Choosing the best dirt bike gloves for trail riding is about balancing protection, comfort, and control. The right pair shields your hands from branches, impacts, and blisters while giving you the grip and feel you need to handle your bike over challenging terrain. This roundup tests and compares the top gloves available to help you find the perfect match for your next off-road adventure.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Dirt Bike Gloves For Trail Riding Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. KEMIMOTO Winter Motorcycle Gloves, Rainproof Riding Warm Gloves with Touchscreen
- 2.2 2. KEMIMOTO Tactical Motorcycle Gloves
- 2.3 3. ILM Alloy Steel Touchscreen Gloves
- 2.4 4. J.A.G. Leather Motorcycle Gloves with Carbon Fiber Knuckle Protection
- 2.5 5. Durable Dirt Bike Motorcycle Gloves
- 2.6 6. Fox Racing Men’s Dirtpaw Motocross Gloves
- 2.7 7. WTACTFUL Lightweight Motorcycle Gloves
- 2.8 8. INBIKE Mountain Bike Gloves with Knuckle Guard
- 2.9 9. BYKR All-Weather Motorcycle Gloves
- 2.10 10. KEMIMOTO Sheepskin Leather Motorcycle Gloves
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Dirt Bike Gloves For Trail Riding
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Dirt Bike Gloves For Trail Riding Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. KEMIMOTO Winter Motorcycle Gloves, Rainproof Riding Warm Gloves with Touchscreen
This is the ultimate cold-weather glove for trail riders. The KEMIMOTO winter gloves keep your hands dry and warm, so you can focus on the ride even when the weather turns.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Four-layer construction with windproof and waterproof barriers for all-weather use.
✓ Hard PVC shield on the back of the hand for solid impact protection.
✓ Abrasion-resistant microfiber palm provides a superior, anti-skid grip.
✓ Touchscreen compatibility means you can use your phone without removing them.
Why We Recommend It
We chose this as our Best Choice because it’s a complete package for challenging conditions. The protection is top-notch, and the warmth doesn’t come at the cost of dexterity. It’s a reliable glove that extends your riding season.
Best For
Trail riders who face cold, wet, or unpredictable weather and need a single, highly protective glove to handle it all.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent waterproofing and insulation for winter rides.
- Durable build with good knuckle protection.
- Effective anti-slip palm for secure grip control.
- Touchscreen fingertips add modern convenience.
Cons:
- Can be too warm for hot summer trail riding.
- Bulkier than summer-specific gloves, which might reduce fine feel for some.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Finally, a winter glove that actually keeps the wind and water out. My hands stayed warm and dry on a long, muddy trail ride in 40-degree weather. The protection feels solid.”
Customer Review: “Great for cold morning rides. The grip is fantastic, and I appreciate being able to tap my GPS screen without exposing my hands to the cold.”
2. KEMIMOTO Tactical Motorcycle Gloves
These gloves strike a perfect balance between lightweight comfort and serious protection. They feel agile on your hands but don’t skimp on safety features.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Hard shell knuckles and reinforced palm padding for impact resistance.
✓ Three-finger touchscreen compatibility (thumb, index, middle).
✓ Tough, anti-slip palm with double-stitch seams for durability.
✓ Microfiber material offers excellent flexibility and comfort.
Why We Recommend It
This is our Editor’s Choice for its all-around excellence. It’s not the most specialized glove, but it does everything very well. The protection is confidence-inspiring without making the gloves stiff or uncomfortable for long trail days.
Best For
Riders looking for a versatile, do-it-all glove that offers great protection, good comfort, and modern features like touchscreen use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent balance of protection, comfort, and dexterity.
- Hard knuckle shells are effective without being bulky.
- Very comfortable for long periods of wear.
- Touchscreen fingertips work reliably.
Cons:
- Not waterproof or insulated for extreme cold.
- The sizing may run slightly small for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These gloves are excellent quality and a perfect balance of comfort and protection. The hard shell knuckles give solid coverage without feeling bulky, and the palm padding makes them comfortable for long rides. I’ve used them for motorcycle riding and some outdoor work, and they’ve held up really well.”
Customer Review: “I never do product reviews.. however, I’m so happy with these I’m making an exception. I wanted lightweight and simple gloves to replace the bulky gauntlets I had… These fit right in the middle..Soft and well fitting I still feel like they’re protective.”
3. ILM Alloy Steel Touchscreen Gloves
If you want maximum protection on a budget, these ILM gloves deliver. The alloy steel guards are serious business, offering peace of mind without a high price tag.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Professional alloy steel protection on knuckles and fingers for maximum safety.
