Last Updated October, 2017: We’ve added new picks and insights. Prices and links have also been updated.
Editor’s Choice: SmartWool PhD Insulated Training Glove
SmartWool’s PhD Insulated Training Glove won us over with its no-frills performance, comfort, versatility and approachable price. Without a hint of superfluity, it has the four features that all proper winter running gloves should have: moderate warmth, breathability, reflective bands and grippy palms. The wool lining is warm enough for most winter runners, and they don’t look dorky. But there’s one downside: no touchscreen functionality. That’s a trade-off we’re willing to make.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Many winter runners will tell you that their hands, being so far away from the heart, are the first things to go. That’s why a good pair of running gloves is so vital. They shield, grip, illuminate and insulate the hands of the most battle-hardened exercisers — those passionate crazies who refuse to be deterred by icy winds and sideways-falling snow. If you’re one of those crazies, here are the best winter running gloves to buy in 2017.
Additional contribution by Michael Finn and Tucker Bowe.
The Best Winter Running Gloves of 2017
Best for the Hardcore Runner: Arc’teryx Teneo Glove
Picture in your mind a particularly nasty winter day. It’s well below freezing, and the roads are smeared with ice. You reach for these gloves. Without being too bulky, they are exceptionally warm, windproof and water-resistant. Gore-Tex lets sweat escape but traps heat. Leather reinforcements add durability. And an adjustable wrist closure ensures a snug fit over however many layers you’re wearing.
Best E-Tip Glove: The North Face Pamir WindStopper Etip Glove
Standing apart from the minimalist polyester gloves that have become so ubiquitous, the Pamir is a slightly bulkier fleece option that affords more warmth, yet still retains e-tip functionality on all five fingers. And, as the name implies, they’re excellent for shielding your hands from frost-bite winds.
Editor’s Choice: SmartWool PhD Insulated Training Glove
SmartWool’s PhD Insulated Training Glove won us over with its no-frills performance, comfort, versatility and approachable price. Without a hint of superfluity, it has the four features that all proper winter running gloves should have: moderate warmth, breathability, reflective bands and grippy palms. The wool lining is warm enough for most winter runners, and they don’t look dorky, but there’s one downside: no touchscreen functionality. That’s a trade-off we’re willing to make.
Best 2-in-1 Glove: Saucony Ulti-Mitt
Wind and water protection, moderate insulation, touchscreen-functional fingers, a stashable mitt and a fleece nose wipe, all in a lightweight package. On colder days, simply pop the mitt over your fingers; when the sun comes out, stuff the mitt back into its integrated pocket.
Best Liner: Black Diamond Lightweight Screentap Liner Glove
This is as minimalist as it gets. Between 40 and 60 degrees Farenheit, the Lightweight Screentaps are right at home. Polartec fabric offers a hint of warmth and fantastic dexterity — almost like a pair of thick compression shorts. Below 40 degrees, wear ’em under something with better insulation and weatherproofing.
Best Waterproof Glove: Gore Apparel Essential Gore-Tex Gloves
Don’t need e-tip fingers and rubber grips and all that space-age aerodynamic BS? Here’s a pair you’ll like: pretty much all they do is keep your hands warm. Really, really warm. They’re made of water- and windproof Gore-Tex. And they pack nicely, too.
Best Budget Option: Seirus SoundTouch Deluxe Thermax Glove
Maybe you’re a beginner, or maybe you just don’t need all the expensive bells and whistles. These are for you. The Thermax lining and ribbed cuff are dead-simple, and provide adequete warmth on warm winter days.
Best Merino Wool Glove: Icebreaker Quantum Glove
Icebreaker incorporates merino wool into all of its outerwear, and the 98 percent merino wool Quantum glove holds strongly to that trend. Additonally, they’re made with Lycra, a fast-drying material perfect for sudden flurries.
Best Mitten: Brooks LSD Thermal Mitten
Gloves versus mittens. It’s a debate as old as Coke versus Pepsi. If you’re loyal to mittens, the LSD Mitten will likely satisfy you. Like a lightweight glove, it isn’t bulky, is moderately warm, and touchscreen-compatible. For added warmth, wear a liner underneath.
Best Fleece Glove: Patagonia Synchilla Glove
The Synchilla Glove is essentially the same as Patagonia’s iconic Synchilla Snap-T, but for your hands. While not specifically designed for running, it puts comfort above all else, making it an acceptable choice for mild winter days. It’s also touchscreen-compatible on all five fingers.
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