Water-Resistant Gloves Overview
Racing in unpredictable weather is part of the challenge of motorsport, and when conditions turn wet, having the right gear makes all the difference. Water-resistant gloves are designed to give drivers and co-drivers reliable grip, warmth, and control when rain, spray, or damp stages become a factor. Whether you’re competing in rallying, endurance racing, or just tackling a wet track day, the right pair of gloves can prevent numb fingers, slippery grips, and discomfort during long sessions.
In this blog, we’ll look at the best water-resistant racing gloves from Sparco, OMP, and Alpinestars that are currently in production and available for 2025. We’ll cover both FIA-approved options for competitive racing and non-homologated gloves designed for karting or track-day use in wet conditions. Each model offers its own approach to tackling the elements, from neoprene outer layers to specialised grip materials and pre-curved designs for comfort.
Drivers often underestimate how much wet conditions affect control and feel on the wheel. A glove that’s not built for damp use can quickly become saturated, reducing your grip strength and increasing fatigue. Water-resistant gloves maintain consistent traction between your hand and the steering wheel, even when the surface is slick, giving you the confidence to keep pushing through challenging conditions.
Whether you’re facing a rainy rally stage, managing long hours in a wet paddock, or just looking for reliable gloves that won’t let you down when the weather turns, this guide will help you find the right option for your driving needs.
Why Water‑Resistant Gloves Matter
During a wet race weekend, the steering wheel can feel like an ice cube and your grip diminishes quickly. Water‑resistant gloves solve this by combining grippy palm materials with treatments that keep the fabric from absorbing water. Some models include a membrane that stops rain from seeping inside while others use neoprene similar to a wetsuit. Keeping your hands dry and warm helps maintain control when you need it most and can prevent blisters or numb fingers. That’s why karting gloves often feature water‑resistant materials. Drivers use them for rainy practice sessions, night endurance races, winter karting leagues and even damp track days where showers come and go without warning.
Below we take a closer look at the latest water‑resistant gloves still in production from OMP, Sparco and Alpinestars. For each model, you’ll find material and design details, colour and size options and the key features that make them stand out.
OMP ARP Advanced Rainproof Kart Gloves
OMP’s ARP Advanced Rainproof gloves are designed specifically for wet karting. They use a stretch fabric chassis with a pre‑curved cut so the glove sits naturally on your hand. A water‑repellent outer layer combines with an internal waterproof membrane to keep rain out. High‑grip silicon rubber on the palm provides solid control on a wet wheel, while external seams improve sensitivity and reduce pressure points. These gloves are only available in black and cover sizes from XXS–XXL, making them suitable for juniors and adults.
Key features:
- Stretch fabric with pre‑curved pattern for comfort and reduced material bunching.
- Waterproof membrane and water‑repellent outer to keep hands dry.
- High‑grip silicon palms and fingers for excellent steering feel.
- Elasticated wrist with slanted cuff for easy on‑off.
If you’re a kart racer who regularly tackles soggy tracks, the ARP offers simple waterproof protection without the bulk of fleece‑lined gloves.
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From £84.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
OMP Rain K Wet‑Weather Kart Gloves
The OMP Rain K gloves were developed to combat cold and wet race days. They are made from neoprene, the same material used in diving wetsuits, which is both water‑ and wind‑resistant. This helps retain heat and prevents rain from soaking through. Anti‑slip rubber inserts on the palm supply a solid grip even when the steering wheel is soaked, and an elastic wrist closure keeps the gloves snug. Adult and child sizes are available, and the gloves come exclusively in black with subtle white graphics.
Key features:
- Neoprene construction for water and wind resistance.
- Anti‑slip rubber palm inserts for improved grip in wet conditions.
- Elasticated cuff to keep out water.
- Available for adults and children, so families can stay dry together.
These gloves aren’t FIA‑approved because neoprene isn’t fireproof, but for karting or track‑day use, they’re a practical way to ward off rain and cold.
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From £34.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Sparco CRW WP Winter Resistant Kart Gloves
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From £33.75 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Sparco K-Tide+ Water‑Resistant Kart Gloves
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From £110.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Alpinestars Tempest V2 Wet Weather Kart Gloves
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From £77.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
When would you need water‑resistant gloves?
Wet‑weather gloves aren’t just for heavy rain. Drivers use them in a variety of situations:
- Rainy race days – Obvious, but even light drizzle can leave standard gloves saturated and slippery. Water‑resistant gloves keep your grip and control.
- Cold winter karting – Neoprene or fleece linings provide insulation, making winter practice sessions more comfortable.
- Damp track days – UK weather is unpredictable; having waterproof gloves in your kit bag means you’re prepared when a shower arrives mid‑session.
- Endurance racing – In long events, conditions often change. Waterproof gloves help maintain consistent performance without needing to swap gear.
Because most water‑resistant gloves use materials like neoprene or waterproof membranes, they are not fireproof and therefore not suitable for FIA‑sanctioned car racing. If you need fire resistance (for example, circuit racing or rallying), choose FIA‑approved Nomex gloves and pair them with a water‑repellent steering wheel wrap instead.
Summary: choose the right glove for the weather
Rain doesn’t have to ruin your track day. By choosing a pair of water‑resistant gloves designed for karting or non‑FIA track use, you can keep your hands warm, maintain grip, and stay focused on driving. Here’s a quick recap:
- OMP ARP Advanced Rainproof – Lightweight stretch gloves with waterproof membrane and silicone grip; only in black and great for everyday wet karting.
- OMP Rain K – Neoprene gloves with anti‑slip rubber palm and elastic cuff; ideal for cold/wet days and available for kids.
- Sparco CRW WP – Thermally sealed neoprene gloves with silicone‑printed palm; provide warmth and grip in winter.
- Sparco Record WP – Jersey gloves with waterproof membrane, fleece lining, and ergonomic design for comfort and vibration damping.
- Sparco Tide + K – Premium water‑resistant gloves with 3D HTX volcano palm, external seams and touchscreen pads; available in multiple colours.
- Sparco Storm‑K – Basic water‑resistant gloves with special grip treatment on the palm
- Alpinestars Tempest V2 – High‑end waterproof gloves with fleece lining, silicone grip and CIK‑FIA Level 2 approval
Having the right gear means you can enjoy your drive no matter what the forecast holds. If you’re unsure which glove suits your needs, feel free to visit our store or contact us – we’re always happy to help you find the perfect fit.