✓ Engineered with ergonomic, U-type protection that follows the hand’s shape.
✓ Touchscreen compatible fingertips.
✓ Designed for a balance of protection and comfort.
Why We Recommend It
We name this the Best Budget option because the level of hard protection you get for the money is outstanding. They are built like armor for your hands, making them a fantastic value for newer riders or anyone who prioritizes crash protection.
Best For
Budget-conscious riders and beginners who want the highest possible impact protection from their first pair of trail riding gloves.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely high level of impact protection for the price.
- Durable construction that can take a beating.
- Aggressive, protective look.
- Includes touchscreen functionality.
Cons:
- Can be less comfortable and flexible than more expensive gloves.
- The alloy plates add weight and can feel rigid until broken in.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have nothing bad to say about these gloves, except they are not the most comfortable ones out there, but If you get the right size, you will get used to it… I like the look of them and they seem pretty well made and at that price nothing comes close to these.”
Customer Review: “I receive these gloves at a faster rate than when they were supposed to be here… The gloves have a touchscreen availability to be able to access your cell phone… I received many compliments about the glove.”
4. J.A.G. Leather Motorcycle Gloves with Carbon Fiber Knuckle Protection
For riders who love the classic feel and superior abrasion resistance of leather, these J.A.G. gloves are a premium pick. They blend traditional material with modern protection.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Made with genuine leather and carbon fiber hard knuckle guards.
✓ Anti-slip palm padding ensures a firm, confident grip on the handlebars.
✓ Touchscreen-compatible fingertips for smartphone use.
✓ Stretch panels on fingers enhance flexibility and comfort.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend these for riders seeking a premium, leather-focused glove. Leather naturally offers excellent durability and abrasion resistance, and the addition of carbon fiber protection brings it into the modern age of trail safety.
Best For
Riders who prefer the classic fit, feel, and break-in process of leather gloves and want high-end materials and protection.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Genuine leather offers excellent durability and a premium feel.
- Carbon fiber knuckle protection is lightweight and strong.
- Superior grip from the anti-slip palm design.
- Stylish, classic motorcycle glove appearance.
Cons:
- Leather requires a break-in period and different care than synthetic materials.
- May not be as breathable as mesh-based gloves in very hot weather.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The leather quality is impressive. They felt stiff at first but molded to my hands perfectly after a couple of rides. The carbon knuckles are low-profile but feel very protective.”
Customer Review: “Great grip and a solid feel. These feel like they’ll last for years. The touchscreen feature is a nice bonus I didn’t expect from a leather glove.”
5. Durable Dirt Bike Motorcycle Gloves
These gloves are all about breathability and natural hand movement. The stretchy, breathable back keeps you cool while the reinforced palm handles the hard work.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Stretch Lycra back for 360-degree breathability and enhanced dexterity.
✓ Anti-skid, durable palm with shock-absorbing padding.
✓ Touchscreen compatibility on thumb, index, and middle fingers.
✓ Nylon microfiber upper is tough yet flexible.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend these for riders who overheat easily or ride in hot climates. The focus on airflow is fantastic, and it doesn’t sacrifice the crucial palm protection and grip you need for control on the trail.
Best For
Summer trail riders and anyone who values maximum breathability and a barehand-like feel from their gloves.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally breathable and cool for hot weather riding.
- Great flexibility and dexterity for precise controls.
- Good palm grip and shock absorption.
- Affordable price for the feature set.
Cons:
- Less protective on the back of the hand compared to hard-shell gloves.
- The lightweight material may not be as durable in a severe crash.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very good quality, nice design and colors, fits well looks like $100 plus racing gloves.”
Customer Review: “These are my go-to summer gloves. My hands don’t sweat in them at all. The grip is good, and they’re comfortable right out of the box.”
6. Fox Racing Men’s Dirtpaw Motocross Gloves
From a legendary name in motocross, the Dirtpaw gloves offer proven, no-fuss performance. They are a classic choice focused on comfort and a secure fit.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Compression-molded neoprene cuff for a secure, comfortable fit around the wrist.
✓ Durable blend of polyamide nylon, neoprene, and other synthetics.
✓ Designed specifically for motocross and aggressive riding.
✓ Simple, effective design from a trusted brand.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend Fox Racing gear because they have decades of experience building products for the track and trail. The Dirtpaw is a reliable workhorse—it’s comfortable, fits well, and does the job without unnecessary gimmicks.
