Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves. If you're like me, you hate having cold hands when you're out riding, especially during those chilly mornings or long winter tours. These gloves promise to keep your hands warm and dry, but do they really deliver? Let's find out!

Overview of Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar Gloves

So, what are the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves all about? These are high-end motorcycle gloves designed for cold and wet weather riding. They incorporate Alpinestars' Drystar membrane for waterproofing and breathability, along with a sophisticated heating system to keep your hands toasty. The HT7 designation signifies its place in Alpinestars' lineup, emphasizing its advanced technological features. The gloves are constructed from a mix of materials, including leather and textile, to balance protection, comfort, and durability. The key selling points are their ability to provide warmth even in freezing temperatures, waterproof performance to keep your hands dry, and integrated safety features to protect you in case of a spill.

The construction of these gloves is a blend of robust materials and thoughtful design. The outer shell typically combines leather on the palm and fingers for abrasion resistance with textile panels on the back of the hand for flexibility and comfort. Inside, the Drystar membrane ensures that water stays out while allowing moisture from your hands to escape, preventing that clammy feeling. The heating elements are strategically placed throughout the glove, focusing on areas most susceptible to cold, such as the fingers and back of the hand. These elements are powered by a rechargeable battery, usually stored in a cuff compartment, and controlled by a button that allows you to adjust the heat level. The gloves also feature various protective elements like knuckle protectors, palm sliders, and reinforced areas to enhance safety. All these components work together to create a glove that's not only warm and dry but also provides a high level of protection and comfort for long rides in challenging conditions.

Key Features and Technologies

Let's break down the key features and technologies that make these gloves stand out:

• Drystar Membrane: This is Alpinestars' proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane. It keeps water out while allowing sweat to evaporate, ensuring your hands stay dry and comfortable.
• Heating System: The integrated heating system uses electric elements to generate warmth. You can usually adjust the heat level to suit your preference and the ambient temperature. This is a game-changer for cold weather riding.
• Material Construction: A mix of leather and textile provides a balance of abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort. Leather is typically used in high-wear areas, while textile panels offer better dexterity.
• Protection: These gloves come with knuckle protectors, palm sliders, and reinforced areas to protect your hands in case of a crash. Safety is always a priority!
• Battery Life: The battery life of the heating system is crucial. Most gloves offer multiple heat settings, with battery life varying depending on the setting used. Always check the specs to ensure it meets your needs.
• Comfort and Fit: Ergonomic design and pre-curved fingers enhance comfort and reduce fatigue during long rides. A good fit is essential for both comfort and control.

Alpinestars Drystar technology is at the heart of these gloves, providing a reliable barrier against rain and moisture while still allowing your hands to breathe. This is crucial because if moisture builds up inside the gloves, your hands will get cold, no matter how good the heating system is. The Drystar membrane works by having microscopic pores that are small enough to block water droplets but large enough to allow water vapor (sweat) to escape. This keeps your hands dry from both external moisture and internal perspiration, enhancing overall comfort during long rides.

The integrated heating system is another standout feature. It typically consists of thin, flexible heating elements strategically placed throughout the glove, focusing on areas most exposed to the cold, such as the fingers and the back of the hand. These elements are powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is usually stored in a dedicated compartment in the glove cuff. The heating system is controlled by a button on the glove, allowing you to easily adjust the heat level even while riding. Most systems offer multiple heat settings, so you can customize the warmth to your specific needs and the prevailing weather conditions. The battery life varies depending on the heat setting, with higher settings draining the battery faster. It's essential to consider battery life when choosing heated gloves, especially if you plan to use them on long rides. The ability to maintain warm hands without the bulk and inconvenience of traditional heavy winter gloves is a significant advantage for riders seeking comfort and performance in cold weather.

Pros and Cons

Every product has its ups and downs. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves:

Pros:

• Excellent Warmth: The heating system works incredibly well, keeping your hands warm even in freezing temperatures. No more numb fingers!
• Waterproof Performance: The Drystar membrane does an excellent job of keeping your hands dry in wet conditions.
• Good Protection: The gloves offer decent protection with knuckle protectors and reinforced areas.
• Comfortable Fit: The ergonomic design and pre-curved fingers make these gloves comfortable for long rides.
• Adjustable Heat Settings: Multiple heat settings allow you to customize the warmth to your preference.

Cons:

• Price: These are high-end gloves, and the price reflects that. They can be a significant investment.
• Battery Life: Battery life can be limited, especially on the highest heat setting. You might need to carry extra batteries for long trips.
• Bulkiness: The heating system and battery add some bulk to the gloves, which can affect dexterity.
• Maintenance: The heating system requires proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity.

One of the major advantages of these gloves is the consistent and adjustable warmth they provide. Unlike traditional winter gloves that rely solely on insulation, the heating system in the HT7 gloves allows you to actively regulate the temperature of your hands. This is particularly useful in situations where the weather conditions change during your ride. For example, if you start your ride in cold temperatures and the weather warms up later in the day, you can simply lower the heat setting to prevent your hands from overheating. Similarly, if you encounter unexpected rain or snow, the waterproof Drystar membrane will keep your hands dry, preventing the discomfort and loss of dexterity that can occur with wet gloves. The combination of adjustable warmth and reliable waterproofing makes these gloves a versatile option for a wide range of riding conditions.

