Runners only need one cold-weather run with exposed hands to know that running gloves are essential. Running in cold weather is uncomfortable and distracting without gloves, but it can also result in cracks, chafes, and more significant issues like frostbite.
Running can make you feel even colder if you leave your hands uncovered since your extremities lose a lot of body heat. Running gloves can keep them clean, too. In addition to protecting your hands against wind, rain, and germs, running gloves can keep them clean, too.
It was necessary to compare the features and reviews of over 35 running gloves from nine other manufacturers to identify the best running gloves. We evaluated the products based on warmth, performance, price, materials, design, technology, and durability. We consulted with runners and running coaches to determine what features they look for in gloves.
The best running gloves are crucial for anyone looking to run in the cold, whether they’re fitness enthusiasts or just looking to get fit for the summer. If the temperature is not quite in the sub-zero range, but you feel the need to keep your feet warm until you have generated enough body heat while running, you may want to consider wearing running gloves.
Running in the winter can make your hands one of the first parts of your body to become cold because blood is pumped back into your chest cavity to supply oxygen to your vital organs. You may suffer from painful colds and sore and dry hands if you leave your hands exposed. After purchasing the best base layer and running tights, you might want to invest in some running gloves.
10 Best Running Gloves for Cold Weather
Design
Product
Features
Price
TrailHeads Men’s Touchscreen with Reflective Waterproof Convertible Winter Gloves for Running
1. The North Face Etip Recycled Running Gloves for Winter
The North Face does best with its Etip Recycled Gloves to provide exceptional hand protection. The North Face is known for producing high-performance cold-weather gear.
With a four-way stretch, they feel soft and comfortable against your skin. Thanks to Etip functionality, you can efficiently operate touchscreen devices, while silicone palms prevent you from dropping your phone, water bottle, or other gear.
The clasps in the glove pair help keep them together when I am not wearing them since I tend to misplace one glove. Although these gloves are designed for running and other outdoor adventures in cold weather, they are also stylish and sleek enough to be worn for casual wear. There are four sizes to choose from.
A popular choice among female runners as all-around winter gloves is the North Face Etip Recycled gloves because they are made with 93% recycled polyester with a women-specific fit. Several reviews were very positive! In the fingers, Etip technology offers excellent compatibility with cell phones. The fabric combines stretchable fleece and Etip technology.
These gloves are the best running gloves for women due to their women-specific fit, silicone coating on the palm that gives you an excellent grip on your phone or anything else you want to hold, and radiometric articulation technology that keeps your hand relaxed.
We don’t think these are the warmest when cold outside, but the overall features make it an obvious choice. It feels very natural to wear.
Key Specification
The touchscreen-compatible Glove has a 93% recycled fabric and four-way stretch, making it a favorite for commutes or daily runs.
2. Under Armour Men’s Storm Winter Running Gloves
With these Under Armour gloves, your hands will stay dry and warm thanks to the Storm technology, which repels water without compromising breathability. Knitted gloves are ideal for running in cool or moderately cold weather, but they can also be worn under thicker gloves or mittens when the weather gets freezing.
The gloves’ cuffs extend beyond the wrist, so you can tuck them into your jacket if you don’t want to expose your arms. In addition, using your smartwatch, tablet, or phone using Tech Touch technology won’t require you to take off your gloves. Speed wipe fleece is ideal for wiping the nose and brow when used on the thumb and index finger. There are four sizes of gloves available, and they also come with reflective details, which makes them a good option for running at night.
Winter running calls for a pair of gloves that will keep your hands dry, provide balance, and provide protection. The Storm Run Liner by Under Armour is one of the running gloves we tested that stands up to the industry. It is known for its unique UA Storm technology, which makes waterproof sportswear.
On Top is a waterproof coating that works well and lets air pass through. Because the seams lie flat, there is less risk of irritation due to rubbing and chafing.
Although it is touchscreen compatible, the functionality isn’t great. It is important to note that these are not extremely warm in freezing weather, so you might need to wear thicker gloves when it is bone-freezing outside.
Key Specification
Thin, fitted liner gloves can be worn on their own or as a first layer under heavier gloves in harsher conditions.
3. Touchscreen Smartphone Compatible Running Gloves for Winter
This pair of running gloves from Outdoor Essentials is a great value. They offer quality and functionality you won’t have to sacrifice for a reasonable price. As a result of the fabric’s four-way stretch, they conform to the contours of your hands without being too tight. Thanks to the grippy silicone dots on the fingers and palms, you can hold your phone or water bottle securely while running.
