This review dives into the Troy Lee Designs Air Gloves, examining their performance, comfort, and durability on the trail. From initial impressions of the packaging and materials to extensive testing across various terrains, we'll explore every aspect of these gloves. We'll analyze the grip, protection offered, and breathability, comparing them to other leading brands like 661 and Race Face to determine if they truly live up to the hype and their price point. Prepare for an in-depth look at whether these gloves are a worthwhile investment for serious mountain bikers.This comprehensive review covers everything from the initial unboxing experience and assessment of build quality, to real-world trail testing highlighting performance and long-term durability. We'll scrutinize the glove's grip, protection features, breathability, and overall comfort during extended rides. Our evaluation considers the fit, the effectiveness of the wrist closure, and the strategic design elements that contribute to both protection and style. Ultimately, we'll deliver a verdict on whether the Troy Lee Designs Air Gloves deserve a spot in your cycling gear arsenal.
Pros And Cons
- Grip well
- More protection on the knuckles
- Wrist isn't too tight
- Good rubber styling/grip
- Logo provides additional hand protection
- Potential stitching wear
Read more: 5 Best Cycling Gloves to Buy in 2024
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Troy Lee Designs Air Gloves arrived, and my first impression was positive. The packaging was simple yet effective, and the gloves themselves felt well-made. The material seemed durable, and the stitching looked secure – a crucial aspect for longevity. The design is sleek and understated, which I appreciated.

I immediately noticed the excellent grip provided by the gloves. The rubberized material feels comfortable against the skin and promises a firm hold on the handlebars. The overall fit is snug but not restrictive, allowing for full dexterity.

Performance on the Trail
I've put these gloves through their paces on various trails, and they consistently perform well. The knuckle protection is significant, offering peace of mind against impacts and unexpected encounters with branches or rocks.
The wrist closure is secure without feeling overly tight, a balance that many glove manufacturers struggle to achieve. The grip remained excellent even after hours of riding. The material’s breathability prevented any significant sweating, maintaining comfort throughout the ride.
Features and Design
The Troy Lee Designs Air Gloves boast a thoughtful design. The strategically placed logo not only adds to the aesthetics but provides additional protection on the top of the hand. The subtle highlighting on the gloves improves grip and adds a touch of style.
The gloves are surprisingly lightweight without compromising on protection. The breathability is noteworthy, a key factor for maintaining comfort during long rides. The materials used feel high-quality and should withstand the demands of frequent use.
Final Verdict
The Troy Lee Designs Air Gloves exceed expectations in terms of comfort, protection, and grip. The durable materials and thoughtful design suggest a glove built to last. The fit is perfect, the breathability is outstanding, and the level of protection is impressive.
Compared to other gloves I've used (661, Race Face, and Troy Lee Designs' previous models), these stand out due to their superior combination of comfort and protection. The stitching seems exceptionally robust, giving me confidence in their long-term durability. I highly recommend these gloves to any serious mountain biker.