9 Best Dirt Bike Gloves for Trail Riding: Our 2024 Picks


Best Dirt Bike Gloves for Trail Riding

As a dirt bike rider, I’ve spent countless hours hitting the trails, which has allowed me to find the best gear. And that includes dirt bike gloves, a piece of protective equipment that often gets overlooked.

I’ve learned that having a pair of good dirt bike gloves can make all the difference, as they provide comfort, protection, and control while trail riding.

While some may be tempted to save money and go cheap on a pair of gloves, I wouldn’t recommend it, as the cheap options often provide little protection and begin to break down after only a few rides.

So to help you avoid these low-quality options, I’ve listed the most popular and best dirt bike gloves for trail riding that I could find.

Best Dirt Bike Gloves for Trail Riding

1. Fox Racing Dirtpaw Gloves: Best Overall for Trail Riding

  • Average Price: $35
  • Armored knuckles
  • Padded, single-layer Clarino palm
  • Compression-molded neoprene cuff
  • Stretch mesh finger gussets
  • Touch screen compatible material
  • Silicone print at fingertips for enhanced lever grip
  • Hook and loop closure
  • Available in a variety of colors

Pros:

  • Armored knuckles offer excellent protection against branches and trail hazards
  • Padded palm provides comfort and durability during long rides
  • High-quality, durable materials to withstand the challenges of trail riding
  • Classic, all-round design suitable for various riding styles and conditions
  • Trusted brand with a reputation for producing high-quality motocross gear

Cons:

  • The padding on the knuckles may not be sufficient for extreme impacts or crashes
  • The single-layer palm may not provide enough protection for riders who frequently encounter extreme terrain
  • The stretch mesh finger gussets are the most common point of failure and are prone to tearing

2. Fastgoose Dirt Bike Gloves: Affordable, Comfortable, & Versatile

  • Average Price: $20
  • Constructed with breathable, stretchy, lightweight, and quick-drying material
  • Touchscreen-compatible
  • Made of Lycra, microfiber, and silicone
  • Double-layer stitching between thumb and index finger
  • Silicone coverage on palm and fingers for enhanced grip
  • Adjustable hook and loop fastener at wrist
  • Designed for both men and women

Pros:

  • High-quality materials (Lycra, microfiber, and silicone) offer durability and comfort
  • Double-layer stitching between the thumb and index finger enhances glove longevity
  • Silicone coverage on palm and fingers improves grip and control on handlebars
  • Protective material between fingers minimizes friction and prevents blisters
  • Affordable price point compared to other dirt bike glove brands
  • 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime customer service

Cons:

  • The gloves don’t provide sufficient protection for heavy-duty off-road riding or racing
  • The durability of the gloves while good doesn’t match that of higher-end, more expensive options
  • The gloves provide minimal padding or shock absorption for rough terrain

3. Klim Mojave Off-Road Motorcycle Gloves: Offers Heavy-Duty Protection

  • Average Price: $40
  • Made from lightweight and flexible materials
  • Enhanced ventilation for optimal airflow and cooling
  • Durable construction
  • Hook and loop closure
  • Can be used with touchscreen devices
  • Available in various colors
  • A trusted name in technical riding gear

Pros:

  • Provides ample protection
  • Excellent ventilation keeps hands cool and comfortable in hot weather
  • Streamlined design improves dexterity and control
  • Designed specifically for aggressive off-road and motocross riding
  • Reputable brand known for high-quality off-road gear

Cons:

  • Lacks knuckle protection
  • The thinner materials don’t offer the best abrasion resistance in the event of a slide or fall
  • On the expensive side

4. Fox Racing Airline Motocross Gloves: Lightweight & Minimalist

  • Average Price: $25
  • Compression-molded slip-on neoprene cuff
  • Single-layer perforated Clarino palm
  • Ultra-light, stretch Nylon top, stretch Nylon finger gussets, and fingertip silicone print
  • TruFeel technology with directly injected internal TPR knobbies at the fingertips
  • Minimalistic design for optimal comfort
  • Available in a variety of colors

Pros:

