Best Winter Gloves
Tyler Jones 
Brian We have all been there, out in the winter with no warm winter gloves and feel the cold slowly start to freeze our hands. Is there anything worse? When you are outside and enjoying the pleasures of the outdoors or just going for a walk, you need to ensure your hands are nice and toasty. The best way to avoid exposing your hands to such an unpleasant experience is to find perfect gloves for winter. We have done the research to give you the top ten best winter gloves review, and why they made our list. Below we have explained the important aspects to look at and what makes them the best. I am sure your perfect pair of gloves is on this list below.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Flexible
Classic color options
Lots of size options
Top 10 Winter Gloves
1. Outdoor Research Lucent
They are both windproof and waterproof
The heat settings can be changed from high, medium and low
Includes a battery-operated system to provide custom heat
Additional batteries will be necessary
The connection for the battery can be finicky
There are so many fantastic aspects to the Outdoor Research Lucent that it is difficult to pinpoint one specific feature that stands out. But, you may not find too many winter pair of gloves with a rechargeable battery with custom heat settings. So, according to our research, these are the best winter gloves on the market at the moment.
Read moreMaterials
On the palms of the Lucent pair, there is goat leather that is resistant to abrasions. In addition, there are also Gore-Tex inserts that create a waterproof shell for the Lucent. Also, there is molded EVA on the back of the hands.
Insulation
Being built with ALTIHeat technology, which is a rechargeable battery-powered heating system that provides an ample amount of warmth. To add an additional amount of warmth and protection from the cold weather, there is EnduraLoft insulation inside of the Lucent pair.
For the rechargeable system, there is a zippered compartment that can store the batteries. Past this, there are also three heat settings that you can select from: high, medium and low heat.
Features
As great as this is, it is a little unfortunate that there is only one color option. However, these heated gloves is black and will properly adapt to most people.
Even though the battery-operated system is an innovative and fantastic integration, it is not foolproof. You may find additional batteries are necessary and the connection can be a little finicky. But, beggars can’t be choosers, right?
Size
This is not meant for particular sex; as such, the size options are available for extra-small all the way up to extra-large.
2. Hestra Ergo Grip Outdry
With its waterproof insert, they become resistant to water
The reinforcements are made from kangaroo leather
The backhand is windproof, waterproof and breathable
Be wary, the displayed photo is slightly different than the actual product
The sizing tends to fit snug
While the Hestra Ergo may not be as inventive as the previous, its design and quality speak for themselves. Be aware, however, the photo of the Hestra Ergo may not be exactly how the actual product looks.
Read moreMaterials
The backhand of the Hestra Ergo is constructed from waterproof, windproof and breathable Hestra Flextron four-way stretch fabric. There are also Kangaroo leather reinforcements and impregnated goat leather on the palm.
Insulation
Even in the wettest of conditions, Hestra has built these winter gloves to keep you warm and withstand the elements. Being made from hardwearing goat leather and flexible softshell fabric, you need not worry about warmth or comfort.
Features
There are only two colors for you to choose from and they are black and yellow.
While there is not a feature here that makes it stand out, the superb quality will always make a product successful and worth the money. There really is not a better way to describe the Ergo Grip Outdry from Hestra than that.
Size
With a strap that has a Velcro closure, you can tailor the Hestra Ergo to fit your hand in the way you desire. Also, it comes with an eyelet so you can pass a lace or string through it.
Be sure to reference the seller’s size chart, but they give you options for 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11.
3. Helly Hansen Reinier Gloves
The microfleece lining wicks away moisture
The goatskin leather is both tough and supple
There is an included limited lifetime warranty from the seller
In really cold temperatures, your fingertips may get cold
It is a little bulky
Cold weather is not going to prevent you from accessing your smartphone. As such, it is convenient when these winter gloves are made to be touchscreen compatible. What a great Segway for the Helly Hansen, as they allow you to function your smartphone while in use.
Read moreMaterials
Goat leather primarily comprises the Helly Hansen, making it both tough and supple. While keeping your hands warm, this goat leather gloves also aids in maintaining a strong grip at all times. Plus, with the waterproof insert, snow will be kept out without affecting the breathability.
Insulation
Being designed with only the utmost premium materials on the market, Helly Hansen winter gloves ensure that your hands will not be cold in cold climates. In addition, they also added Primaloft Gold insulation to prevent your fingers from freezing. Although, your fingertips may still feel the breeze in frigid conditions.
