The Best Waterproof Gloves, Tested and Reviewed

Best Waterproof Gloves Options — Photo: Debbie Wolfe Photo: Debbie Wolfe

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Like a rain jacket for your hands, waterproof gloves are essential accessories for those working—or playing—outdoors in cold or inclement weather. For outdoor sports enthusiasts, they keep hands dry and protect against frostbite. For those who work outdoors, they offer protection from grease, mud, and other wet messes.

We searched out a diverse collection of waterproof gloves for a wide variety of tasks in all seasons. Then we tested their ability to keep hands dry and comfortable in tough conditions. If you’re on the hunt for the best waterproof gloves, use this guide to learn more.

BEST OVERALL FOR MEN: Carhartt Waterproof Insulated Glove
BEST OVERALL FOR WOMEN: MCTi Ski Gloves for Women
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Wells Lamont Latex Waterproof Coated Gloves
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Ozero Autumn and Winter Gloves
BEST LEATHER: Youngstown FR Waterproof Leather Utility Gloves
BEST FOR WINTER: Carhartt Men’s Cold Snap Insulated Work Glove
BEST TOUCH SCREEN: Sealskinz Waterproof All Weather Knitted Gloves
BEST FOR HIKING: Outdoor Research Alti Gloves
BEST FOR SKIING: Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski 3-Finger Gloves
BEST FOR WORK: Hestra Job Titan Flex Gloves

How We Tested the Best Waterproof Gloves

We selected and tested a diverse assortment of waterproof gloves designed for a variety of uses in different seasons. For all of them, our key testing consideration was whether the gloves were truly waterproof. To find out, we used three testing methods and allowed the gloves to thoroughly dry between tests. All comments about sizing are subjective, based on sizing guides provided by the manufacturers and perceived comfort by the tester. On those gloves not listed as unisex, women tested women’s gloves, and men tested men’s gloves.

First, we simulated storm conditions with a rain-wand attachment on a garden hose. The testers wore each pair of gloves beneath a steady 2-minute shower, flexing their hands and turning them over to expose all parts of the gloves to the stream. In the second test, we immersed our gloved hands into a bucket of water, again flexing and rotating to ensure that they were completely wet. Finally, we tested them for wet-gripping ability while handling smooth wet stones. To merit inclusion in this guide, each pair of gloves passed all three tests with minimal water intrusion to the inside of the glove.

Our Top Picks

We initially selected the following gloves based on the quality of their construction, their durability, and the other features outlined previously. Then we tested them to discover how they held up under wet, slippery conditions. Find out how they performed in the reviews ahead.

Best Overall for Men

Carhartt Waterproof Insulated Glove

Men looking for a long-lasting pair of gloves to keep their hands dry and warm may find what they’re looking for in Carhartt’s waterproof insulated gloves. From the shell to the liner to the palm pad, these gloves are made of 100 percent polyester. They provide a warm, durable, and waterproof barrier between the skin and the elements.

A liner made with Carhartt’s FastDry moisture-wicking technology prevents sweat from collecting inside the gloves, and a waterproof insert provides an extra layer of protection from the elements. Adjustable hook-and-loop closures and elastic cuffs keep hands snug while keeping out cold air and elements.

In our tests, these Carhartt waterproof work gloves were as comfortable as they were waterproof. They performed perfectly on all three of our waterproof tests. They stayed dry under the shower and when immersed in water while providing excellent holding ability thanks to the textured grip area. Three-dimensional construction lets the hand rest in a natural position and delivers good dexterity for gripping and holding. Although we didn’t test specifically for winter warmth, these gloves are deeply insulated for cold-weather work. However, the bulky profile takes away the ability to pick up small or thin items from a flat surface or to reach into a pants pocket. We selected them “Best Overall” because they are not only toasty and affordable, but they also make an excellent choice for winter chores while not looking like “work gloves.”

Product Specs

Type: Winter work gloves
Material: Polyester
Touch-screen compatible: No

Pros

Breathable moisture-wicking lining
Insulated for winter weather
Straps at wrist and cuff
Budget-friendly price

Cons

Snug fit at the wrist makes them difficult to slide on and off
Not touch-screen compatible

Get the Carhartt waterproof gloves at Tractor Supply Co. or Zappos.

Best Overall for Women

MCTi Ski Gloves for Women

Women

on the hunt for warm, waterproof gloves may want to look at MCTi’s ski gloves. They pair a polyurethane outer shell with a faux leather palm and thumb-grip area for holding ski poles or other slippery objects. On the gloves’ interior, a waterproof liner helps keep moisture from reaching the skin.

MCTi’s gloves also contain 120 grams of Thinsulate insulation that keeps hands warm in temperatures as cold as -10 degrees Fahrenheit without adding much bulk. Handy elastic wrist leashes make keeping track of the gloves easier if the wearer removes them, and sensitive touch-screen pads on three fingers allow the wearer to answer a phone or send a text without having to take off the gloves.

In our tests, these ski gloves by MCTi seemed more like general-use winter gloves. The waterproof feature is on point, with zero water intrusion during testing and a capable grip in wet conditions. Not only that, but the insulation was less puffy than some of the other gloves we tested, which improved dexterity and flexibility for gripping and handling small items. The touch-screen fingertips worked well. Moreover, they’re available in an assortment of accent colors: gray, red, white, rose, and yellow.

