For many, the thought of embracing the cold temperatures to embark on their daily run isn't very appealing.
While some may invest in a treadmill to avoid facing such conditions, a pair of running gloves or mitts provide a solution.
By regulating the temperature of your hands and fingers you can still enjoy running outdoors whilst feeling warm and comfortable.
Running gloves and mittens differ from standard gloves as they have been designed to absorb moisture caused by sweating.
There are many options available so it is important to invest in a pair that keeps you warm and are comfortable to wear.
We have reviewed our top 7 picks of the best options available. Below we have also provided you with a buyer's guide where you will find our top tips and factors to consider before purchasing this accessory.
Are you in a hurry? If so, we have selected our top pick for you below.
OUR TOP PICK
If you are struggling to decide between gloves and mittens, why not opt for a pair that combines the qualities of both.
The Trailheads Power Stretch Convertible Mittens have a fingerless design with a mitten covering.
The 2-in-1 concept provides wearers with greater versatility allowing you to opt for the fingerless style when you require the freedom to move your fingers and the mitten covering when you require warmth.
These convertible mittens are made from a blend of fabrics; nylon, polyester, and lycra and the stretchability of these materials allows the gloves to contour to the shape of your hands for improved comfort. As such, the feel of the material offers dexterity whilst ensuring that your hands are provided with plenty of warmth.
The backing of each mitten incorporates a reflective strap for improved visibility to ensure that the wearer can be seen should they decide to embark on a run as it begins to get dark.
The thumb and finger sections feature anti-slip silicone grips that allow you to maintain a secure grasp on your personal belongings.
Using the discrete magnetics, you can fasten the thumb flaps back when they are not in use so that they do not get in your way and hit against your fingers.
The sides also feature small clips that allow you to connect each mitten when they aren't being worn so there is less chance of them getting lost.
Pros
- The reflective straps ensure that wearers remain seen during poor visibility.
- You have the flexibility to wear them as mittens or gloves.
- The mittens can be folded into the back pockets.
- The stretchy fabric feels comfortable against the skin.
- They are effective at retaining heat to keep your hands warm.
Cons
- The sizing of the gloves runs a little small so it may be worth opting for a larger size.
EDITORS CHOICE
The SIMARI Winter Unisex Running Gloves have been designed to endure autumnal and wintery conditions ensuring that the wearer remains warm and comfortable.
Made from a combination of polyester and spandex with flannel lining, they have a thick feel and an elasticated cuff which makes them easier to put on while allowing for a more secure fit around the wrist.
These gloves have touchscreen sensitive fingertips that allow you to use devices such as your phone or iPad without needing to remove the gloves to do so.
Covering the palm of these gloves are anti-slip silicone grips that will allow you to grip your belongings without worrying about dropping them accidentally.
The backing of the gloves also features reflective patterning which will ensure that you can be seen by others even when visibility is poor.
Available in a range of sizes from small to extra large, these gloves cater to different hand sizes so there is bound to be an option available that fits you. There is also an assortment of colors available so you can select your preferred option.
Pros
- Retailing at an affordable price, these gloves are an ideal choice for those on a budget.
- The elasticated cuff design contours to the shape of your wrist.
- The touch screen fingertips enable you to use your devices without needing to remove the gloves.
- The soft material feels comfortable against the skin.
- They are available in an assortment of sizes and colors.
Cons
- While they are going to be effective at keeping your hands warm in spring-like temperatures, they may not be as effective in colder temperatures.
BEST VALUE
Entering the market at an affordable price, the Achiou Winter Knit Gloves are an ideal option for those who are on a budget.
These gloves have been made from high-quality acrylic fibers with a thermal lining. Because of this, they are going to provide you with the warmth needed when worn during colder weather.
The stretch of the material also makes them easy to put on and take off and they also contour to the natural shaping of your hands.
The breathability of the gloves enhances the ventilation. Even when your hands warm up, the fabric will refrain from accumulating sweat which eradicates possible irritations. They also adopt a pull-on design with an elasticated feel which will ensure that they remain secure on your hands.
The thumb, forefinger, and middle finger possess touchscreen compatible qualities that allow you to continue using your technical devices without needing to remove the gloves to type or press any of the buttons.
The palm area of the gloves also features silicone grips so you can hold your phone or other belongings without the fear of them slipping out of your grasp.
These gloves are available in 3 sizes ranging from medium to extra-large so they cater to different hand sizes. Aside from this, they are also available in an assortment of neutral colors so you can select your preferred option.
Pros
- The inclusion of anti-slip technology makes it easier to hold your phone without it falling out of your grasp.
- The use of breathable materials allows the sweat to dissipate.
- They are affordably priced and ideal for those seeking a value pair of gloves.
- These running gloves provide warmth without compromising on dexterity.
- The touch screen fingertips make it easy to use your phone or other devices when wearing your gloves.
Cons
- The quality of the gloves could be improved as they are prone to fraying after a few wears.
