Icon Anthem 2 Women’s Gloves Review: Do They Really Protect Your Hands?
I’m always on the hunt for gloves that balance protection, comfort, and affordability. So, when I came across this detailed review of the Icon Anthem 2 women’s motorcycle gloves, I knew I had to share my thoughts with fellow riders.
The main question I will answer in this review is: Are these the best motorcycle gloves for women? But first, a little background on why gloves matter so much.
Icon Anthem 2 Women’s Gloves
Key Takeaways
- Lack weatherproofing
- A solid mix of protection
- Decent durability expected
What Makes the Icon Anthem 2 Gloves Stand Out?
After testing the Icon Anthem 2 Women’s Gloves, our team found them to be an excellent balance between protection, comfort, breathability, and affordability.
These versatile gloves seem ideally suited for daily street riding rather than track days. Here’s a quick rundown of the glove’s vital stats and features:
- Retail price of $40 makes them very budget-friendly
- Multiple color options beyond basic black
- European safety certification for quality assurance
- Sizing runs slightly large, so size down if between sizes
- Mesh paneling on the back of the hand for ventilation
- Synthetic leather palm with added reinforcement
- Innovative D3O knuckle armor for flexibility and impact protection
- Neoprene cuff with Velcro closure
Introduction
Gloves serve a vital protective function for motorcyclists. Our hands are extremely vulnerable in the event of a spill or slide.
Abrasion-resistant gloves (1) made of leather, synthetic leather, or textile materials can literally save your skin by preventing road rash on the palms and knuckles.
Gloves also help protect against impact injuries, heat, cold wind, and rain. Considering how exposed our hands are on a bike, gloves should be viewed as essential safety gear rather than an optional accessory.
Ventilation and Comfort
The mesh panels on the back of the Anthem 2 women’s gloves should allow decent airflow to keep hands cool in warmer weather.
The synthetic leather palm looks smooth and supple right out of the box, meaning no extensive break-in period. Overall, the materials seem optimized for comfort and flexibility from the get-go.
Safety and Protection
In terms of protecting those precious paws, the Anthem 2 gloves check all the key boxes. The synthetic leather palm resists abrasion well in the slide zone, while extra reinforcement beefs up the high-wear area.
And instead of hard plastic armor, Icon wisely chose flexible D3O material for the knuckle protector. This innovative material stays soft and pliable normally but stiffens upon impact to dissipate energy.
Short of upgrading to a more expensive kangaroo or goatskin leather glove, the Anthem 2 women’s motorcycle gloves offer impressive safety credentials considering the budget price point.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | Very affordable at $40 |
| Protection | Reinforced palm, D3O knuckle armor |
| Comfort | Mesh backing, minimal break-in |
How Do the Icon Anthem 2 Gloves Perform in Real-world Use?
To truly evaluate motorcycle gloves, we have to move beyond specs and marketing hype to actual on-bike performance. How do the Anthem 2 gloves hold up during real-world daily use?
Touchscreen Compatibility
With so many bikes boasting Bluetooth connectivity and motorcycle GPS units using touchscreens these days, the ability to operate devices without removing gloves is clutch. I tested out the Anthem 2’s touchscreen compatibility and found it decent but not flawless.
I could tap and swipe to answer calls, but typing out texts was fairly hit or miss. Sadly, that’s typical with most affordable motorcycle gloves versus premium options.
Weather Protection
Given the mesh panels and perforated fingers, the Anthem 2 gloves clearly prioritize airflow and ventilation over weather protection.
The lightweight construction simply lacks the insulation or weatherproofing required for cold and wet conditions.
To be fair, Icon doesn’t market them as all-weather gloves. I’d reserve the Anthem 2s strictly for warm and dry rides. Upgrading to a waterproof winter glove remains necessary for year-round riders.
Durability Over Time
The most telling test of motorcycle gear comes from accumulated miles over months and years of real-world use. Based on Icon’s reputation for quality and smart material choices, I’d expect the Anthem 2 gloves to exhibit decent long-term durability.
However, those seeking maximum abrasion resistance might wish to upgrade to leather construction. Only time and more user feedback will reveal whether these gloves go the distance.
Rider Questions About the Icon Anthem 2 Gloves
Before deciding whether to purchase the Icon Anthem 2 gloves, many fellow riders have posed some common questions. Below, I’ve tried to address some of the key FAQs for those still on the fence about these affordable riding gloves.
Do the gloves run true to size?
I noticed the sizing seems to run slightly large based on Icon’s size chart. Riders who fall between sizes would be wise to size down for the best precision fit. Getting an ideal snug fit ensures maximum dexterity and protection.
How does the protection compare to similar budget gloves?
In comparing the Anthem 2 gloves to competing budget models from other brands, I feel they provide excellent protection for the price. The palm reinforcement and D3O knuckle armor place them a cut above cheap entry-level options.
Would you choose these over motorcycle gloves from better-known brands?
While Icon may lack the mainstream name recognition of some other prominent motorcycle gear brands, their products deliver substantial bang for your buck. I would readily choose these over similarly priced gloves from more famous manufacturers. Icon specializes in gear for riders that balances cost, quality, and performance.
Should all riders invest in motorcycle gloves?
I strongly advocate wearing durable, reinforced motorcycle gloves each time you ride, regardless of bike type or trip duration.
Our hands are simply too exposed not to take that basic protective measure. Quality gloves represent cheap insurance against painful injuries in any minor tip-over or crash. Did I mention they also make gripping handlebars far more secure and comfortable?
And Finally…Who Are the Icon Anthem 2 Gloves Best Suited For?
So, who would I recommend these Icon Anthem 2 gloves for? Budget-minded street riders and commuters seem like the ideal fit.
The blend of protection, ventilation, and comfort perfectly matches the needs of riders logging daily street miles.
More performance-oriented track riders may desire a bump up in impact protection. However, cold weather riders will require more weatherproofing and insulation during winter months.
But for temperate spring, summer, and fall riding, they hit a sweet spot combining value, quality, and everyday livability.
While not a premium track glove, the Anthem 2 punches far above its $40 price point. Before shelling out $150+ for top-tier motorcycle gloves, I suggest giving these Icon gloves serious consideration.
Think of them like a sturdy pair of Chuck Taylors—an affordable riding staple delivering style, versatility, and surprising substance.
Let me know your thoughts about the Anthem 2 gloves or questions about other glove options in the comments below! Ride safe out there.
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment (1)
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