Alpinestars Equinox X-Trafit Gloves

The fit of Alpinestars gloves are very consistent from one model to the next. And overall, they fit a bit small as compared to other brands we carry such as FirstGear, Tour Master, etc. It’s not enough to recommend that you buy a larger size (especially if a snug fit is preferred) but it is noticeable enough to say that if you are sometimes between sizes, then you should probably choose the larger of the two. Hopefully you’ve had some experience with buying gloves and can choose based upon the fit of a previous pair. If you have no previous experience with glove sizing, go here for help.

I’m reviewing three new gloves from Alpinestars that employ Gore-Tex’s X-Trafit technology. The technology offers the waterproofing and breathability of Gore-Tex along with a manufacturing process that “bonds” the membrane to the glove so it reduces bulk. In trying them on, it is really hard to tell that the glove is even a waterproof model. I found a link to a good explanation of this process on Gore-Tex’s website. I first saw something like this in a Held glove a couple seasons back. I’m not sure if it is the same exact process, now it has a nifty marketing name, but the idea was the same. Now it seems to be the new best accepted way to build a Gore-Tex glove. This Equinox model is the most “street” or “urban” oriented of the three gloves out this fall. The glove is a combination of fabric, suede and leather. The combination is light and flexible and extremely easy to put on and take off. The knuckles have hard armor, but otherwise the glove is free of any more solid armor pieces and therefore the gloves will roll up and tuck away into a small space. People who might put on/take off a glove for city driving often in a day would really appreciate the ease of use. There is a bit of extra protection in a couple spots like the heel of the hand and along the side of the hand (by the pinkie). The third and fourth fingers are joined in what seems to be Alpinestars favorite new feature… almost every new glove I see has this construction. They must be convinced it works to reduce injury, and I wouldn’t doubt it. And besides, it sort of falls under the heading of “why not” because I’m sure that little extra piece of material can’t possible add anything significant to the cost. You really need to be a believer in Gore-Tex to buy gloves like this because they are not cheap. Many, many people are believers and there are lots of Gore-Tex glove models in this same price range. If urban riding or ordinary street riding is your thing, then this style of glove will suit you perfectly. :: Paul, 09-12-13.