Fit runs small—consider sizing up
- Moderately bulky under thick jacket cuffs
Our Rating 4.1/5: The Joe Rocket Windchill is a no-frills cold-weather glove that gets the basics right, solid warmth, good leather quality, and reliable wind protection for the price. Best suited for short to medium rides in the 40–50°F range. Fit runs small and the gauntlet is short, but for budget winter gear, it holds the line.
Klim Vanguard GTX Long Gloves
When you’re riding through freezing wind, sideways rain, and everything in between—and price isn’t holding you back—the Klim Vanguard GTX is the glove you want on your hands. This thing is built like a tank but feels refined, with every part designed to keep you warm, dry, and in control. It uses a GORE-TEX membrane that actually does what it promises, keeps you dry no matter how bad it gets, and layers in 3M™ Thinsulate™ insulation smartly: 300g on the backhand to fight windchill and 100g on the palm so you can still feel the controls.
You get a leather palm for durability, a rugged textile chassis that holds up to real abuse, and a carbon fiber knuckle backed by foam padding throughout. Details like the visor wiper and single-motion gauntlet closure might seem small until you’re dealing with frozen fingertips and rain on your face shield. That’s when you realize this glove was built for real winter miles, not just cold-weather showroom appeal.
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Now, it’s worth noting that the user rating is a little lower than you’d expect for a glove this premium. Most of the critiques come down to fit and bulk, some riders find the sizing a bit off or wish it were easier to break in. But once you get the right size dialed in, the Vanguard GTX delivers where it matters most: warmth, dryness, and absolute reliability. If you’re riding deep into shoulder seasons or straight through winter, this is a glove that won’t quit before you do.
The Catch? The price is astronomical for a non-heated glove. It is unequivocally the most expensive glove on this list, and its level of insulation can feel bulky.
The Silver Lining: You are paying for the best materials and a “no-compromise” design. The combination of GORE-TEX, zoned Thinsulate™ insulation, and premium protection is as good as it gets for passive warmth and safety.
Alternative Option: The Alpinestars WR-X Gore-Tex offers a similar premium experience with GORE-TEX and PrimaLoft® insulation at a slightly more attainable price point.
High-performance touring gloves built for cold, wet conditions.
- GORE-TEX with Gore-Grip for waterproofing and dexterity
- 3M Thinsulate insulation for warmth without bulk
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips & visor wiper for convenien
- Low-profile gauntlet may not suit riders preferring full wrist coverage
Our Rating 4.1/5: The Klim Vanguard GTX stands out for its waterproofing, build quality, and comfort in wet, cool-weather riding. It’s not rated higher because warmth under 40°F is limited without heated grips, and sizing inconsistencies across Klim’s glove line frustrate many buyers. Still, for wet-weather touring and shoulder-season use, it remains one of the most dependable non-heated options available.
FLY Xplore Gloves
For riders who spend more time chasing dirt and backroads than sitting on the highway, the FLY Xplore offers a great cold-weather solution without going full arctic mode. This is not your bulky deep-winter gauntlet. Instead, it’s a more streamlined, insulated glove designed for cold-weather rides where feel and control still matter. It uses a Hipora waterproof and breathable membrane, paired with mid-weight insulation that takes the edge off chilly mornings without turning your hands into bricks.
The leather palm adds durability and grip, while the rest of the glove stays slim and flexible, exactly what you want when you’re navigating off-road terrain or twisting through technical backroads. It’s noticeably less bulky than most winter touring gloves, which helps when you need precise input at the controls. The reflective piping offers a bit of low-light visibility, and the low-profile cuff makes it quick to slip on and off.
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For ADV and dual-sport riders who aren’t putting the bike away at the first sign of cold or rain, the Xplore hits a solid balance. It’s warm enough for early spring or late fall, waterproof enough for unexpected weather, and agile enough to keep you in tune with the bike. A great pick for riders who want insulation without overkill.
The Catch? It’s not the warmest glove on this list. In sustained, near-freezing temperatures, your fingers will get cold. It’s a “cold weather” glove, not a true “winter” glove.
