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Hands handle the throttle, the brake lever and the clutch, so glove choice affects both control and protection. The are a BMW-inspired design from the 2019 model year, a season in which BMW Motorrad launched a fully redesigned S 1000 RR and updated the R 1250 GS. This guide covers what to expect from a glove in this style and how to judge one.
Key Takeaways
- The 2019 model year brought a fully redesigned BMW S 1000 RR and a 1,254 cc R 1250 GS.
- These gloves are BMW-inspired and are not made by or affiliated with BMW.
- Touring and sport gloves differ mainly in cuff length, knuckle protection and ventilation.
- EN 13594:2015 defines two glove levels; impact testing is mandatory for Level 2.
The 2019 BMW Context
For BMW riders, 2019 was a notable year. The brand introduced a fully redesigned S 1000 RR, which received a full model change for 2019, and the R 1250 GS with a 1,254 cc engine and ShiftCam variable valve timing. The two bikes sit at opposite ends of the range, one for the track and one for touring, and they ask different things of a glove.
Touring Versus Sport Use
A rider on an R 1250 GS usually spends hours on the road and needs comfort, ventilation and room for a watch or heated grips. A rider on an S 1000 RR on a track day needs a close fit and firm knuckle protection. A versatile design such as the aims for the middle ground between those two uses.
Materials and Protection Features
Gloves in this category commonly use goatskin on the palm for feel and cowhide on the back of the hand for abrasion resistance. Typical protective features are:
- Knuckle protectors: hard-shell guards that spread impact force across the back of the hand.
- Double-layered leather: extra material along the edge of the hand and the little finger, which tend to meet the road first.
- Palm sliders: some gloves add plastic panels on the palm; the product page shows what a specific pair has.
- Finger bridge: a link between the ring and little fingers found on some sport gloves.
Construction differs between models, so the product page is the reference for a particular pair.
Standards and Fit
Motorcycle gloves sold in Europe are tested to EN 13594:2015, which has two levels. Impact protection testing is mandatory for Level 2 and for any glove designed to attenuate impact, so the label tells a rider more than the glove's appearance does. For fit, pre-curved fingers and stretch panels ease the grip on the handlebar, while perforation helps ventilation in warm weather. Touchscreen fingertips are common on touring gloves but are worth confirming per model.
Choosing a Style
The BMW 2019 carry a clean, understated look that suits both a riding suit and a jacket. Riders who prefer a simpler style can also consider the in a retro cut.
Updated: October 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What new BMW motorcycles arrived for the 2019 model year?
BMW launched a fully redesigned S 1000 RR and the R 1250 GS with a larger 1,254 cc engine and ShiftCam variable valve timing. These bikes mark the model year the gloves in this guide are inspired by.
What is the difference between EN 13594 Level 1 and Level 2?
EN 13594:2015 defines two levels of performance for motorcycle gloves. Level 2 is the higher level, with increased protection but possible weight and movement penalties, while Level 1 favors dexterity; impact protection testing is mandatory for Level 2 and for any glove designed to attenuate impact. When comparing gloves, check the level on the label rather than assuming that any hard knuckle guard meets the standard.
Which glove features matter for touring riders?
Touring riders typically look for comfortable pre-curved fingers, ventilation for warm weather, a cuff that closes over the jacket sleeve, and enough flexibility to work switchgear. Knuckle protection and reinforced palms still matter, since a fall at road speed affects the hands the same way regardless of the type of ride.
Are these gloves made by or connected to BMW?
No. They are BMW-inspired gloves in a style that suits BMW motorcycles. The BMW name identifies the bikes and the model year the design refers to, and the gloves are not made by or affiliated with BMW Motorrad.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.
