Helimot Buffalo Pro 192.5 gloves

[timwat]

Just picked these up a few weeks ago. I've been using Alpinestars gloves for a six years (1st the SMX textiles, then the SPS leather), but wanted a full gauntlet glove for future track days, faster Doc Wong rides, etc.

Had heard great things about Helimot but never actually been down there during business hours. Great, friendly staff, no sales pressure, really confident in their products. I tried on a bunch of their gloves (different models, different sizes) and fell in love with the 192s. Incredibly high quality leather, great padding.

When I asked about what was better with their gloves vs. my A-stars, they pulled out some more "racer" looking gloves from a big box, a pair with carbon fiber in the knuckles. A HUGE chunk of CF plastic was gone, and the sales guy said, "That's what happens at track speeds when the plastic hits the tarmac. Our gloves use closed cell foam to spread the impact."

Wow. There's something to think about. Anyway, a buddy went down on Sunday's ride in Icon gloves and he wore right through them. I feel pretty confident that the Helimots, of such higher quality and thicker leather, would have sustained a lot more.

Another great thing is that they are able to customize to fit since they're all made on the premises. Need a left M and a right L? They can do. I'm going to ask them about customizing finger length in a month or two after they're really broken in.

There's another thing. I asked them how long they would take to break in, and the guy says, "If you don't take our advice, probably 3 or 4 rides." So I ask, "What's your advice?" He says, "Fill a sink with warm water, put the glove one, keep them in the warm water for 20 minutes. Wring out as much water as you can, then go riding."

You know what? As strange as this sounded to me, it worked. Anyway, clearly the best set of gloves I've ever had. I love 'em, and feel pretty confident about faster rides in the twisties, and future track days.

They're not cheap at $199, but in this case I can definitely attest that you get what you pay for.

[nozzle]

Great review Tim! they'll tailor the fingers after they're broken in as part of the purchase price? or is this an extra charge? Pics? esp... the stitching. Thanks.

[timwat]

Hi, thanks so much for the kind words - my first VFRworld review.

I read on another site that Helimot will tailor finger length after break-in, but I haven't actually asked them yet, so I don't know the $$ either...I'm guessing there will be some kind of charge, although I am hoping (wishing?) at the $200 purchase price there won't be.

Let me see what I can do about pics - only cameras I have are my phone and the one built into the laptop LOL

BTW, one other thing I didn't put in my review. They have a built-in 'squeegee' on the right index finger. But on Helimots the 'squeegee' is a strip of leather, not rubber or plastic. The website claims it remains soft and non-scratching over time better than rubber or plastic. I can't address the longevity, but I can attest that it cleaned up my helmet visor like a charm during a misty early morning ride in Pescadero.

What specifically do you mean by the sticking and such? Not sure I know what you mean, so let me know and I'll try to address as best I can.

Tim

[nozzle]

Originally Posted by timwat

What specifically do you mean by the sticking and such? ...

me w/o spill check sometimes spell stitching as sticking.

Tanks for understanding.

Bad Spellers of the World UNTIE!!

[reg71]

good review, but you gotta put a pic in it so we can see them. then it'll be a great review...

[mello dude]

You got my interest..I'm in the market for a new pair of gloves. My favorite gloves have been the Z leather deer tracks, and I have been bugging them for a replacement pair, but them dont sell them anymore.(damn) Maybe I'll look at the Helimots...

MD