Best For
Riders who trust established motocross brands and want a straightforward, comfortable glove for aggressive trail or track riding.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent brand reputation and proven design.
- Very comfortable with a secure fit from the neoprene cuff.
- Durable construction that holds up to abuse.
- Good grip and feel on the controls.
Cons:
- Lacks hard knuckle protection found in many modern gloves.
- No touchscreen compatibility.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very comfortable. Fits my 14 year olds hand perfect. Great quality.”
Customer Review: “These gloves are really nice and they have a nice fit to my hands and i can use my phone with them.”
7. WTACTFUL Lightweight Motorcycle Gloves
These gloves are a summer standout, combining lightweight protection with a sleek look. They keep you cool while guarding your knuckles with carbon fiber.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Premium breathable stretch fabric for cool, comfortable hands.
✓ Lightweight carbon fiber knuckle shell for impact protection.
✓ Reinforced palm with anti-slip grip made from soft faux suede.
✓ Touchscreen compatible and designed for a natural fit.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the WTACTFUL gloves for riders who want the safety of a hard knuckle guard but in the lightest, most breathable package possible. They are a fantastic summer alternative to heavier protective gloves.
Best For
Style-conscious riders and summer trail enthusiasts who want effective knuckle protection without the weight or bulk of traditional armored gloves.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent breathability and lightweight feel.
- Carbon fiber knuckles add protection without much weight.
- Comfortable, conforming fit with good grip.
- Sleek, modern aesthetic.
Cons:
- Faux suede palm may wear faster than full leather in high-abrasion areas.
- Lightweight fabric may not be as durable in a severe crash.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect for hot weather. The carbon knuckles are low-profile but feel protective, and the gloves are so light I forget I’m wearing them. Great for long trail rides.”
Customer Review: “Love the look and the fit. They’re very comfortable and the touchscreen feature actually works well. Great value for a summer glove.”
8. INBIKE Mountain Bike Gloves with Knuckle Guard
Born from mountain biking, these gloves bring excellent vibration damping and knuckle protection to the dirt bike world. They are a comfy and practical choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ TPR rubber knuckle guard protects against branches and impacts.
✓ 5mm thick palm pads absorb shock and reduce hand numbness.
✓ Non-slip silicone strips on the fingers for extra grip.
✓ High-stretch, breathable fabric for comfort and airflow.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend INBIKE gloves because the crossover from mountain biking makes perfect sense. The focus on padding to fight fatigue is a huge benefit on long, bumpy trail rides, and the knuckle guard is a simple, effective add-on.
Best For
Trail riders who struggle with arm pump or hand fatigue, and those who want lightweight knuckle protection from trailside brush.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent shock-absorbing palm padding reduces fatigue.
- Comfortable and breathable for all-day wear.
- Good value for the feature set.
- Effective protection against scrapes and light impacts.
Cons:
- Rubber knuckle guard is less protective than hard plastic or carbon fiber in a direct crash.
- Design is more oriented towards bike grip than motorcycle clutch/brake feel.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “They are comfortable and rugged. They fit true to size. And the price can’t be beat.”
Customer Review: “The palm padding is a game-changer. My hands used to go numb on long rides, but these gloves have solved that problem completely.”
9. BYKR All-Weather Motorcycle Gloves
Marketed as an all-weather option, these BYKR gloves aim for versatility. They offer a snug fit and are built to handle various outdoor sports beyond just dirt biking.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Built with durable ammara fabric and double-stitched palm for safety.
✓ Designed for versatility across dirt biking, BMX, ATV, and mechanical work.
✓ Snug, flexible fit for optimal control and dexterity.
✓ Silicone printing enhances grip and durability.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend these for the rider who uses their gear for multiple activities. If you jump between your dirt bike, quad, and mountain bike, a versatile glove like this can be a great single solution.
Best For
The multi-sport adventurer who needs one pair of durable gloves for dirt biking, ATV riding, and other outdoor activities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very versatile for multiple sports and uses.
- Secure, snug fit that improves control.
- Durable construction with reinforced palms.
- Good grip from the silicone palm print.
Cons:
- “All-Weather” claim may not match specialized winter or summer gloves.
- Lacks hard knuckle protection found in many dedicated motorcycle gloves.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Why did you pick this product vs others?:Look and appearance of the grip.Durability:Very durable. Purchased for go cart racing. Palms have great grip.Comfort:Very comfortable for our daughter. She loves them.Fit:Fit as described.”
