The Troy Lee Designs Skeletal gloves offer a compelling blend of style and performance, but with a crucial caveat. These mid-range gloves boast a striking design, instantly appealing to riders who appreciate high-quality aesthetics. Their lightweight construction and exceptional breathability promise a comfortable ride, even during the most intense sessions. The almost imperceptible feel on the handlebars allows for natural movement and a secure grip, making them ideal for long rides. Early impressions suggest a strong value proposition for the price point.However, a significant drawback overshadows these positive attributes. The durability of the finger decals is a major concern; they are prone to peeling, especially under strenuous use. This premature wear significantly impacts the longevity of the glove’s visual appeal and raises questions about the overall build quality. This review will delve deeper into the performance and comfort, ultimately determining whether the stylish design and breathability outweigh this critical flaw.
Pros And Cons
- Great design
- Breathable (due to holes in the gloves)
- Comfortable
- Makes the wearer look good
- Decals on the fingers fall off
Read more: 5 Best Cycling Gloves to Buy in 2024
Design and First Impressions
The Troy Lee Designs Skeletal gloves boast a visually striking design. The aesthetics are undeniably appealing, reflecting Troy Lee's reputation for stylish gear. The initial feel is one of comfort and lightness, promising a pleasant riding experience.
At approximately $37, these gloves fall into a mid-range price point. While not the cheapest option, the design and features suggest a reasonable value proposition. This price bracket positions them competitively against other similar performance gloves on the market.
Breathability and Comfort
One of the standout features is the exceptional breathability. Numerous strategically placed holes throughout the glove ensure adequate airflow, keeping hands cool and dry even during intense rides.
The comfort level is outstanding. The gloves feel almost unnoticeable while riding, allowing for a natural grip and unrestricted movement. This makes them ideal for longer rides where hand comfort is crucial.
Durability Concerns
Unfortunately, there's a significant drawback: the decals on the fingers tend to peel off easily, especially during rigorous use. This is a disappointing aspect, impacting the longevity of the glove's aesthetic appeal.
This issue of decal peeling could be considered a design flaw or a manufacturing inconsistency. For a glove at this price point, more durable graphics are expected.
Final Verdict
The Troy Lee Designs Skeletal gloves offer a winning combination of style, breathability, and comfort. The design is eye-catching, and the airflow keeps hands cool. However, the peeling decals are a major point of concern, lowering the overall value.
While the comfort and breathability are excellent, the premature decal failure makes these gloves a difficult recommendation. Consider these gloves if the design is a high priority, but be prepared for potential wear and tear on the graphics.