The Silver Lining: Excellent dexterity and control for an insulated glove. It’s tough, affordable, and provides just enough weather protection for adventure riding without feeling clumsy.
Alternative Option: If your adventures run through truly cold and wet climates, stepping up to the Alpinestars WR-X Gore-Tex would be the more protective choice.
Mid-weight winter gloves with waterproof Hipora lining, insulated comfort, and leather palms—designed to keep fingers warm, dry, and responsive in cold- and wet-weather riding
- Warmth maintains finger sensitivity in cold
- Hipora lining keeps hands dry and breathable
- Leather palms offer solid grip and durability
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
- Reflective piping enhances visibility
- Insulation is light‑medium—not for extreme cold
- Minimal knuckle protection compared to heavier gloves
Our Rating 4.2/5: The FLY Xplore delivers solid warmth, durable materials, and excellent throttle feel, ideal for cold-weather ADV or touring. Touchscreen function works well out of the box, and the gloves go on and off without hassle. While not great for prolonged downpours or full gauntlet coverage, they remain a dependable, no-fuss choice for winter rides.
Joe Rocket Women’s Sub Zero Gloves
Finding a true winter glove that isn’t just a smaller men’s version is tough, but the Joe Rocket Sub Zero gets it right. This glove is designed specifically for women, which means the fit actually works (no bunching, no awkward gaps) just comfort and dexterity where it matters. It’s built to handle real winter riding, with a Dry-Tech waterproof membrane and 150g of Thinsulate insulation to keep your hands warm and dry when the temps drop.
Functionally, it checks all the boxes. The leather palm is tough and reinforced in key areas, with gel padding to reduce bar buzz on longer rides. The long gauntlet cuff cinches down easily to keep wind and snow out, and there’s even a shield wiper on the thumb, which is one of those little things that becomes a big deal when the weather turns ugly.
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The glove currently sits at a 3.9-star rating on RevZilla, which likely comes down to sizing quirks and bulk, common trade-offs in more heavily insulated winter gloves. Some riders mention the glove feels a bit stiff at first or slightly oversized, especially if you’re between sizes. But once you’ve got the right fit, it does what it promises: keeps your hands warm, dry, and ready for winter riding. For women looking for a dedicated cold-weather glove that won’t break the bank, the Sub Zero is one of the stronger options out there.
The Catch? The protection is on the softer side, with padded knuckles rather than hard armor. The Dry-Tech® liner is effective but lacks the breathability of more expensive membranes.
The Silver Lining: It offers a true women’s fit and a massive amount of insulation for a very reasonable price. It’s a warm, comfortable, and practical solution for winter commuting and touring.
Alternative Option: While not women’s-specific, the unisex Joe Rocket Windchill offers similar budget-friendly performance, though with less insulation.
Women‑specific winter gloves delivering dependable waterproof protection, 100 g Thinsulate warmth, and secure fit—ideal for cold commutes without sacrificing control.
- Warm and flexible down to freezing temperatures
- Waterproof Dry Tech mid‑liner keeps hands dry
- Secure cinch strap ensures snug, reliable fit
- Slip‑resistant leather palm improves grip
- Fingers run short—check sizing carefully
- Limited hard‑shell knuckle protection
Our Rating 4.2/5: The Sub Zero gloves deliver real protection and warmth in cold-weather street conditions. The interior is soft and flexible, with insulation that holds up in temps down to the low 40s, even in light rain. Gauntlet fit can be tight over bulky jacket sleeves, and some sizing quirks exist, but impact protection and cold blocking have proven themselves in real-world slides.
Comparison Table: Best Winter Motorcycle Gloves
| Feature | Klim Vanguard GTX | Alpinestars WR-X | REV’IT! Cassini H2O | J.R. Women’s Sub Zero | Joe Rocket Windchill | FLY Xplore |
| Primary Use | Hardcore Touring | Touring / Commuting | 3-Season Touring | Women’s Winter Riding | Budget Commuting | Adventure / Dual-Sport |
| Waterproofing | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | Hydratex® | Dry-Tech® | Waterproof Liner | Hipora® |
| Insulation | 3M™ Thinsulate™ on backhand | PrimaLoft® Gold | 3M™ Thinsulate™ | 150g Thinsulate™ | 100g Thinsulate™ | Mid-Weight |
| Knuckle Armor | Hard Knuckle | Hard Knuckle | Hard Knuckle | Padded | Padded | Padded |
| Price Range | $$$$ | $$$$ | $$$ | $ | $$ | $ |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Choosing the right winter glove is about more than just thickness. Here’s what matters.
