Klim Adventure GTX Short Glove Review: Flexible Protection When it’s Hot Out?
The Klim adventure gore-tex short glove is back with some updates. But is it still the best summer riding glove with waterproofing?
These gloves provide gore-tex waterproof protection without insulation – perfect for warm-weather riding. I tested them to see how the changes impact comfort, protection, and value.
But, the main question I will answer in this review is: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for cold weather for you? Let’s find out!
Klim Adventure GTX Short Glove

Key Takeaways
- Hard knuckles increase safety
- Waterproof protection guaranteed
- Pre-curved fingers with enhanced grip
Intro to the Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves
The “GTX” in the name tells us these gloves have gore-tex waterproofing. This latest version updates the popular outgoing model with changes to styling, materials, and design.
I’ll be comparing it to the previous version throughout this review. But know that these gloves cost around $180 and come in black or brown. They fit those with wider palms and shorter fingers best.
What’s New on the 2023 Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves?
Outer Construction Updates
The gloves have a goatskin leather and textile outer construction. The textile looks like Kevlar in high abrasion zones. You also get a single velcro wrist closure and a velcro tab.
On the outer shells, the stretch accordions under the knuckles were removed. The knuckles themselves changed from their “super fabric” to a hard plastic armor style. The new knuckles feel more rigid and less flexible than before.
Finger & Hand Design
The pre-curved fingers have less curve than the old model – more on that below. You also get:
- Split reliefs on fingers
- More slide protection material on bottoms
- Wider, thicker palm
- Branded pull tab
On the Inside
Inside, the glove sports a smooth liner with minimal seams. The sizing accommodates thicker palms and shorter fingers.
In use, the gloves feel well-made, but I noticed some bunching around my primary fingers. The pinky and ring fingers fit pretty well, though.
Key Features of the Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves

Waterproofing
The star of the show is the guaranteed dry hands in wet weather. The Gore-Tex membrane blocks liquid water while allowing sweat vapor to escape.
No worries about soaked gloves halfway through a long summer ride.
Ventilation
You get decent airflow from the perforated leather. My hands stayed cool enough during hot weather testing.
The liner also helps wick moisture away from the skin.
Abrasion Protection
With leather construction plus textile and armor reinforcements, these gloves provide solid abrasion resistance without feeling overly heavy or restrictive.
The compromise is they run warm for true cold weather use.
Comfort
Overall, comfort is good. The liner feels smooth, and the pre-curved shape allows a natural grip on the bars.
My only comfort gripe is some looseness around the outside of my fingers. It’s not a deal breaker, but it’s worth noting.
Visibility
For nighttime visibility, the white palm helps reflect light. I’d probably still wear a hi-viz jacket though, instead of relying solely on the gloves.
Comparison to the Outgoing Klim Adventure GTX Model
Let’s see how these gloves stack up to their predecessor.
Outer Protection

The new hard knuckles seem more rigid and less flexible than the old “super fabric” style. So, protection takes a slight bump up, but comfort goes down a bit.
Ventilation
There is similar overall airflow on both models, with decent summer riding ventilation from the perforations.
Waterproofing
No changes here since both models use Gore-Tex. Keep those hands dry just the same.
Comfort
The reduced finger curve really helps improve comfort for me. But the bulky panels on the new model bother my fingers some. I’ll give the nod to the old ones here.
Design
Aesthetics come down to taste, but I dig the look of the new Klim adventure GTX gloves. More modern styling than the outgoing generation.
Is the 2023 Klim Adventure GTX Short Glove Worth It?

The Klim Adventure GTX short glove hits the mark if you want 3 season protection in a short gauntlet riding glove. The updates bring extra protection and improved aesthetics.
Ventilation stands out as being good enough even for hot summer weather riding. And waterproof breathability makes these some of the most versatile adventure gloves out there.
The catch is that pinky-to-index fit. You may want to size down or try a different model if you have longer, thinner fingers like me. Riders with shorter, wider fingers will appreciate the roomier design.
So, while not perfect, the new Klim Adventure GTX short glove still does enough right to satisfy serious ADV and dual sport riders looking for waterproof gloves usable through summer.
I give them my seal of approval and recommend checking them out if you want guaranteed dry hands without a heavy winter glove.
Do you still have questions about the Klim Adventure GTX gloves?
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What is the difference between the Badlands and Adventure versions?
The Badlands gloves add insulating thermal liners for cold weather, whereas the Adventure is lightly insulated for warmer temperatures. Both have Gore-Tex waterproofing.
What color options are available?
You can choose from all black or black with brown panels. No hi-viz colorway for those concerned about visibility.
What is the sizing like on these Klim gloves?
They fit shorter, wider fingers best. Riders with longer, thin fingers may need to size down for a good pinky-to-index fit.
Can you wear them in light rain? Heavy rain?
Yes, the Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproofing even in heavy rain. Just be aware they lack insulation for cold and wet conditions.
How long do the Klim Adventure GTX gloves last?
With proper care, the leather and textile construction should provide multiple seasons of use. High abrasion zones use textiles for extra durability against wear and tear.
And that wraps up this complete review of the updated Klim Adventure Gore-Tex short motorcycle gloves! Let me know if you have any other questions. Ride safe out there.
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment (1)
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