Gloves vs. Mittens: Which is Best for Winter?
Both gloves and mittens have advantages and are widely used for winter activities like hiking, climbing, skiing, and snowboarding. The best choice depends on your activity, the weather conditions, and your personal preferences.
Gloves: Maximum Dexterity, Versatile Use
Pros:
Better dexterity for handling equipment, adjusting bindings, or using zippers.
Easier to use with navigation devices, cameras, and touchscreen phones.
Available in various insulation levels, from lightweight liners to extreme cold-weather gloves.
Some models come with removable liners for added warmth and versatility.
Better dexterity for handling equipment, adjusting bindings, or using zippers.
Easier to use with navigation devices, cameras, and touchscreen phones.
Available in various insulation levels, from lightweight liners to extreme cold-weather gloves.
Some models come with removable liners for added warmth and versatility.
Cons:
Less warmth than mittens since fingers are separated, increasing heat loss.
More surface area is exposed to cold air, making them less efficient in extreme temperatures.
Less warmth than mittens since fingers are separated, increasing heat loss.
More surface area is exposed to cold air, making them less efficient in extreme temperatures.
Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, climbing, and other precision-based activities.
Mittens: Warmer, But Less Dexterity
Pros:
Warmer than gloves since fingers share heat in the same compartment.
Often better insulated, making them ideal for extremely cold conditions.
Easier to put on and take off in freezing temperatures.
Warmer than gloves since fingers share heat in the same compartment.
Often better insulated, making them ideal for extremely cold conditions.
Easier to put on and take off in freezing temperatures.
Cons:
Reduced dexterity—handling small objects, adjusting gear, or using a phone is difficult.
Not touchscreen-friendly unless specially designed.
Reduced dexterity—handling small objects, adjusting gear, or using a phone is difficult.
Not touchscreen-friendly unless specially designed.
Best for: Extreme cold, snowshoeing, backcountry expeditions, and casual winter wear.
Hybrid Option: Lobster Gloves (3-Finger Mitts)
Lobster gloves combine the warmth of mittens with the dexterity of gloves by keeping the index finger separate from the rest. Great for cyclists, snowboarders, and skiers who need to grip poles.
Winter Gloves for Touchscreen Use
Touchscreen gloves allow you to use your phone, GPS, or smartwatch without exposing your hands to the cold.
What to Look For:
Material: Look for conductive fingertips (silver-coated nylon, copper-infused fabric).
Grip: Non-slip silicone or rubberized palms prevent dropping your phone.
Insulation: Merino wool, fleece lining, or thermal materials for warmth.
Fit: Snug but flexible enough for easy movement.
Durability: Check for reinforced stitching and machine-washable materials.
Material: Look for conductive fingertips (silver-coated nylon, copper-infused fabric).
Grip: Non-slip silicone or rubberized palms prevent dropping your phone.
Insulation: Merino wool, fleece lining, or thermal materials for warmth.
Fit: Snug but flexible enough for easy movement.
Durability: Check for reinforced stitching and machine-washable materials.
The North Face Etip Gloves
Best Touchscreen Gloves for Winter
Brand & Model | Key Features | Best For |
The North Face Etip Gloves | Warm, flexible, touchscreen fingertips | Everyday wear, casual use |
Smartwool Merino 250 Gloves | Merino wool, moisture-wicking, touchscreen-compatible | Hiking, light winter activities |
Outdoor Research Sensor Gloves | Wind-resistant, touchscreen-ready, durable | Hiking, climbing, skiing |
Isotoner SmartDRI Gloves | Affordable, stylish, touchscreen tips | Casual use, city wear |
Under Armour ColdGear Infrared Liner Gloves | Thin, thermal, touchscreen-ready | Layering under heavier gloves |
URPowered Touchscreen Gloves | Budget-friendly, solid touchscreen response | General use |
GliderGloves Copper Infused | Copper-infused, touchscreen-friendly, extra grip | Cold-weather running, cycling |
Agloves Sport Touchscreen Gloves | Stretchy, precise touch sensitivity | Outdoor activities, casual use |
Outdoor Research Gripper Sensor Gloves | Windproof, waterproof, grippy palms | Climbing, snow sports |
Nike Element Thermal 2.0 Run Gloves | Breathable, lightweight, touchscreen-compatible | Running, jogging in cold weather |
Nike Element Thermal 2.0 Run Gloves
Tips for Choosing Gloves or Mittens
For warmth: Mittens > Gloves (fingers share warmth).
For dexterity: Gloves > Mittens (easier for handling gear).
For extreme cold: Layer gloves + mittens for maximum warmth.
For touchscreen use: Get touchscreen-compatible gloves for convenience.
For skiing/snowboarding: Waterproof gloves with wrist leashes prevent losing them.
For wet conditions: Look for GORE-TEX or waterproof-treated gloves to keep hands dry.
For dexterity: Gloves > Mittens (easier for handling gear).
For extreme cold: Layer gloves + mittens for maximum warmth.
For touchscreen use: Get touchscreen-compatible gloves for convenience.
For skiing/snowboarding: Waterproof gloves with wrist leashes prevent losing them.
For wet conditions: Look for GORE-TEX or waterproof-treated gloves to keep hands dry.
Need the Best of Both?
Lobster gloves provide a balance of warmth and dexterity, making them a great hybrid choice for extreme weather conditions.
Pro Tip: Always carry spare liners or hand warmers for added warmth in freezing temperatures!
