Here's a challenge...

[lankyman]

I challenge any motorcycle apparel manufacturer to produce a set of gloves that are actually waterproof...I would be left astounded....

[vifferman]

I challenge any motorcycle apparel manufacturer to produce a set of gloves that are actually waterproof...I would be left astounded....
The problem is that most 'waterproof' gloves rely on goretex liners, so the outside leather lets moisture through, which the liner then has to keep from going any further, while still providing breathability. The liners are also very fragile.
Best idea is the same as for other bike gear: have something that works well on its own, then put something waterproof over the top when you need to, be it a waterproof treatment, or a waterproof overgarment, mitt, whatever. Keep the water out to start with.

[jim.cox]

I challenge any motorcycle apparel manufacturer to produce a set of gloves that are actually waterproof...I would be left astounded....

Given that a glove has a large hole in it for your wrist

And mucho water can flow down your arm/sleeve

There isn't much hope for complete waterprrofing really

Much better to go for materials which remain warm & windproof when wet

[Muppet]

The problem is that most 'waterproof' gloves rely on goretex liners, so the outside leather lets moisture through, which the liner then has to keep from going any further, while still providing breathability. The liners are also very fragile.
Best idea is the same as for other bike gear: have something that works well on its own, then put something waterproof over the top when you need to, be it a waterproof treatment, or a waterproof overgarment, mitt, whatever. Keep the water out to start with.

Very good advice. I've ridden in West Coast rain many times and water has always found it's way to my skin somehow. The best thing is as you say, wear the breathable waterproof gear but take some nylon/pvc gear with you to put over the top. I was on the coast one time wearing a one piece rainsuit in torrential rain, but the water wicked it's way through my polar fleece neck warmer, I was saturated. And I've never worn a glove that was completely waterproof either!

[magicmonkey]

My gloves were completely shite as far as waterproofing goes when I first got them; I put Nikwax everywhere but the palm and fingers and th're now completely waterproof, been out in the rain for a few hour long rides to prove it as well ;)

[Blackbird]

Buy a pair of these: http://www.rain-off.com/ and wear them over your favourite gloves, no more hassles, ever.

Wonderful product.

[Bass]

I challenge any motorcycle apparel manufacturer to produce a set of gloves that are actually waterproof...I would be left astounded....

Mine are.
They can get absolutely saturated outside but the water has never got through the Goretex and I have been out in some real shite.
Just about stuffed with age and use now but still waterproof.

Brand name "Orina"

[Mystic13]

Mine are.
They can get absolutely saturated outside but the water has never got through the Goretex and I have been out in some real shite.
Just about stuffed with age and use now but still waterproof.

Brand name "Orina"

So they get waterlogged.

So really what the original poster is saying is if you can make the perfect glove you'll be onto a winner.

I go for rain-off as well. There are others that just slip on disposable plastic gloves. Whatever works really.

[howdamnhard]

My cheap KBC's do an excellent job of keeping out the water. Had them 2 years now and still no problems. Even had a low speed bin in them and they are still going strong.They are a winter glove though(bulky).

[cs363]

The problem is that most 'waterproof' gloves rely on goretex liners, so the outside leather lets moisture through, which the liner then has to keep from going any further, while still providing breathability. The liners are also very fragile.
Best idea is the same as for other bike gear: have something that works well on its own, then put something waterproof over the top when you need to, be it a waterproof treatment, or a waterproof overgarment, mitt, whatever. Keep the water out to start with.

Very few of the 'waterproof' gloves have Gore-Tex membranes, if they do they will have tags/labels saying so and be priced accordingly.
The vast majority have membrane liners such as Hipora etc or knock-off versions of the same.
There is a big difference between Gore-Tex and the rest, Gore actually guarantee their liner individually from the glove manufacturers warranty (usually a 5 year guarantee, to keep you dry) that's why it's the market leader and so well respected.
Generally it's only high end brands that use real Gore-Tex: http://www.gore-tex.com/remote/Satellite/activities/men-motorcycling/gloves-and-mittens
Though you are spot-on in regard to your comments on the outer layer getting wet. This can be assisted greatly by applying Sno Seal, Nikwax or similar or as suggested wearing an over glove in extreme conditions.
Gore-Tex is also windproof, which is something that many of the other, lesser membranes aren't.
If you want a good glove without the hassle of 'fragile' lining systems, go for a glove with the new Gore-Tex 'Xtrafit' liner which is an individually sized, fitted liner system. (most other gloves use a one size membrane, which creates it's own issues, as you can imagine)