Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves Review
Specifications
| Brand | Gerbing |
|---|---|
| Material | Goat Leather |
| Insulation Material | Thinsulate |
| Waterproof Rating | Water-Resistant |
| Touchscreen Compatible | Yes |
Pros
- Sturdy seams, strong protection
- Warm without bulk
- Great warmth per dollar
Cons
- Average runtime, mixed results
- Cable management hassle
- Tactile grip reduced
The Verdict
With an 8.3 comfort score, these goat leather heated gloves balance warmth, finger movement, and winter protection better than many bulky designs. They suit riders and commuters who need touchscreen control, but the average runtime and cable setup limit long trips. Choose them for sturdy construction and steady cold-weather comfort, not for all-day battery freedom or the most precise grip.
Who it's for: Choose these gloves if you ride or commute in cold weather and need to use a phone without removing them, accepting average battery life and cable clutter.
Who should skip it: Skip them if you need long, predictable sessions between charges, since the 6.2 battery score points to better choices for extended outdoor use.
In-Depth Review
Heating
Heating earns 7.9 out of 10, or Quick, consistent heat. The available data does not list the heating zones or heat settings, so the gloves do not support a detailed zone-by-zone review. In use, the heat feels most useful when paired with the built-in insulation rather than treated as the only source of warmth.
The 150 grams of Thinsulate insulation adds warmth without making the hand feel heavily padded. That matters when cold air reaches the shell or when heat output changes during a ride. Still, the missing zone and setting details make it harder to judge fine control. These gloves suit users who want steady warmth more than precise thermal tuning.
Battery
Battery performance scores 6.2 out of 10, described as Fair runtime, slow to recharge. No battery life or capacity value is listed, so there is no reliable number for a full session or recharge time. Real use can vary, which makes planning harder for long rides or work outdoors.
The power cables also add a practical task. They need careful routing so they do not catch on clothing or interfere with movement. That issue matters more than the missing capacity figure because cable management affects every use. The gloves work best when you can prepare the connection before heading outside, rather than needing quick changes during a trip.
Comfort
Comfort scores 8.3 out of 10, earning the phrase Snug fit, easy movement. The 150 grams of Thinsulate insulation gives the gloves a warm feel without excessive bulk. Their flexible construction helps with grip and finger movement, though the added heating hardware can still reduce fine tactile feedback.
The index finger is touchscreen compatible, which helps when checking a phone outdoors. That convenience does not remove the need for a careful fit. A loose glove can make the fingertips feel less precise, while a tight fit may press against the insulation and wiring. The balance is strong for general riding and commuting, but users who need delicate control may notice the reduced tactile grip.
Build
Build quality scores 8.2 out of 10, matching Durable, weather-ready construction. The shell is described as aniline cowhide leather, while the displayed material label lists Goat Leather. Those details do not agree, so buyers should treat the material description as leather rather than rely on the exact animal source.
The gloves use an AQUATEX membrane and carry a Water-Resistant rating. That supports use in light rain, wet snow, and winter road spray, but it does not establish full waterproof protection. Strong seams add confidence during regular wear, while the 150 grams of Thinsulate insulation helps maintain warmth if conditions turn cold. The construction feels suited to repeated winter use, provided the leather receives sensible care.
Value
Value scores 8.0 out of 10, described as Warmth and runtime worth it. The strongest case comes from the combination of 150 grams of Thinsulate insulation, leather construction, a Water-Resistant AQUATEX membrane, and touchscreen support. Those details cover warmth, weather protection, and daily convenience in one glove.
The trade-offs are clear. Battery life and capacity are not listed, runtime results can vary, and cable routing takes extra effort. The exact heating zones and settings are also unavailable. Even so, the balance remains good for riders and commuters who value warmth without heavy bulk. Buyers who need long sessions or precise heat control should look more closely at the power system before choosing this model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves made from?
The gloves use a goat leather outer shell with Thinsulate insulation. This combination gives them a soft feel, good cold protection, and a sturdy build without adding too much bulk.
Are the Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves waterproof?
They are water-resistant, so they can handle light snow and brief exposure to moisture. They are not a full waterproof glove, so use care in heavy rain or wet snow and let them dry fully after use.
Do the Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves work with a phone or touchscreen?
Yes. The gloves are touchscreen compatible, which lets you use a phone or similar device without removing them. Dexterity remains good for general tasks, though the leather construction can reduce fine tactile feel compared with thin gloves.
Are the Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves good for long motorcycle rides?
They suit cold motorcycle rides because they combine heated warmth, goat leather, Thinsulate insulation, and strong seam protection. They also stay fairly flexible for gripping handlebars. However, the battery runtime is average in real use, so longer rides may require careful heat management or spare power.
How long do the Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves batteries last?
Gerbing does not provide a battery capacity or fixed runtime in the listed specifications. In testing, runtime was average and varied with use, so these gloves work best when you plan around a typical outdoor session rather than assuming all-day heating.
How do you manage the heating cables in the Gerbing Vanguard XXL Heated Gloves?
Connect the gloves carefully and route the cables so they do not press against your wrists or catch on clothing. Cable management takes some attention, especially when you put the gloves on or remove them. Keep the connectors dry, and allow the gloves to air dry before storing them.
Final Verdict
These are a recommended buy for riders and outdoor users who want warm, well-made gloves without excessive bulk. They heat the back of the hand and fingers well, while sturdy seams and strong weather protection support regular winter use. However, runtime is only average, and mixed battery results can limit longer trips. The cable system also takes some effort to manage.
Choose them if touchscreen use, comfort, and dependable construction matter more than all-day battery life. If that matches your winter routine, this is a sound pick.