Picking the perfect pair of gloves is key to staying comfortable, protected, and performing at your best in the great outdoors. Whether you're conquering icy mountain peaks, trekking through pouring rain, or tackling rugged trails, the right gloves can make all the difference.
When buying gloves, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you select the right pair for your needs. First, think about the activity you'll be using them for—whether it's hiking, skiing, bikepacking, or climbing. Different activities may require specific features like insulation, dexterity, or grip. Next, consider the weather conditions you'll encounter. Waterproof gloves are essential for wet weather, while insulated gloves are ideal for cold temperatures, and windproof gloves can offer extra protection in harsh winds. For milder climates, breathable gloves are a better option.
The material of the gloves is another important consideration. Waterproof fabrics such as GORE-TEX® keep your hands dry, while insulation materials like synthetic fibres or down provide warmth. If you're engaging in high-intensity activities, breathable fabrics will help regulate temperature and prevent moisture build up. Fit and comfort are also critical. Gloves should fit snugly but not restrict movement, ensuring both warmth and flexibility. Adjustable cuffs or wrist straps can provide a more tailored fit, while removable liners allow for temperature control.
Durability is a key factor, especially for outdoor activities where gloves may face rough conditions. Reinforced palms and abrasion-resistant fabrics help ensure your gloves last longer. Dexterity is essential, too, particularly for activities that require fine motor skills, such as climbing or adjusting gear. If you need to use your phone or GPS, consider gloves with touchscreen compatibility so you can stay connected without exposing your hands to the cold.
Below, we’ve selected the best gloves Outdoor Research has to offer, each designed to keep you comfortable and protected in any outdoor adventure. Our top picks are built to handle everything from drizzle to downpour, cold winds to deep snow. Explore our handpicked selection for your next adventure.
Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves
The double-layered Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves are the toughest in our ActiveTemp™ glove collection. With ActiveTemp™ thermo-regulating technology, these gloves adjust to your body temperature, keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable during high-exertion activities.
Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves
The Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves are the go-to fleece liner in our ActiveTemp™ glove collection. Featuring ActiveTemp™ thermo-regulating technology, they adjust to your body temperature, keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable during high-exertion activities.
Vigor Lightweight Sensor Gloves
The Vigor Lightweight Sensor Gloves are the lightest in our ActiveTemp™ glove collection. With ActiveTemp™ thermo-regulating technology, they adjust to your body temperature, keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable during high-exertion activities.
Alti Gore-Tex Mitts
Alti Mitts are trusted by 8,000-meter climbers and Arctic explorers, and now they’ve been redesigned for improved dexterity and fit. The warmest mitts in our collection, the Alti II GORE-TEX Mitts feature a modular design that layers for ultimate warmth, durability, and comfort on multi-day, extreme-condition adventures.
Women's Arete II Gore-Tex Mitts
The Arete II GORE-TEX® Gloves are now even better. These versatile alpine gloves deliver superior grip, dexterity, and waterproof protection. Featuring an updated durable leather palm for added traction and the trusted GORE-TEX insert, they offer reliable performance in both snow and rain.
Women’s Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves
The Women's Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves blend warmth, comfort, and functionality for cold-weather adventures. With ActiveTemp™ thermo-regulating technology, they adjust to your body temperature, keeping you dry and comfortable during high-exertion activities. Their heavy-duty construction ensures both insulation and dexterity, offering reliable protection in even the harshest conditions.
Adrenaline Gloves
The Adrenaline Gloves are the perfect choice for high-energy, cold-weather activities. Designed for skiers and snowboarders, these gloves offer an excellent balance of warmth, dexterity, and weather protection. Featuring waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX fabric, they keep your hands dry and comfortable in even the harshest conditions. The synthetic insulation ensures warmth without adding bulk, while the durable leather palm provides enhanced grip and durability.
Adrenaline 3-in-1 Gloves
Adrenaline 3-in-1 Gloves offer versatile protection for cold-weather activities. With a modular design, these gloves give you the flexibility to adapt to varying conditions. The outer shell is made with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX fabric to keep your hands dry, while the removable liner offers added warmth and can be worn on its own in milder conditions. Whether you need full protection for snowstorms or lighter coverage for more active days, the Adrenaline 3-in-1 Gloves allow you to adjust to changing weather and activity levels. Durable and functional, they’re the perfect companion for everything from skiing to mountain trekking.
Sureshot Pro Insulated Waterproof Gloves
The Sureshot Pro Gloves offer the perfect blend of breathability, flexibility, and warmth, designed to keep you comfortable and protected during all your cold-weather adventures. With a durable goat leather palm for a secure grip and long-lasting performance, these gloves are built to tackle any challenge. The Ventia™ waterproof insert ensures your hands stay dry, no matter the conditions, while ActiveTemp™ technology helps regulate your body temperature, keeping you comfortable whether you’re breaking trail or skiing. Plus, the touchscreen-compatible fingertips allow you to easily use your smartphone or watch without having to remove the gloves.
Arete Modular GORE-TEX Gloves
The Arete Modular GORE-TEX Gloves are designed to deliver outstanding performance in even the harshest cold-weather conditions, offering incredible versatility for activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing. Featuring a waterproof and windproof GORE-TEX outer shell, these gloves ensure your hands remain dry and protected from the elements. EnduraLoft™ insulation provides warmth without the bulk, keeping you comfortable during high-intensity activities. The outer fabric is crafted from a stretch-woven material, treated with PFAS-free DWR for eco-friendly waterproofing and breathability. Adaptable to any environment, the Arete Gloves strike the perfect balance of warmth, protection, and flexibility, making them the ideal companion for all your cold-weather adventures.
