Held Women's Touch Gloves

Really good women's gloves (with adequate protection) are fairly hard to come by. That's why I'm so excited to see these from Held make it to the US!

I'm a HUGE fan of kangaroo palm riding gloves. My everyday gloves are my trusty Racer High Ends, which were discontinued long ago. I'm still hanging onto the two pairs I bought more than 4 years ago. I've always worn my Racers in warmer weather, even when it's 100F degrees out. They grip better than anything else I've worn when it's that hot.

These new gloves from Held have perforated Kangaroo palms which are going to be AMAZING in the summer!

The palm slider is constructed of SuperFabric, which has high abrasion resistant properties, which they clam is even stronger than Kevlar! These gloves also feature a touch friendly pad on each index finger, for those of you who are navigating with your smartphones. You'll also notice the patented Held Visor Wiper on the left index finger as well.

I like the multiple flex points where the accordion panels are; along the top of the wrist and knuckle, thumb and fingers. This makes squeezing your handgrips that much easier and more comfortable, so even if your fingers are reaching the ends of the glove,  you know they won't fight you as you're riding.

The sizing is numeric; 6/XSmall, 7/Small 8/Medium. If you have larger hands, then you will want to try the mens version offered from 8-12. Thank you Held for NOT dumbing down the ladies version of these gloves. We want and need the SAME protection as our male counterparts. And if you have tiny hands like I do, you'll love the size 6 option, which is one of the smallest sizes available for women. I'm hoping these have a similar fit to my Racers. Once I get find out I'll update my post!

I cannot wait to get my hands on a pair of these for Spring. I just hope they fit as well as my Racers do!

New Revit Women's Gear for Spring

 

If we're lucky, Spring will come early to us in the Northeast. It's definitely been a warm winter, with only one real snowstorm having come through a couple weeks ago. So let's get a jumpstart on Spring with all New Gear from Revit and Dainese! 

Let's start with my favorite brand Revit and a few new Jacket and Pant Combos as well as some great gloves:

Airwave 2

$229.99 Jacket, $209.99 Pants

The popular 2 piece Airwave suit is back in its second revision. Above is one of the colors, which I really like. You will also find black and 3 other silver combinations for the jacket and finally a silver option for the pants! The last version was only offered in black and all white (why??).  I'm loving all the new color options as well. In addition to the 2 silver combos above, you can also find black, white/black and silver/fuschia. And the best part, Short and Tall Sizing is now available in the pants! The previous version did not have these options. Thank you Revit for making more available to us. Take note, if you're trying to sell women's motorcycle gear to the Masses, then you better step up your game and make everything fit women as well as Revit does.

One major change that I'm not too happy with is that they've removed the full inner zipper from the crotch to the ankle. I think this was a huge mistake but I'm anxious to see how well they fit. They probably have a slimmer fitment since they're not designed as overpants anymore, whereas the previous version fit much looser.

And yes, the price has gone up a little on the jacket and pant, but the pants now include Seesoft Hip Protectors (which are thinner than the Tryonic Hip Protectors offered in their other pants)  along with the Knox protectors at the knees!

Tornado 2

$339.99 Jacket, $359.99 Pants

Don't worry, you can also get the almighty color black in this outfit as well. Again, Revit has provided us more options by adding short and tall sizes for the pants! Woo hoo. In the pants you're getting better armor than the Airwaves with Seeflex level 2 CE protection at knees and Seesmart CE-level 1 protection at hip. There also appears to be seat grippers on your butt. The overall functionality of the outfit remains the same, with a 2-in-1 thermal and waterproof liner (so one liner that comes out, not two). This makes the outfit much better suited for non humid, wet summer riding. You'll need to wear rain gear over the top so you're not sweltering inside.

I'm hoping they adjusted the fitment along the forearms and made them a bit slimmer in the smaller sizes.

Outback 2 Jacket and Enterprise 2 Pants

Jacket $349.99, Pants $199.99

The Outback and Enterprise has been in Revit's Mens Lineup for a few seasons now, but hasn't been entered into the women's lineup until this season. The Enterprise 2 Pants feature an integrated waterproof membrane, and a functional cargo style pocket on the right thigh. They were smart this time around and added thinner Seeflex Hip Protectors again so as to not increase volume which then adds almost an extra size around the hips. These pants are also offered in black and short and tall sizes!

