Running is one of the best exercises you can perform. It improves health, regulates weight, and helps with stress. That’s why you should do everything you can to run multiple times per week.
But what happens when the cold weather hits? For some, the cold can be discouraging. If it’s severe enough, it may become more convincing to spend your day on the couch instead of outside in the cool morning breeze.
That’s why running gear is so essential. It guards you against the elements. And when it comes to the cold, wearing running gloves is one of the most effective steps you can take in assuring your success. This way, you go for a run…regardless of the weather.
So as you probably guessed by now, that’s what this guide is for. It’s designed to teach you all about running gloves.
So…if you’re are excited as I am (I love new running gear!), then let’s get started. Let’s begin with some extremely helpful tips for choosing the best pair of running gloves for you.
How To Choose The Best Running Gloves For You
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- Gender
First things first, determine if your running gloves are made for men or women. The difference isn’t as much about functionality as it is about choosing a size that best fits your hands.
Colors may range between men and women as well. But regardless of the different styles, first determine whether the gloves are designed for men or women. In the reviews below, we split the gloves up between the two.
- Warmth
Next, you want to find gloves that have the right level of warmth. For example, if you plan on running in the winter, you want a much warmer pair of gloves. That’s versus, say, a place where it rarely ever gets cold enough to snow.
You will find most gloves with temperature ratings. I’ve had running gloves that kept my hands so warm they sweat, and others that didn’t provide much protection at all. The point: choose a temperature rating that best suits your needs.
Another factor when it comes to warmth is wind protection. The ice cold wind blowing against your hands can cause problems. Before I bought a pair high-quality running gloves, on freezing cold mornings, I brought along packs of Hot Hands. I stuck a pack inside each glove when the wind became piercingly cold. This method is a bit extreme, but it demonstrates the point. The point being that a warm pair of hands makes all the difference in the world.
- Waterproof
Cold temperatures can bring along undesirable weather conditions. Have you ever run in the freezing rain with the wrong running gear? I know…not a pleasant experience. That’s why you want waterproof gloves. I can tell you from experience, running with a pair of cotton or fleece gloves in the rain is a miserable experience. When you’re running, you want to focus on your stride, not your cold, wet hands. So make sure your running gloves are waterproof. This way, your hands stay dry, no matter the weather, without sacrificing comfort.
- Touch Screen Capabilities
This one’s a biggie! At least it is for me. When it’s cold, and you’re wearing gloves, the last thing you want to do is remove them. Especially for something as simple as changing a song on your music device or smartphone. That’s why, if you listen to music from a device with a touch screen, you may want to consider touch screen compatible gloves. The technical term is “Tactile Function,” which simply means there’s a finger on your gloves that works with touchscreens.
- Design
Not all running gloves are designed the same. They come in different styles, colors, and even reflective elements for safety. The reflective safety material becomes critical when running on the road. As cliché as it may sound: safety always comes first.
- Fit
Once you have all your criteria selected and have found a glove best for you, there’s one more step. That is, you need to buy the right size glove. If the glove is too large than cold air will find its way through. Too small and it may be challenging to put them on. That, and they feel uncomfortable or end too short on your wrist.
Most gloves have a sizing chart. If you don’t know your size, then check the chart.
Now that you know how to pick the best pair of running gloves for you, it’s time to find a pair. Read below for a review of the top 7 best running gloves in 2019. You’ll find 4 of the top pair for men, and 3 of the top pair for women. And when it’s all said and done, you will have found the perfect pair for you.
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The 4 Best Running Gloves for Men – Compared & Tested
1. Prodigen Outdoor Winter Gloves – Best Overall for Men
Winters are cold, which makes running uncomfortable. But with the right gear, you can be comfortable in any type of weather. For cold weather, the Prodigen Outdoor Winter Gloves are a safe bet. They come with premium Dacron & fluff material on the outside and three insulation fabrics on the inside. What’s that mean for you? Try a winter glove that keeps your hands warm no matter how cold it gets outside.
They fit snug too, as long as you measure your hands with the available sizing chart. To ensure proper fitting, you can adjust the zipper on the back of the glove. You’ll find this convenient when putting your gloves on with a cold pair of hands. Also, with touch screen capabilities, you can change songs on your playlist as well. Prodigen really designed a great pair of gloves for running in the cold.
