OMP KS-2R Kart Racing Gloves

The OMP KS-2R Kart Racing Gloves are performance-focused karting gloves designed to deliver secure steering-wheel grip, unrestricted hand movement, and lasting comfort. A silicone-rubber palm provides dependable traction, while external seams keep bulky stitching away from the fingers for a smoother interior feel.

Flexible bellows at the knuckles and fingers allow the glove to move naturally through rapid steering corrections and heavy steering loads. Breathable mesh inserts help manage heat, and the slanted wrist with an elastic band creates a secure fit without making the glove difficult to put on.

Silicone-Rubber Grip for Precise Steering Control

The KS-2R uses silicone rubber across the palm to improve traction against the kart steering wheel. This high-grip surface helps reduce unwanted hand movement during braking, cornering, and aggressive changes of direction.

Improved traction also allows the driver to maintain control without squeezing the wheel excessively. A more relaxed grip can reduce strain in the hands and forearms during long races or repeated sessions.

External Seams Reduce Finger Pressure

The fingers use external stitching to move the seam bulk away from the inside of the glove. This creates a smoother contact surface around the fingers and reduces the pressure points that can develop with conventional internal seams.

External seams are particularly useful during extended karting sessions, where repeated steering movement can cause internal stitching to rub against the fingers.

Articulated Knuckle and Finger Bellows

Flexible bellows are positioned around the knuckles and fingers to improve freedom of movement. These stretch sections allow the glove to flex naturally as the driver grips, releases, and repositions the hands on the steering wheel.

The articulated construction reduces resistance through the finger joints, supporting quick steering inputs without making the glove feel stiff or restrictive.

Breathable Mesh Inserts

Mesh fabric inserts improve airflow and help reduce heat buildup inside the glove. This ventilation is valuable during warm outdoor races, indoor karting events, and physically demanding sessions where perspiration can affect comfort and grip.

The breathable sections are strategically positioned to improve cooling while maintaining the glove’s close performance fit.

Silicone Finger Protection

Additional silicone-rubber sections on the fingers provide targeted protection and durability in areas exposed to frequent steering-wheel contact. These sections also contribute to grip when the driver wraps the fingers firmly around the wheel.

The low-profile treatment adds useful reinforcement without the bulk of a heavy padded layer.

Slanted Wrist with Elastic Retention

The KS-2R uses a slanted wrist opening that follows the natural angle between the hand and forearm. This shape makes the glove easier to put on and creates a more ergonomic fit around the wrist.

An elastic band helps keep the glove securely positioned throughout the session without requiring a bulky external adjustment strap.

Long Gauntlet Coverage

The extended gauntlet provides additional wrist coverage and creates a clean overlap with compatible karting-suit sleeves. This design helps keep the glove securely positioned during repeated hand and wrist movement.

The longer cuff also gives the KS-2R a professional competition appearance while supporting a stable fit.

Durable Printed Graphics

OMP combines silkscreen and sublimation printing to create the KS-2R’s detailed graphics and wide range of color options. These processes allow the design to remain lightweight and flexible rather than adding thick decorative panels.

The available color combinations allow drivers to coordinate the gloves with their karting suit, helmet, shoes, kart graphics, or team colors.

OMP KS-2R Kart Racing Glove Features

• High-grip silicone-rubber palm
• External finger seams reduce pressure points
• Flexible bellows at the knuckles and fingers
• Breathable mesh inserts improve airflow
• Silicone-rubber finger protection
• Slanted wrist cut supports an ergonomic fit
• Elastic wrist band provides secure retention
• Extended gauntlet offers additional wrist coverage
• Silkscreen and sublimation printed graphics
• Designed specifically for kart racing

OMP KS-2R Kart Racing Glove Specifications

• Manufacturer: OMP
• Model: KS-2R
• Product Type: Kart Racing Gloves
• Palm: Silicone-Rubber Grip
• Finger Seams: External
• Flex Zones: Bellows at Knuckles and Fingers
• Ventilation: Breathable Mesh Inserts
• Finger Protection: Silicone Rubber
• Wrist: Slanted Cut with Elastic Band
• Graphics: Silkscreen and Sublimation Printing
• Available Sizes: XXS through XL, with select child sizes
• Intended Use: Kart Racing

Available Color Combinations

• Black
• Navy Blue and Cyan
• Red and Black
• White and Red
• Yellow and Black

How the KS-2R Compares with the OMP KS-3

The KS-2R is positioned above the entry-level KS-3 and places greater emphasis on external-seam comfort, articulated finger movement, silicone grip, and breathable mesh construction.