The Outback 2 jacket has 2 removable liners to give you 3 full seasons, maybe 4 depending how mild your summer and winter seasons are.  I've always felt that Revit does the best job when it comes to pants, they know how we need riding pants to fit. They know exactly how to articulate them so when we put our feet up on the pegs, they don't rise up as much as other pants can. They know how to make them so comfortable when you're riding for 8-10 hours a day you have no idea you're wearing them.

GLOVES

Revit has 5 new women's gloves for Spring. Unfortunately I think they got rid of one glove that was really one of the best gloves in their lineup, the Bomber. It was a fantastic short cuffed summer glove, and offered a lot of protection at that level. That's the only thing that disappoints me slightly about the glove offerings, but there's definitely an alternative in the lineup.

And they're finally offered in XS! Let's start with street and then go to the lighter options.

Summit 2 H2O

$139.99. The Summit 2's are a follow up to the popular Summit gloves. I thought these were the best street gloves for women, given how versatile they were being waterproof. They were great for fairly year round riding (except extreme heat and cold). The newest version still has the same features that I think made the last versions great; palm sliders, hard knuckle protection and even a pinky protector. They aren't a winter glove (think 50s-60-70s before windchill) and aren't a summer glove (80s-90s+) but work well for those in between temperatures.

Chevron 2

At $119.99, the Chevron 2s are the ideal summer weight, short cuffed glove. I'm personally not a fan of short cuff gloves as I much prefer more wrist protection. However, if you're looking for a shortie, this offers a palm slider (which wasn't offered on the last version) and hard knuckle protection. Two things that are nice to have while riding on the street. Don't worry, it's also offered in black.

Monster 2

$129.99.  The Monster 2's are like a Bomber, but lacking a palm slider and wrist strap. I think Revit is trying to appeal to the hipster / urban / city / fashion crowd by adding quilting and a brown option (black too). Other brands have tried to make stylish gloves that offers some protection but the one thing they lack is the fact that they're not Revit, and Revit knows how to make gloves. I just wish they had a palm slider, given the price point. But if you need that protection then that's what Chevron 2's are for.

Fly 2

$89.99. The Fly 2's are your more affordable summer glove, at a lower price point. Not a lot going on, just a simple leather glove with some hard knuckle protection. No surprises here.

Striker 2

$89.99. The Striker 2's are also new in the women's lineup, for the dual sport / adventure enthusiasts. These lack a hard palm slider for pavement so be careful if you're trying to wear these on the street. Otherwise I like what they have to offer, leather palms and light textile mesh on top with some hard knuckles and a secure wrist strap.

Neutron 2

$79.99. For $10 less than the Striker 2 you'll get softer knuckle armor but otherwise not much different. Leather palms and a light textile mesh on top for summer dual sport / adventure riding.

Heated Women's Motorcycle Gear

After a chilly ride the other day, I thought about what I'm going to do to keep my fingers from freezing to death while out riding. Because at 50F + windchill it feels like 40F; it's COLD! 

So what is the best option for staying warm while riding your motorcycle? Two Words: Heated Gear.

In 2011, when I was first introduced to the world of Heated Jacket Liners. TOASTY!

You might be debating whether or not to go this route. If you've decided you're going to take the plunge, it's important to know what the best options are for us as women riders. Before I dive into some recommendations, let's review some basics.

How Should My Liners Be Worn?

When it comes to wearing heated gear, keep in mind that heated liners are meant to be worn Underneath. You need to block the wind so that you can actually feel the heat. These also do not offer any type of protection when it comes to abrasion resistance or impact protection. Also, it’s crucial that it fits CLOSE to your body, as fitted as your riding gear. How else are you going to feel all that delicious heat?

However, keep in mind that you must also wear a baselayer because the heating elements are hot so you need to wear a long sleeve shirt of some kind as a barrier between your skin and the gear. Not a heavy sweater or thick fleece jacket, but a breathable winter weight baselayer.  Otherwise you will get burns as you turn up the intensity!

So the order of layers is:

1. Thermal, winter weight baselayer
2. Heated Jacket Liner or Pants
3. Armored Riding Jacket or Pants

7Volt vs. 12Volt

As you start shopping, you will see these terms thrown around on various types of gear. It’s important to know the difference, especially when riding motorcycles. One will work very well for us, the other will not.

