Motorcycle Leather Gloves: How to Choose Size, Fit and Protection Level

Gloves are the most frequently used piece of equipment after the helmet. A poorly chosen pair can make riding unpleasant within 30 minutes; a good pair becomes a second skin and protects you in case of a fall. This guide structures the selection process into four clear steps, detailing protection levels, materials, and cuts. At the end, the five Holdfast 1340 models are compared.

Step 1 — Measure your hand correctly

Hand's touch

Using a tape measure, measure the circumference of the palm without the thumb, at the widest point (just below the finger joints). Take the measurement with your hand relaxed.

Hand length

Measure from the base of the wrist (crease) to the tip of the middle finger.

Size correspondence

Tips The leather stretches 5-10% in the first month of wear. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller one (for a "skin-like" fit).

Step 2 — Choose the level of protection (CE)

Motorcycle gloves sold in Europe must be CE approved For road use (EN 13594:2015 standards). There are two levels:

Level 1 (KP-1)

Basic protection. Suitable for urban riding and moderate touring. Abrasion resistant and reinforced seams, but minimal protection.

Level 2 (KP-2)

Enhanced protection. Hard shells incorporated at the joints, double stitching, critical areas reinforced with 1,3mm+ leather. Suitable for sport riding, long-distance rides, or intensive use.

Non-CE "heritage" gloves

Some vintage/chopper gloves (notably Holdfast tattoo gloves, some Maison Broussaud gloves) are available without CE approvalLegally, they should not be used as motorcycle equipment in Europe since 2018. In practice, many bikers use them for short trips or events. It's your responsibility.

Our tip: have two pairs — a CE certified one for the road, a heritage one for style and events.

Step 3 — Choosing the leather

Leather is not a uniform material; each type has its own characteristics.

Full-grain cowhide

The standard. Balance of strength/flexibility/price. Most European motorcycle gloves use 0,9-1,2mm cowhide.

Goatskin

More flexible and thinner than cowhide. Better feel for sensitive controls (finger brake). Slightly less abrasion-resistant at the same thickness.

Kangaroo skin

The strongest for its weight. Extremely thin and flexible. Used in competition and high-end gloves. High price.

Horsehide (horse skin)

Exceptional durability but initially quite stiff. Beautiful patina after 6 months. Best suited for vintage/heritage styles.

Tanning

• Vegetable tanning (Vegetable tan): traditional tanning process, evolving patina, leather that ages well. More expensive, more eco-friendly.
• Chrome tanning : quick and cheap, basic soft leather but which ages less well.

Step 4 — Choosing the cut

Short glove (classic)

Stops above the wrist. Comfortable, easy to put on/take off, watch compatible. Less protective in case of a fall (exposed wrist area).

Mid-length glove

Covers the upper forearm. A good compromise between protection and comfort. A good all-around choice.

Rampart glove (long)

Covers the forearm, cuffs tightened over or under the jacket. Maximum protection, recommended for sport motorcycling and long distances.

"Chopper/vintage style" glove

Short, minimalist, often without visible reinforcements, simple buckle at the wrist. Aesthetics prioritized over protection.

The 5 Holdfast 1340 models compared

Our 1340 range is inspired by the chopper postcode of the South of France and offers 5 finishes.

Bronze and Black Tattoo : our best-sellers for the chopper/cruise style. Soft leather from the first try, develops a patina quickly.
Classic Racer : the balanced choice for everyday road use, approved.
Road Protect : for intensive, long-distance or sporty riders.
Heritage Chopper : horsehide for true vintage enthusiasts.

Break-in period: how to get used to your new gloves

• Week 1 : leather is stiff, wear them even at home for 30 minutes to an hour to soften them.
• Week 2-3 : initial adjustments. If a finger scratches, it will probably be the case throughout use.
• After 1 months : the gloves have molded to the shape of your hand, they become really comfortable.

Applying a light leather balm before the first outing helps prevent initial drying.

Motorcycle leather glove care

• Drying after rain : flat, in the open air, never on a radiator.
• Feeding : every 6 months with a soft leather balm (Famaco, Saphir).
• Stain removal : damp cloth + leather soap, no water immersion.
• Summer storage : in a drawer, not in the motorcycle trunk (humidity, heat).

F.A.Q

Which size should I choose between two (ML for example)?
The smaller size if you want a snug fit (leather will stretch). The larger size if you prefer immediate comfort.

How long do good leather motorcycle gloves last?
With normal maintenance, 3-7 years for daily use, 10+ years for occasional use.

Can you wear winter gloves in summer?
No, it's uncomfortable and dangerous (sweating, loss of sensation). Plan on having one pair for summer and one pair for mid-season/winter.

Can Tattoo Holdfast gloves be worn while riding a scooter?
The same advice applies as for motorcycles: their heritage aesthetics take precedence over CE protection. For regular road use, opt for the 1340 Classic Racer version.

Choosing the right gloves takes 15 minutes of measuring and thinking, which will save you 3 years of discomfort. Discover the Holdfast motorcycle leather gloves collection or come and try the 1340 range from our distributor in Salon de Provence  https://www.harleysunroad.com/