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Valentino Rossi's 2006 MotoGP season ended in one of the sport's most-remembered title finishes, and the is a replica design inspired by his Yamaha gloves from that year. This guide covers the 2006 season, what to check on motorcycle gloves and how EN 13594 levels are organized.
Key Takeaways
- Nicky Hayden beat Rossi to the 2006 MotoGP title by five points, 252 to 247.
- Rossi crashed at the Valencia finale from a poor start and finished 13th.
- The gloves are inspired by Rossi's Yamaha gear and are not team merchandise.
- EN 13594 Level 2 adds verified knuckle impact protection compared with Level 1.
- Check fit, wrist closure and the construction listed on the product page.
Rossi's 2006 Season
Rossi arrived at the 2006 finale in Valencia chasing a sixth consecutive title, but Nicky Hayden won the championship by five points, 252 to 247, ending the streak. Rossi took pole position, got a poor start that dropped him to seventh on the opening lap, then lost the front of his Yamaha M1 and slid out before finishing 13th, as described in the Nicky Hayden Wikipedia entry. The gloves draw on the Yamaha look of that season and are not connected with the rider or the team.
What to Check on Motorcycle Gloves
Material and protection
Leather outer layers, reinforcement at the palm and thumb, and knuckle protection are the areas to look at in a pair of riding gloves. The product page lists the materials and protective parts of this pair, and that is where to confirm specifics such as sliders or padding.
Fit and closure
A pre-curved finger shape suits the natural grip posture, and a secure cuff closure keeps the glove in place under load. Gloves that are too loose lose grip, and gloves that are too tight tire the hand.
Break-in
New leather feels firm and softens with use, so a short break-in period is normal.
EN 13594 in Brief
EN 13594 sets minimum performance levels for motorcycle gloves against abrasion, cutting, tearing and impact. Level 1 offers protection with a low ergonomic penalty, while Level 2 offers increased protection and verifies knuckle impact protection, as Intertek summarizes. This article does not claim a level for this pair; the label and product page show it.
Care and Storage
Check the maker's care instructions; a soft cloth removes dust and grime after rides.
Follow the care label or the maker's instructions; whether and which conditioner to use depends on the leather finish and construction.
Hand-clean gently only if the care label allows it, and air dry away from direct heat.
Store away from direct sunlight and strong heat.
Who These Gloves Suit
Sportbike and street riders who want leather gloves with a racing look.
Fans of Valentino Rossi and Yamaha MotoGP history.
Riders who commute or tour and want a distinct design.
Rossi fans may also like the and the . More replicas are listed under and . The Yamaha MotoGP 2006 range is under .
Updated: October 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the 2006 MotoGP title end?
Nicky Hayden won the 2006 MotoGP championship by five points over Valentino Rossi, 252 to 247. At the Valencia finale Rossi had a poor start, fell to seventh on the first lap, then lost the front of his Yamaha M1 and finished 13th, ending his run of consecutive titles.
Are these gloves made by Yamaha or by Rossi?
No. They are a replica design inspired by the Yamaha gloves Rossi used in 2006 and have no connection with Yamaha, the team or the rider. The product page lists the materials, closures and protective parts of the pair.
What is the difference between EN 13594 Level 1 and Level 2?
Level 1 gloves provide protection with a low ergonomic penalty. Level 2 gloves provide increased protection and also have knuckle impact protection verified. Riders should check the label and the product page to see what level, if any, a specific pair has been tested to.
How should leather motorcycle gloves be cleaned?
Check the care label or maker's instructions; a soft cloth removes dust and grime after riding, and the gloves can air dry. Check the care label before washing, and keep the gloves away from strong heat. Whether a conditioner suits the gloves depends on the leather finish and construction, so follow the care label; store the gloves away from direct sunlight.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.
