Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX Gloves Review: Game Changing Waterproof Tech?
Finding motorcycle gloves to hold up through all sorts of riding conditions often means choosing between premium protection or budget-friendly pricing.
When a pair emerges claiming to blend rugged construction with affordable cost, it deserves a hard look. In reviewing the Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX motorcycle gloves, I had to ask if these gloves can deliver high-end Gore-Tex waterproofing and impact buffers without the usual high-end price tag.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best waterproof motorcycle gloves for you? Let’s find out!
Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX Gloves
Key Takeaways
- Premium features justify the steep price
- Balanced protection shields from spills
- Waterproofing stands up to downpours
Our Verdict On The Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX Gloves
I’m quite impressed by how Rukka blended serious protective elements with long-haul comfort in the Virium 2.0 GTX gloves (1).
The rugged outer shell takes the impacts while the Gore-Tex liner keeps the weather out – exactly what I search for from my daily riding protection.
In my opinion, the armor density hits a nice sweet spot. The thermoplastic knuckles and finger shields absorbed crashes without turning my hands into an overloaded fortress. And the textile build kept them light enough for all-day wearing, unlike stiff racing gauntlets.
Ventilation does remain merely adequate, however. The glove’s solid facade produces sweat on really hot, sunny rides.
But a bit of moisture is worth it for the exceptional safety buffers, in my experience. The moisture buildup stays manageable as long as your rides don’t exceed 8-10 hours in blazing heat.
Considering the balance of protection, comfort, and 4-season construction, I feel the Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX gloves earn their premium positioning.
Before buying elsewhere, visit Revzilla.com to find any special discounted pricing or bonus offers on these gloves to get the best deal. Their prices tend to fluctuate, so you may luck out and save some cash!
I hope you found this review helpful! Please like and share the article if you agree it provides valuable details other riders can benefit from.
Comparison To Other Wet Weather Motorcycle Gloves
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Reax Ridge WP Gloves | Waterproof Hipora liner, removable thermal liner, hard knuckle protection, goatskin leather palm |
| Alpinestars SMX-Z Drystar Gloves | Full goatskin leather construction, Alpinestars Drystar waterproof membrane, race-fit design |
| Revit Kodiak GTX Gloves | Gore-Tex X-Trafit waterproof insert, Primaloft insulation, reinforced palm |
The Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX gloves stand out for their Gore-Tex waterproofing technology that provides guaranteed waterproof performance for the gloves’ lifetime.
The Gore Grip system fully integrates the membrane into the construction for sustained weather protection compared to the Alpinestars Drystar membrane or Revit GTX liner, which may degrade over time.
The Virium 2.0 gloves also offer a solid blend of impact protection with thermoplastic knuckle armor and finger shields, though not quite as extensive as the dedicated race-fit design of the SMX-Z gloves.
Overall, they deliver better real-world versatility compared to the premium Revit Kodiak GTX model thanks to better airflow from the textile build.
Let me know if you need any other comparisons between the different motorcycle glove options on your site!
A Rugged Yet Feature-Packed Glove
At first glance, the Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX motorcycle gloves showcase an understated style with a stretch polyester main construction in subtle black.
But beneath the stealthy veneer lies a rugged set of features ready for aggressive riding. Hard TPU knuckles and finger protection provide shielding from impacts, while the reinforced landing zone on the palm aims to prevent abrasion.
I especially appreciated the extra grip near the palms and fingertips from the silicone material, which provided noticeable wet weather improvements.
Thanks to the special *touchscreen-compatible index finger and thumb design, this also assists with operating touchscreens.
Waterproofing That Can Stand Up to the Elements
Of course, the main event with these gloves is the proprietary Gore Grip integration featuring that lauded Gore-Tex waterproof and windproof membrane.
By essentially combining the inner liner, membrane, and outer shell into a cohesive unit, the gloves delivered provided sustained water resistance during my testing.
The waterproofing capabilities even withstood a heavy deluge I got caught in while halfway through a canyon run. Despite heavy precipitation, my hands stayed pleasantly dry.
For those riding in places with unpredictable weather patterns, having confidence that your gloves will keep water out no matter what the skies throw at you is invaluable. The lifetime waterproof guarantee offered by the Gore-Tex tech gives that peace of mind.
