Waterproof, insulated gloves are essential for any climber or winter sports enthusiast. To help you choose which pair best serves your needs, we’ve tested some of the best waterproof gloves available today, covering a range of price points and abilities.
In the same way that other waterproof and insulated pieces of clothing vary, so too do gloves. This requires you to think about what you need them for.
If, for example, you want them for watching winter sport or more relaxed winter walks, greater levels of insulation are needed in addition to waterproofing. But the trade-off with larger gloves is reduced dexterity and breathability.
For winter climbers, skiers, and mountaineering, durability, dexterity, high waterproofing and breathability are crucial for you. Gloves bearing these features are lighter and thinner and therefore not great when watching winter sport or undertaking more relaxed walks in the snow.
Naturally, budget heavily influences our decisions but don't let that dictate. After all, while you can get some reasonable waterproof gloves on a budget, you fundamentally want a glove that will do what you need it to. It may well be worth your while paying a little more for a glove that will suit your needs rather than settling on the cheaper alternative that won't be so good.
The best waterproof gloves in detail
Best in Test
www.cotswoldoutdoor.com
Description
This well-established glove continues to offer us great comfort and dexterity. It’s available in
Pros
- Durable outer fabrics
- Allows good dexterity
- Muted women's colours
- Mountain Equipment is a Fair Wear Foundation member
Cons
- No wrist leash
Best Value
www.millets.co.uk
Description
These attractively priced gloves feature a Gore-Tex Active waterproof lining to keep your hands
Pros
- Decent price for Gore-Tex
- Pre-curved fingers
- Touchscreen compatible
Cons
- Not as durable as others
- Annoying fingertip seams
Best for winter scrambling
www.cotswoldoutdoor.com
Description
As the price suggests, these are no ordinary gloves. The Fulcrum GTX is one of the ultimate winter
Pros
- Great dexterity
- Impressive warmth for the weight
- Durable outer fabrics
- Rab a Fair Wear Foundation 'leader'
Cons
- Overkill for most
- Unisex fit
Best budget waterproof glove
www.hartsofstur.com
Description
The low price of these gloves is instantly inviting. But we found that these aren't just outright
Pros
- Very affordable
- Decent waterproofing
- Pre-curved fingers
- Touchscreen compatible
Cons
- Only two sizes
- Others are warmer
- No wrist leash