- Waterproofing is Non-Negotiable: Cold is bad, but cold and wet is dangerous. Look for a guaranteed waterproof membrane. Gore-Tex is the industry leader in performance and breathability, but many brand-specific liners like REV’IT!’s Hydratex® or Hipora® are also very effective.
- Understand Insulation: The goal is to trap air. Look for names like 3M™ Thinsulate™ or PrimaLoft®. These materials provide incredible warmth with less bulk than generic polyester filling, which is critical for maintaining dexterity.
- Get the Right Fit: Unlike summer gloves that should be skin-tight, winter gloves should have a tiny bit of extra room. This allows a pocket of air to form, which then gets warmed by your body heat, adding to the insulation. If they’re too tight, they can restrict blood flow and make your hands colder.
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- A Proper Gauntlet is Key: Look for a long cuff (gauntlet) that can be cinched tight over the sleeve of your jacket. This creates an impenetrable seal that stops cold air and rain from blowing up your arms.
- Look for Rider-Specific Features: Small things make a big difference. A visor wiper on the index finger or thumb is incredibly useful for clearing rain and sleet. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips save you from having to take your gloves off to use a GPS or phone.
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Need head-to-toe gear? Don’t miss our roundups for Best Motorcycle Pants and Best Leather Motorcycle Gloves to build your full winter kit.
FAQ: Cold Weather Motorcycle Gloves
When the temperature drops, the right gloves can make or break your ride. Below, we answer the most common questions riders have about staying warm, dry, and protected in cold weather, whether you’re commuting, touring, or braving icy morning starts. From insulation types to waterproofing materials and fit advice, this FAQ covers everything you need to know before slipping your hands into your next winter glove.
Are heated gloves better than insulated gloves?
They are different tools for different jobs. For cool-to-cold riding (down to about 40-45°F / 5-7°C), a good pair of insulated gloves is perfect. For truly cold or freezing temperatures, long highway rides, or for riders who get cold easily, the active heat from a heated glove is far superior.
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Can I just use heated grips with my regular gloves?
Heated grips are great, but they only warm your palms. In cold wind, the backs of your hands and your fingertips will still freeze. They work best when paired with well-insulated gloves to help trap the heat they generate.
How do I dry my gloves if they get wet inside?
Never place them on a direct heat source like a radiator, as this can ruin the leather and damage the waterproof membrane. The best method is to stuff them with newspaper or use a dedicated, low-temperature boot/glove dryer that uses forced air.
Can I just add liners to my current gloves for winter?
It’s a temporary fix, but not a great solution. Your primary gloves (e.g., summer or fall gloves) are not sized to accommodate the extra bulk of a liner. This often creates a fit that’s too tight, which can restrict blood flow and actually make your hands feel colder. A dedicated winter glove is designed as a complete system, with the outer shell, insulation, and liner all working together.
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Will 12V heated gloves drain my motorcycle’s battery?
Generally, no, as long as the engine is running. A healthy motorcycle charging system produces more than enough power to run the bike’s systems and power a full set of heated gear. However, you should never leave your heated gear on when the engine is off, as it will drain your battery very quickly.
Wrapping Up…
Don’t let cold weather put your bike into hibernation. With the right pair of winter gloves, you can extend your riding season by months, staying comfortable, safe, and in control. Whether you choose a top-tier insulated glove for all-around performance or decide to step up to heated gear for the ultimate in warmth, there’s no reason to let numb fingers ruin your ride.
Storing your bike for winter? Check out our guides on the Best Motorcycle Covers and Best Motorcycle Shelters to keep your gear protected.
