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Hands work the throttle, front brake and clutch on every ride, so racing-inspired gloves such as the deserve a look at fit and protection as well as styling. This guide covers the MV Agusta racing background behind the design, what to check on any pair of motorcycle gloves, and how the EN 13594 glove standard is organized.
Key Takeaways
- MV Agusta was founded on 19 January 1945 near Milan and won the 500cc world championship every year from 1958 to 1974.
- The gloves are inspired by that racing heritage and are not made by MV Agusta.
- EN 13594 is the European standard for motorcycle gloves, with Level 1 and Level 2 performance levels.
- Level 2 adds verified knuckle impact protection, so riders should check which level a pair has been tested to.
- A snug fit, a secure wrist closure and solid palm and knuckle areas matter more than graphics.
MV Agusta's Racing Background
MV Agusta was founded by Count Domenico Agusta on 19 January 1945 at Cascina Costa, near Milan, as described on the MV Agusta Wikipedia entry. The marque went on to win the 500cc Grand Prix world championship every year from 1958 to 1974, a run that still defines its racing image. The gloves take their colours and sporty lines from that Italian racing heritage; they are a replica design inspired by the brand and have no connection with MV Agusta itself.
What to Check on Motorcycle Gloves
Leather remains a common choice for riding gloves because it resists abrasion and flexes with the hand. Beyond the material, riders can look at four areas:
Palm and knuckle areas: solid panels or protectors where the glove meets the ground or the bike in a fall.
Wrist closure: a strap that holds the cuff in place so the glove stays on.
Seams: stitching placed away from high-wear areas.
Finger length and shape: enough room to close the fist around the lever without bunching.
How EN 13594 Is Organized
EN 13594 sets minimum performance levels for gloves that protect motorcyclists against mechanical risks such as abrasion, cutting, tearing and impact. The tests cover ergonomics, sizing and cuff length, tear resistance, seam strength and impact abrasion resistance, according to Intertek. Level 1 gloves give protection with a low ergonomic penalty, while Level 2 gloves give increased protection and also have knuckle impact protection verified.
This article does not state that any particular pair of gloves meets either level. The label and the product page show what a given pair has been tested to.
Fit, Control and Break-In
Gloves should fit snugly without pinching. The fingertips should reach the end of each finger with no loose material, and the glove should allow a full grip on the brake lever. New leather usually feels firm at first and softens with use, so a short break-in period is normal. Gloves that are too loose can twist on the bars, which affects control.
Care
Check the maker's care instructions; a soft cloth removes dirt and sweat after riding.
Dry the gloves away from radiators and direct sun.
Follow the care label or the maker's instructions; whether and which conditioner to use depends on the leather finish and construction.
Who These Gloves Suit
The design suits sportbike riders, MV Agusta enthusiasts and riders who prefer Italian racing colours. Brand-inspired gloves from other teams follow the same approach, for example the and the . Riders who like to match a set can also browse . More riding gear is listed under .
Frequently Asked Questions
When was MV Agusta founded?
MV Agusta was founded by Count Domenico Agusta on 19 January 1945 at Cascina Costa, near Milan, in Italy. Its racing record includes the 500cc Grand Prix world championship in every year from 1958 to 1974, which is the heritage that this style of glove design draws on.
What is the difference between EN 13594 Level 1 and Level 2?
Level 1 gloves provide protection with a low ergonomic penalty, meaning they stay closer to a normal glove in feel. Level 2 gloves provide increased protection and also have knuckle impact protection verified. Riders should check which level, if any, a specific pair has been tested to.
Are these gloves made by MV Agusta?
No. They are a replica design inspired by MV Agusta's racing heritage and are sold by Leather Collection. They have no connection with the manufacturer. Details of the construction are given on the product page, which is the place to confirm materials and protective features.
How should motorcycle gloves fit?
Motorcycle gloves should fit snugly across the palm and fingers, with no loose material at the fingertips and no pinching when the fist is closed. The wrist closure should hold the cuff in place. New leather gloves feel firm initially and soften with use.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.
