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An item of clothing that frequently goes missing in the house but has so many benefits to any hiker or outdoors enthusiast, is of course, the hiking glove. Gloves offer unbeatable protection for your hands that can make a world of difference when hiking.
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A good pair of gloves will have features such as water resistance and windproof protection, they serve as a barrier against scratches and abrasions, and they give you extra grip for handling equipment or navigating a scramble.
We’ve searched high and low for the best gloves for hiking. Our top pick is the Moreok Gloves. Breathable yet super cozy, they are a great option for cold-weather hikes. If you’re looking for an all-weather option, the lightweight Sealskinz gloves are a great choice with a super soft feel.
In this guide, we’ll make suggestions for the best hiking gloves available now. We’ll discuss some of the key features to look for in your search for the perfect gloves and answer some frequently asked questions.
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Glove designer Moreok has a selection of highly-rated gloves to choose from. Popular with reviewers, these waterproof and windproof winter hiking gloves are made from 3M Thinsulate insulation for extra warmth on a chilly hike.
The waterproof nylon shell and soft fleece lining work together to create a breathable but warm glove that is perfect for a range of outdoor adventures, from hiking to cycling.
According to the brand, the gloves keep your hands warm at -30 degrees Fahrenheit. They have sensitive touchscreen-compatible finger pads, so you can pick up a call while you’re out and about. The palm of the glove is coated with wear-resistant rubber for extra grip.
There is an adjustable buckle wrist strap and elastic cuff closure for an extra snug fit and protection from the elements.
For more options for winter gloves, check out our full guide.
These excellent Carhartt WP Gloves are waterproof and sweat-wicking, made from a durable polytex shell, featuring FastDry technology.
These winter gloves will keep your hands warm, dry, and protected on cold and wet days, and they can be used for hiking or working outside.
Reviewers mention that the gloves are sturdy and long-lasting. The gloves have gauntlet-style cuffs that extend up the wrist to avoid any exposed skin. They come in a range of sizes from XXS to XXL, which fits men, women, and children.
Best Waterproof Gloves – Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves for Men and Women
Image by Outdoor ResearchImage by Outdoor Research
The Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor gloves, available in styles for men and women, are known for their excellent waterproofing. The Gore Windstopper fabric is a combination of mostly nylon and spandex, with a Gore-Tex breathable membrane for extra wind and waterproof protection.
The grippy palms are made from abrasion-resistant goat leather, which makes these gloves perfect for all kinds of outdoor pursuits.
The lining is tricot for additional warmth, while zippered gauntlet cuffs allow the gloves to be easily slipped on and off. They are also touchscreen-compatible.
Best Mittens – Black Diamond Mercury Mitt for Men and Women
Image by Black Diamond
For chilly weather, the Black Diamond Mercury Mitt is a safe option to consider. Mittens are an excellent style of glove for keeping your hands warm and dry. These ones are good for cold-weather hiking or winter camping, but also ice fishing or snow sports, too.
At almost $100, they are an investment piece, but Black Diamond is a well-known brand in the outdoors community with a reputation for creating high-quality pieces of gear.
These gloves feature a 100% waterproof insert with an Empel DWR (durable water-repellent) coating on the shell. There is a removable insulated liner, filled with Primaloft Gold Cross Core, which dries quickly and insulates even when wet.
The four-way stretch fabric shell and a long gauntlet cuff keep spindrift and moisture away from your skin. The goat leather palm adds an additional layer of reinforcement that can withstand rocky terrain or mountaineering.
Whether you need a pair of gloves for jogging with the dog or a fall or winter hike, the Sealskinz Lightweight Glove is a solid choice that can offer hand protection in a number of scenarios.
The gloves have a three-layer construction, mostly made from polyester and spandex, with a goat skin leather around the palms.
The synthetic materials offer breathable durability, while pre-curved fingers allow for enhanced control and dexterity while you’re outside. The slim-fitting gloves are very effective without adding extra bulk, which makes them a great everyday option.
The Ozero Thermal Gloves are designed for cold weather running, cycling, or hiking. The perfect choice for keeping your hands warm and dry in inclement weather.
The shell is water resistant and they have fleece lining, while a waterproof thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) component keeps the freezing weather away from your skin. For under $20, these fleece gloves are a great value option that can work well in temperatures from 14-60 degrees Fahrenheit.
They have anti-slip silicone on the palm, index, and middle finger, which allows you to grip a phone or a steering wheel. The gloves are not suitable for heavy rain because the seams and tips of the thumb and index finger are not waterproof.
Smartwool is a company that creates high-performance apparel and accessories from the versatile merino wool.
These gloves are made from a mix of polyester and merino wool. Lightweight and stylish, the gloves come in a range of sizes to fit men and women.
Merino wool is a sustainable material with excellent insulating properties. It works well in the manufacturing of many outdoor clothing products because it is quick-drying, odor-resistant, and super soft to the touch.