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PROS:
- Fits to size.
- Excellent price.
- Wind resistant for extra comfort when the weather gets rough.
- Touch screen capability for convenient smartphone usage.
- Not too thick or bulky
- Multipurpose (e.g. Skiing, driving, and cycling)
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CONS:
- Zippers aren’t the best quality.
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2. 3M Winter Warm Sport Run Gloves – Best Choice for Comfort
If you’re looking for running gloves that don’t get too warm and are comfortable and lightweight for running long distance, then check out the 3M Winter Warm Sport Run Glove. When I’m chasing down a new PR, or picking up the pace, I prefer to use less clothing but a snow hat and gloves to compensate. But at the same time, I don’t want gloves that are too bulky. Well, the cloth on these running gloves feels like a second layer of skin. Plus, they are coated with polyester, which makes them waterproof and windproof.
Please note, the palms are not waterproof, so they may not be the best option in the rain.
What I appreciate best about these running gloves is the cuff closure design. Simply put, it seals the cold air from entering into the glove. The gloves are not insulated and would allow for your hands to become cold otherwise. Overall, these gloves are comfortable, thin, flexible, and available at an excellent price.
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PROS:
- Super comfortable–not bulky.
- Fits to size.
- Thin and very flexible.
- Touchscreen capabilities, use your smartphone.
- Excellent price
- Reflective design for running at night.
- 30 day return policy.
- Currently comes with a free earband.
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CONS:
- Gloves are not insulated- Inside are a bit rough.-Palms are not waterproof.
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3. Under Armour Men’s No Breaks Armour Liner Gloves – Best Choice for Long Distance Running
I can’t stress enough how incredible Under Armour gear can be in the winter time. As a runner, I don’t leave home without it. Every one of my base layers is Under Armour. Not only are they warm, but they do an excellent job wicking away sweat and preventing chafing.
Well, the Under Armour Men’s No Breaks Armour Liner Gloves are no different. If you are a long distance runner looking for a pair of running gloves for training, Under Armour may be the way to go. Not only does the material wick sweat away sweat, but when they do become wet, they dry quickly. Plus, these gloves have a Soft ColdGear EVO fabric that provides an ultra-warm, lightweight feel.
Sure, they may not be best in below freezing temperatures with torturous wind conditions. However, here’s the good news, when temps are at the coldest, you can use these gloves as a base layer under warmer gloves. This will not only keep your hands warm, but they will wick away the sweat that usually accumulates in those bulkier styles of gloves.
Simply put, if you are a long distance runner, then Under Armour is the way to go. They are built for distance and speed in any type of weather conditions.
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PROS:
- Excellent fit.
- Warm for moderately cold conditions.
- Ultra-thin but still keeps hands warm.
- Excellent breathability for winter gloves.
- Machine Washable.
- Tech touch print for touch screen usage.
- Wicks away sweat.
- Waterproof and windproof.
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CONS:
- Quality issues with liner.
- Pricey
- Flexible
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4. Tough Touchscreen Running Sports Gloves – Best Choice for Shopping On a Budget
With any type of running gear, there is pricier high-quality products and low-cost options. The Tough Touchscreen Running Sports Glove is your low-cost option. But you know what? They still deliver a great deal of value. These gloves are flexible, constructed with 90% nylon and 10% spandex,. This mix provides excellent comfort and fit.
They are convenient too. Most gloves with touchscreen capabilities are only designed for your index finger. Well, with this running glove, you can navigate through your smartphone with your thumb as well. This allows for a quick song change while in the middle of a run. And best of all, they come with a 1-year warranty. So if they fall apart, send them back. It’s that easy. To sum it up, if you want a low-cost running glove that has most of the same features as the pricier style, then consider this one.
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PROS:
- Great fit from stretchy material.
- Excellent price
- Lowest cost on list.
- Waterproof for running in the rain.
- Two-finger touch screen capabilities.
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CONS:
- Not made with the best quality, but comes with 1 year warranty.
- Doesn’t keep hands warm for long periods–better for short runs.
