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Which gloves are best against the cold?
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Time to read 3 min
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Time to read 3 min
When winter sets in, it is essential to protect your hands from the cold. Cold hands can not only be uncomfortable, but can also lead to frostbite and other problems. Finding the right gloves for cold conditions requires attention to the right material, insulation and fit. In this article we discuss which winter gloves are best against the cold and what you should pay attention to when purchasing.
Cold hands reduce your comfort and limit the freedom of movement of your fingers, which is especially annoying during activities such as cycling, hiking or skiing. Unprotected hands lose heat quickly, which can lead to numbness, reduced reaction time and in extreme cases to frostbite. Good winter gloves keep your hands dry, warm and at the same time offer sufficient flexibility.
The choice of material is crucial in determining how well gloves protect your hands from the cold. There are different materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Merino wool is a popular choice for winter gloves because it is naturally insulating and breathable. It retains heat even when wet, which is crucial in winter conditions. Additionally, merino wool has the ability to wick moisture away from the skin, keeping your hands dry. This makes it a great option for hikers and winter sports enthusiasts.
Benefits of merino wool:
Retains heat even when wet.
Wicks away moisture and prevents sweating.
Breathable and comfortable.
Leather gloves offer excellent protection against the wind and are durable. They insulate well and over time they will conform to the shape of your hand, making them comfortable. However, leather gloves should be treated regularly with a waterproof wax to prevent the material from absorbing water.
Benefits of leather:
Very good wind protection.
Durable and comfortable.
Stylish and versatile.
Gloves made of synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon are often lighter and dry faster than natural materials. They are ideal for people who are regularly active outdoors, such as runners or cyclists. Many synthetic gloves also have a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, that keeps your hands dry. This material is also often used for touchscreen gloves .
Advantages of synthetic materials:
Lightweight and quick-drying.
Often waterproof and breathable.
More affordable than natural materials.
When looking for warmth, it is also important to consider whether to choose gloves or mittens. While gloves offer more finger flexibility, mittens tend to be warmer. This is because your fingers are together in a mitten, allowing them to share heat. Mittens also have less surface area for heat to escape.
Benefits of mittens:
Warmer than gloves because the fingers are together.
Less chance of heat loss due to the small surface area.
Benefits of gloves:
More finger flexibility and grip.
Suitable for activities that require precision, such as cycling or skiing.
If you’re looking for the warmest gloves for extreme cold, there are a few styles that stand out for their insulation, waterproofness, and fit. Here are some of the best options:
These gloves are designed for extreme cold and offer excellent protection. They are made for activities such as skiing, snowshoeing and climbing. The combination of a Gore-Tex membrane and synthetic insulation ensures that your hands stay dry and feel warm, even in the toughest conditions. These gloves are often used as ski gloves .
Advantages:
Excellent insulation for extreme cold.
Waterproof and breathable thanks to Gore-Tex.
Suitable for heavy winter activities.
The Mercury Mitts are a great choice for those who value warmth above all else. These mittens feature thick padding and Primaloft insulation, making them suitable for the coldest days. They are also waterproof and have a robust leather palm for added durability and grip. In short, these waterproof gloves are a great purchase.
Advantages:
Very warm thanks to the thick insulation.
Waterproof and windproof.
Durable and comfortable.
This premium brand offers gloves that are both stylish and functional. The Army Leather Patrol is designed for winter sports enthusiasts and offers a perfect combination of waterproofness, insulation and flexibility. The use of leather and synthetic materials ensures excellent protection against the cold.
Advantages:
Waterproof and breathable.
High-quality leather construction.
Ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
In addition to the material, the fit of your gloves is essential for keeping your hands warm. Gloves that are too tight restrict blood circulation, causing your hands to get cold faster. Gloves that are too loose let cold air in, which has the same effect. Make sure you choose gloves that fit snugly without being too tight. A good rule of thumb is that your fingertips should just barely touch the inside of the glove.
Make sure there are no air gaps around your wrists or fingers.
Choose gloves that allow room for a thin inner lining for extra warmth.
Look for gloves with adjustable wrists to keep heat in.