Drivers looking for a simpler, lower-cost kart glove may prefer the KS-3. Racers who want a more technical fit, improved mobility, and a more aggressive grip surface will generally favor the KS-2R.

Who Should Choose the OMP KS-2R?

The KS-2R is well suited to club racers, competitive kart drivers, endurance competitors, and drivers who prefer the smoother feel of externally stitched fingers. Its articulated construction also makes it a good option for racers who find conventional gloves restrictive around the knuckles.

Drivers who experience substantial steering vibration and want thick palm cushioning may prefer a dedicated vibration-damping glove. The KS-2R prioritizes grip, flexibility, and direct steering feedback rather than heavy padding.

OMP KS-2R Kart Glove Size Chart

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the OMP KS-2R currently FIA 8877-2022 approved?
The current OMP product page does not list FIA 8877-2022 homologation for the KS-2R. Racers entering an event with mandatory glove certification should confirm acceptance with their championship or sanctioning organization before purchasing.

Is the KS-2R a fire-resistant auto-racing glove?
No. It is designed specifically for karting and should not replace FIA- or SFI-approved fire-resistant gloves in automobile competition requiring flame protection.

How does the KS-2R differ from the OMP KS-2 ART?
The KS-2R uses articulated bellows around the knuckles and fingers, breathable mesh inserts, silicone finger protection, and a slanted wrist. The KS-2 ART focuses more heavily on lightweight stretch fabric and bold sublimated graphics.

Does the silicone palm feel extremely sticky?
The silicone rubber is designed to provide strong traction against the steering wheel. Drivers may need to lift the hand slightly when repositioning rather than sliding it across the wheel.

Does the KS-2R have palm padding?
The glove prioritizes direct steering feel and silicone grip rather than thick vibration-damping padding. Racers wanting significant cushioning may prefer a glove designed specifically to absorb steering vibration.

What do the bellows on the fingers and knuckles do?
They provide flexible expansion at high-movement areas, allowing the fingers and knuckles to bend more naturally without pulling tightly against the glove material.

Will external seams catch on the steering wheel?
External seams sit around the edges of the fingers and are intended to improve comfort without interfering with normal steering-wheel use. Proper sizing is important to prevent loose excess material.

Are the KS-2R Gloves suitable for endurance karting?
Yes. External seams, flexible joints, breathable mesh, and the secure elastic wrist make them well suited to longer races and repeated driving stints.

Are child sizes available?
OMP lists select child sizes in addition to adult sizes from XXS through XL. Availability may vary by color.

How should the KS-2R fit around the fingers?
The fingers should fill the glove without painful pressure or excess space at the tips. Loose fingertips can reduce steering sensitivity, while an overly tight fit can restrict movement and circulation.

What should I do when my hand measurement falls between sizes?
Drivers with wider palms or longer fingers will usually be more comfortable in the larger size. A close fit is desirable, but the glove should not force the fingers to curl or limit knuckle movement.

Can the KS-2R be used for sim racing?
Yes. The silicone palm, breathable construction, and external seams can provide good wheel control and comfort for sim racing, although the glove is primarily designed for kart competition.

How should the gloves be cleaned?
Hand wash them gently in cool water with mild soap, then allow them to air dry naturally. Avoid bleach, machine drying, radiators, and direct high heat.

How can I extend the life of the silicone grip?
Use the gloves primarily for driving and avoid handling rough bodywork, tools, exposed fasteners, or abrasive surfaces. Allow them to dry fully before storing them.