Running gloves with touchscreen functionality are not often found in less expensive models. They’re also streamlined and low-profile enough to wear under heavier gloves or mittens in extreme cold.
These stylish and versatile gloves lack a prominent logo, so you can wear them casually. You can use these gloves in cold weather while driving or running errands. They’ll keep your hands warm and comfortable.
Key Specification
Acting as a barrier between you and the cold weather, they feel like wearing nothing — if wearing nothing was toasty and comfortable.
4. Ozero Winter Gloves for Hiking, Running, and Bike Cycling
Designed with water-resistance and windproof material, these stylish gloves from Ozero provide excellent protection when it’s raining or snowing. Since the thumb and index finger are covered with conductive fabric, they keep your hands warm and dry when using your devices.
In addition to providing a secure grip on your water bottle, phone, or other items, silicone particles are embedded within the palm, index finger, and middle finger. A low-profile design with elastic cuffs provides a snug fit that keeps the heat in and the elements out.
Suppose you want a pair of attractive, comfortable, and reasonably priced gloves. There are five sizes available. Using your phone without removing your gloves is possible with the touchscreen compatibility of index fingers and thumbs for mobile phones. On Top of that, windproof overlays on the back of the hand will prevent cold air from entering the glove.
Last but not least, silicone grippers will enhance your ability to perform outdoor winter activities efficiently. Snowboarders, skiers, and hikers will find the gloves their go-to companions.
Key Specification
OZERO windproof and water-resistant touchscreen-sensitive gloves are fashionable and moderately warm for men on the go.
5. Smartwool Women Liner Winter Gloves
Despite their low-tech appearance, these SmartWool gloves are incredibly effective at retaining body heat and protecting hands. Soft, brushed Merino wool and stretchy acrylic achieve an ideal balance between insulation and flexibility. The rib-knit cuff provides a comfortable fit and helps keep cold air out.
When you answer a text, you don’t have to worry about your hands getting cold because your smartphone’s thumb and index fingertip work. It is antimicrobial, so you can wear the garments repeatedly before washing them. Women can choose from four different sizes. These gloves are a lightweight, affordable option for protecting your hands.
Ski socks were Smartwool’s first product. They were durable, kept your toes warm, and could withstand harsh weather conditions. There was Merino wool in the socks. From there, they discovered Merino wool has several benefits. Thermal regulation, softness, sustainability, and moisture-wicking are all characteristics of wool.
With Marino Wool, they now make running gloves that provide long-lasting comfort and warmth in cold weather. Wool is naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial, and moisture-wicking, so you won’t have to worry about stinky clothes after you remove them.
The gloves have reflective piping detailing that allows for safe visibility despite low-light conditions. Thus, you can run after the sun has set or enjoy any other outdoor activity.
With Marino Wool, they now make running gloves that provide long-lasting comfort and warmth in cold weather. The natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of wool make them moisture-wicking; they will protect your skin from odor after a long day.
Key Specification
SmartWool gloves are incredibly effective at retaining body heat and protecting hands.
6. TrailHeads Men’s Touchscreen with Reflective Waterproof Convertible Winter Gloves for Running
A glove-and-mitten combination is versatile during a cold-weather run since conditions constantly change. Windproof and waterproof outer mitts provide extra warmth and protection, while plush fingerless gloves offer comfort.
You can tuck the mitten top back into the storage pocket when your hands warm up or you want to access a device. They are fitted with separate thumb flaps and held in place by hidden magnets when they are not used. Polartec’s soft and flexible fabric conforms perfectly to the shape of your hand, allowing you complete mobility.
Reflective elements are used on this glove-mitten combination’s arm cuff and mitten covers to enhance visibility during dark mornings and evenings during winter running.
Besides their innovative designs and commitment to providing performance, style, comfort, and fit, TrailHeads offers all the features you are looking for in a running glove. The running gloves will make your time outside enjoyable and comfortable no matter what you decide to do – hiking, running, skiing, or even just walking.
Four-way stretch Polartec Power Stretch Pro fabric offers a smooth, durable exterior layer that is windproof. Additionally, the gloves are lightweight and have soft and moisture-wicking bristles. In addition, the gloves have an exceptionally thermally efficient interior layer.
However, Trailhead running gloves do not allow that to happen. A terry cloth brow wipe is also included on the glove hand’s backside, providing a soft, smooth touch.
Key Specification
Lightweight gloves have a long cuff that protects your wrists and fits into a jacket sleeve to lock in warmth.