Features
No doubt about it, the headliner here is its ability to be compatible with a smartphone. In severely cold weather, the last thing you want to do is take them off to text someone.
Unfortunately, what you see is what you get here. Though, the white and gray color design is quite attractive and visually appealing.
Size
The Helly Hansen are the best women's winter gloves for extreme cold, that you could also use as touchscreen gloves. They are specifically designed to fit a woman’s hand and there are options for extra-small all the way up to extra-large.
4. Smartwool Ridgeway
Flexible
Classic color options
Lots of size options
Cuff opening is small, making it difficult to put the gloves on
Gloves run small
You may have guessed from the brand name of these winter gloves that one of their main fabrics is wool! Merino wool is a great fabric that is insulating, anti-microbial, and moisture-wicking. These gloves from Smartwool give us a classic style and a comfortable and flexible fit.
Read moreMaterials
The Ridgeway winter gloves are made from top of the line materials that provide you with comfort, flexibility, and warmth. The fingers and palm are made of leather. On the back of the hand, there is a merino wool and nylon panel. The interior of the gloves for extreme cold is also lined with merino wool and nylon blend.
Insulation
Based on customer reviews, these gloves are wonderfully warm and comfortable for temperatures above freezing. If you need extra warmth, some have recommended adding a thin pair of fleece gloves underneath. The terry loop knit merino wool and nylon blend provide great comfort and warmth.
Features
Thanks to the great blend of fabrics, these thermal gloves are windproof and water-resistant. The merino wool absorbs any water of perspiration and quickly brings it to the surface to be evaporated. These full-fingered gloves are double layered in the thumb and index finger for extra durability. Additionally, they come with a two-year warranty.
As for color options, Smartwool stuck with the classics. You can choose from black on black or buck (khaki) with a black panel.
Size
There are plenty of sizes available from sizes XS to XL. These sizes will fit hand sizes 6 to 10.5.
5. Black Diamond Mercury Mittens
The dry insert makes this 100 percent waterproof
For being as bulky as they are, there is a strong amount of dexterity
The large gauntlets keep the moisture at bay
The clips that hold the mittens together are not very durable
The trigger finger area is too long and may cause the seam to chafe your fingers
When it comes to combining it with enough warmth for the coldest of days and enough usability to adapt for many situations, the Mercury Cold Weather Mittens from Black Diamond must be considered one of the best.
Read moreMaterials
The removable split-finger liners are built with high-loft fleece and waterproof inserts for the utmost in moisture protection. Meanwhile, the Pertex shells and Kevlar goat leather provide abrasion resistance and proper grip for rope work, respectively.
Insulation
While the large gauntlets will keep the moisture at bay and prevent you from overheating, the PrimaLoft Gold insulation will prevent your hands from freezing, even if they are exposed to wetness.
Features
Besides the fact that the liner can be removed in cooler climates, there are clips on the mittens that can hold them together. Thus, preventing you from losing one.
Again, this is a version that only has one color option. As it is black, it will adapt to any style that you can think of.
Size
The choices are available from extra-small to extra-large.
6. Burton Gore Tex
There is an included one-year warranty
The membrane is made of Gore-Tex, making it waterproof
The inner liner has touch-grip technology
In times where you want to only use the inner liner for your smartphone, you will find it very hard to do so
Gore-Tex is a fantastic technology and Burton integrated it into their underlining. What this provides is a waterproof membrane that also aids in keeping you warm at all times.
Read moreMaterials
These warmest winter gloves are crafted from a double-layer DryRide Ultrashell fabric. This creates a windproof, waterproof and breathable material. In addition, the palms have Sticky Icky technology for superior grip.
Insulation
The “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry Gore-Tex” membrane offers a waterproof nature, but it also protects the integrated Thermacore insulation. Thus, keeping your hands warm in the burliest of conditions.
Features
It is up to you how you want to wear the Burton pair as the fleece liner is removable. Thus, you can wear either the fleece by itself, outer shell by itself, or both for maximum warmth. Also, the inner fleece has touchscreen capabilities. Albeit, flawed touchscreen capabilities.
A few color choices are accessible including blanket stripe, bog heather, true black, and geo and true black.
Size
Every option is available from extra-small all the way up to extra-large.
