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It’s been about three weeks since I received my Kobe Pro Racing gloves from 1888FASTLAP.com and I have to say, these gloves are of excellent build quality, initial comfort and a great compliment to my Kobe Misano 1 pc.
Even though Kobe is not quite a “household name” like Vanson or Alpinestars might be, the way these gloves are built are on par or better than most of the higher-priced gloves I’ve seen…even the gloves that are a few hundred dollars more.
Initial break-in was questionable in the sense that the gloves were ultra-stiff right out of the packaging. I wondered how long it would be…how many hours of riding it would take before they started forming to my hands. Truth be told, the answer is “not that long”. I have used them for one real test ride but found them to be very usable still given the newness of the materials. Since the test ride, I’ve primarily been wearing them around the house and for driving to help speed the break-in process along for my trip to VIR.
One thing I’ve definitely noticed so far is how much feel remains, especially in the finger areas, even after the tanning, installation of the memory foam (yes, memory foam) and sewn-in liner. Now, I don’t want to imply that the leather quality is low or perhaps thin…that is not the case. The preparation and thickness of the leather is top notch, IMO and the palm rivets are not intrusive at all. The only time I remember they exist is when they “click” against a given surface.
I was initially worried about the rivets on the palm but, after some research, found out they do indeed have a function which is to keep a rider’s hands from “catching” on the pavement in the event of a hand slide. Just to note, some of the popular high end gloves feature palm rivets as well.
If you’re in the market for leather products, definitely look into Kobe. I currently own two items from their product line and I have not been let down by the quality of not only the materials, but the way everything is stitched together. The prices seem to be very fair and the build quality is excellent.
With proper care, there is no doubt in my mind that my Misano suit and Pro Racing gloves are going to last for many years.
1888FASTLAP.com is apparently the only US distributor of the Kobe product line and I’ve had excellent dealings with them so far.
Here are a few pics of the gloves. I just don’t think the online pics do them much justice.
Pic 1- Inside, palm down