Showa Riding Gloves

Showa Riding Gloves: Precision, Protection, and All-Weather Performance

When it comes to keeping your hands protected on the trail, road, or open water, few names carry the engineering credibility of Showa. Founded in Japan in 1954, Showa built its reputation on a single guiding principle that translates directly from its name: finding a balance between different elements. That philosophy is nowhere more evident than in their riding gloves, where waterproofing, breathability, dexterity, and durability must all coexist without compromise.

The TEMRES® Difference

The cornerstone of Showa's riding gloves lineup is their proprietary TEMRES® technology. The shell used in TEMRES gloves is made from a waterproof, breathable micro-porous polyurethane that features a textured and abrasion-resistant exterior. Unlike simple waterproof coatings that trap heat and moisture inside, the innovative membrane keeps water out of the glove while allowing warm air and moisture from inside to escape. The result is a hand that stays genuinely dry — not just temporarily shielded from the elements.

Showa offers two primary TEMRES® riding glove models that cater to different temperature ranges and conditions:

• TEMRES® 281 – The 281 contains a unique micro-ventilated waterproof polyurethane coating which protects the hand against water and liquids whilst keeping it dry, even when worn for long periods of time. It is designed as a versatile shell that pairs well with a liner glove for added warmth in colder conditions.
• TEMRES® 282 – Water-resistant yet breathable, the 282 uses thermal insulation and Showa's state-of-the-art TEMRES® technology to keep hands warm, dry, and well-protected in cold climates for optimal comfort and performance. The 282 remains flexible down to -58°F , making it a serious cold-weather performer for riders who don't stop when the temperatures drop.

Built Around the Human Hand

Showa's design philosophy goes beyond materials. Their ergonomic glove mold replicates the natural curvature of the human hand, while thin coating technology maximizes flexibility and tactility. Enhanced surface grip on the fingertips allows a high level of tactile precision when working with wet objects or small components — a critical feature for riders who need confident control of levers, handlebars, or gear in wet riding conditions. The seamless knit construction and anatomical shape also help reduce hand fatigue on longer rides.

A Legacy of Innovation Behind Every Glove

Showa revolutionized personal hand protection with the introduction of the world's first PVC glove in 1953, and has since led the world with industry-firsts including fully coated flexible PVC, flat-dip innovation with natural rubber, and cut-resistant gloves. Showa fully controls their industrial ecosystem by creating all their own machinery, yarns, coatings, polymers, designs, and hand formers — ensuring 100% quality control at every level. That vertical integration means every pair of Showa riding gloves reflects decades of materials science and manufacturing excellence, not just off-the-shelf components.

Whether you're bikepacking in cold rain, riding watercraft in choppy conditions, or simply commuting through unpredictable weather, Showa's riding gloves are engineered to keep your hands in the game. Explore the full riding gloves category or browse everything Showa offers on their brand page.