7. Mavic Ksyrium Pro Thermo
The microfiber thumb insert wicks away moisture
Integrated softshell material does not negate your freedom of movement
They can be worn while you are navigating your touchscreen device
Additional color options would have been nice
On really cold nights, these may not provide you with enough warmth
Yet again, you are witnessed to a product that is marketed by the fact it can be used with your touchscreen smartphone. But, the Mavic Ksyrium Pro Thermo does more than that and offers a solid choice as the warmest gloves. While it may not be the warmest winter gloves out there, this is a result of its touchscreen compatibility.
Read moreMaterials
Not only will the softshell material block the wind, but it is also resistant to water. In addition, the microfiber thumb insert will wick away moisture. Also, with the way the fabric is crafted, it will fit close to your hands.
Insulation
Even though the Mavic Ksyrium Pro Thermo is not huge and bulky, they still provide you with an adequate amount of warmth. With the softshell material that is located on the back of the hand, it manages to block the wind without restricting your movement.
Features
The key advantage to the Mavic Ksyrium Pro Thermo is it offers excellent dexterity. When needed, you can get the task accomplished with these winter gloves on your hands. Even in scenarios where you need to access your touchscreen device, the fingertips allow you to properly navigate.
Only two choices are available here; you can either choose black or black and white.
Size
There is no option for a small pair, but you can select from medium to XX-large.
8. Carhartt WB Waterproof
The lining will wick away moisture
Storm Defender technology provides a breathable and waterproof material
Features a nose wipe when your nose is running
When you take them out, the lining tends to come out
It goes without saying that Carhartt gloves for winter are an ideal choice for any winter gear. They have mastered their craft and even if their Men’s W.B. pair is not without a few flaws, every man would do themselves a favor by investing in this best winter gloves for men.
Read moreMaterials
The lining and shell are crafted from 100 percent polyester and the lining also has FastDry technology that wicks away moisture. Plus, the finger wrap caps increase the amount of dexterity and resistance to wear and tear.
Insulation
The ultra-soft insulation makes these winter gloves perfect for any rugged cold corner of the planet. To go along with this, Storm Defender technology (which is both waterproof and breathable) will keep the elements out to enhance the warmth.
Features
On the W.B. Carhartt, there is a nose wipe. In times where you do not want to remove them but the cold weather is causing your nose to run, you can simply wipe it with your hands. Also, there is a Velcro hook and loop cuff closure for a secure fit.
Past all its glory, one rather annoying design element is that when you take them off, the lining tends to come out. Much like a sock with your boot, this can be rather annoying. However, once they are on your hand there is little to nothing to gripe about.
Not too much diversity here with color options for either black or brown and black.
Size
As long as your hands are not extra-small, you should be able to find a size for you with options for small to XX-large.
9. Columbia Sportswear Thermarator
Includes Omni-Heat thermal reflective technology
There is a strong amount of color options
The elastic wrist provides a custom and secure fit
When the wind is blowing strong, you still may feel it
It was only a matter of time before you saw a Columbia product on this list. Much like Carhartt, they are one of the leaders in apparel. After looking through this list, nothing here may overly-impress or alarm you but you can’t ignore the amount of pure-quality winter gloves.
Read moreMaterials
To enhance your grip, there is a handy patch on the palm. Plus, the palm is also resistant to abrasions. As far as the fabric itself, the Thermarator fleece is made up of 100 percent polyester.
Insulation
Even when the temperature drops in the teens or lower, the 200 g’s of Thermarator fleece and Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining provide you with enough warmth to keep your fingers functional.
Features
This is another example that tries to integrate touchscreen capabilities but does not do so very well. However, the wrist is elastic allowing for a custom and secure fit, which provides a good amount of convenience.
Each woman should be able to find a color that suits them; choose from bright plum, deep rust, graphite, phoenix blue, and sail red.
Size
Everything from small to extra-large is available to select from. You could also check out our in-depth guide about the best gloves for kids.
10. IL Caldo Thick
You can operate a touchscreen with the gloves on
They are warm, durable and breathable
The design is visually attractive
For larger hands, the fit is a bit snug
The best word to describe the Thick Warmer Weather IL Caldo is eloquent. For women, these winter gloves provide a superb amount of attractiveness and are perfect for formal gatherings. That does not mean, though, that they do not know how to keep you warm.
Read moreMaterials
While the material is cotton, the lining is crafted from wool. Both these materials are extremely durable, even making them suitable for washing several times over.
Insulation
Just because the IL Caldo pair is attractive and useful, it does not mean that they will not keep you warm. Rest assured, the cotton and wool material inside will provide an excellent amount of heat.
