I don't understand the reference to "somebody's closet" but I guess you are referring to the Teknic gloves. Let me try to answer your comments.
MO purchased the Teknic's right off the shelf of a major motorcycle accessories retailer in Torrance just a few weeks ago. Given the number of people I see riding down the street wearing little to no protective equipment, including gloves, it seems prudent to review an inexpensive product that does not provide a cost barrier to decent protection. Plus I just plain like them.
Every piece of equipment I've reviewed for MO, inculding new stuff, has been thoroughly used and in some cases abused. Nearly everything looks cool and functional and useful on a store shelf but the real test, IMO, is how it stands the test of time. See the previous news item for more insight into my views on that. So yes, I do think that it's legitimate to do long term reviews of products that are still in production (like the JR Speedmasters), especially when we can tell you that they are built to last, represent a great value and give them a hearty endorsement. Look for more long term reviews of current products in the coming months.
Regards
Martin