Troy Lee Designs AIR Gloves for Mountain Biking and Motocross

In this review of the Troy Lee Designs AIR Gloves the bottom line is simple: these are lightweight, breathable gloves built for riders who prioritize ventilation and control. They suit cross-country mountain bikers, BMX riders and off-road motocross riders who want a minimal-feel glove that still offers targeted protection where it matters. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of micro-mesh ventilation and a single-layer palm that keeps hands cool while the silicone fingertips and sonic welded TPRs maintain grip and protection.

Key Features

• Compression Molded Cuff: Provides a snug, low-profile fit that stays in place under a jersey sleeve without rubbing or binding.
• Micro-Mesh Ventilation: The micro-mesh upper delivers all-over airflow so hands stay cool and reduce sweat on long, hot rides.
• Single-Layer Palm with Perforation: A mapped hole pattern on the palm gives direct feel at the bars while letting heat escape.
• Sonic Welded TPRs: Thermoplastic rubber reinforcements add lightweight impact protection across knuckles and fingers without excess bulk.
• Silicone Fingertips: Printed silicone on fingertips improves lever and control grip for braking and shifting precision.
• Heritage Craftsmanship: From a brand with 40 years of racing experience, the gloves reflect practical design learned from racers.

Who It's For

These gloves are aimed at riders who want a barely-there glove that maximizes breathability and bar feel. Enduro and cross-country mountain bikers, BMX riders, and off-road motocross riders who ride in warm conditions will appreciate the lightweight material, micro-mesh upper and perforated palm for constant airflow.

Riders who need heavy-duty abrasion resistance or thick padding for long highway touring or heavy crash-prone disciplines should look elsewhere; some customers noted seams and material thickness concerns, so those seeking a reinforced, heavily padded glove may prefer a sturdier option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent breathability and low weight make these very comfortable in hot weather.
• Silicone printed fingertips and mapped palm perforation improve lever control and bar feel.
• Compression molded cuff and sonic welded TPRs give a secure fit and targeted protection without bulk.
• Well made overall with a design lineage from decades of racing experience.

Cons

• Material thickness is thin by design, which some riders feel reduces long-term abrasion resistance.
• There are occasional reports of seam issues, so durability can vary by usage and fit.

Specifications

Brand	Troy Lee Designs
Primary Use	Mountain Biking, BMX, Motocross
Upper Material	Micro-mesh for ventilation
Palm	Single-layer with mapped hole perforation
Protection	Sonic welded TPR reinforcements
Cuff	Compression molded low-profile cuff
Grip	Silicone printed fingertips for lever grip

Our Verdict

The Troy Lee Designs AIR Gloves are a strong choice for riders who value ventilation, control and a lightweight feel. They deliver excellent breathability and precise lever contact, making them good value for warm-weather MTB, BMX and off-road use. If long-term heavy abrasion resistance is a top priority, test fit and inspect seams to ensure they meet your durability needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these gloves suitable for hot weather?
Yes. The micro-mesh upper and perforated single-layer palm prioritize airflow and reduce hand sweat on warm rides.

Do they offer good braking and shifting control?
Yes. Silicone printed fingertips and the single-layer palm improve lever feel and grip for precise braking and shifting.

Are they durable for aggressive riding?
They offer targeted protection with TPRs but the thin material and some reports of seam issues mean riders who need heavy abrasion resistance should consider reinforced alternatives.