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For many riders the BMW name stands for sport touring and superbike racing. The bike provides the power, but the gloves carry the rider's control inputs. The are a BMW-inspired racing glove. Check the product page for the materials and protectors listed, and the label for any EN 13594 level; this article does not state a level for this pair.
Whether the ride is a mountain pass or a track day, the points below explain what a sport glove should offer and how to read its protection claims.
Key Takeaways
- Sport gloves commonly combine a leather shell, hard knuckle protection and palm sliders; the label shows what a pair was tested to.
- Kangaroo leather is a thin, strong option used on some performance gloves.
- EN 13594 is the European standard for motorcyclists' gloves, with Level 1 and Level 2.
- This design is BMW-inspired and has no affiliation with BMW.
Materials and Construction
A motorcycle glove has to do more than block wind. It acts as a second skin, so the rider can still feel the throttle, brake and clutch.
Leather Choices
- Cowhide and goatskin: cowhide is a common choice for the back of the hand, where abrasion resistance matters, while goatskin is often used on the palm for feel.
- Kangaroo leather: a strong, lightweight leather that can be cut thin and still retain strength, which is why it appears on performance gloves and racing leathers.
- Reinforced stitching: seams are a typical failure point in a slide, so strong thread and seam layout matter.
Protective Features
riders who want a track-ready glove should check for the following features.
- Knuckle protection: hard shells in carbon or TPU are common on sport gloves.
- Palm sliders: hard inserts on the palm, intended to let it slide. Check whether a given pair has them and what it was tested to.
- Finger bridge: a leather bridge between the ring and little fingers is a common feature on sport gloves.
- Double wrist closure: two straps are common on sport gloves.
A finger bridge, hard knuckle shells and a double wrist closure are design features intended to help in a slide; they only mean something if the glove is tested and marked to EN 13594. The European standard EN 13594 covers motorcyclists' gloves. As described by SATRA, it tests seam strength, cut, tear and abrasion resistance, how well the glove stays on, and ergonomics, and makes impact protection mandatory for Level 2. Level 1 offers lower protection with more dexterity; Level 2 offers more protection with possible weight and restriction. Check a glove's labeling for the level it was tested to.
Comfort and Fit
- Pre-curved fingers: the glove is shaped to match the hand's resting position on the grip, which reduces effort on long rides.
- Stretch panels: flexible sections on the fingers and thumb ease lever reach.
- Ventilation: perforated leather and knuckle vents help hands stay dry in warm weather.
BMW Motorsport Styling
The design takes its cues from BMW Motorsport styling. Riders who prefer another look can compare or .
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EN 13594?
EN 13594 is the European standard for protective gloves for motorcycle riders. It tests properties such as seam strength, abrasion, cut and tear resistance and how well the glove stays on the hand. Level 2 gloves must also pass an impact test on the knuckles, while Level 1 trades some protection for dexterity.
Is kangaroo leather better than cowhide for gloves?
Kangaroo leather is a strong, lightweight material that can be cut thin and still keep its strength, which suits gloves where feel matters. Cowhide is usually thicker and common on the back of the hand. Which is better depends on the use, the fit and the glove construction.
What do palm sliders do?
Palm sliders are hard inserts on the palm, intended to let the hand slide. Whether a given pair has them, and what it was tested to, is shown on the product page and the label; a finger bridge and a secure wrist closure are other features found on sport gloves.
Is BMW involved in making these gloves?
No. The design is inspired by BMW motorsport styling, and BMW has no affiliation with the product. It is a replica-style glove for riders who like that look, and it should be judged on its own construction, materials and protection labeling like any other sport glove.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.
