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Are Touchscreen-Compatible Motorcycle Gloves Worth It?
- , by Damien Heenan
- 4 min reading time
Riding season never truly ends for some bikers, and whether you're navigating city streets, touring the backroads, or just making a pit stop for gas, staying connected is a part of modern riding. But pulling off your gloves every time you need to check a GPS route or answer a call? That gets old fast. Enter touchscreen-compatible motorcycle gloves—designed to give riders access to their devices without sacrificing protection. But are they really worth it? Let’s break it down.
How Touchscreen-Compatible Gloves Work
Touchscreen gloves use conductive materials—often silver or copper thread—woven into the fingertips to mimic the electrical charge your fingers naturally produce. This allows capacitive touchscreens (the type used in most modern smartphones, GPS units, and tablets) to recognize your touch, even through the glove.
Higher-end gloves integrate these materials seamlessly, ensuring that touch sensitivity is effective without compromising durability. Budget-friendly options, on the other hand, may only feature conductive patches, which can wear out faster over time.
What to Expect When Using Them
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Functionality Varies – Some gloves work flawlessly, while others require a firm press or exaggerated movements.
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Not All Fingers Work – Many touchscreen gloves only have conductivity on the index finger and thumb.
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Weather Can Impact Use – Cold or damp conditions may reduce effectiveness, especially if moisture builds up on the glove’s surface.
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Limited Precision – While good for swiping and tapping, typing with gloves on is still tricky.
Common Problems and Solutions
Gloves Don’t Work Consistently
Solution: Ensure the touchscreen-compatible area is clean and free of dirt or oils. Over time, conductive threads can wear down—look for gloves with durable, reinforced fingertips.
Lack of Sensitivity
Solution: If your gloves require excessive pressure, try adjusting your device’s touch sensitivity settings. Alternatively, opt for gloves with higher-quality conductive materials.
Gloves Wearing Out Too Quickly
Solution: Choose gloves made with durable materials like leather and reinforced stitching. Frequent riders should invest in premium brands known for longevity. If you want to upgrade your existing gloves, consider GloveTacts 2.0, a touchscreen upgrade that turns nearly any pair of gloves into touchscreen-compatible gear.
Cold Weather Performance Issues
Solution: Heated touchscreen gloves or gloves with thermal lining can help maintain responsiveness in freezing temperatures.
Best Touchscreen Gloves for Riders
When choosing the right pair, consider your riding style and climate. Here are some standout options:
For Everyday Commuters
Look for lightweight, breathable touchscreen gloves with reinforced palms for grip and impact protection. Leather or textile hybrid gloves often provide a great balance of durability and functionality. Ever been at a red light, trying to check your route, only to realize you have to pull off your gloves? A good touchscreen glove saves time and frustration.
For Touring and Long-Distance Riders
Full-gauntlet gloves with touchscreen capabilities offer the best protection from the elements while still letting you interact with your GPS or communication system. If you’re racking up miles on the open road, having gloves that work seamlessly with your navigation can be a game-changer.
For Cold-Weather Riders
Heated gloves with touchscreen-compatible fingertips keep your hands warm while ensuring you can operate your devices without hassle. Riding in the dead of winter? Heated touchscreen gloves keep your fingers toasty while letting you adjust settings on the go.
For Adventure and Off-Road Riders
Off-road gloves with rugged knuckle protection and touchscreen compatibility help you stay connected without sacrificing safety on rough terrain. Picture this: You’re in the middle of nowhere, checking your GPS for the next trailhead. Touchscreen gloves let you do it without fumbling around.
Are They Worth It?
For most riders, touchscreen-compatible gloves are absolutely worth it. They save time, reduce frustration, and enhance convenience without compromising safety. While they aren’t perfect for detailed screen interactions, they make quick swipes, taps, and map adjustments far easier on the go.
For best results, invest in a well-made pair that balances durability, protection, and touchscreen performance. If you ride often and rely on navigation, music controls, or communication devices, they’re a game-changer.
Why Buy From Eagle Leather?
At Eagle Leather, we offer high-quality touchscreen-compatible gloves designed for real riders. Whether you're a commuter, a long-haul tourer, or an off-road adventurer, we’ve got gloves built to handle the ride. Check out our collection and find the perfect pair to keep you connected on the road.
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