Everything You Should Know About Cold Weather Gloves: A Guide

Cold Weather Gloves

When the temperature drops and the weather turns cold, keeping your hands warm and functional is essential. Whether you’re out hunting, skiing, hiking, or simply commuting in a cold climate, the right cold-weather gloves can make all the difference in maintaining comfort and dexterity. Choosing the right pair of gloves involves understanding various factors such as materials, insulation, waterproofing, and fit. This guide will cover everything you should know about cold weather gloves, helping you make an informed decision and keep your hands protected during winter activities.

1. Types of Cold Weather Gloves

Cold weather gloves come in different styles and designs, each suited for different activities. Here are the main types to consider:

Insulated Gloves

Cold fingers can significantly impact performance, especially in activities requiring precision. Insulated gloves are designed to keep warmth in and cold out. They are great for general use in winter conditions and provide substantial protection against the cold.

• Best For: Everyday use, hiking, winter commuting.

• Features: Thick insulation layers, usually made of materials like down.

Waterproof Gloves

Waterproof gloves are essential for activities where harsh weather conditions and wet environments are common. These gloves feature waterproof membranes that prevent moisture from soaking through while allowing sweat to escape.

• Best For: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, fishing, waterfowl hunting.

• Features: Waterproof coatings or membranes, sealed seams, and moisture-wicking liners.

Heated Gloves

Heated gloves, a type of cold weather work gloves, come with built-in battery-powered heating elements that provide extra warmth for individuals in extreme cold.

• Best For: Extremely cold climates, people who suffer from cold hands (Raynaud’s disease).

• Features: Rechargeable battery packs, adjustable heat settings, often used for outdoor sports.

Liner Gloves

Winter work gloves often require additional insulation to maintain hand safety and comfort in cold working conditions, and liner gloves are thin gloves worn underneath thicker gloves for added warmth or as a stand-alone option in milder conditions.

• Best For: Added insulation under heavy gloves, light winter activities, running.

• Features: Thin materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics designed to wick moisture and add warmth.

Touchscreen Gloves

Touchscreen gloves have special conductive threads woven into the fingertips, allowing you to operate smartphones or other touch-sensitive devices without removing the gloves.

• Best For: Commuting, traveling, or for any activity where you need to use a touchscreen in cold weather.

• Features: Conductive fingertips, often made from a stretchy, insulated fabric.

2. Materials to Look for in Cold Weather Gloves

The materials used in cold weather gloves play a crucial role in their warmth, comfort, and durability. Here are the key materials commonly found in high-performance winter gloves:

Insulation Materials

Insulation traps air and retains heat, and different materials offer various levels of warmth and breathability:

• Down
  Down insulation provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio but can lose insulating properties when wet. It’s often used in high-performance gloves but is less common in waterproof gloves.

• Wool
  Wool is a natural insulator that offers warmth and moisture-wicking properties. It’s often used in liner gloves and as a supplementary material in many glove designs.

Outer Materials

The outer material of the glove impacts durability and waterproofing:

• Leather
  Leather is a durable and flexible material used in many cold weather gloves. While not waterproof on its own, it offers great protection from the wind and cold. Leather gloves often need an added waterproof coating.

• Nylon and Polyester
  Nylon and polyester are lightweight and durable materials commonly used for outer shells. These fabrics are often combined with waterproofing treatments for outdoor gloves.

Lining Materials

The lining materials affect the gloves' comfort and moisture-wicking abilities:

• Fleece
  Fleece is a popular lining for cold weather gloves due to its warmth, softness, and moisture-wicking properties. It’s also quick-drying and breathable.

• Merino Wool
  Merino wool is highly breathable, moisture-wicking, and insulating, making it a popular lining for gloves. It is naturally odor-resistant and keeps hands warm even when wet.

• Acrylic and Polyester Blends
  These synthetic materials offer warmth and durability at a lower cost. They are often used in budget-friendly gloves and offer decent insulation.

3. Insulation and Warmth Considerations

When selecting cold-weather gloves, consider how much insulation you need based on the conditions you expect to face:

Temperature Ratings

Some gloves are rated for specific temperature ranges, and finding the warmest gloves involves considering both insulation and overall clothing strategy. Always check the manufacturer’s temperature recommendations to ensure the gloves are suited for the climate you’ll be in. Typically:

• Light Insulation (40g-60g)Good for temperatures above 20°F (-6°C).

• Moderate Insulation (100g-200g)Suitable for colder temperatures between 10°F to 20°F (-12°C to -6°C).

• Heavy Insulation (250g-400g)Designed for extreme cold, below 10°F (-12°C).