  • Lightweight and minimalistic design provides optimal comfort during rides
  • Single-layer perforated Clarino palm enhances connection and feel with the bike
  • Ultra-light, stretch Nylon top allows for excellent mobility and comfort
  • Stretch nylon finger gussets increase airflow and improve dexterity
  • Produced by Fox Racing, a trusted brand in motocross gear
  • Combines innovation and style, while staying true to Fox Racing’s competitive motocross spirit

Cons:

  • The minimalist design provides less protection
  • Lacks a wrist closure system
  • The TruFeel technology with internal knobbies can take some getting used to
  • The Nylon and Clarino materials are not as abrasion-resistant as leather or other tougher fabrics

5. Seibertron Dirtpaw Dirt Bike Gloves: Best Affordable Option

  • Average Price: $20
  • Constructed from durable and flexible materials
  • Super grip technology
  • Wrist TPR hook and loop closure
  • Lightly padded palm and TPR protection for finger joints
  • Comfortable and breathable mesh fabric
  • Touch recognition functionality
  • Available in various colors

Pros:

  • Delivers superior performance, durability, and fit across various riding conditions
  • Durable and flexible materials on the back of the hand offer protection and mobility
  • Breathable mesh fabric helps keep hands cool and comfortable during long rides
  • Machine washable design makes cleaning and maintenance quick and easy
  • Strikes a good balance between comfort, protection, and functionality
  • Provides good value for the money

Cons:

  • The gloves are less than ideal for extreme off-roading or motocross racing, due to the reduced level of protection and padding
  • The breathable mesh fabric absorbs water and can become saturated in extended wet and muddy conditions
  • The gloves lack robust abrasion resistance

6. Klim XC Lite Off-Road Motorcycle Gloves: High-Performance Minimalism

  • Average Price: $35
  • Made from high-quality synthetic leather
  • Lightweight and breathable design
  • Touch-screen compatible index finger
  • Available in a range of sizes and colors
  • Padded construction
  • Trusted brand

Pros:

  • Provides a secure grip for better control
  • Offers a good balance between protection and tactile control
  • Lightweight and breathable design ensures comfort during warm weather rides
  • Padded construction enhances comfort and protection while riding
  • Trusted brand with a reputation for producing high-quality off-road gear

Cons:

  • Lacks sufficient protection for extreme off-road riding
  • Lacks palm sliders, reinforced knuckles, and a wrist closure system
  • Some may find the padding insufficient for their needs, especially in high-impact areas

7. Troy Lee Designs Air Gloves: Best for Summer

  • Average Price: $35
  • Compression-molded cuff
  • Micro-mesh material is used throughout for ventilation
  • Single-layer palm with laser-perforated holes
  • Sonic-welded TPRs (Thermoplastic Rubbers) in key areas
  • Silicone-printed fingertips for improved lever grip and control
  • Available in a range of sizes and colors

Pros:

  • Ultra lightweight design minimizes bulk and enhances comfort
  • Highly breathable micro-mesh material keeps hands cool and dry during hot weather rides
  • Designed by Troy Lee Designs, a brand with a proven track record in producing high-quality racing gear
  • Minimalist construction enhances the feel and control of the handlebars
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Provides a barehand-like feel for riders who prefer minimal interference

Cons:

  • Thin and lightweight materials provide minimal protection
  • The micro-mesh material, although breathable, is not as abrasion-resistant as heavier fabrics
  • The lightweight materials are more prone to tearing or snagging on branches and other trail hazards

8. Fox Racing Defend Thermo Off-Road Gloves: Best for Cold Weather

  • Average Price: $25
  • Compression-molded neoprene cuff with hook and loop closure
  • Padded single-layer conductive Clarino palm
  • Compatible with touchscreens
  • Insulated closed-cell foam top-of-hand fabric
  • PU-lined stretch nylon finger gussets
  • Silicone print at fingertips
  • Suitable for temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (~-1°C to 10°C)

Pros:

  • Insulated closed-cell foam offers warmth and protection from cold weather
  • PU-lined stretch nylon finger gussets help seal out the elements, keeping hands dry and warm
  • Made from a blend of durable and flexible materials for a balance of protection and dexterity
  • Designed specifically to keep hands warm without sacrificing performance in cold temperatures
  • Backed by Fox Racing’s reputation for producing high-quality off-road gear