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The 3 Best Running Gloves for Women – Compared & Tested
1. TrailHeads Women’s Running Gloves – Best Overall For Women
A runner can really appreciate the design of the TrailHeads Women’s running gloves. They have a smooth, durable outer layer that protects you from the wind and a snow-flake shaped pattern on the palms for enhanced grip. This is a great set up for running on the trails or using your smartphone. They fit-to-size, are lightweight and feel breathable, that is, for a pair of running gloves.
The Trail Heads’s are true running gloves. They are excellent for cruising at a fast pace, however, if you are looking for gloves for below freezing temps, these aren’t your gloves. They are not insulated like other heavy duty winter clothes whose sole purpose is to keep your hands warm. Overall, a stylish glove for both road and trail running alike.
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PROS:
- Unique design
- Touchscreen Capable
- Thicker than the overage running glove.
- Soft fleece inside for superb comfort.
- Easy to pull on and off
- Lightweight feel
- Fits to size
- Breathable
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CONS:
- Not made for single digit (F) temperatures.
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2. HiCool Winter Gloves – Best Choice for Shopping On a Budget (Women)
Look, the HiCool Winter Gloves are a low-cost option. So don’t expect them to be the most exceptional gloves you’ve ever put on. But if you are looking for a warm pair of gloves, for a quick run, that are touch screen compatible and won’t cost you an arm and a leg, then I’d consider them. With an elastic wrist cuff and thin material, these running gloves are easy to take on and off. Especially in the middle of a run.
You’ll find their mill wool lycra fabric to be warm, comfortable, soft, and water-resistant. Overall, these running gloves get the job done. Not a bad option on marathon race day if you plan to lose them in a few miles after your body warms up.
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PROS:
- Touch screen compatible
- Fits well.
- Excellent price.
- Palm grip makes them great for driving.
- Nice looking design.
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CONS:
- Touch Screen capabilities not that reliable.
- Not great for below freezing temperatures.
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3. HEAD women’s touchscreen running gloves – Best Choice for Convenience
The HEAD Women’s Touchscreen Running Gloves are made for convenience, period. Do you want a running glove that’s easy to take on and off? Its sleek design and extended cuff make this so. Do you want to use your smartphone without removing them? Its sensatec touch screen compatibility has you covered. Are you tired of losing one of the two gloves you own? This running glove has a small buckle that holds them together.
The only thing not convenient about these running gloves is how they are spot-clean only. So no cleaning them in the washer. They are made out of polyester, nylon, and spandex, which makes them flexible and comfortable to wear in the cold.
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PROS:
- Inside lining provides extra warmth.
- Great quality all around.
- Excellent fit
- Palm grips help hold phone on the run.-Superior comfort.
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CONS:
- Only one color/design available.
- Spot-clean only
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Tips for Using Running Gloves
- Put on your running gloves before leaving the house. This becomes more difficult with cold hands.
- Stretch your jacket sleeves over your gloves to ensure no cold air enters inside.
- If you choose to run in the rain or snow, make sure your running gloves are waterproof. A cold and wet pair of gloves only makes the cold worse.
- Buy your gloves a little bigger then snug tight. If your gloves are too small they become difficult to put on.
- Attach your gloves after each use. It’s easy to lose one glove.
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FAQs
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A: Yes, but make sure they are waterproof. This way they will not accumulate water.
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That depends on the gloves. Check the temperature rating and make sure it matches with the weather you plan on running in.
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Most of the time, yes. It depends if your gloves are touchscreen compatible. Double check the product description for this feature before making a purchase.
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Q: How do I know if my gloves will fit?
A: Look online for a sizing chart. There’s usually one available on the product page. Read their recommendations, and you’ll be fine.
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A: ABSOLUTELY. Most running gloves are made for other winter activities and driving. If you plan on cycling, just make sure there are adequate grip and a wind-resistant feature. When cycling, you are moving at much higher speeds. Needless to say that your hands will get really cold really fast with wind resistant material.
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Conclusion
As you can see, wearing a pair of running gloves is essential for running in the cold. It can be the difference between running outside frequently or giving up on running in cold completely.
If you want to ensure that you get through the colder months without missing a run, then you need the gear to help make this happen. Running gloves are a part of that gear, and will keep you outside in the cold for longer. Grab a pair up top and get outside to run.
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