The Evo II is SixSixOne's range-topping glove, with a minimalist design that's super comfy and a D30 knuckle offering a bit of protection against those unexpected tree punches. It’s definitely not a glove for the winter chill, however, and it is quite spendy.
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The Evo IIs palm is constructed of Clarino, and is paired with a stretchy mesh backhand with slits in the knuckles for extra mobility. This is also where you find the pre-curved D3O knuckle, which stays soft and pliable until shocked – at which point it hardens.
While there’s little protection aside from the D3O, the minimalist construction offers tons of bar feel and loads of airflow.
The glove also fits really well, reaching into every hand crevice and avoiding any bunching up around the bars.
The D3O knuckle is the standout feature of the Evo II, being the only actual protection on the glove. While it won’t save you from any serious tree-boxing, it does offer ample and unobtrusive protection from any glancing blows.
On the index and middle finger you get grippy silicone tips that are compatible with touch screens, and there's some extra abrasion resistance provided by injected embellishments on top of the D3O knuckle. There’s also a microfiber thumb.
The build of the glove feels top quality, but only after two rides one of the index fingers tore at the seam. While this is nothing a quick bit of sewing can't fix it does make me question the longevity of the glove, although it might just be an issue with my pair. If you replace gloves from season to season, you might not see this as such a problem.
The over-under velcro cuff is a little fiddly too.
If you’re looking for a warm-weather mitt, the SixSixOne Evo II is a great choice thanks to its cooling airflow and excellent mobility. The D3O is also a nice bonus... but be prepared to whip out a needle and thread.