RUNNER UP
From a brand that is recognized for producing high quality and reliable sporting attire, the New Balance Lightweight Touchscreen Running Gloves are a strong contender.
As lightweight gloves, they are going to be comfortable to wear without feeling overly bulky on your hands.
These gloves have been made from a combination of polyester and spandex with a fleece lining which will enhance your comfort whilst ensuring that your hands remain warm and protected against the colder conditions.
Thanks to the addition of grippers on the palm of the gloves, you can securely grasp onto your belongings without any risk of them sliding out of your hands.
As a versatile pair of running gloves, they can be worn when you are using your phone or other devices as they have touch screen compatible fingertips.
Aside from this, the gloves have an elasticated feel and can easily be pulled on before they conform to the natural contours of your hand shape.
We particularly like how these gloves have been engineered with antimicrobial properties that maintain the hygiene and cleanliness of the gloves by protecting the material against the collection of any odors.
They are also available in a range of sizes from small to extra-large so there is bound to be a pair available that comfortably fits the size of your hands.
Pros
- These gloves are designed with an easy pull-on closure.
- They come in a variety of colors with bright options available too.
- As they are made with antimicrobial properties they are protected against unwanted odors.
- There is a selection of sizes to choose from.
- The design of the fingertips makes them touchscreen compatible.
Cons
- As lightweight gloves, they are quite thin and may not offer the necessary protection against wind.
RUNNER UP
Made from 3M insulated cotton, the Cevapro Winter Running Gloves are the perfect choice for those who often run in colder climates.
As thermally insulated gloves, they intend to keep your hands warm in temperatures as low as -30°F.
They also incorporate a TPU waterproof layer which will prove useful should you find yourself running during a downpour as they will refrain from absorbing the water, instead maintaining the warmth of your hands.
As these gloves have been made from PU leather they offer excellent durability even when worn frequently.
The fleece lining of the gloves is also moisture-wicking, creating a breathable environment for your hands and preventing the accumulation of sweat which may lead to irritations for some. As a result, the wear of these gloves will keep your hands warm but comfortable.
The palm of these gloves has been designed with anti-slip grips that will allow you to grasp onto your belongings with ease.
The gloves themselves are also abrasion resistant and will resist breaking or tearing should they come into harsh contact with a tough surface. The elasticated pull on closure will keep these gloves securely fitted to your wrists.
Just like our previous picks, these index fingers possess touch screen compatible silicone which allows you to use your devices without having to remove the gloves beforehand.
They are also available in multiple sizes from small to extra large and so they cater to different hand shapes and sizes effectively.
Pros
- These gloves have been made from durable, high-quality PU leather.
- As insulated gloves, they have a thick fleece lining that keeps hands warm.
- The TPU layer creates waterproof gloves that can be worn in most weather conditions.
- The elasticated pull on closure offers effective wind protection.
- The availability of sizes allows you to select the best option for your needs.
Cons
- These materials are quite bulky and rigid in feel.
RUNNER UP
Designed with many favorable features, the Outdoor Essentials Touch Screen Running Gloves are a versatile option.
These gloves have been made from a combination of materials, thus being polyester, spandex, and silicone. The stretchy feel of this material makes them less restricting and more flexible.
Though these gloves are going to be effective in keeping your hands warm, they remain lightweight rather than bulky, providing a thin but effective layer of protection between your skin and the cold weather.
Should you feel as though these gloves don't keep your hands as warm as you would like in very cold temperatures, they can easily be layered beneath additional pairs.
Using the pull on closure, these gloves can easily be put on and taken off and the elasticated feel will conform to the shape of your wrist so that the gloves remain securely positioned.
The palm of the gloves also incorporates silicone anti-slip grips which will allow you to hold your belongings comfortably.
Thanks to the one touch technology, you can keep these gloves on as you use your phone as the grips on the fingertips will allow you to type with ease. The material also possesses moisture-wicking qualities which will eliminate the build-up of sweat and moisture.
Aside from this, the material is abrasion resistant so they aren't going to deteriorate quickly even when subject to frequent wear.
Pros
- There is a selection of sizes available to cater to the hand size of men and women.
- They are covered by a lifetime warranty should you experience any issues.
- The material is durable and abrasion-resistant.
- These gloves are an affordable purchase - ideal for those on a budget.
- The use of breathable materials enhances the ventilation of these gloves.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the finger sections are a little short.
RUNNER UP
If you would prefer to wear mittens rather than gloves, the Trailheads Quilted Running Mittens are a viable option.
Not only are they going to keep your hands warm during colder weather but they are also stylishly designed making them a fashionable addition to your running attire.
Made using 200g Polartec Power fill insulated fabric they provide a cozy feel without being overly bulky. In fact, for a pair of mittens, they are particularly lightweight.
Aside from this, the first 2 fingers also possess touch screen compatible qualities that make them suitable for use with a range of technological devices. Gone are the days where you find yourself needing to completely remove the mitts to reply to a message.
