Winter motorcycle gloves are the single piece of kit most riders underestimate until the first cold morning reminds them otherwise. This range covers waterproof RTX constructions, D3O heated options and full gauntlet cuts in leather and textile, sourced from Merlin, Macna, Motodry and Five.
Merlin Minworth D3O® Heated Gloves Black
Merlin Summit D3O® Heated Gloves Black
Merlin Finchley Heated Gloves Black
Merlin Gloves Catton III D3O WP Brown L 103123
Merlin Gloves Catton III D3O WP Brown 3XL 103154
Merlin Gloves Catton III D3O WP Brown 2XL 103147
Merlin Gloves Catton III D3O WP Brown M 103116
Merlin Gloves Catton III D3O WP Brown XL 103130
Choosing the Right Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Cold-weather gloves fail riders in two predictable ways: poor waterproofing that wicks water up the cuff, and inadequate insulation that loses effectiveness when wet. The options here address both through verified construction methods rather than marketing claims.
Protection Standards
EN 13594:2015 is the governing standard for motorcycle gloves. It covers abrasion, cut, tear and impact resistance at two performance levels. Level 1 provides baseline road riding protection; Level 2 delivers higher abrasion resistance, measured over a minimum 4-second contact time at regulated test speeds. Riders familiar with jacket and pant standards will note EN 17092 applies to those garments; CE Level 1 and CE Level 2 armour ratings carry across all categories including knuckle inserts. D3O knuckle armour, used in Merlin's Minworth heated gloves, absorbs and disperses impact force while remaining flexible at winter temperatures when rigid plastic inserts turn brittle.
Waterproofing Compared
| Method | How It Works | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| RTX membrane (Macna) | Bonded waterproof-breathable liner, 100% waterproof | Adds 2-3 mm thickness; slightly reduced feel |
| DWR laminated outer | Durable water-repellent coating on shell | Lighter; not indefinitely waterproof in sustained rain |
| Inner glove insert | Five Unit innerglove worn inside a compatible outer | Modular warmth; outer must be sized up to accommodate |
Heated Options and Sizing
Battery-integrated heated gloves, including Macna's E-Heated Era RTX and Merlin's Minworth D3O, run across 3 heat settings with run times of 2 to 6 hours. Wired systems draw from the bike's 12V circuit for unlimited run time. Adult sizing spans XS through 3XL, covering hand circumferences from approximately 175 mm to 265 mm. Winter gloves with integrated liners typically fit one size larger than equivalent summer models from the same brand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between RTX gloves and standard waterproof gloves?
RTX refers to Macna's bonded waterproof-breathable membrane construction, which provides a 100% waterproof barrier while allowing moisture vapour to escape. Standard DWR-coated gloves repel light rain but saturate under sustained downpours. RTX is the better choice for Australian winters where rain is prolonged and unpredictable.
Can I use a liner glove inside heated motorcycle gloves?
It depends on the specific model. Heated gloves with integrated battery systems are cut close to the hand for effective heat transfer, so adding a liner will restrict blood flow and reduce warmth. Five's Unit innerglove is designed for use inside a compatible outer glove that has been sized up to accommodate the extra layer.
How do I choose between battery-powered and wired heated gloves?
Battery-powered heated gloves suit weekend riders and those who stop and start frequently, offering 2 to 6 hours of heat depending on the setting selected. Wired systems draw from the bike's 12V supply and run indefinitely, making them better suited to daily commuters who ride consistent distances on a single bike.