7Volt or 7V, refers to Battery Powered Heated Gear. That means there's a little battery in your pocket that allows you to adjust the heat while you're out and about. It lasts anywhere from 3-6 hours depending on how much heat you're using during any given time. I actually have a 7V vest that I bought just for working at the time (3 years ago) because the store I worked at was So cold inside. I tried using it just riding across San Francisco, but it didn't have enough heat no matter what jacket I wore over it. You cannot plug this into your motorcycle's battery to power the vest. And you only have heat squares that cover the upper chest and back. Another reason why this doesn't provide enough heat to your body while riding.

You will see a ton of 7V(olt) options on the market from many brands including Gyde (formerly Gerbing), VentureHeat and MobileWarming, but these 7V options do NOT provide enough heat to keep you warm at riding speeds. Maybe if you're riding a bicycle, but bump that speed up to 45-55-65-75mph and now that 7V vest can't keep up. And, you don't have heat down your sleeves, back, arms and neck like you do on a 12V jacket.

12Volt or 12V, refers to heated gear that you can plug directly into your bike's battery to provide continuous, intense heat. YES! Now you have more options to stay warm.

The reason I would recommend the women’s specific lines is because the fitment can be much better in the shoulders, sleeves, waist and bust. You also don’t have to size up to accommodate your chest/bust fit as you will with mens lines. 

Now, let's go over what the options are for 12V gear and the various combinations you can put together to stay warm. I'm going to list the options on WarmnSafe.com's website. Remember that all the women's heated gear offered through FirstGear is a WarmnSafe product. When you buy any of the women's specific heated accessories, you will find both logos on the garments.

12V Options:

1/ Generation 4 Women’s Heated Jacket Liner. $199.99-$239.99 This version uses a new heated material that sounds less bulky and softer overall. I’m very tempted to upgrade to this one because I’m hoping it heats better than the wires do. The wires are large and you can definitely feel them in the Gen 3 Liner. It also has a newer collar and reflective piping on the back, which I’m not sure how you would see since you should be wearing this Underneath your riding jacket. These liners are NOT meant to be worn alone.   The 90Watt generates more heat, and I believe it draws very similar power to the 65Watt. 

• 65watt; XS-XL $199.99 This version is probably being discontinued as Large is no longer available. You do save $40, however.
• 90watt; XS-2XL; TALL SIZES available! $239.99. This is such a great option for those of you who need longer sleeves and torsos.

 

2/  Generation 3 Women’s Heated Jacket Liner $199.99, XS-2XL I'm wearing this one in the picture above, and it's also the one that's sold through the brand FirstGear. No difference from the one sold on WarmnSafe's website, just comes with a FirstGear logo. If you're already considering spending $200 on a heated jacket, you may as well spend a few dollars more and get the Generation 4 model above. This one is still offered in 65W and 90W options, however Tall sizes are not available. Read my full review here.

3/ FirstGear Heated Pant Liners. There are two options for the pant liners as well!

• Gen4 Heated Pants Liner: XS-XL, $199.99; I’ve seen this one in person and it fits like a legging. Not as thin of course, but thin enough to wear under your riding pants. I was impressed by how well they fit. They seem true to fit.  “Heated zones cover thigh and knee and upper butt“

• Generation Windblock Heated Pant Liners: XS-XL; $239.99 Looks like the Windblock version has a couple key differences:
  • NEW WindBlock Pants Liner! Front Panel Made From Stretch Gelanots™ to Block the Wind.
  • NEW Run the Pants and Socks together or on Separate Heat-trollers
  • I can't tell any differences aesthetically, they look the same on the outside and the fit appears to be the same as well.

4/ Warmnsafe Women's Heated Gloves.  $129.99, S-L I’m pretty sure these gloves run loose. If you need XS, I would recommend the Heated Glove Liners instead. I personally prefer riding gloves that offer more protection such as palm sliders and hard knuckles, so for me, these don’t work. But if you’re searching for a toasty glove to ride in, you’ll probably love these.

5/ Firstgear Heated Glove Liners, Unisex XS-2XL; $79.95. These are the ones I want! These liners should be thin enough to wear under your gloves. If you have the jacket, then all you have to do is plug each glove into the cable on each wrist. Atomic Skin also offers liners, but you cannot plug them into another brand's heated jacket.  

So there you have it, all the heated stuff, all the time. Stay warm, everyone.

Time to go ride!

QnA: Summer Gear for Athletic Body Type?

