How much numbness is too much numbness?

So, it doesn't sound like you have too much weight on the bars.
I'd still suggest gloves over double taping. The padding works for the hoods AND stops your palms filling with tarmac if you hit the deck palms down.

Have a read of these..
http://www.cptips.com/handsyn.htm

good point MR H, it didnt even enter my mind to think about the eventuality of crashing, and gloves.
Nice one. thanks.
I think i'll some gloves after all.