While not as heavily-armoured as some gloves out there, Axo's Vortex gloves are definitely at the end of the riding spectrum that demands a sturdier glove. Most noticeable is the carbon fibre knuckle protector, almost an essential accoutrement for any heavy-duty glove these days. There's a healthy bit of shock-absorbing foam padding behind it, and it's more flexible than it appears.

Finger protection is limited to rubbery panels on the backs. The palm is super-supple Pittards leather with a Kevlar panel on the oft-abraded heel of the hand. Extra grippy patches are provided across the base of the fingers and on the tips of the first two fingers. A Velcro closure keeps things secure and there's a pull-tab to help you get your hands in there.

In use, they're comfortable and feel light for the style of glove. We've crashed a few times and failed to either damage them or our hands. There's a short length of stitching between in the crook of one thumb that's come apart, though, which is a little disappointing for a high-end glove.