Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar ($120), Rev'It Boxxer H2O, and Held Rainstorm consistently top waterproof tests. Look for Gore-Tex or Hipora membranes - cheaper "waterproof" gloves often leak within months. Expect to pay $100-180 for genuinely waterproof gloves that last.
Minimum: knuckle protection and palm sliders. Better: add finger armor and scaphoid protection (base of thumb). CE Level 1 certification is standard, Level 2 offers superior impact absorption. Knox and Held make some of the most protective gloves available.
Yes, for most US climates. Summer gloves ($50-100) offer ventilation and light protection. Winter gloves ($100-180) add insulation and waterproofing but become uncomfortably hot in summer. Mid-season gloves work for moderate temps but compromise in extremes.
