Featured collection
Made for Riders, with your feedback.
How to Break in New Leather Motorcycle Gloves
- , by Damien Heenan
- 4 min reading time
Breaking in Your Gloves the Right Way
So, you've got yourself a fresh pair of leather motorcycle gloves. They look great, feel sturdy, and smell like premium leather—but they’re stiff as a board. And let’s be real, stiff gloves on the road are about as useful as bald tires in the rain. Breaking in your new gloves is key to making sure they feel like a second skin, giving you comfort, control, and a solid grip on those handlebars.
Skip this process, and you’re looking at sore hands, a weaker grip, and some serious frustration on long rides. Let’s dive into the best ways to break in your gloves the right way—without ruining them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Breaking in Leather Motorcycle Gloves
1. Wear Them As Much As Possible
The simplest way to start breaking in your gloves? Just wear ‘em. Slip them on while watching TV, working in the garage, or even gripping a wrench. The more they mold to your hands, the better they’ll feel on the road.
2. Work the Leather – Flex and Stretch
Once they’re on, start making fists, rolling your fingers, and gripping imaginary handlebars. Twist your wrists, pull at the fingers—get them moving! Leather stretches and softens with use, and this will speed things up.
3. Use a Leather Conditioner
A good leather conditioner helps soften stiff gloves without overdoing it. Apply a small amount, work it in with your hands, and let it absorb. This keeps the leather supple, prevents cracks, and helps them break in faster.
4. Take Short Rides
Nothing breaks in gloves like actual riding. Start with short rides so your gloves conform to your grip under real conditions. The natural heat and sweat from your hands will help speed up the process.
5. Try the Steam Method (With Caution!)
Got a stubbornly stiff pair? The steam method can help:
-
Hold them over steam (like from a pot of boiling water) for 10-15 seconds.
-
Put them on immediately while they’re warm and slightly damp.
-
Move your hands to stretch the leather naturally.
-
Let them air-dry away from direct heat.
Warning: Don’t overdo it! Too much steam can mess with the leather’s natural oils and durability.
6. Stuff Them Overnight
If certain spots feel too tight—like the fingertips—try stuffing them with soft fabric or newspaper overnight. This gently stretches the problem areas without risking damage.
Do’s and Don’ts of Breaking in Leather Gloves
✅ Do’s:
-
Wear them often—every chance you get.
-
Use a quality leather conditioner.
-
Flex and stretch your hands while wearing them.
-
Take short rides to help shape them naturally.
-
Store them in a cool, dry place.
❌ Don’ts:
-
Don’t soak them in water—this weakens the leather fibers and stitching.
-
Don’t use direct heat (hairdryers, radiators, or sunlight can cause cracking and shrinkage).
-
Don’t over-stretch them—forcing too much can ruin the fit and durability.
-
Don’t use harsh chemicals—stick to leather-specific care products.
How Long Does It Take to Break in Motorcycle Gloves?
Breaking in gloves isn’t instant, but it doesn’t have to take forever either. Here’s a rough timeline:
-
1-2 Weeks: If worn daily with regular movement and conditioning.
-
2-4 Weeks: If used only during rides.
-
Longer: If left in your gear bag without regular use.
Some thick, heavy-duty leather gloves may take a little longer, but with patience, they’ll eventually mold to your hands like they were custom-made.
Get the Perfect Fit for the Road
Breaking in leather motorcycle gloves isn’t just about comfort—it’s about control, safety, and endurance on the road. A well-fitted glove means better grip, less fatigue, and a smoother ride overall. Follow these steps, and before you know it, your gloves will feel like an extension of your hands.
Looking for more glove-related tips? Check out our guides on choosing the best gloves for long-distance touring and how temperature-regulating gloves work to make sure you’re geared up for every ride.
Find Your Next Pair of Gloves Here: Shop Motorcycle Gloves
Blog posts
-
, by Damien Heenan The Ultimate Guide to: Selecting the Right Motorcycle Gloves
When it comes to staying safe on the road, your gloves are more than just an accessory—they’re essential. Good gloves protect your hands, provide a...
