The Kakuda is a new short cuff glove from Held for 2022.
These gloves have protection that you would normally expect to find in a racing gauntlet glove like the large SuperFabric pads on the palm and large knuckle protector but on a short cuff frame. The large knuckle protector has front and rear vents that allow air to flow over the lightweight lining on the back of the hand to keep you cool. There are also perforations in the leather at the cuff and along the fingers.
The wrist closure is a fairly wide piece of material with a TPU edge so it is easy to find and adjust while wearing the gloves. The index finger on the left hand also has a visor wiper incorporated near the fingertip. The index finger and thumb have touchscreen capable leather and we found it works on both Android and iPhone devices here in our office. I will call out that the material on the index finger is only on the face of the finger and not the tip so it doesn’t work as well as the thumb for detailed touchscreen needs like texting.
I really like these Held Kakuda gloves and the colors they are offered in. I think they were going for Honda and Harley riders, but that’s just my reaction when I see them. These gloves should work for most riding styles short of track days, and they may be ok for that as well with the SuperFabric on there. If you have never worn a pair of Held gloves I suggest you give these a shot, in our experience once you find the right size in Held you will understand the meaning of the phrase “it fits like a glove” because they will feel like a part of your hand. :: Mike, 12-15-21