Chiba Pro Safety Reflector Gloves

Want following cars to be able to see all of your hand signals in the dark? Then the Chiba Pro Safety Reflector Gloves should definitely on your shopping list – as long as you can cope with the lack of padding, that is.

Until recently I spent seven years commuting year-round on one of the busiest trunk roads in Wiltshire. Decked out with a plethora of high powered lights and the odd smattering of reflective attributes, the only thing that ever caused me any concern was signalling for a right turn.

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There was a lot of traffic in both directions causing a sea of red and white lights, and I had quite a few cases of cars overtaking even after sticking my hand out to say I was crossing the lane. I had gloves with reflective patterns on, but they easily got lost in the clutter.

Since I've had the Chibas on test I've been stomping my old route in the dark and the results are quite convincing. With the entire back of the glove being made from reflective material, there is very little chance drivers cannot see your intentions. I haven't had a single instance of the previous overtakes while I'm trying to turn.

I'm also a friendly kind of chap, and if cars or lorries have waited patiently to pass I like to give a little gesture of thanks by waving a hand to say thanks. Judging by the number of drivers giving a friendly toot or flash of the indicators as they come, it seems more than usual notice the gloves.

So, they are visible, but how do they work on the bike?

Well, there is a lot to like, most notably the cuff. At a couple of inches long it runs well up into a jacket sleeve to stop any draughts. It has a lot of elasticity, too, which makes the gloves easy to get on before the cuffs sit snug against the wrist.

As far as grip goes, you get some silicone logos on the palm and they offer plenty of purchase on even the wettest of shiny bar tape. The section between index finger and thumb is reinforced too, so durability shouldn't be an issue. The Chibas have done plenty of hours and a fair few cycles in the washing machine without showing any signs of wear.

The only real issue I've found is that there is nothing in the way of padding, so if you like a bit of extra, and tend to wear mitts throughout the summer, you might find the ride a little harsh.

The sizing is on the roomy side, so fitting a pair of liner gloves for both comfort and warmth shouldn't be an issue.

> Check out our guide to the best kit for keeping you visible on the road

With regards to the temperature range, they suit the mid-teens down to around 5°C, but this could be extended to below freezing with a bit of layering. They are windproof too; windchill doesn't pose much of an issue unless it's really wet.

Being water resistant, they'll keep light showers at bay and things like fog or road spray, but anything heavier and it soon soaks through.

Overall I really like the Chibas and think they definitely have a place in the arsenal of those who ride after dark. The fit, quality and durability lines up with the rrp of £29.99, and if you aren't bothered about the lack of padding then they are a worthwhile investment.

Verdict

High visibility gloves that let drivers see your hand signals, whatever they are!