 

Reader Cori needs a 2 piece summer suit to ride in hot weather but still provide protection and comfort. She also needs help finding something with a little more room in the shoulders. 

I am looking for some advice on what gear to buy for riding in South Louisiana. I am a brand new rider (I actually have yet to ride and will be purchasing a bike next week). I will be a commuter with a 9 mile, non freeway, daily commute. What do you recommend for gear? I'm going to start with purchasing a helmet, gloves, boots, jacket, and knee pads. I am feeling very overwhelmed by the process, and have no idea where to start. Any suggestions, or places you can point me? In particular I'm looking for gear that's good for warm weather. (very, very warm).

Some back ground information, I am 5'3" and 140 pounds and am in the process of purchasing a honda rebel 250cc. I have an average to short torso, with broad shoulders ( my waist is a small and chest + shoulders range from a bigger medium to a smaller large. I don't know my inseam as of right now but I typically need pants that are labeled short. 

The only other concern I have is about my arms, I have bigger arms. ( I am a weightlifter so while I have a slim athletic build my arms and shoulders hold a lot of muscle) 

Cori in Louisiana

Hi Cori,

For your helmet, it's all based on proper fit. If you live anywhere near a dealership that has helmet options, I would highly recommend going in and getting fitted. If you can't find a dealer, then you want to check out this article on helmet shopping. Honestly, I find it impossible to help anyone get fitted for a helmet over the phone or online. There are also a ton of youtube videos for you to figure out how to fit a helmet. Do not, I repeat do not pick a helmet simply due to colors/graphics. You MUST get the fitment right for a helmet to work properly and actually protect you! I have a few favorites when it comes to helmets, but it really does come down to fitment. For example, if you have a true long oval then you need an Arai Signet-Q. But if you have a really round head and are XS, you need an Arai RX-Q. It just depends.

Gloves are also tricky in this sense, because they really require trying on and fitting. But I can give you a few ideas here:

• Revit Bomber ; these fit longer in the fingers and narrower across the hands, but are the Best summer gloves out there. More protection and ventilation at the same time.
• Dainese Mig C2: these fit a bit shorter in the fingers, and also are fantastic summer gloves. Avoid synthetics, they are the cheap, less protective and don't work well for pavement. You need real leather for street riding!

My recommendation for a jacket is the Olympia Switchback 2 Jacket ($239), size S (shown above). Don't worry, it's available in 2 other colors if white isn't your style! I really love this jacket not just for the fitment, but also because it has a really great fit for you. Relaxed in the shoulders, biceps and forearms, this will give you plenty of room to move around without feeling too constricting. You might feel a little tightness in the elbows/shoulders since the armor is fairly thick and rigid, so I would definitely recommend upgrading the armor to Forcefield or D3O if you find it too restricting.

The other reason I love Olympia for you is the torso is average length (lower in the back, higher in the front) and is constructed of Dupont Cordura, which provides more abrasion resistance than other mesh jackets in the same price point. The mesh is still nylon, but your slide zones are covered by Cordura.

I would also consider mesh overpants instead of just knee guards. You need more than jeans when riding, they just don't have the abrasion resistance.

First, I would recommend the matching Olympia Womens Airglide Pants ($229) in a size 4. These have a slightly fuller fit, so if you need extra thigh, hip and booty space you'll love these a little more. These are also constructed of Cordura (except the nylon mesh for airflow).

The second pant to consider is the Revit Airwave Pants, ($199) in size 36. I would recommend these if you need a leaner leg and slightly less room in the hips/booty area. I call this table booty (which is what I have).

Both are available in lighter colors, including white (Revit) and silver (Olympia) to keep you a bit cooler.

Looking at boots, it's hard to find vented boots for women. When it's really hot, it's the opposite you actually want a slightly heavier boot to keep the heat out! Imagine a lightweight sneaker, and how quickly that absorb heat. Leather actually deflects quite a bit. A few ideas:

• Sidi Livia Rain ($230): Ideal for wider feet, higher insteps and larger ankles. It's a very loose fitting boot. These breathe very well and are fully synthetic leather as well.
• Dainese Svelta GTX ($289): Ideal for narrower feet (all Dainese boots are narrower, btw) and these are GoreTex which are the most breathable waterproof membrane. I've ridden in 90+ temps in GTX boots and they are fantastic.
• TCX Aura Boots ($219): Also waterproof, they run even narrower than the Svelta in the toebox. Super comfortable and low profile.