Features
The design of the tips makes them ideal for touchscreen use. However, they could have been integrated better as they can be rather inconsistent. Still, it is nice that IL Caldo attempted to make them somewhat-suitable for smartphones.
Each color choice offers a different touch of eloquence. Options such as black, purple, coffee, gray and wine red will make you the talk of the party.
Size
There are actually no size options available as IL Caldo has designed this to be one-size-fits all model. Unfortunately, for women with bigger hands, the fit can be snug.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
Warmth is truly everything for a winter glove, but there are also additional design elements that come into play. When analyzing the overall construction of the best cold weather gloves, there are a few areas to concern yourself with. One is the type of fabric utilized on the palms and outside of the glove. A common material you will find manufacturers using is either goatskin or leather. This type of leather is terrific as it is resistant to water, extremely durable and tough, and also comfortable to wear.
Next, you will want to pay attention to the design of the lining and inserts. Many of which, will have some sort of waterproof technology to prevent moisture and rain from affecting your comfort. A popular choice is Gore-Tex, but you may also see other fabrics and technology. To top this off, you may also see some have FastDry or other wicking technologies to wick away moisture when it becomes present.
Ideally, you want to aim for fabric that is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Wind and water can be huge variables when it comes to warmth, but you never want to feel like your hands are clammy and sweaty, either.
Insulation
From winter to winter, there is no telling how cold the weather will be outside. Whether you are heading to work or partaking in activities outdoors, it is important that your hands remain warm regardless. Thus, the single most important factor of top rated winter gloves is the warmth it provides for you. After all, what else would be the point of a glove designed for winter? When it comes to warmth and heat, it all comes down to the insulation that is integrated.
From a buyer’s perspective, it is not really necessary to prioritize a specific type of insulation. Honestly, there are so many great variations that it can be difficult to distinguish which ones are superior. For example, you may see EnduraLoft, Primaloft Gold, Thermacore, or duck/goose down insulation. All of which, are great insulations and will keep you warm. But, something you can keep a special eye out on is if there are any special technologies implemented to enhance the warmth. Take, for example, a rechargeable battery system that provides you with various heat settings.
Features
Outside of the obvious convenience of keeping your hands warm in cold weather, winter gloves offer plenty of further conveniences. One such example is a Velcro closure or elastic fit. What this provides is a custom and secure fit, to ensure that cold drafts do not sneak their way through. Also, how about some that have a removable fleece liner? This design allows you to wear the outer shell and fleece liner separate or with one another. Of course, simple additions such as hooks, clips them together, an eyelet to pass a string through, or a nose wipe to clean your running nose can also come in handy.
But, there is no doubt that when people discuss convenience, they are interested in the dexterity. Sometimes, you want top winter gloves that do not hinder your ability to accomplish tasks. Then, there is the significance of being able to use a smartphone with them. For some people, this will be the main selling point and one they can’t live without. If this is you, be wary that some that claim to have touchscreen capabilities, do not accomplish it so well.
Size
As with any piece of apparel that you will ever invest in, size can hinder the purchase no matter how spectacular the garment is. Size truly is everything and as such, you need to ensure that the seller provides you with a size that will adapt for you. One of the bonuses to wearing them, however, is even if they are a little snug or baggy they can still work. If you ever have any doubts about a glove’s true sizing, though, you can research the seller’s size charts and draw a conclusion. Note, that from time to time you will find some that fit smaller or larger. Even though it may be a hassle, if nothing else, you should be able to return the glove and either go up or down a size. Thankfully, most sellers do offer many different sizes so you should be able to find one that is perfect for you.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Materials Insulation Features Size
Do your hands ever sweat when you get nervous? Have you ever worn gloves to keep your hands warm but they end up getting wet with sweat and making you even colder? A great way to avoid this is by investing in a glove with moisture wicking abilities. One of the best and natural fibers for moisture management is wool. Wool is a great insulator and wicks away moisture quickly, keeping you dry, warm, and comfortable.
Investing in multiple pairs of gloves is not a bad idea. This way, you can have your stylish pair for going out or running errands, an incredibly durable pair for working outdoors, and an ultra-comfortable pair for hot chocolate by the fire pit. No matter how you'll be spending your day, make sure that you have the right type of glove for the activity. Don't forget to check out the flexibility or the glove as well.
