Sit Down with Legendary USA: How to Keep Your Leather Motorcycle Gloves Fresh for the Long Haul

You invested in real leather motorcycle gloves. Now it's time to make them last. At Legendary USA, we sat down with our in-house team—the same riders and leather experts who build the gloves—to talk glove care, conditioning, and long-term maintenance. Whether you're rolling through rain or heat, your gloves are only as good as how you treat them off the bike.

From black deerskin to goatskin short-cuff styles, proper maintenance not only extends the life of your gear—it keeps it looking and performing like the day you bought it.

Why Leather Glove Maintenance Matters

Unlike synthetic gear, real leather gloves break in and get better with time—as long as you take care of them. Sweat, rain, dirt, and sun exposure can dry out or damage the leather if ignored.

Without maintenance, leather can:

• Crack and become brittle

• Lose flexibility and throttle feel

• Stain or fade

• Weaken at the seams

By taking just a few minutes every month to clean and condition your gloves, you’re protecting your hands—and your investment—for years of riding.

Step-by-Step: How to Care for Leather Motorcycle Gloves

We asked the team at LegendaryUSA.com to break down the glove care routine they personally use on the road.

1. Clean Off Dirt and Sweat After Rides

Use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt, sweat, or road grime after each ride. Avoid soaking the leather—just enough to lift off buildup. For stubborn grime, use a leather-specific cleaner (never dish soap or alcohol).

Pro Tip: Don’t use saddle soap unless it’s designed for soft glove leather—it can dry out the surface.

2. Air Dry Properly

If your gloves get soaked in rain or sweat, never toss them in a dryer or near direct heat. Instead:

• Stuff them lightly with newspaper to absorb moisture

• Lay flat in a shaded, ventilated area

• Avoid sunlight or heaters, which can crack leather

3. Condition the Leather Regularly

Use a non-greasy leather conditioner (like Obenauf's, also available from Legendary USA) to keep the gloves supple. Apply a small amount and massage into the leather evenly.

Conditioning every 1–2 months during heavy use will prevent stiffness and extend lifespan.

4. Maintain Touchscreen Areas

Touchscreen fingertips need flexibility to work correctly. Conditioning these areas is critical to maintain their responsiveness.

5. Use Waterproofing if Needed

If you ride in wet conditions often, apply a silicone-based waterproofing spray (like Obenauf’s Water Shield) to add a moisture barrier. Avoid waxy products—they reduce breathability and flexibility.

What About Lined Gloves?

If your gloves have a fleece or Thinsulate™ lining—like the Legendary Deerskin Fleece Lined Gloves—clean only the leather surface. Don't over-saturate or submerge these gloves in water.

Storing Leather Motorcycle Gloves

When not in use:

• Store in a cool, dry place (not a saddlebag or hot garage)

• Keep away from oils or chemicals

• Lay them flat or hang with a gentle clip—don't fold or smash

Legendary USA: Built to Last, Meant to Be Maintained

All of our gloves—from the ILL DOZER to the Classic Touchscreen to the Haymakers—are built with full-grain American deerskin or goatskin, and every pair is 100% made in the USA. But even the strongest leather needs regular care.

Want to know which gloves are worth maintaining for years? Browse our full line of motorcycle gloves—the best motorcycle gloves and see what real American craftsmanship looks like.

Final Thoughts

Your motorcycle gloves are more than just gear—they’re your direct connection to the bike. They control your throttle, protect your hands, and reflect your style. Treat them like the tools they are, and they'll go the distance with you.

With a little routine care, your Legendary USA gloves will mold to your grip, stay weather-resistant, and look better every year. That’s the beauty of American leather.

Explore the collection and start your glove journey at LegendaryUSA.com.