Cons:

  • Gloves are not intended for extreme cold weather or prolonged exposure to cold wind
  • The insulation adds bulk to the gloves, making them more cumbersome
  • The padded palm reduces feedback from the handlebars
  • Don’t provide as much impact protection for trail riding as other gloves

9. 100% Brisker Cold Weather Motocross Gloves: Warmth & Dexterity

  • Average Price: $20
  • Adjustable TPR wrist closure with hook and loop backing
  • Lightly insulated soft-shell top-hand
  • Moisture-wicking microfiber interior
  • Single-layer Clarino palm
  • Touchscreen compatibility
  • Low-profile design engineered to maintain dexterity
  • Available in a variety of colors and sizes

Pros:

  • Designed to block out damp and cool temperatures effectively without adding excess bulk or weight
  • Moisture-wicking microfiber interior offers excellent insulation while keeping hands dry and comfortable
  • Ideal for cold trail exploring or extending your riding season
  • The embossed cuff provides simplistic comfort and a streamlined fit, eliminating bulk
  • Backed by 100%, a trusted brand known for producing high-quality motocross and off-road gear

Cons:

  • The lightly insulated design does not provide sufficient warmth for extremely cold temperatures
  • The low-profile design, while promoting dexterity, does not offer the same level of impact protection as bulkier, heavily armored gloves
  • Not fully waterproof

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dirt Bike Gloves for Trail Riding

Trail Riding Dirt Bike Gloves

When choosing dirt bike gloves for trail riding, there are several important factors to consider.

  • Construction and durability: Pay attention to the material and durability of the gloves. Look for options made from high-quality, abrasion-resistant materials like leather, Cordura, or Kevlar. Reinforced palms and fingers can provide added durability in high-wear areas, while quality stitching and overall construction ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Fit and comfort: Choose gloves that fit snugly but allow for a full range of motion and dexterity. Adjustable wrist closures can provide a secure and customizable fit, while breathable materials and venting help keep hands cool and comfortable during long rides.
  • Protection: Armored knuckles and reinforced palms offer added protection against impacts and abrasion, while padded fingers and thumbs provide extra cushioning and shock absorption.
  • Ventilation and breathability: Look for gloves with perforated leather, mesh panels, or venting systems to improve airflow. Moisture-wicking materials can also help prevent sweat buildup.
  • Touchscreen compatibility: Check if the gloves feature conductive materials on the fingertips, as this will allow you to use navigation apps, answer calls, or adjust settings without removing your gloves.
  • Price and Value: Dirt bike gloves can range from budget-friendly to premium. Consider your riding frequency, level of protection needed, and personal preferences when choosing a pair of gloves. Avoid super cheap gloves, as they typically offer little protection or durability.

Frequently Asked Dirt Bike Glove Questions:

Dirt bike gloves protect against abrasion, impact, and blisters while enhancing grip and control. Gloves also help reduce hand fatigue and protect against the elements, making them an important piece of riding gear.

Dirt bike gloves should be snug but not overly tight. They should fit closely to your hand without restricting movement or circulation. If gloves are too loose, they can bunch up or slide around, compromising grip.

To break in dirt bike gloves, wear them during short rides or practice sessions. Flex your hands and fingers frequently to help the gloves conform to your hand shape.

You should replace your dirt bike gloves when they show signs of excessive wear, such as holes, tears, or thinning material. On average, riders usually need to replace gloves every 6-12 months, depending on use.

Dirt bike gloves can be washed, however, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s care instructions, as most gloves cannot be machined washed or tumble dried, instead requiring hand washing and air drying.

Motocross gloves prioritize protection, with features like armored knuckles and reinforced palms for high-speed, high-impact riding. Trail riding gloves balance protection and comfort, with lighter materials and more ventilation for longer rides.

Hard knuckle protection offers extra impact protection but may sacrifice some flexibility and ventilation. If you frequently ride in densely wooded areas or tackle technical terrain, hard knuckle protection is a good idea, otherwise, lighter gloves are typically fine.

Additional Dirt Bike Resources:

Jason Kidd

Jason is both a writer and editor for Powersports Owner HQ and has been enjoying dirtbikes and ATVs for over 20 years.

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