How to Care for Motorcycle Gloves
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Your motorcycle gloves do more than just keep your hands warm and improve your grip. They protect your hands from abrasions, impacts, weather conditions, and more. Like any crucial piece of riding gear, they deserve proper care and maintenance to ensure they last for many seasons to come. Here’s how to keep your motorcycle gloves in top shape, regardless of the material or the elements they’ve endured.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters
Motorcycle gloves, whether leather or textile, are subjected to constant use, sweat, rain, dirt, and sun exposure. Neglecting their maintenance can lead to cracking, stiffening, weakened protective elements, and even an unpleasant odor. Regular cleaning and care not only preserve their look and feel but also maintain their protective properties.
Leather Gloves Care
- Wipe off Surface Dirt & Debris - Use a damp, soft cloth to gently wipe off any dirt, grim or dust. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may stip away the natural oils in leather
- Leather Specifc Cleaners and Conditioners - Clean your leather gloves with a leather cleaner designed for motorcycle gear. Apply the cleaner with a cloth, gently rubbing in circular motions. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture, flexibility, and the supple feel of the leather.
- Dry Properly - If your leather gloves get wet, avoid using high heat. Stuff the gloves with paper towels to maintain their shape and allow them to air-dry naturally. Replace the paper towels periodically as they absorb moisture.
- Avoid Excessive Water and Moisture - While some leather gloves have waterproofing treatments, prolonged exposure to water may still degrade the leather. Apply a leather waterproofing treatment if necessary, but always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Leather motorcycle gloves are popular for their durability, comfort, and protective qualities. However, leather requires special care to retain its flexibility and protective properties.
Textile Gloves Care
Textile motorcycle gloves offer breathability, flexibility, and lightweight comfort. However, they also need maintenance to prevent the breakdown of fabrics and protective layers.
- Hand-Washing for Delicate Fabrics - Hand-wash your textile gloves using mild soap and cold water. Avoid harsh detergents that can strip away the protective coatings on synthetic fibers.
- Machine Washing Guidelines -Some textile gloves can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle, but always check the care label first. If washing them in a machine, place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling and protect any armor elements.
- Drying & Reapplying Treatments - Air-dry textile gloves by hanging them or laying them flat. Once dried, you can reapply water-repellent sprays to maintain their resistance to rain and moisture.
Combatting Odour in Motorcycle Gloves
After many sweaty rides, gloves can start to develop an unpleasant smell. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Air Them Out Regularly - After each ride, air out your gloves to prevent moisture build-up and the growth of odour-causing bacteria.
- Odour-Eliminating Products - Consider using glove liners to wick sweat away from your hands. Additionally, anti-odour sprays and products like activated charcoal inserts can help absorb smells and moisture inside the gloves.
Storage Tips for Longevity
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing gloves in areas with high humidity, as this can lead to mold growth.
- Avoid Folding or Crushing: Store gloves flat to maintain their shape and avoid unnecessary creasing or pressure on protective elements.
- Separate Storage for Leather Gloves: Store leather gloves separately from items that might scratch or damage the leather surface.
When to Replace Your Motorcycle Gloves
No matter how well you maintain your gloves, they will eventually wear out. Replace your gloves if you notice compromised stitching, a loss of protective padding, or irreparable tears and cracks. Compromised gloves can lead to increased risks on the road, so keeping them in top shape is worth the effort.
Caring for your motorcycle gloves may take a little time and attention, but it’s worth it. Regular maintenance ensures your gloves remain comfortable, protective, and looking great ride after ride. Treat them right, and they’ll protect your hands for many adventures to come. Happy riding!