Other Factors to Consider
Color
When it comes to winter gloves, most sellers will give you both size and color options. As simple as it may seem at first, color can be an important factor. Sure, it will not negate the performance but when it comes to apparel, you would be lying if you said color did not matter. For some of you, as long as you do not hate the color (such as a black or gray design) you are fine. But, you some of the more stubborn individuals (and there is nothing wrong with this) will want a specific color no matter what. As you saw with the entries on this list, some sellers are not so kind in this category. If you feel it necessary, do not be ashamed to pass over a model that does not have a color you find visually appealing.
Fit
Recently, it was mentioned how it is typically okay if a glove is too snug or too baggy (depending on your preference). But, when you go through sizing your hand (which will be addressed in a minute) how exactly is a glove supposed to fit on your hand? Honestly, the word “supposed” is highly subjective in this situation but as a reference, it is never a bad thing to know how the experts tell you a glove should fit. At the end of your outstretched fingers, when you have the glove on, there should be approximately a quarter-inch of space. Then, when you go to make a fist, the glove should conform to your hand in a way that it does not feel too tight or restrictive. Unless you want this type of feel, you may need to go a size up in this circumstance.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How do you measure your hand for a glove?
This may be the most important part of this entire guide. If you follow this guide to measuring your hand, you should not have any issues. Here is what you do, start off by measuring across your hand all the way around your palm. When you have this measurement (which will be your circumference) in inches, you can then reference these numbers. For women, if the circumference of your hand is the six-inches aim for an extra-small, 6.5-inches is a small, 7-inches is a medium, 8-inches a large and anything further an extra-large or XX-large.
For men, seven-inches are extra-small, 7.5 to 8-inches is small, 8.5 to 9-inches is medium, 9.5 to 10-inches is large, 10.5 to 11-inches is extra-large and so on. If a seller provides you with a size chart, make sure to reference theirs as it may be different.
q: Will leather gloves stretch?
This is specifically geared towards winter gloves that utilize some sort of leather material (whether goatskin or something else). Stretchy fabric is nice as even if it does not properly fit you, you can stretch it in a way that works for you. But, can you pull this feat off with leather? The short answer is yes, but it will not stretch a lot. Of course, this is also dependent on the other type of material utilized as it may cancel out leather’s ability to minorly stretch.
Here is what you can expect with leather. Once you are able to get your hands inside of it, you can stretch it to conform to your hand. Although, if you can’t get your hand inside then there is no way you are going to stretch it.
q: How do you dry them?
The washing process is just one step, as it is just as important to dry them correctly. Again, this will be broken down by the specific material. However, leather is the only special material to take note of here. With leather, you can dry it in one or two ways, either with a blower to dry the surface and the inside or by leaving it in front of a fan for a few hours. For other types of material, you may be better off avoiding this method, though.
As a form of precaution, you should never dry them directly on a heat source. For example, in a dryer or with a hairdryer. Instead, what you should do after you have thoroughly cleaned them, simply place them in a warm and dry area for several hours. It may take a while, so plan ahead and wash and dry them a day before you plan on using them.
q: How convenient is a winter glove?
Outside of the obvious convenience of keeping your hands warm in cold weather, winter gloves offer plenty of further conveniences. One such example is a Velcro closure or elastic fit. What this provides is a custom and secure fit, to ensure that cold drafts do not sneak their way through. Also, how about some that have a removable fleece liner? This design allows you to wear the outer shell and fleece liner separate or with one another. Of course, simple additions such as hooks, clips them together, an eyelet to pass a string through, or a nose wipe to clean your running nose can also come in handy.
But, there is no doubt that when people discuss convenience, they are interested in the dexterity. Sometimes, you want best gloves for winter that do not hinder your ability to accomplish tasks. Then, there is the significance of being able to use a smartphone with them. For some people, this will be the main selling point and one they can’t live without. If this is you, be wary that some that claim to have touchscreen capabilities, do not accomplish it so well.
q: How do you wash winter gloves?
This is a hard question to straight up answer, as different products may have different materials. As such, let’s break down how you wash leather, wool, and cotton gloves. Starting with leather (including goatskin leather), start off by using some oil-based soap to rid the exterior of any stains present. Whatever you do, do not submerge it in water as water is not good for leather. On the inside, you can lightly sprinkle either cornstarch or baking soda to absorb the oils and odor.
Wool is a little different and you can wash it in a sink filled with warm water. You only need a drop of dish or hand soap and after which, allow the glove to soak in the water for several minutes. When you take it out, be sure to use your fingers to press out the water, making sure to avoid ringing it out as that can cause the wool to warp. Finally, the best rated winter gloves that are cotton-based, simply wash them in a washing machine with cold water.