7. Craft Hybrid Weather 2-in-1 Bike Cycling Mitten Gloves
Wearing gloves and mittens is the best way to protect your hands in freezing weather. Craft hybrid gloves keep your hands warm, allowing good talent, thanks to the brushed internal lining and elastane performance fabric.
Wind- and waterproof mitten covers provide another level of protection over five-finger gloves. These covers are small and easy to store. Touchscreen-sensitive fingertips complement the grippy silicone prints on the gloves. A reflective lining makes the gloves more visible in the mornings and evenings.
This versatile glove is available in six sizes to fit all weather conditions. The gloves are visible despite low light conditions due to their reflective piping. Due to this, you can run or engage in any other outdoor activity after sunset.
Because your index finger and thumb are compatible with touchscreens, you can use your mobile phone without removing your gloves. Furthermore, the windproof layer at the back of the hand prevents cold air from getting inside.
The fingers and thumb tips of the glove are layered with conductive fabric to make it touchscreen compatible. As your fingers are warm inside the glove, you can easily change your playlist, make a call, or text. Additionally, the silicone diamond-shaped grips provide a firm grip.
Itchy skin and scratches can result from wiping your face with an ordinary glove.
Key Specification
Made from soft, stretchy polyester with a brushed inside and elastane performance fabric, these gloves won’t hinder your ride, run or hike.
8. Nathan Stretch Material and Reflective Winter Gloves for Running
This company is known for its high-performance running gear, including quality running gloves with many neat features. These shoes are perfect for running in dark or low-light conditions with an eye-catching reflective pattern on the back. In addition to the gloves’ touchscreen capabilities, runners appreciate the glove’s ability to operate their smartphones efficiently.
These gloves are very comfortable with their stretchy spandex construction and soft, brushed fleece and offer excellent breathability. Additionally, the back of the thumb has a smooth, built-in nose wipe and a pocket for keys or cash. Five sizes are available.
In the beginning, Smartwool manufactured ski socks that could handle the harsh weather and kept toes warm. They used sheep’s wool for the socks. It turned out that Merino wool offered several benefits. Besides being thermo-regulating and soft, fleece is also moisture-wicking, durable, and sustainable.
Key Specification
Conductive TruTouch technology on the “texting” finger allows smartphone operation with gloves on so you can answer a call or take a picture.
9. Dsane Women’s 100% Pure Genuine Leather Winter Gloves
Women’s Winter Leather Touchscreen gloves are trendy among female runners. They have excellent reviews! This product is made of a stretchy blend of fleece that works well with cell phones. It is made of a mix of elastic fibers that are excellent for cell phones.
The best running gloves for women are those with a women-specific fit, silicone coating on the palm that allows you to grip your phone or anything else you hold quickly, and radiometric articulation technology that keeps their hands relaxed while running.
Although these are not the warmest when the weather is cold, the overall features make them a great choice. They also offer a lot of comfort.
Key Specification
Using high-quality luxury, soft, soft Lambskin Genuine leather gloves, especially sewing long-lasting, high-quality artistry.
10. Nike Men’s Dri-Fit Element Winter Gloves for Running
Heavy mitts cause runners’ palms to feel damp and clammy when running. Lightweight, breathable gloves are the best for running because they will not interfere with the flow of the run. Nike Dri-Fit gloves are well-ventilated, comfortable, and lightweight running gloves.
Running gloves are made of elements. Lightweight, moisture-wicking, and super lightweight making them perfect for light exercise. A piece of 4-way stretch fabric with articulated fingers provides a natural range of motion and feels like a second and much warmer layer of skin.
You will not be able to keep your hands warm if you live in an area where the weather dips below freezing.
They are running with heavy mitts on causes runners’ hands to become clammy or damp. Gloves that are lightweight and breathable do not hinder your run, making them the best running gloves. For a comfortable, light, and well-ventilated pair of running gloves, we recommend Nike Dri-Fit.
They are running gloves with elements. As a result, they are super lightweight and moisture-wicking, so you get the job done without adding bulk. The fabric is a four-way stretch with articulated fingers that provide a natural range of motion and feel like a much warmer layer of skin.
These will not provide enough warmth in freezing weather; if you live where the temperature dips below freezing, be aware that these won’t keep your hands warm.
Key Specification
Lightweight, breathable gloves are the best for running because they will not interfere with the flow of the run.
Best Running Gloves for Cold Weather | Buying Guide
Materials
“When choosing running gloves, it’s important to choose gloves that keep you warm and dry,” says Cannon. You might consider wearing gloves made of fabrics that wick moisture, such as Merino wool or blends of polyester, spandex, and nylon. Wet hands are more likely to suffer frostnip and frostbite, so avoid gloves made with water-retaining materials, such as cotton.
