Short Cuff vs Gauntlet Motorcycle Gloves: Which Should You Choose?
Quick answers: Choose a gauntlet (long cuff) for track days, racing and fast sport riding, because it covers more of the wrist and stays closed under or over a suit sleeve. Choose a short cuff for warm-weather commuting, urban riding and use with a close-fitting jacket cuff. For either, check that there is no gap between the glove and the sleeve in your riding position.
Key takeaways
- The cuff is the part of the glove that extends beyond the wrist. A gauntlet is a long cuff that covers the wrist and part of the forearm. A short cuff ends at or just past the wrist bone.
- Under EN 13594:2015, Level 2 gloves require a longer cuff than Level 1, a stronger wrist restraint and mandatory knuckle protection.
- The right cuff depends less on fashion and more on what you wear it with.
What is the difference?
| Short cuff | Gauntlet | |
|---|---|---|
| Wrist coverage | Minimal | Wrist and part of the forearm |
| Sleeve overlap | Often leaves a gap in a stretched position | Overlaps the sleeve in most positions |
| Weight and heat | Lighter and cooler | Heavier and warmer |
| Putting on and off | Quick | Slower, with a strap or closure |
| Best with | Jackets with a snug cuff, urban riding | Race suits, track days, sport riding |
| Best for | Commuting, summer, short trips | Circuit use, fast road riding |
Why the cuff matters in a crash
In a fall, the wrist is often the first part to meet the ground. A longer cuff protects it and keeps the glove closed, so the hand does not come out. A gap between glove and sleeve exposes skin and the glove can ride up the wrist. That is why track organisers and race suits favour a gauntlet.
The standard backs this up. SATRA's EN 13594:2015 overview notes that Level 2 gloves require a longer cuff, a stronger wrist restraint (it must hold against a higher pull force than Level 1) and mandatory knuckle impact protection.
Which cuff for which riding?
Track days and racing
Choose a gauntlet. It overlaps a race suit sleeve when you reach for the clip-ons and keeps the glove on the hand if you slide. Our guide to the track day checklist covers the rest of the gear.
Sport riding on the road
A gauntlet with a Level 2 rating is a good fit. If you prefer a short cuff, look for one with a strong wrist closure and a snug jacket cuff.
Commuting and summer riding
A short cuff is lighter and easier to put on, and it works with a jacket whose cuff closes tightly. Check for CE certification: a fashion glove is not protection.
Touring and cold weather
Long cuffs that fit over the jacket sleeve keep wind and rain out. Use a waterproof gauntlet in wet climates.
Gloves under or over the sleeve?
There is no single rule. A suit with a cuff that closes tightly works under the glove, so the cuff overlaps the sleeve. A jacket with a loose cuff and a gauntlet works over the sleeve, so rain stays out. Whichever you use, sit on the bike with your arms forward and check that no skin shows.
How to choose
- Decide where you ride most: track, sport road, commuting or touring.
- Choose the cuff that overlaps your sleeve in the riding position.
- Check the label for CE and EN 13594:2015, and the level.
- Get the size right. Our gloves size guide shows how to measure.
- Match gloves to your boots and suit if you want a full colourway.
Bleed Racing Gears gloves
Our racing gloves are made to order and can be produced in the colours of your suit. See, for example, the Fabio Quartararo 2024 MotoGP racing gloves, which are made to match the French GP suit.
Frequently asked questions
Are gauntlet gloves safer than short cuff gloves?
They give more wrist coverage and usually a stronger closure, so they are the better choice for fast riding and track use. A well-fitting certified short cuff glove is still far better than none.
Can I wear short cuff gloves with a race suit?
You can, but a gap can open between the glove and the suit sleeve when you lean forward. Gauntlets are the usual choice for a race suit.
Do track days require gauntlet gloves?
Rules vary by organiser. Many require leather gloves that cover the wrist and overlap the sleeve, so check the gear rules before you book.
Are gauntlet gloves hot in summer?
They are warmer than short cuff gloves, but perforated designs help. Many riders use a short cuff for summer commuting.
Should the glove go over or under the suit sleeve?
It depends on the suit cuff and closure. Check that no skin shows in your riding position.
Sources
- SATRA: EN 13594:2015 motorcyclists' protective gloves
- Intertek: Motorcycle gloves testing