Held Air n Dry II GORE-TEX® Gloves Review

Comfort & Fit

One of the most significant selling points of the Air n Dry II gloves is the Gore 2in1 system, which gives riders two options:

• Waterproof compartment: This section is ideal for wet or cold conditions, as it is fully lined with Pique-Push-Pull lining and a GORE-TEX membrane.
• Unlined compartment: Provides direct contact with the controls, enhancing feel and airflow for hot-weather riding.

This dual-compartment system is unique but takes some getting used to. The hook and loop fastener adjustment at the wrist and cuff ensures a snug fit, though some riders may find the transition between compartments a bit tricky at first.

Protection & Safety Features

Safety is non-negotiable for motorcycle gear, and the Air n Dry II gloves come prepared:

• EN 13594:2015 certification ensures they meet motorcycle safety standards.
• Rugged plastic knuckle protection that has been impact-tested for real-world durability.
• Held Armaprotec reinforcement at the ball of the thumb, a high-impact area.
• SuperFabric reinforcement on the hand’s edge adds an extra layer of abrasion resistance.
• Reflective sections enhance visibility for night riding.

These gloves’ protective features make them ideal for high-speed touring and adventure riding, where unexpected conditions demand maximum safety.

Real-World Performance

The Held Air n Dry II GORE-TEX® Gloves proved to be an outstanding companion during our 10-day enduro ride across France, tackling everything from chilly mornings to unexpected downpours and warm afternoons. If you’ve read our ride report in previous editions of BTA Magazine, you already know the journey wasn’t exactly a smooth Sunday cruise. It was a full-spectrum adventure, and these gloves adapted to it all with impressive versatility.

The genius of the Air n Dry II lies in its dual-chamber design, which essentially gives you two gloves in one. Slip your hand into the upper chamber, and you get full GORE-TEX® waterproofing and insulation—a lifesaver during those cold and wet stretches of the ride. Switch to the lower chamber, and you immediately feel the airflow from the vented palm, perfect for when the temperatures rise and you need breathability. The transition is seamless: just pull your hand out and slide it back in using the other chamber. No complicated adjustments, no fumbling with liners—just a quick switch depending on what the road throws at you.

Durability and protection are exactly what you’d expect from Held. These aren’t lightweight summer gloves; they’re heavy-duty, adventure-ready, and built to take a beating. We had our fair share of falls, and the gloves took the hits without showing any signs of wear—more importantly, our hands stayed well-protected. They also integrate perfectly with Held’s adventure jackets, offering a secure fit over the cuffs for a weatherproof seal.

If you’re looking for an all-weather touring glove that can handle anything short of extreme heat, the Air n Dry II is a solid investment. They may feel a bit bulkier compared to a standard summer glove, but that’s the trade-off for serious protection, comfort, and adaptability on long-distance adventures. Whether it’s rain, shine, or the unexpected in between, these gloves are ready for the ride. Highly recommended.

Related Articles