As the colder weather rolls in, I find myself wondering about the best way to keep my hands warm while riding. I’ve been hearing a lot about heated grips and heated gloves, but I’m not sure which option is really better for us motorcyclists. Here’s what I’ve gathered so far:
Heated Grips
Heated grips are a convenient option that directly heats your handlebars. Here are some key points I considered:
Installation: They usually require more effort to install as you’ll need to wire them into your bike.
Heating Area: They provide heat directly on the palms, which is great while gripping the handlebars.
Temperature Control: Many heated grips come with adjustable settings, allowing you to choose your preferred level of warmth.
Bulk: Once installed, they don’t add bulk to your outfit; you’ll have full mobility of your hands.
Heated Gloves
On the other hand, heated gloves are a standalone piece of gear that can be worn just like regular gloves. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Flexibility: You can easily wear them with any bike, which makes them more versatile compared to heated grips.
Full Hand Coverage: They heat the entire hand, including fingers, providing warmth that heated grips may not fully achieve.
Battery Life: Most heated gloves rely on batteries, so battery life can be a concern on longer rides.
Comfort: Some gloves can be bulky or stiff, which may affect your grip and control over the bike.
My Dilemma
I’m leaning towards trying one option but I really can’t decide which would be more effective in keeping my hands warm for longer rides.
Has anyone compared the two options directly?
What are your experiences with heated grips or gloves while riding in cold conditions?
Are there specific brands or models you would recommend?
I would appreciate any advice or insights you can share on which option might be better suited for cozy rides this winter!
I’m leaning toward heated grips. They provide consistent warmth and you don’t have to worry about batteries dying mid-ride. Plus, they keep your palms warm while still allowing dexterity with the controls!
I totally agree! Heated grips are awesome. I’ve used them in 30°F weather, and they kept my hands warm enough for a three-hour ride. No bulkiness like gloves, which I find limiting.
Heated gloves might be better for those super cold days. I find that they wrap around your fingers and keep them warmer overall than grips alone. Anyone experienced freezing fingers with just grips?
I’ve definitely had that problem. On my last long ride, I had heated grips but my fingertips were freezing. I think heated gloves would have made a difference.
Great question! My heated gloves usually last about 6 hours on the highest setting, but I tend to use them on lower settings to conserve battery. You should be fine for a day trip!
I personally prefer heated gloves because they fit snugly and trap warmth better in really cold temps. Plus, they’re just more comfortable for long rides!
Last winter, I took a trip in single digits with grips and found that I had to stop regularly to warm my hands up. Heated gloves would’ve been a better investment for that kind of weather.
Haha, that’s classic! I’ve had my own mishaps while gearing up for rides! But seriously, gloves have saved me from numb fingers more times than I can count.
I think there’s merit in both heated grips and gloves. It depends on the ride duration and how cold it is outside. I’ve used grips on mild days and gloves on frigid ones. Both have their moments!
Heated grips are great for keeping your hands warm without the bulk of gloves. They easily integrate with your regular riding gear and are generally easier to use while riding.
Both options have their merits. Heated grips can be easier to adjust mid-ride, while heated gloves might offer overall better insulation. It really depends on your riding style.
That’s a good point, patriciahardy! Comfort during the ride is crucial. I find heated gloves can feel restrictive at times compared to the freedom of grips.
I’ve used heated grips for a few seasons now, and they’re really convenient with gloves, especially when I switch to summer ones. Just aim to find a good pair that balances warmth and comfort.