Customer Review: “Excellent fit. Good grip and keeps your hands cool! I would buy again!”
10. KEMIMOTO Sheepskin Leather Motorcycle Gloves
These gloves represent a premium take on protection, using sheepskin leather for durability and a perforated design for comfort. They are built to last.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Premium sheepskin leather offers long-lasting durability and wear resistance.
✓ Carbon fiber hard shells on the knuckles and EVA/padding in the palm.
✓ Perforated design promotes airflow and heat dissipation.
✓ Anti-slip properties for a reliable grip.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend these for the rider who views gloves as a long-term investment. The combination of tough sheepskin leather and strategic hard armor points to a glove that can handle years of trail abuse while staying relatively cool.
Best For
Serious riders looking for a durable, premium leather glove with modern protective features for aggressive trail and motocross use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable sheepskin leather construction.
- High level of protection with carbon fiber and padding.
- Perforations help with breathability for a leather glove.
- Excellent grip and a premium feel.
Cons:
- One of the more expensive options on the list.
- Leather still requires break-in and may not be as cool as full-mesh gloves.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The quality of the leather is immediately apparent. They feel like they’re built like a tank. The perforations are a smart touch to keep them from getting too hot.”
Customer Review: “A significant step up from my old gloves. The protection is confidence-inspiring, and they’re breaking in nicely. Definitely a buy-it-for-life feeling.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Dirt Bike Gloves For Trail Riding
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the best dirt bike gloves isn’t just about color. You need to think about protection first. Look for knuckle guards (hard plastic, carbon fiber, or tough rubber) to shield from impacts with branches or the ground. Next, check the palm material. It should be abrasion-resistant and have a good grip, often with silicone prints or padded sections. Breathability is key for comfort; mesh panels or perforated leather keep your hands cool. Don’t forget fit—gloves should be snug but not restrictive, allowing full control of levers and grips.
Budget Planning
You can find capable trail riding gloves at almost any price. Budget options (under $30) often offer basic protection and durability but might lack advanced features like touchscreens or premium materials. Mid-range gloves ($30-$60) are the sweet spot, offering a great mix of protection, comfort, and features like hard knuckles and good breathability. Premium gloves ($60+) typically use top-tier materials like high-grade leather, offer superior construction, and come from established brands with proven track records.
Final Thoughts
The best glove is the one that matches your riding conditions and personal priorities. A cold-weather rider needs insulation, while a desert rider needs maximum airflow. Always prioritize protection and fit over looks. It’s worth having at least two pairs: a lightweight, breathable set for summer and a more protective or insulated pair for cooler, rougher rides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are dirt bike gloves really necessary for trail riding?
A: Absolutely. They are a critical piece of safety gear. They protect your hands from blisters, absorb vibrations that cause fatigue, and shield your skin from abrasion in a fall. A good pair also improves your grip on the controls, especially when wet or muddy.
Q: How should dirt bike gloves fit?
A: They should fit like a second skin—snug but not tight. You should be able to make a fist comfortably and operate all controls without any material bunching up. There shouldn’t be excess material at the fingertips. If in doubt, consult the brand’s specific sizing chart.
Q: Can I use mountain bike gloves for dirt biking?
A: You can, and many cross over well (like the INBIKE model in our list). Mountain bike gloves excel at vibration damping and breathability. However, they may lack the heavy-duty knuckle protection and extreme abrasion resistance found in gloves specifically designed for motorcycle crashes.
Q: How do I clean my dirt bike gloves?
A> Always check the manufacturer’s label first. Many can be hand-washed gently in lukewarm water with mild soap, then air-dried away from direct heat. Never put them in the dryer, as this can ruin padding, leather, and adhesives.
Q: What’s more important, leather or synthetic gloves?
A> It depends on your needs. Leather is generally more durable and abrasion-resistant but can be hotter and requires break-in. Synthetic materials (like mesh, nylon, microfiber) are often lighter, more breathable, and may include waterproof layers. Many great gloves use a combination of both.
Finding the best dirt bike gloves for trail riding comes down to matching your needs with the right features. Whether you prioritize ultimate winter warmth, lightweight summer breathability, or maximum crash protection, there’s a perfect pair on this list. Your hands are your direct connection to the bike, and protecting them is non-negotiable for safe, enjoyable riding. Review our top picks, consider the buying guide, and get ready to hit the trails with confidence.
Ready to gear up? Click on any product above to check the latest price and find the gloves that will become your new trail partners.
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