Breathability vs. Insulation

High levels of insulation can make gloves bulky, while breathable materials ensure you don’t overheat during activity. Balancing insulation and breathability is key to comfort, particularly for high-intensity activities like skiing or snowboarding. Additionally, gloves labeled as windproof are crucial for maintaining warmth, as they protect against cold winds regardless of the wind speed and outside temperature.

4. Waterproofing Features

Waterproofing is essential for gloves that will be exposed to snow or wet conditions. There are various levels of waterproof protection:

• Fully Waterproof Membranes
  These materials prevent water from entering the gloves while still allowing sweat to escape. They are perfect for wet snow or rainy conditions.

• Water-Resistant Gloves
  These gloves resist water but are not completely waterproof. Water-resistant gloves are suitable for light snow or drizzle but will not withstand prolonged exposure to wet conditions.

• Waterproof Coatings
  Some gloves come with a waterproof coating on the exterior (such as DWR treatment), providing a water-resistant barrier. However, these gloves may lose their effectiveness over time and need to be re-treated.

5. Fit and Sizing

The fit of your cold-weather gloves is crucial for both comfort and performance. When you wear gloves, ensure they fit properly to maximize their effectiveness:

• Proper Fit Gloves should fit snugly but not be too tight. A snug fit helps with warmth retention by trapping heat while allowing for dexterity. If gloves are too tight, they will restrict circulation and make your hands feel colder.

• Adjustable Features Look for gloves with adjustable cuffs, straps, or wrist closures to improve fit and prevent cold air from entering. An adjustable wrist or gauntlet cuff can also help keep snow and wind out.

• Consider Activities Depending on your activity, you might need more dexterity or more warmth. If you need to perform tasks with your fingers, gloves with removable liners or fingerless options may be preferable.

6. Durability and Maintenance

The longevity of your cold-weather gloves depends on their materials and how well they are cared for:

• Reinforced Palms and Fingers
  Look for gloves with reinforced areas on the palms, fingers, or knuckles. These high-wear areas are prone to damage and require extra durability.

• Cleaning and Care
  Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to keep gloves in good condition. Many gloves can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle, but some may require hand washing. Always air dry gloves to avoid damaging insulation or waterproof membranes.

• Waterproofing Maintenance
  Over time, the waterproofing may degrade. Consider reapplying a waterproofing treatment like a DWR spray to keep your gloves performing at their best.

7. Additional Features to Look For

Some cold-weather gloves come with extra features that can enhance comfort and performance:

• Touchscreen Compatibility
  Many gloves now come with touchscreen-compatible fingertips, allowing you to use your phone or GPS without removing your gloves.

• Huntin or Fishing Features
  Gloves designed for hunting or fishing may include additional features like wrist loops, removable fingers and fold away hands/palms for equipment or call use.

• Glove Liners
  Some gloves come with removable liners that allow you to adjust the warmth or make cleaning easier. These liners can also be worn on their own in milder temperatures.

Conclusion

Cold weather gloves are an essential part of any winter gear setup, providing warmth, protection, and comfort in harsh conditions. Choosing the right type of gloves, paying attention to materials, insulation, waterproofing, and proper fit are all crucial for optimizing their performance. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or simply commuting in the winter, the right gloves will keep your hands comfortable and functional. Don’t forget to maintain and care for your gloves to ensure they perform well for years to come.

FAQs

What is the best material for cold weather gloves?

Materials like merino wool are popular for insulation, while waterproof membranes provide protection from moisture.

How do I choose the right size for winter gloves?

Gloves should fit snugly but not tightly. Make sure there’s enough room for insulation while ensuring the gloves don’t restrict circulation.

Can I use my regular gloves in extreme cold?

Regular gloves may not provide enough warmth or protection in extreme cold. Choose gloves with sufficient insulation and waterproofing for harsh conditions.

How do I clean cold weather gloves?

Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Most cold-weather gloves can be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle, then air-dried.

Are heated gloves worth it?

Heated gloves are great for those who struggle with cold hands, providing extra warmth with battery-powered heating elements, but they tend to be pricier than regular insulated gloves.

How can I make my waterproof gloves last longer?

Clean your gloves regularly, reapply waterproofing treatments as needed, and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent degradation of waterproof coatings.

What is the best insulation for winter gloves?

Synthetic options for insulation, while down is the warmest but can lose effectiveness when wet.

Do I need waterproof gloves for snow activities?

Yes, waterproof gloves are essential for snow activities, as they keep your hands dry, ensuring warmth and comfort. Look for gloves with waterproof membranes for maximum protection.

Can I wear liners under my gloves for extra warmth?

Yes, wearing liner gloves under your main gloves adds warmth and moisture-wicking properties, especially in extreme cold conditions.