Held Steve Classic Gloves Review: Game Changer for Comfort?
I put these German-engineered mitts to the test to see if key upgrades like Superfabric reinforcements and upgraded armor make them relevant today or if nostalgia outweighs their performance. Do these venerable classics balance heritage styling with contemporary protection?
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best gloves for all seasons? Read on to learn about the key features of these gloves and whether they will remain competitive today.
Held Steve Classic Gloves
Key Takeaways
- Balance of quality/value
- Short/long sizes available
- Iconic design modernized
Our Verdict On The Held Steve Classic Gloves
Having used these gloves for both commuting and weekend touring rides, I’m very impressed by how they’ve evolved to keep pace with modern offerings without losing their iconic styling.
The kangaroo leather palm fits like a glove and provides exceptional abrasion protection and feedback. My hands stayed remarkably comfortable even during long days in the saddle, thanks to the flexible materials and pre-curved shaping.
I was initially skeptical whether the upgrades like Superfabric and injected thermoplastic armor represented more than just marketing hype.
However, seeing the technology in person convinced me of its legitimate benefit for impact and slide protection.
The new additions bolster safety substantially compared to preceding models while retaining the characteristics that made the Steves so popular originally.
In my experience testing motorcycle gear, few legacy products successfully walk the line between preserving heritage and incorporating contemporary improvements.
But Held nailed it by smartly enhancing this classic touring glove with features like Superfabric and dual-density foam armor right where riders need it most.
At the same time, the materials and design deliver the all-day comfort previous generations of Steves are renowned for.
Why Review These Gloves Now?
The Steve Classic gloves first debuted in the early 2000s and developed a cult following among touring riders. However, the motorcycle glove market has evolved enormously over the last decade.
New abrasion-resistant materials like Superfabric now exist, and rivals boast upgraded armor and ergonomics. I wanted to re-evaluate if these once-great gloves still stack up or if nostalgia outweighs their current performance.
Do they incorporate modern safety advances, or are the Steves too outdated today despite their legacy?
Highlights of the Held Steve Classic Gloves
These 3-season non-waterproof gloves feature a supple kangaroo leather palm with stretch Kevlar panels between the fingers.
The backhand utilizes Pittard goatskin leather, while the thumb and outer hand have durable Superfabric overlays.
The gloves incorporate high-density Temperfoam and an injected thermoplastic knuckle protector for impact absorption.
Stretch fabric on the wrist provides flexibility, augmented by a micro-hook closure and wrist adjuster strap for security.
Finally, a handy visor wiper on the index finger completes the package.
Key Improvements on the Classic Design
While retaining the iconic Steve styling, Held added modern touches like Superfabric and upgraded armor in recent iterations. These important upgrades bolster both abrasion and impact resistance compared to preceding versions.
Some riders still prefer the overall feel and fit of older Steves for comfort and feedback. However, the newest variants clearly provide enhanced protection without drastically altering the much-loved experience.
How Does Superfabric Boost Abrasion Resistance?
This unique material contains a flexible polymer coating overlaid on tough ceramic pellets fused to the base fabric. Under impact, the ceramic pellets disperse energy while resisting tearing for remarkably extended slide times.
Positioned along the outer hand edge that commonly contacts the ground during slides, Superfabric significantly augments the gloves’ abrasion resistance.
What About the Upgraded Armor?
Previous Steve models featured minimal armor, relying largely on the leather construction for protection. However, modern expectations and competing gloves compelled Held to integrate upgraded impact foam in current editions.
Injected thermoplastic knuckle armor backed by dual-density foam disperses and absorbs crash impacts much more effectively than in past versions.
A Unique Sizing Option
I also appreciated that Held offers the Steve glove in short and long sizes beyond the standard fit. For those with unusually proportioned hands, choosing a size with a quarter-inch longer or shorter finger design helps achieve a tailored fit.
This consideration for better fitting the gloves to various hand dimensions impressed me compared to most brands.
Are The Held Steve Classics Still Relevant?
Given the iconic status of these gloves over the last 20 years, I had high expectations for the latest variants. Overall, the Held Steve Classic gloves deliver a blend of customary German quality and contemporary protection.
The kangaroo leather palm offers superb abrasion resistance matched by the Superfabric reinforcements. Comfort remains excellent thanks to the flexible materials and pre-curved design. The new armor increases impact protection compared to preceding versions.
For riders seeking a balance of heritage styling and modern safety, the updated Steve Classic gloves stand out as a smart choice. While not inexpensive, they justify the premium cost by blending classic appeal with contemporary protections.
In the world of motorcycle gear, few offerings managed to remain relevant and competitive for over a decade like these Held classics. So, to answer my initial question, the Steve gloves undoubtedly still belong on the shopping lists of discerning riders in 2022.
Key Takeaways
- Iconic design enhanced with modern Superfabric and upgraded armor
- Short and long sizes accommodate different hand dimensions
- Balance of quality, protection, comfort, and value
FAQs
How does the suprotect foam protect the hands?
Strategically placed in the thumb and backhand, this proprietary high-density foam absorbs and disperses impact energy to reduce transmitted forces through the gloves.
Would these gloves work well for adventure touring?
Yes, the abrasion-resistant leather and armor make them well-suited to both on and off-road riding. The excellent feel and feedback also aid motorcycle control.
How does the ventilation compare to summer racing gloves?
Lacking perforated leather or mesh panels, the Steve Classics run warmer than lightweight summer gloves. However, the unlined leather remains reasonably cool into the fall.
What is the difference from the racing-focused Held Phantoms?
The Phantoms carry more extensive armor for track and aggressive riding. The Steve Classics focus more on long-haul comfort and everyday performance.
And Finally…
After testing the Held Steve Classic gloves and researching their improvements, I’m convinced these iconic mitts deserve their sterling reputation. The latest variants build on the much-loved design with smart modernizations.
For riders seeking versatile hand protection with heritage styling, the Steve Classics strikes an appealing balance between quality, comfort, protection, and value. They remain some of the finest touring gloves around, thanks to Held’s thoughtful evolution of this long-running model.
Let me know in the comments if you’ve used these gloves before or if you have questions about how they compare to other options out there!
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Sources: Motorcycle personal protective equipment (1)
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