Choosing the right hiking gloves is essential for comfort and protection during your outdoor adventures. Here are some key factors to consider when looking for good hiking gloves.
Material
Look for gloves with an outer shell made from durable, water resistant, and breathable materials. Common materials include nylon, polyester, or a combination of both. Some gloves might have a Gore-Tex membrane, which is particularly effective for waterproofing.
Consider the type and amount of insulation, based on the weather conditions you are likely to encounter. Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, and tricot fleece are popular insulation materials for the inner lining of the gloves.
The palm of the glove is often made from goat leather, which is known for its strength, flexibility, and water resistance.
If you are looking for extra protection in extreme cold, check out our list of the best winter gloves.
Breathability
Choose gloves that allow moisture to escape, preventing your hands from getting sweaty and uncomfortable. Look for breathable materials or ventilation features, like zippered vents.
Fit and Dexterity
Check the size guide before you purchase the gloves and measure your hands to make sure they will fit properly. A proper fit is crucial for dexterity and comfort. The gloves should be snug but not too tight, allowing for a full range of motion in your fingers.
Consider the activities you’ll be doing while wearing the gloves. Look for gloves that enable you to handle gear, zippers, and other items easily.
Grip
Look for gloves with additional grip features to help you handle trekking poles, rocks, or other surfaces. Sometimes, the palm is made from goat leather, which is naturally soft and supple, but its texture allows for good grip. Or, silicone grips may be added to the palm for extra grip.
Reinforcements in areas such as the palms or the fingertips can help to make the gloves last longer.
Cuffs
Some gloves have a gauntlet cuff or extended cuff that extends further up the wrist to help keep the cold air out. A regular cuff sits at the wrist or just above.
Some hiking gloves feature adjustable cuffs, which allows you to customize the fit around your wrist, preventing drafts or snow from entering the glove.
Touchscreen Compatibility
In today’s day and age, most gloves come with touchscreen-compatible fingertips, allowing you to use your smartphone without removing the gloves.
Check the reviews to see if other customers have been able to successfully use their phone to make a call or open an app while wearing the gloves. When it works, it can be a very handy feature.
Temperature Rating
You might spot that some gloves have a temperature rating or the product may have been tested in low temperatures. This is particularly important for ski gloves, since they are typically used in freezing temperatures.
In extreme cold conditions, you might consider purchasing liner gloves. You can add significant warmth by wearing a thin liner glove underneath insulated mittens or gloves during a winter expedition.
Gloves with adjustable features like Velcro wrist straps, drawstrings, or cinches allow you to customize the fit for better warmth and comfort. These features will help keep the cool air out.
Brand Reputation and User Reviews
It’s a good idea to choose reputable outdoor brands known for producing quality gear.
Remember that the best hiking gloves for you will depend on your specific needs and the conditions you expect to encounter on your hikes. It’s a good idea to try on gloves in-store if possible or carefully review sizing charts when purchasing online.
Unless you are looking for an investment item, your new gloves don’t have to break the bank. There are good value brands offering excellent choices, too.
If in doubt, always read user reviews when you are shopping online. It is a great way to find out information about the product, including how warm the gloves are in cold temperatures. Important details about the fit and sizing will also help you to make a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing any technical piece of clothing, it is important to do your research. Gloves offer essential protection in the cold. After all, nobody wants to have cold fingers. Protecting your extremities are an important part of layering for cold weather.
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about hiking gloves.
Should I choose gloves or mittens?
Mittens are generally warmer than gloves because they keep all fingers together in one cozy place, allowing them to share warmth. This makes mittens an excellent choice for extremely cold conditions. They’re also great for snowball fights.
However, mittens do not offer the same dexterity as regular gloves, so you might find grasping onto zippers or using equipment more challenging.
Regular gloves tend to be more versatile for most situations, but mittens are certainly a perfect choice for extreme cold.
How should hiking gloves fit?
You want your hiking gloves to fit snugly without being too tight. A good fit will allow for comfort and maximum warmth. Always check the sizing chart and, if you can, try on the gloves before you buy them.
You should make sure the gloves have some room at the fingertips but not too much. The fit should allow for a full range of motion without feeling too tight or too loose.
Consider adjustable or elastic cuffs for a customizable fit.
What type of insulation is best for hiking gloves?
The type of insulation will depend on the weather conditions you are likely to face. Check the temperature rating of the gloves before you purchase a pair. Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, and fleece are the most commonly used and effective insulating materials for hiking gloves.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a pair of gloves for hiking will ensure your fingertips and hands will be warm and protected for the duration of your adventure.
Think carefully about your budget, the weather, and the style of glove before you make the purchase.
Don’t leave buying gloves until the last minute. Be prepared with the essentials for next hike with a good quality pair of gloves—it will make your trip far more enjoyable.
