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Both are Alpinestars and both are certified, but they are made for different seasons. If you will only own one pair, this comparison will help you choose. If you can own two, you will probably end up with both.
Head to head
| Spec | Alpinestars Andes v3 Drystar | Alpinestars SP-8 v3 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 8.0 | 8.4 |
| Protection | 7.8 | 8.0 |
| Comfort | 8.2 | 8.6 |
| Feel | 7.2 | 8.8 |
| Weather range | 9.0 | 7.4 |
| Value | 8.4 | 8.6 |
| Certification | EN 13594:2015 Level 1 KP | EN 13594:2015 Level 1 KP |
| Use | All-season, rain and touring | Sport and road |
| Cuff | — | Short |
| Material | Goatskin and textile with Drystar membrane | Goatskin and synthetic leather |
| Protection | Viscoelastic knuckles, reflective panels | Dual-density knuckles, palm reinforcements |
| Waterproof | Yes | No |
| Touchscreen fingertip | Yes | Yes |
Highlighted in orange: the winner of each measurable spec. Manufacturer data.
Certification: a draw
Both are certified to EN 13594:2015 Level 1 KP, with certified knuckle protection, and have touchscreen fingertips.
Rain: the Andes wins
The Andes v3 Drystar has a waterproof, breathable Drystar membrane, combined with goatskin and textile. The SP-8 v3 is leather with no membrane: in the rain, it gets soaked. In the UK, that matters.
Feel and protection: the SP-8 wins
The SP-8 v3 is goatskin with a dual-density knuckle and palm reinforcements. It is thinner, so you feel the clutch and brake better. The Andes, with its membrane and lining, is a little bulkier.
Warm weather: the SP-8 wins
A glove with a membrane gets warm in summer. The SP-8 breathes better from spring to autumn in good weather.
Verdict
- You ride all year: Andes v3 Drystar.
- You mostly ride in good weather and want great feel: SP-8 v3.
All the gloves in our motorcycle glove guide.
