Alpinestars SP Air Sport Motorcycle Gloves Review

by Faj Lennon 50 views

Hey guys, today we're diving deep into the Alpinestars SP Air Sport Motorcycle Gloves. If you're like me, you know that finding the right pair of gloves is crucial for both comfort and safety when you're out on the road. These gloves promise a blend of protection, ventilation, and flexibility, making them a popular choice for riders. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and see if they live up to the hype.

First Impressions: Design and Build Quality

Right off the bat, the design of the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves catches your eye. They've got that sporty, aggressive look that goes perfectly with a modern sportbike or even a more casual ride. Available in multiple colorways, you can easily find a pair that matches your gear. But it’s not just about looks; the build quality feels solid. Alpinestars has used a combination of materials, including leather and mesh, to strike a balance between durability and breathability. The leather panels are strategically placed in high-impact areas like the palm and knuckles, while the mesh sections allow for ample airflow, keeping your hands cool on those hot summer rides.

The stitching is clean and robust, and there are no immediately obvious points of weakness. The inclusion of features like a Velcro wrist closure and knuckle protectors adds to the sense of security and quality. Putting them on, they feel snug but not overly tight, suggesting a well-thought-out ergonomic design. These gloves give you the confidence that they're up to the task, providing both comfort and a degree of protection right from the first wear. It's evident that Alpinestars has put a lot of thought into the SP Air Sport gloves, aiming for a design that not only looks great but also offers a high level of functionality and safety for the rider.

Protection Features

When it comes to motorcycle gear, protection is paramount, and the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves don't disappoint. These gloves are packed with features designed to keep your hands safe in the event of a crash. The most prominent is the hard knuckle protector, constructed from a robust material that can absorb and dissipate impact energy. This is crucial for protecting one of the most vulnerable parts of your hand. Additionally, the gloves feature strategically placed padding on the fingers and palm, offering extra cushioning and abrasion resistance.

The use of reinforced leather in key areas further enhances the gloves' protective capabilities. Alpinestars has incorporated their synthetic suede reinforcements on the palm and landing zones, providing additional grip and resistance against wear and tear. These reinforcements are particularly important because the palm is often the first point of contact in a fall. The finger bridge between the third and fourth fingers is another thoughtful addition, helping to prevent finger roll and separation in a crash. Overall, the protection features of the SP Air Sport gloves are comprehensive, offering a high level of security without compromising on comfort or flexibility.

Comfort and Ventilation

Comfort and ventilation are crucial, especially during long rides, and the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves truly shine in these aspects. The combination of leather and mesh materials provides an excellent balance between durability and airflow. The mesh panels are strategically placed on the back of the hand and between the fingers, allowing for optimal ventilation. This keeps your hands cool and dry, even in hot weather conditions, which significantly reduces discomfort and fatigue. The pre-curved finger design enhances comfort by mimicking the natural curvature of the hand, reducing bunching and pressure points. This design allows for a more natural grip on the handlebars, improving control and reducing hand fatigue.

The adjustable Velcro wrist closure ensures a secure and customizable fit, preventing the gloves from slipping off during a ride. The soft, moisture-wicking lining further enhances comfort by keeping your hands dry and comfortable. Overall, the SP Air Sport gloves are designed with the rider's comfort in mind, making them an excellent choice for both short commutes and long-distance touring. The thoughtful integration of ventilation and ergonomic design elements ensures a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience, regardless of the weather conditions. These gloves prove that you don't have to sacrifice comfort for protection; they offer both in equal measure.

Fit and Sizing

Getting the right fit with any glove is essential for both comfort and safety, and the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves are no exception. Alpinestars provides a detailed sizing chart to help you find the perfect fit. It's important to measure your hand accurately, following the instructions on the chart, to ensure you get the right size. The gloves are designed to fit snugly without being too tight, allowing for a full range of motion and dexterity. The pre-curved finger design contributes to a more natural and comfortable fit, reducing bunching and pressure points.

The adjustable Velcro wrist closure allows you to fine-tune the fit, ensuring the gloves stay securely in place during your ride. When trying on the gloves, make sure you can comfortably operate your motorcycle's controls without any restriction. The gloves should feel secure but not constricting, allowing you to maintain a firm grip on the handlebars. If you're between sizes, it's generally recommended to go up a size to ensure a comfortable fit. A well-fitting glove not only enhances comfort but also improves your control and reduces hand fatigue, making your rides safer and more enjoyable. Alpinestars has put a lot of thought into the fit and sizing of the SP Air Sport gloves, making it easier for riders to find a pair that fits perfectly and performs exceptionally.

Performance on the Road

Taking the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves out on the road is where they truly shine. The combination of comfort, protection, and ventilation makes them a joy to wear in various riding conditions. The excellent airflow keeps your hands cool and dry, even on hot summer days, preventing sweat and discomfort that can distract you from the road. The pre-curved finger design and flexible materials allow for a natural and comfortable grip on the handlebars, giving you precise control over your bike. The gloves provide excellent tactile feedback, allowing you to feel the road and your bike's response with confidence.

The reinforced palm and fingers offer a secure grip, even in wet conditions, enhancing your control and safety. The hard knuckle protector and strategically placed padding provide peace of mind, knowing your hands are well-protected in case of an accident. Whether you're commuting through city traffic or carving through twisty mountain roads, the SP Air Sport gloves perform exceptionally well. They offer the perfect balance of comfort, protection, and performance, making them an ideal choice for any type of riding. These gloves enhance your overall riding experience, allowing you to focus on the road and enjoy the ride to the fullest. They're a testament to Alpinestars' commitment to quality and innovation in motorcycle gear.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves:

Pros:

  • Excellent Ventilation: Keeps hands cool and dry in hot weather.
  • Robust Protection: Hard knuckle protector and reinforced palm for impact resistance.
  • Comfortable Fit: Pre-curved finger design and adjustable wrist closure.
  • High-Quality Materials: Combination of leather and mesh for durability and breathability.
  • Stylish Design: Sporty look with various color options.

Cons:

  • Limited Cold Weather Use: Not ideal for cold weather riding due to ventilation.
  • Price: Slightly more expensive compared to some other gloves in the market.
  • Not Waterproof: Lacks waterproofing, which may be a drawback in wet conditions.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final word on the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves? Overall, these gloves are a fantastic choice for riders looking for a combination of protection, comfort, and ventilation. They excel in warm weather conditions, providing excellent airflow and a comfortable fit that reduces fatigue on long rides. The robust protection features, including the hard knuckle protector and reinforced palm, offer peace of mind knowing your hands are well-protected. While they may not be the best option for cold or wet weather, their performance in warm conditions is hard to beat. If you're willing to invest a bit more for a high-quality pair of gloves that will keep your hands comfortable and safe, the Alpinestars SP Air Sport gloves are definitely worth considering. They're a testament to Alpinestars' commitment to quality and innovation, making them a top choice for riders around the world.