Originally Posted by
ItsJustMe
Yes, gloves. I have only "made use" of my helmet once, but I've done major skin removal on my hands 3 times in my life. I will no longer ride without gloves; I'd almost sooner ride without a helmet. It's no fun having bare raw meat on the heel of your palm and keeping it dressed for 2 months while the skin grows back. NOT pleasant.
This is interesting. I wonder if different people fall different way. I've had my share of road rash, both as a kid trying to do crazy skids, and as an adult - but not once did I hurt my palms in the slightest. Nearly all the damage is to knees and elbows.