The exterior of these gloves features diamond quilting which not only adds to the aesthetic but also retains the insulation and warmth inside the gloves.
The inside of these gloves is double layered with fabric that enhances the insulation by regulating and maintaining the warmer temperatures.
For improved comfort, the inside material of these gloves possesses moisture-wicking qualities that will pull the sweat away from your hands so that they can be worn comfortably without accumulating any unwanted moisture and sweat.
Pros
- As insulated gloves, they are effective in keeping your hands warm.
- They have been made from high-quality materials some of which are also recycled.
- They are lightweight gloves that are comfortable to wear.
- The material is breathable and prevents the build-up of sweat.
- The first two fingers are designed with touch screen compatible material for added convenience.
Cons
- These gloves retail within a higher price range which may make them an unaffordable option for those on a budget.
Best Cold Weather Running Gloves and Mittens Buying Guide
There are many different styles of running gloves available that are effective at retaining warmth in cold weather.
Because of this, there are many factors that you will need to consider to ensure that your chosen pair is right for you.
Mittens or Gloves
First, you will need to decide whether you want mittens or gloves.
If you are likely to be running when it is very cold, mittens will provide more heat as your fingers are grouped in one section rather than separated by material.
Gloves, however, offer the flexibility that allows you to move your fingers freely. If you are struggling to compromise on the qualities of each style, you may wish to invest in a pair that combines elements of both, e.g fingerless tips with a mitten covering.
The Size
Most gloves are available in a selection of sizes. Although running gloves tend to be more snug-fitting if they are too tight they are going to be restricting and uncomfortable.
If they are too loose they will be prone to sliding down your hands as you run. Finding the perfect fit is important and you will find that most brands provide a sizing chart that allows you to view the measurements before deciding which will fit your hands best.
The Reflective Design
Sometimes busy schedules can see you running in the morning when the sun has yet to make a proper appearance and in the evenings when visibility is becoming poor.
Running gloves that incorporate reflective stripes or patterning ensure that you can be seen during the dark. Some gloves aren't designed with reflective detailing so you must consider whether this is a feature that you would benefit from depending on the times when you are going to be running.
The Touchscreen Compatibility
For many, the touchscreen compatibility of the gloves is of particular importance. Even when embarking on a run there are instances where you may require the use of your phone to respond to messages etc.
Most gloves now have touchscreen compatible material on the thumb, forefinger, and index fingers that allow you to use your mobile phone or any other device without needing to remove your gloves.
Breathability
Running gloves that are made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials are preferable as they will be more comfortable.
As your hands begin to warm up they are likely to sweat and gloves that aren't designed with moisture-wicking materials will encourage the sweat to accumulate rather than dissipate.
The collection of sweat is not only going to be uncomfortable but it may also lead to irritations for some.
Waterproof Qualities
Many running gloves possess waterproof qualities. Thinner gloves are favorable as the material is going to dry quicker.
Opting for waterproof gloves is going to be important if you live in a location that experiences a lot of rainy weather.
Anti-Slip Grips
Gloves that lack anti-slip grips present the risk of your belongings sliding out of your hands when you are running.
To eliminate this issue, you will find that the majority are now made with anti-slip grips along the palm which will allow you to maintain a secure grasp of your belongings.
The Durability
Your running gloves must be durably made to ensure that they can withstand frequent wear without deteriorating in quality.
Many will possess abrasion-resistant qualities that will resist breaking even in the unfortunate circumstance that they come into contact with a rough surface.
The breathability of the material is also going to influence how durable they are because those that lack moisture-wicking properties are likely to become grubby in comparison to those that are lightweight and breathable.
The Color
Some brands will produce gloves in multiple colors. While some may be more neutral others will be brighter.
Most running gloves are now rather stylishly too so they aren't going to be an unappealing addition to your running attire.
The Brand
Some brands are well-known within the sport/athletic industry and this is because they produce high-quality, reliable garments, footwear, and sporting accessories.
Because of the reputation that surrounds these particular brand names, you may feel encouraged to make your purchase with them.
However, do not be put off by offerings from less-known brands as they produce gloves that offer the comfort and warmth required for runs during the colder seasons.
The Price
Running gloves are a pretty affordable purchase with the majority retailing below $20.
Even individuals on a tighter budget are bound to find a great quality pair that will provide the comfort needed during colder runs. Those that are produced by well-known brands tend to be slightly more expensive.
The cost is also going to be influenced by the insulation of the gloves and the quality of the materials used to make them.
While there are many cheaper options available that are worthy of your purchase, it is important to ensure that your chosen gloves do not compromise on the factors that we have mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should running gloves be tight or loose?
Running gloves are worn to provide an additional layer of warmth and because of this, they should fit rather snugly.
If they are too loose they are going to be ineffective in retaining the warmth and also more likely to slide off your hands as you run.
Are mittens warmer than gloves?
Mittens are considered to be a warmer option than gloves because when your fingers are grouped together they generate more heat compared to when they are separated.
However, there are gloves available that will also be effective in retaining the heat.
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