Gloves for snowshoeing

The Best Gloves for Snowshoeing | Warm Hands in Winter

Last updated on October 20th, 2022 at 03:59 pm

Nothing can ruin a good snowshoe outing like cold fingers, especially if you find  yourself readjusting your bindings. Just like any other winter outdoor activity, icy or numb fingers will send you back inside looking for the fire and hot chocolate. However, in this post, we’ll help you find the best gloves for snowshoeing, so you can enjoy the sport just as much as we do.

The Best Gloves For Snowshoeing Are...

If you’re in a rush and want to grab a pair of gloves perfect for snowshoeing, any of our top picks will save your trip. We found the follwing to deserve special mention:

Best Snowshoeing Glove: Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold Gloves (-30 degree F)

Second Place Glove: Outdoor Research Revolution Glove

Honorable Mention: MCTi Waterproof Cold Weather Gloves (-20 degree F)

Now, while the gloves outlined above are our favorites, there are small differences you may want to consider. We cover all the details for our three favorite and also provide a comparison table of all the gloves we researched below.

Comparison Table of The 4 Best Snowshoeing Gloves

Firstly, we’ve put together a comparison table here for easy, quick reference of all of our contenders. Plus, we’ve included one of the most important metrics for snowshoeing gloves here: Temperature Rating. 

Picture Name / Link Temperature Rating
Botack Waterproof Gloves -30 degrees F
Outdoor Research Revolution N/A
MCTi Waterproof Thinsulate -20 degrees F
Anqier Waterproof Gloves -30 degrees F

As you can see, all of our contenders offer similar protection from the elements. However, the above table only covers a snapshot of information on each, we delve deeper into our favorites below. 

Our Favorite Gloves for Snowshoeing: Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold Gloves

The Best Gloves for Snowshoeing: Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold Gloves

First, our favorite overall for snowshoeing are the Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold Gloves.

All of the gloves in this post will keep your hands toasty warm in cold conditions.

 

However, the Botak Extreme Cold rise to the top of our list with their water-resistance, extreme cold rating, and a handful of user-friendly accessories that make these gloves awesome.

Nearly Waterproof

It should also be stated, that true waterproofing is an extremely difficult achievement for any gear. And even the best waterproof gloves tend to get damp if exposed to the right conditions for long enough. 

That being said, the Botak gets as close to being truly waterproof as a pair of cold weather gloves can get.

In fact, the Botak has all the construction requirements and materials needed to be waterproof. 

RELATED: Best Snowshoes for Beginners

For instance, with multiple layers built into the shell.

As a result, the Botak’s water resistance better than any of the gloves we researched for snowshoeing. 

Additionally, the Botak is also breathable, making sweaty hands less likely to affect temperature. 

Warm down to -30F

In addition, these gloves keep hands warm in most weather phenomena.

In fact, the Botak protects fingers in temperatures as low as -30℉.

Furthermore, you’re highly unlikely to find yourself in these temps as a beginner or intermediate snowshoer. However, if you do, these gloves will keep you warm in just about every condition you are likely to encounter. 

Moreover, warm gloves become specifically important when snowshoeing while using snowshoeing poles for stability

Anti-Loss Wrist Bracelets

Additionally, this glove boasts a wide elastic wrist bracelet, or leash, that is absolutely awesome. 

Essentially, a wrist leash is what you need when you take the gloves off of your hands and allow them to hang off your wrists.

Now, this may seem unnecessary, but it is actually worth it and saves you time, gas, and energy searching for lost gloves.

For instance, when you take your gloves off, this bracelet/leash allow you to simply let the gloves hang down, rather than putting them down.

And, we’ve spent quite a few return trips to the chalet just to retrieve set down gloves.

Plus, a wrist leases make it much less likely that the inside of the gloves will get filled with snow.

Now, most gloves come with wrist leashes, but the Botak’s are particularly user-friendly, since the strap is wide elastic rather than a thin cord, which can be hard to tighten or loosen.

Smart Phone Friendly

Finally, as you may know, gloves and smartphones often don’t mix.

However, the Botak’s thumb and index finger are touchscreen sensitive.

Furthermore, having the ability to use your touchscreen can be great for making memories on your trip.

In fact, you’ll be able to take pictures, change up your music, interact with mapping apps like AllTrails, text and use your GoPro.

Pros and Cons of the Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold Gloves

Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold PROS

  • Waterproof and breathable
  • Rated to keep you warm in extremely cold conditions
  • User-friendly elastic wrist leashes
  • Touchscreen compatible thumb and index fingers
  • Soft, chafe-free interior
  • Elastic wrist guards keep snow out

Botak Waterproof Extreme Cold CONS

  • Only available in black and white
  • Slightly stiffer than other options

Who is the Botak Perfect For?

Finally, a lot of gloves on the market boast the key features of this glove, but the Botak is still the best. In fact, these gloves will be perfect for both beginners or experts on long treks.

Check out more information, including current styles and priving, here: Botak Extreme Cold Gloves

Our Second Favorite Snowshoeing Glove: Outdoor Research Revolution Glove

The Best Gloves for Snowshoeing: Outdoor Research Revolution Glove

Next, our second favorite snowshoeing glove is the Outdoor Research Revolution.

First, Outdoor Research is a trusted brand that makes durable outdoor gear.

In fact, the OR Revolution is a warm, soft, and reliable option for snowshoeing

Water-Resistant and Warm

First, if you are willing to spend a little more for gloves, you must consider this product.

For instance the OR Revolution is made of a water-resistant nylon shell with a EnduraLoft polyester lining that keeps fingers warm.

