Getting ready for winter hiking means you need the best gloves. I’ve been hiking for years and know how important good gloves are. They keep your hands warm and safe from cold and wet conditions. The market has gloves for everyone, with unisex and women-specific options.
When hiking in snow or on ice, gloves protect you. It’s important to know about the latest and best gloves for hiking. In our guide updated on September 18, 2024, we feature the top gloves. They are great for harsh weather and daily winter use. Let’s find the perfect gloves for your next outdoor journey!
Why You Need the Right Hiking Gloves for Cold-Weather Adventures
Choosing the right hiking gloves for cold weather is key to staying warm. Without them, you could feel very uncomfortable or even get frostbite. It’s also important that the gloves have good insulation and are waterproof.
The Importance of Warmth and Protection
Choosing the right winter hiking gloves can make a big difference in your comfort and safety. Insulated gloves, like the Revelstoke Softshell, keep you warm, even in the coldest weather. They’re also breathable and protect against water and wind. Meanwhile, gloves designed for severe cold, like the Worxx Patrick Performance, use advanced technologies to keep the cold out.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Hiking Gloves
Selecting hiking gloves means thinking about a few important things:
- Waterproofing and Insulation: Your gloves must keep hands dry and warm. The Kenai Softshell gloves are warm yet flexible and have reinforced parts for better use.
- Dexterity: You should still be able to move your hands and grab things easily.
- Durability: Gloves made from quality materials, like the Emmett High Performance glove, last longer and protect better.
- Specific Features: Certain gloves, like the Women’s Touchscreen, let you use your phone without taking them off.
It’s smart to bring 2-3 pairs of gloves for winter hiking, to match the weather. Start with light Forclaz Trek 100 Fleece gloves, add mid-weight MEC Surprise Gloves, and pack heavy Gordini Gore-Tex Gauntlet Snow Gloves for the coldest days. For more tips, check this guide on picking hiking gloves in.
Best Overall Hiking Gloves for Winter
When facing winter, reliable gloves are key. The Outdoor Research Stormtracker is a top choice. It offers warmth and flexibility for cold weather fun.
Outdoor Research Stormtracker Review
The Outdoor Research Stormtracker shines in winter. It keeps your hands warm yet flexible. Perfect for hikes or shoveling snow, it mixes a water-resistant shell with an easy zip.
The gloves feature Gore-Tex Windstopper fabric. It’s not fully waterproof but offers good wind and light moisture protection. This is great for active cold weather use.
Features and Benefits
- Water-Resistant Shell: Made of nylon and leather for good light rain and snow defence.
- Zippered Gauntlet: Makes them easy to wear or remove, even with cold hands.
- Gore-Tex Windstopper Fabric: Ensures wind protection and warmth without losing flexibility.
- High-Output Performance: Suitable for winter walks and snow clearing, providing both warmth and dexterity.
In conclusion, the Outdoor Research Stormtracker gloves excel for winter. They bring warmth and flexibility together. Making winter tasks easy, keeping your hands warm and agile.
Best Budget Waterproof Hiking Gloves
Finding great hiking gloves that are affordable and high-quality is tough. Carhartt W.P. Waterproof Insulated gloves are a perfect choice. They offer good performance and don’t cost much, keeping your hands warm and dry on cold hikes.
These gloves have a strong polyester shell. It helps them last long on tough trails. They’re waterproof, which is essential for dealing with rain, and breathable. They also have a cozy fleece cuff and a strong palm for more warmth and durability.
They might not be as flexible as pricier gloves, but they do well in the outdoors. They also protect against the wind. This makes them a smart pick for those looking to save money.
Compared to many winter gloves, Carhartt’s gloves deliver good performance without costing a lot. Prices of winter gloves range from $17.00 to $275.00. Carhartt’s gloves are a great choice for effective protection on a budget. For more details on the best winter gloves, check out this in-depth review.
Top Picks for Waterproof Gloves for Snowsports
The market has many waterproof gloves for snowsports. I tested 50 pairs over 100 hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing sessions. Now, I have the best options for performance, durability, and value. Let’s look at the top picks.
Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Review
The Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves are a top choice for snowsports lovers. They have a stylish polyamide/leather shell. They offer great performance with G-Loft insulation and a fleece lining to keep hands warm in the coldest weather.
Their waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane makes them stand out. Although made for skiing, their high-quality build features wrist leashes and a secure gauntlet. This adds extra convenience and protection.
Advantages of Gore-Tex Technology
Gore-Tex technology is why Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves are a top pick. It’s known for being waterproof and breathable. So, your hands stay dry from outside moisture and sweat inside.
The Gore-Tex membrane’s durability means these gloves last through tough activities. They’re perfect for skiing, hiking, or snowshoeing. Despite being pricier, they are worth it for premium winter gloves. They offer unmatched performance in snowy settings.
Looking for top-tier winter gloves? The Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves should be your first choice. They are proven to keep you enjoying winter activities to the max. These gloves are waterproof and have everything you need.
Hiking Gloves for Cold-Weather Hikes: A Buyer’s Guide
When you go on cold-weather hikes, it’s important to pick the right gloves. This guide will help you look at the key points when choosing gloves for chilly weather.
Understanding Insulation Types
Insulation is key. Here’s a guide to the popular types:
- Synthetic: Quick to dry and keeps you warm even if they get wet. It’s good for places that are often wet.
- Fleece: It’s light and lets your skin breathe, which is ideal for wearing layers.
- Down: It’s really warm for its weight but doesn’t do well if it gets wet.
Materials to Look For
Choosing glove materials affects how they perform and last. Look at these options:
- Leather: It’s tough and gives you good hand movement, ideal for hard use.
- Wool: Natural warmth and softness, great for not-so-cold places.
- Gore-Tex: High-tech fabric that’s waterproof and keeps the wind out, so your hands are dry and warm.
Finding the right mix of insulation and material is key for a great hike. Think about how heavy they are and what you need for your activities. Choosing the right gloves for hiking makes a big difference in your comfort and how well you do on cold hikes.
Specialized Gloves for High-Intensity Activities
Outdoor activities like cross-country skiing require gloves that offer breathability and weather protection. The Arc’teryx Venta gloves are perfect for these sports. They keep the temperature just right during active workouts. Plus, their softshell material is strong against the wind.
Choosing gloves for high-intensity hiking means looking for warmth and air flow. Take the Black Diamond Midweight ScreenTap Gloves, for example, at $45 and weighing 2 oz, they blend flexibility and touchscreen use smoothly. On the other hand, the Marmot Infinium Windstopper Softshell Gloves at $65, bring great warmth and breathability.
The gloves we reviewed work well in temperatures from the 20s to 40s Fahrenheit. This makes them a good choice for skiing, climbing, and snowshoeing. Gloves that fit under the cuff are best for active sports in cold weather. For even colder temperatures, gloves with a gauntlet cuff style give extra protection.
The cost of these gloves ranges widely. You can find the Black Diamond Mont Blanc Gloves for $25 or spend up to $400 on the Black Diamond Solano gloves. The price difference is due to features, insulation level, and how long they last.
What works best for one person may not work for another when it comes to high-intensity hiking gloves. These gloves are special because they balance weight, temperature control, and protection right. This helps you perform your best in tough conditions.
Conclusion
Picking the best hiking gloves for the cold is crucial. We looked at five top gloves perfect for chilly hikes: Revelstoke Softshell, Kenai Softshell, Worxx Patrick Performance, Women’s Touchscreen, and Emmett High Performance gloves. Each type has special features. Some are good for using your phone easily, while others keep you extra warm.
If you want gloves that are good but don’t cost a lot, try the Carhartt W.P. gloves. They’re strong and won’t empty your wallet. The Outdoor Research Stormtracker gloves are great for those who need high performance. And for those who love snow activities, the Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves are the best for staying dry and warm.
Taking care of your gloves is important to make them last. By following certain tips, you can use them longer for more adventures. Getting the right gloves means you’re comfy and safe on winter hikes. So, having the proper equipment is key to fully enjoying your cold-weather trips. Stay cozy, safe, and prepared for whatever journey you face!
