We hear recent changes at Alpinestars mean they could once again be a force to be reckoned with on the trail for those of us that have to pedal, not simply twist the throttle. Back in the 90’s they were all over the mountain bike scene - shoes, apparel, even bikes like the elevated chain stay Ti-Mega and the revolutionary T-Bikes for women.

Were not saying they will be charging into the breech at that level of commitment again, but the products they are making for mountain riders are getting better and better. Case in point, the Aero Glove. When it came to finish and materials they were as good as anything on the market, when it came to fit for MTBs, they weren’t the industry leader. When you’re feathering your brakes with one finger, shifting into middle ring with your thumb and dropping your seat post with a quick flick of a lever, all in a split second while diving into a rock garden, fit counts.

The new Aero Glove uses a very lightweight mesh upper with a synthetic leather Clarino palm for protection and grip. The palm is perforated everywhere for ventilation except where you need extra padding, between the thumb and index finger and under the heel of your palm. Instead of thick foam, they simply double up the Clarino. It offers extra padding without infringing on the feel at the handlebars. Fit at the wrist is perfect. It rides fairly low on the wrist, but never feels like it is slipping thanks to a cut out up top gusseted with airprene, a neoprene hybrid that is light and breathable. The terry cloth thumb for wiping the nose is in attendance, for us a must have on any glove.

All this is complemented by a tweaked fit. The glove feels lower profile around the palm, but never binding and you never get friction between the fingers. Those fingers have been lengthened slightly to take the pressure off the tips of your fingers making all those finesse shifts we have to make at the bars that much easier. The Alpinestars Aero Glove has the finish and materials we have come to love form Alpinestars, but now in a perfect MTB fit. Of course, the multiple color options and styling are the same high standard Alpinestars always sets.

Sizes: 2XS-3XL
Colors: White, Tan, Blue, Gray, Red
 Price $30.00
www.alpinestars.com