However, while Outdoor Research does not claim these are waterproof, the construction material is water-resistant enough for snowshoeing in most conditions.

We’ve relied on Outdoor Research for gloves for many years and have never been disappointed.

Functional Extras

Additionally, the Revolution include some handy accessories and features.

For example, they include a small strip of soft fleece material designed as a nose wipe.

Additionally, the Revolution also includes wrist leashes.

Plus, the Revolution’s palms are made of supple goat leather.

As a result, these gloves are flexible and pliable, which allows an easy grip to poles, drinks, or children’s sleds.

Lightweight Construction

Finally, these gloves are super lightweight for all the protection and warmth they provide.

In fact, the Revolution gloves weigh 1 lb. as a pair.

Pros and Cons of the OR Revolution

Revolution PROS

  • From a trusted quality brand
  • Highly durable construction
  • Wrist leashes
  • Nose wipe
  • Flexible Grip

Revolution CONS

  • Cost
  • Wrist leashes are a thin cord, rather than thicker webbing

Who Will Love this Glove?

The Revolution gloves are a sturdy, durable option for snowshoeing. These would be a perfect option for intermediate snowshoers on day long trips, however, their price point rules them out for the whole family.

View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Outdoor Research Revolution

Honorable Mention Snowshoeing Glove: MCTi Waterproof Cold Weather Gloves

The Best Gloves for Snowshoeing: MCTi Waterproof Cold Weather Gloves

Finally, our honorable mention choice for the best snowshoeing gloves is the MCTi Waterproof Cold Weather Gloves.

Here, the first thing that stands is the MCTi’s classic and simple design. In fact, with the right fit, these gloves will keep you warm and do any task you need to while wearing them. 

Great Value

First, bulky gloves can be a major pain when taking part in an outdoor activity. However, these gloves are sleek enough to avoid that trouble.

Additionally, the price point is also appealing for what they offer.

For instance, the MCTi offer a soft lining and keep your hands warm and dry.

Plus, they include a wrist strap to adjust snugness and offer a handy zippered pocket that is perfect for a key or lip balm.

Waterproof and Windproof

Additionally, the MCTi are waterproof.

In fact, the MCTi  shell is constructed of a waterproof and breathable YCM-TEX, with 150 g G-Type 3M thinsulate insulation.

Furthermore, these gloves boast many of the same positives as more expensive options. However, with their sleek design and low price any snowshoer will love these gloves.

Pros and Cons of the MCTi Cold Weather

MCTi Waterproof Cold Weather PROS

  • Budget Friendly
  • Sleek Design
  • Zippered Pocket
  • Snug andAdjustable
  • Comfortable

MCTi Winter Cold Weather CONS

  • Possibly less durable than others
  • No Wrist Leash

Who Will Love the MCTi

The MCTi are perfect for beginners with its very accessible price point. In fact, everyone in the family would benefit from these gloves. 

View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: MCTi Waterproof Cold Weather Gloves

What Makes a Glove Great for Snowshoeing

Choosing appropriate footwear and gloves are the most important gear choices you will make for snowshoeing. In fact, cold fingers will send you back inside quickly. We judge gloves for this sport based on the following criteria:

  • Fit: The first things I consider, choose a pair that’s snug, where your fingers can be pulled all the way to the tips of  the fingers. Plus, an adjustable wrist band will help keep them snug.
  • Water-resistance: We always go with the product that has the superior water resistance technology. For instance, cleaning snow off your deck or getting up from falls will quickly saturate low quality gloves.
  • Lightweight and slim: Along with a snug fit, you’ll want gloves that offer great insulation without being bulky.
  • Useful features: Finally, if you are using your phone for navigation or in  case of emergency, it’s best to grab a glove with smart phone sensitivity.

Regardless of your choice, we still suggest stashing some pocket warmers in your pack just in case.

Selecting the Right Gloves for Snowshoeing

Firstly, the right fit is key to choosing the glove for snowshoeing.

A gulky glove makes it harder to keep your hands warm and will make it impossible to do simple tasks like carrying poles.

For instance, we personally like having a snug fit, it seems to trap heat better and it’s easier to perform tasks. Luckily, glove sizing is pretty standard and uniform. 

Furthermore, if you have a pair of gloves for another activity, like leather work gloves for chopping wood, you can likely buy the same size for snowshoeing and get a good fit.

Additionally, manufacturers include tables with specific hand measurements to help you make the right choice. 

Additionally, for gloves we err on the smaller side if your measurements are in between sizes. For example, a tight fit and even slightly cramped fingers is preferable to loose gloves.

Finding a Balance of Warmth and Dexterity

Furthermore, a big reason to err on the small side is to preserve dexterity.

For instance, you’ll need good dexterity to do simple things like opening your pack, opening a water bottle, or adjusting you bindings.

And that’s why the materials used in constructing snowshoeing gloves is so important. 

That being said, your gloves should still have layers of insulating material to keep you warm.

Take on the Cold

Snowshoeing is a fun pastime. And a good pair of gloves is one of the best uses of money in the winter we can imagine. 

In fact, any of our favorites in the above post is worth the cost to help you enjoy your trip. Also, when shopping, keep in mind that your new snowshoeing gloves can pull double duty for other outdoor activities like shoveling snow, walking the dog, etc. So grab yourself a nice pair of gloves, keep your digits warm, and get out on the trails for some snowshoeing.

Image Credit: Mt. Hood Territory | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)

Image Credit: Special Olympics 2017 | (source) | Public Domain

Pin - The Best Gloves Snowshoeing

Comments are closed.