You can’t judge a book by its cover. And in this case, you shouldn’t judge the Racer Multitop gloves by the manufacturer’s brand name. Racer USA offers a full line of products, and it’s bound to have something that suits you, whether you’re a racer on track, or a race fan who rides a streetbike. It has sections listed in its catalog, including Touring, Sport, Full Race, and Women’s.

I decided to run this Product Evaluation during the fall because I love using the Multitops in brisk weather conditions. They’re insulated and have a waterproof/breathable Hipora liner. For protection there’s a Keprotec abrasion-resistant layer. And I wish I could say that no cute and cuddly kangaroos were harmed in the making of these gloves, but I can’t. Alas, I’ve discovered those marsupials from down under sure do have soft skin. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a kangaroo palm.

In the past I’ve actually passed on wearing gloves with rigid, carbon-fiber knuckle protectors. I never seem to find a pair that fits well and feels comfortable with my hand in the curled, handlebar grip position. However, the Multitop’s knuckle guard is made of a polymer plastic. I can barely feel them at all. When I tried on these gloves, I flexed and made fists to find that one special irritating spot that would drive me nuts when I ride, but it never revealed itself. Finally, I have a long gauntlet that’s warm enough for chilly mornings and has full-knuckle protection.

These Racer gloves are high quality and have a superb fit. There are two Velcro closure straps: one on the front of the gauntlet and the other right across the wrist for perfect sizing and keeping the cold out. They’re available in black with tan palm in sizes S-3XL. I’ve found some vendors’ sizes deviate from industry standards, but the Racer XL is sized spot on. RB

The kinder, gentler rigid knuckles.

Hard Data

Pacific Powersports Dist.
Racer Multitop Gloves
$190
408/360-8762
www.RacerUSA.net