Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a piece of riding gear that's been making waves in the motorcycle community: the Alpinestars SP Air ScS Gloves. If you're anything like me, you know that having the right gloves can make or break your riding experience. Comfort, protection, and breathability are key, especially when you're clocking miles in varying conditions. So, let's get into what makes these gloves stand out, and whether they're the right fit for your riding style. These gloves are designed for the riders who want maximum airflow without compromising on safety, the SP Air ScS gloves incorporate a ton of features that will keep you cool and protected. The gloves feature a full-grain leather and mesh hybrid construction that offers excellent ventilation while maintaining abrasion resistance. The strategic perforation on the palm and backhand further enhances airflow, preventing your hands from getting sweaty and uncomfortable during long rides. I mean, no one wants sweaty hands when they are trying to control a bike, right?

Beyond ventilation, the Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves are packed with protective features. The gloves incorporate Alpinestars’ Superfabric technology on the palm and outer hand for enhanced abrasion resistance. The carbon fiber knuckle protector provides excellent impact protection, while the EVA foam padding on the fingers and palm adds an extra layer of defense. These gloves also feature a pre-curved finger construction that reduces fatigue and improves grip. The adjustable wrist closure ensures a secure and comfortable fit, preventing the gloves from slipping off during a crash. Overall, the Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves are a great choice for riders who prioritize ventilation and protection. They offer a comfortable fit, excellent airflow, and a host of protective features that will keep your hands safe in the event of a crash.

First Impressions: Design and Feel

When I first slipped on the Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves, the immediate thing that struck me was how lightweight they felt. The combination of leather and mesh is really well executed, giving you that reassuring sense of durability without the bulkiness you sometimes find in heavily armored gloves. The design is sleek and sporty, with the Alpinestars logo subtly placed. The pre-curved finger design is a nice touch; it instantly feels like the gloves are molded to your hands, ready for action. Honestly, guys, you will feel like a racer in them! The gloves come in a range of colors, so you can easily find a pair that matches your gear or bike. Aesthetics aside, the key here is the promise of airflow. You can see the ventilation ports right away, and you just know these are going to be a game-changer on hot days. I have tested these gloves on the hottest days I could find here in the desert, and let me tell you that they make all the difference.

Ventilation and Comfort: Staying Cool Under Pressure

Now, let's talk about what really sets these gloves apart: ventilation. The Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves live up to their name. Riding in warm weather can quickly turn miserable if your hands are overheating. These gloves, however, offer exceptional airflow. The mesh panels on the back of the hand and between the fingers allow air to circulate freely, keeping your hands cool and dry. I've worn these gloves on long rides in temperatures soaring into the 90s, and I was genuinely impressed by how well they performed. My hands remained comfortable, without that clammy, sweaty feeling that can be so distracting and unpleasant.

Comfort-wise, the gloves are top-notch. The inner lining is soft and doesn't cause any irritation, even after hours of riding. The pre-curved finger design I mentioned earlier really makes a difference in reducing hand fatigue. You don't have to fight the gloves to maintain a grip on the handlebars, which is a huge plus on longer journeys. The wrist closure is secure and easy to adjust, ensuring a snug fit without being restrictive. Honestly, these gloves are so comfortable; they almost disappear when you're riding. I have put over 10,000 miles on my bike with these gloves and they fit just like they did on day one, I expect to use them for at least another 10,000. Make sure that you take care of them and clean them once in a while to keep them soft and working properly.

Protection: Safety First, Always

Of course, protection is paramount when it comes to motorcycle gloves. The Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves don't skimp on safety features. The carbon fiber knuckle protector provides excellent impact protection, while the reinforced leather palm and finger sidewalls offer abrasion resistance in key areas. The gloves also incorporate Alpinestars' Dynamic Friction Shield (DFS) on the palm, which is designed to reduce friction in the event of a slide. While I haven't had the misfortune of testing these gloves in a crash, I feel confident that they would offer a solid level of protection. The materials feel robust, and the strategic placement of armor gives you peace of mind knowing that your hands are well-protected.

I always say that it is better to be safe than sorry, so I make sure to have the best gear available to protect myself from any potential accident. Unfortunately, crashes can and will happen, so it's of utmost importance that you are using the right equipment to protect yourself. The protection offered by these gloves in combination with the comfort and ventilation makes them an absolute winner in my book. I have also seen people using these gloves on the track, so you know that they can withstand a beating. Make sure that you consider all the pros and cons and purchase the gloves that are the best for you, but for me these are definitely it.

Fit and Sizing: Getting It Right

Fit is crucial for motorcycle gloves. Too loose, and they won't offer adequate protection. Too tight, and they'll be uncomfortable and restrict your movement. The Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves come in a wide range of sizes, so you should be able to find a pair that fits you perfectly. I recommend consulting Alpinestars' sizing chart and measuring your hand circumference to ensure an accurate fit. When trying on the gloves, make sure they feel snug but not overly tight. You should be able to make a fist and move your fingers freely without any pinching or discomfort. The wrist closure should also be secure and easy to adjust. I also recommend that you try the gloves on a motorcycle before committing to them, or at least imitate the position that you have on your bike to see how the gloves will behave.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves:

Pros:

• Excellent ventilation: Keeps your hands cool and dry in warm weather.
• Comfortable fit: Pre-curved finger design and soft inner lining reduce hand fatigue.
• Solid protection: Carbon fiber knuckle protector and reinforced leather offer good impact and abrasion resistance.
• Stylish design: Sporty and modern look with a range of color options.

Cons:

• Not ideal for cold weather: The ventilation that makes these gloves great in the summer also makes them unsuitable for cold conditions.
• Price: These are not the cheapest gloves on the market, but the quality and features justify the price.
• Not waterproof: These gloves are not designed for rain, so you'll need to switch to waterproof gloves in wet conditions.

Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?

So, are the Alpinestars SP Air ScS gloves worth the investment? In my opinion, absolutely. If you're a rider who prioritizes comfort, ventilation, and protection, these gloves are a fantastic choice. They're perfect for warm-weather riding and offer a level of performance that's hard to beat. While they may not be the cheapest option, the quality and features justify the price. Just be aware of their limitations in cold and wet weather, and you'll be very happy with your purchase. For me, these gloves have become an essential part of my riding gear, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to other riders. Just remember to get the sizing right, and you'll be enjoying comfortable, protected rides for miles to come. Safe riding, everyone!