STRIDE’s director of education, NASM CPT Steve Stonehouse, says moisture-management technologies will improve running comfort, warmth, and safety. “Dry means warm, and dry means wicking moisture away,” he explains.
Touchscreen Compatibility
Today, most people are running with their smartphones. Witt is usually a no-brainer to take our phones on the go so that we can stay safe (and access our favorite songs). It is, therefore, instrumental in having gloves that enable us to answer the phone or scroll through our music library. Ensure that the gloves you’re using are touchscreen compatible. Otherwise, the bulky fabric will negate this feature.
Anyone who has struggled to use a GPS watch while wearing gloves or frozen their fingers when trying to take a selfie knows how convenient it is to have touchscreen capability built right into their gloves.
Running gloves are better suited to touchscreen devices than others, but some are better than others. If touchscreen sensitivity is one of the features you must have, you could expect to pay more for touchscreen technology.
Reflectiveness
Runners can improve their visibility in low-light conditions by wearing reflective gloves. For example, gloves with stripes, patterns, or logos are reflective.
Matt Scarfo, a NASM-certified personal trainer, and running coach says wearing reflective gloves might seem like going over the top, but it’s always better to be visible. Since you move your hands when you run, adding some reflectivity may help drivers see you.
In addition to manufacturing gloves in high-visibility colors, some manufacturers make gloves in neon yellow.
Fit
The size of a running glove or mitten is essential for comfort. Overstuffed gloves won’t keep you warm since they have too much fabric. If you get too small, you will have to yank on them to keep your wrists covered, which will be bothersome for you.
Although finding the perfect fit is ideal, it is better to be a little more significant than too small. Use the size chart on most gloves and mittens (and measure your hand.
Temperature Rating
Runners usually start wearing gloves when the temperature is Fahrenheit and colder. If you’re running in cold weather, choose gloves that provide sufficient insulation. Many brands offer gloves that are rated for different temperatures. When selecting a glove for the conditions, you will run, if provided, you should refer to it. Each of us experiences cold differently, so adjust the rating according to your experience. You might need warmer gloves if, for example, your hands get colder faster than your running partner’s.
FAQs
Wearing gloves when running
The best time to wear running gloves is when the temperature is below 50 degrees. In temperatures below 20 degrees, gloves are essential to prevent frostbite. You can also use hand warmers and mitts to keep your hands even warmer when temperatures are much colder.”
Am I wearing compression gloves while running? Is possible?
Exercise may not be recommended if you use compression gloves to treat rheumatoid arthritis or hand osteoarthritis symptoms.
Ask your physical therapist or doctor for instructions if you need compression gloves.
What is the ideal tightness of running gloves?
A glove that is too tight can restrict your hands’ circulation, which is especially important when you are running in the cold. Fit your running gloves snugly, but allow them to move freely. Keep your wrists snug to prevent cold air from sneaking in.
How should running gloves be cleaned?
Most running gloves don’t need to be washed after every use, unlike some running clothes. You can wash your running clothes in the washer and running clothes if they get soiled or smell a little funny and then tumble dried on low or hung up to dry.
You should, however, check the product label for recommended care instructions. Specially coated gloves should not be washed or dried and should only be spot cleaned or hand washed.
Do I need gloves to run in winter?
Running gloves and other winter running gear is essential to protect you from the frosty elements and allow you to enjoy running during the colder months. If you didn’t know, your hands lose heat more quickly than other body parts when exposed to the cold.
Are running gloves warm?
These lightweight gloves are excellent when you are on the run and are worried about sweaty hands or cold ones. Despite being thin enough not to overheat, even when you push hard in workouts or races, they retain enough warmth to keep you from feeling cold.
What temperature should running gloves be?
Canon recommends running gloves when the temperature drops below 50 degrees. The use of gloves is necessary when temperatures are below 20 degrees to reduce the risk of frostbite. Other good options for keeping your hands warm in cold temperatures include mitts and hand warmers.
Conclusion
Runners benefit from various mental and physical benefits associated with running, but things like harsh weather cause them to fall short of their goals. These issues, however, can be solved with running gloves. When it comes to outdoor running, suitable gloves can make a difference. They can keep you warm no matter what the weather.
To help runners like you choose the best running gloves for their preferences, Best Running Gears has tested dozens of highly-rated best running gloves over the internet from top-rated manufacturers. Find the glove that works for you by knowing your needs and preferences.