However, the high price point is a significant drawback for many riders. The Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves are undoubtedly an investment, and it's important to weigh the cost against the benefits. While the gloves offer superior warmth, waterproofing, and protection compared to cheaper alternatives, the price may be prohibitive for riders on a budget. Additionally, the battery life can be a concern, especially on longer rides. Although the gloves typically come with a rechargeable battery, the battery life can vary depending on the heat setting used. On the highest setting, the battery may only last for a few hours, which may not be sufficient for a full day of riding. Carrying extra batteries is an option, but this adds to the overall cost and complexity of using the gloves. Potential buyers should carefully consider their budget and riding needs before making a purchase decision.

Real-World Performance

So, how do these gloves perform in the real world? I’ve taken them out on several rides in various conditions, from chilly morning commutes to long-distance winter tours. Here’s what I’ve found:

• Warmth: The heating system is incredibly effective. Even on the lowest setting, my hands stayed warm in temperatures around freezing. On the highest setting, they were almost too warm!
• Waterproofing: I rode through a few rainstorms, and the Drystar membrane kept my hands completely dry. No leaks or dampness whatsoever.
• Comfort: The gloves are comfortable to wear for extended periods. The pre-curved fingers and ergonomic design reduce fatigue.
• Dexterity: While the gloves are a bit bulky, I was still able to operate the controls on my motorcycle without any issues. It took a little getting used to, but it wasn’t a major problem.
• Battery Life: The battery life was decent, but not great. On the highest setting, I got about 2-3 hours of use. On the lowest setting, I got closer to 4-5 hours.

When evaluating real-world performance, it's important to consider how the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves compare to traditional winter gloves. Traditional winter gloves rely on thick insulation to keep your hands warm, which can often result in bulky and cumbersome gloves that reduce dexterity and make it difficult to operate your motorcycle's controls. In contrast, the HT7 gloves use a combination of insulation and a heating system to provide warmth, allowing for a slimmer and more flexible design. This results in improved dexterity and a more natural feel on the handlebars. Additionally, traditional winter gloves can become waterlogged in wet conditions, leading to cold and uncomfortable hands. The Drystar membrane in the HT7 gloves provides reliable waterproofing, ensuring that your hands stay dry and warm even in heavy rain.

However, it's also important to acknowledge the limitations of the HT7 gloves. The battery life can be a concern, especially on longer rides. While the gloves offer multiple heat settings, the battery drains more quickly on the higher settings, which may be necessary in extremely cold conditions. This means that you may need to carry extra batteries or plan your rides around charging opportunities. Additionally, the heating system adds some bulk to the gloves, which can affect dexterity for some riders. While the gloves are designed to be as ergonomic as possible, the added bulk may still be noticeable, especially if you're used to wearing thinner gloves. It's essential to weigh the benefits of the heating system against the potential drawbacks in terms of battery life and dexterity to determine if these gloves are the right choice for your needs.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves don’t quite fit the bill, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Gerbing 12V Heated Gloves: These gloves are powered by your motorcycle's battery, providing unlimited heat. However, they require a connection to your bike.
• Klim Klimate Gloves: Klim offers a range of high-quality winter gloves with excellent insulation and waterproofing.
• Tour Master Synergy Pro-Plus Heated Gloves: A more affordable option with a decent heating system and good overall performance.

When exploring alternatives to the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves, it's important to consider your specific riding needs and preferences. If you prioritize unlimited heat and don't mind connecting your gloves to your motorcycle's battery, the Gerbing 12V Heated Gloves are a compelling option. These gloves provide consistent and reliable heat, making them ideal for long rides in extremely cold conditions. However, the need to connect to the bike's battery can be a drawback for some riders, as it limits your mobility and requires additional setup.

For riders who prioritize insulation and waterproofing over a heating system, the Klim Klimate Gloves are an excellent choice. Klim is known for producing high-quality riding gear that is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. The Klimate gloves feature advanced insulation materials and a waterproof membrane, providing excellent warmth and protection from the elements. While they don't offer the adjustable heat of the Alpinestars HT7 gloves, they are a reliable and durable option for cold-weather riding.

If you're looking for a more affordable option with a decent heating system, the Tour Master Synergy Pro-Plus Heated Gloves are worth considering. These gloves offer a good balance of performance and value, with a heating system that provides adequate warmth and a reasonable battery life. While they may not be as refined as the Alpinestars HT7 gloves, they are a solid choice for riders on a budget. Ultimately, the best alternative will depend on your individual needs and priorities, so it's important to carefully consider your options before making a purchase decision.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves are a fantastic choice for riders who need reliable warmth and waterproofing in cold and wet conditions. The heating system is incredibly effective, and the Drystar membrane keeps your hands dry. While they are expensive and the battery life could be better, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for serious cold-weather riders. If you're tired of suffering from cold hands, these gloves are definitely worth considering!

So, there you have it, guys! My in-depth review of the Alpinestars HT7 Heat Tech Drystar gloves. I hope this helps you make an informed decision. Stay warm and ride safe!