An Athletic Fit with Wide Adjustability
Sizing-wise, I would caution you not to assume your typical glove size will translate directly. Based on the sizing chart, my hand measurements called for a size large.
But in reality, the mediums fit me perfectly without restricting movement. I’d advise measuring your hand circumference and then going DOWN a full size for the best fit.
Once sized appropriately, the generous Velcro wrist closure and adjustable gauntlet strap at the base of the gloves enabled really dialing in the ideal fit.
This ensured no excess bulk or billowing while riding. The added wrist retention strap also minimizes the chance of gloves sliding off if you take a spill.
The high degree of adjustability was great for those needing variation depending on conditions, like tucking jacket sleeves underneath.
Rukka Men’s Glove Sizing Chart
| SIZE | HAND (IN) |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7-7.25 |
| 8 | 7.5-7.75 |
| 9 | 8-8.25 |
| 10 | 8.5-8.75 |
| 11 | 9-9.25 |
| 12 | 10-10.25 |
| 13 | 10.5-10.75 |
The manufacturer provides sizing information and does not guarantee a perfect fit.
Impressively Protective Without Sacrificing Comfort
Despite packing rugged protective elements, the Virium 2.0 GTX gloves never felt cumbersome or restrictive.
The flexible panels ensured good mobility, while the inner liner delivered great next-to-skin comfort on long rides.
Those needing heavy-duty armor for high-speed racing may want to look elsewhere. But for spirited sport riding and commuting, I felt these offer the ideal blend of protection and comfort.
The only gripe I had was the weird placement of the visor wipe on the edge of the left index finger. I found this flap catching on to things unexpectedly.
Perhaps it’s my riding style, but I’d prefer if it was positioned nearer to the natural thumb sweep area for clearing visors.
FAQ
Do the gloves keep my hands dry in heavy rain?
Yes, the Gore-Tex membrane and Gore Grip integration are designed to provide waterproofing that withstands heavy precipitation. Testing showed hands stayed dry even during a lengthy deluge.
How bulky are the protective elements like the knuckle armor?
The thermoplastic knuckle and finger protection provides ample impact shielding without being overly bulky or restrictive for long-term wear. Protection hits a nice sweet spot between true race gloves and casual options.
Can I operate touchscreens while wearing the gloves?
Yes, conductive fingertip material on the thumb and index fingers enables using touchscreen devices without removing the gloves. This is a nice feature not always included on protective gloves.
How adjustable are the wrist and cuff areas?
Velcro wrist closures and adjustable gauntlet straps give a wide range of sizing, ensuring excess material won’t lead to billowing at higher speeds while accommodating layering sleeves underneath.
Are the gloves better suited for warm or cold weather?
The textile construction and Gore-Tex waterproof breathability make them four season gloves able to handle temperature ranges from summer heat waves to cooler fall/spring temps. Just note they lack dedicated winter insulation.
Final Verdict: A Strong Synthesis of Safety and Performance
In the end, Rukka’s Virium 2.0 GTX gloves have won me over with their unique balance of key motorcycle glove attributes.
The Gore-Tex integration prevents the bulk often associated with most waterproof riding gloves while still retaining breathability.
Factor in the touchscreen compatibility, premium construction materials, and adjustable ergonomic shaping and you have a very appealing option for riders needing a single pair of gloves for varied conditions and riding styles.
Yes, the price is on the higher end. But for those whose hands take a beating from the elements across long miles in the saddle, the Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX gloves deliver.
Pro & Con’s
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gore-Tex waterproofing technology | Expensive pricing |
| Guaranteed waterproofing for product lifetime | Visor wipe flap can catch unexpectedly |
| Gore Grip integrates membrane into construction | Only moderate protection level |
| Touchscreen compatible fingertips | Ventilation is only adequate |
| Hard knuckle and finger impact protection | |
| Reinforced landing zone on palm | |
| Silicone grip on palm and fingers | |
| Adjustable wrist and gauntlet straps |
I hope this review gives helpful insight into whether the Rukka Virium 2.0 GTX gloves could be the right choice to keep your paws protected across all sorts of rides. Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions!
Ride safe out there.
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