Product Specs

Type: Outdoor recreation
Material: Polyester/polyurethane
Touch-screen compatible: Yes

Pros

Touch-screen compatible
Warm, dry, and flexible in cold, wet conditions
Moisture-wicking lining
Fabric dries quickly

Cons

Sizing runs small
No removable liner

Get the MCTi waterproof gloves at Amazon, Ibspot, MCTi, or RidgeDepot.

Best Bang for the Buck

Wells Lamont Latex Waterproof Coated Gloves

Wells Lamont’s Latex Waterproof Coated Gloves have a polyester shell dipped in a double layer of nitrile latex coating—one coating for the whole hand, and the other across the palm and fingers—for maximum grip and durability. This method of waterproofing also makes them resistant to punctures and tears.

Although the gloves’ cuffs are not coated in latex and therefore are not waterproof, the cuffs are very stretchy and form a snug seal around the wrist. The gloves are not insulated, so they’re not suitable for winter use. The latex coating means the gloves don’t breathe particularly well, but their competitive price may compensate for these drawbacks.

During testing, water did not intrude these waterproof work gloves, although we were very careful not to wet them past the coated parts. The synthetic latex coating provided a textured hold that gripped better than any of the other gloves tested. The gloves offered excellent flexibility, making them easy to put on and remove, and although they are not breathable, we could turn them inside out to let the fabric dry. These gloves make an excellent low-cost choice for wet or muddy tasks in the spring, summer, or fall.

Product Specs

Type: Spring/summer/fall work gloves
Material: Polyester fabric with nitrile latex coating
Touch-screen compatible: No

Pros

Double-dipped coating with textured grip
Flexible coating for better range of motion
Dirt rinses off easily
Budget-friendly price

Cons

Only the coated portion is waterproof (not the cuff)
Limited durability

Get Wells Lamont waterproof gloves at Amazon, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, or Theisen’s.

Best Lightweight

Ozero Autumn and Winter Gloves

Men looking for lightweight protection from the weather may want to consider Ozero’s men’s thermal gloves, which provide warmth and weather resistance without a lot of bulk. These gloves feature a water-resistant and windproof polyester construction that keeps the wearer’s hands dry and warm in inclement weather (most of the shell fabric is indeed waterproof, but the seams and touch-screen pads on two fingers are not, hence the “water-resistant” designation). This pair is a good choice for cycling, running, walking, or other outdoor pursuits.

These gloves may not be well suited to subzero temperatures, but they’re suitable for regular winter wear and have some nice features. The gloves’ thumbs and index fingers contain sensors that are touch-screen compatible, and the palms are covered in grippy silica gel pods to help users maintain a good grip on phones and other belongings. Elastic cuffs keep out the elements. These gloves fit snugly; the manufacturer suggests sizing up for a more relaxed fit.

These mid-weight lifestyle gloves are built for everyday travel and tasks in frosty weather, but not in pouring rain. Our rain simulation and immersion tests revealed numerous water entry points. Water resistance was good in our aggressive rain simulation for about a minute before leaks developed, so we believe the gloves could keep hands mostly or completely dry during an average rainstorm. They provided excellent grip for wet items. The touch-screen feature worked well, and the snug, low-profile fit allowed us to pick up a key that was lying flat on a countertop. Also note that these gloves cost less than most of the others we tested. Moreover, they are slim and flexible and easily fit into jacket pockets.

Product Specs

Type: Fall/winter/spring casual
Material: Polyester, polyurethane
Touch-screen compatible: Yes

Pros

Windproof and water-resistant
Touch-screen capable
Reinforced grip
Budget-friendly price

Cons

Not fully waterproof
Fit a little tight in the hands but loose in the wrist
Lining does not wick away moisture

Get the Ozero waterproof gloves on Amazon or at Walmart.

Best Leather

Youngstown FR Waterproof Leather Utility Gloves

Leather work gloves are a necessity when working near hot surfaces and sparks in addition to protecting the hands from abrasion, cuts, and punctures. Youngstown Glove Company’s FR Waterproof Leather Utility gloves incorporate both leather and Kevlar, a synthetic fabric commonly used for protection, along with a waterproof, windproof, breathable polyurethane barrier. These gloves, which have earned American National Standards Institute (ANSI) compliance for welding, provide Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-approved protection for a wide range of tasks. However, they don’t provide adequate protection for electrical work.

Youngstown’s waterproof utility work gloves delivered good waterproof and wet-grip performances in our three wet tests. Although we got the leather so thoroughly wet that the gloves became heavy, the waterproof barrier prevented water intrusion to the skin. Wet grip was not a problem. We were pleasantly surprised by the dexterity that these bulky gloves provided, thanks to their three-dimensional construction and a naturally relaxed hand posture. Overall, we would not recommend these gloves for extended use in a watery environment because those conditions would cause the leather to degrade quickly. However, those who need a sturdy and comfortable insulated glove for working in the elements may want to look at these.

Product Specs

Type: Winter utility work gloves
Material: Leather, Kevlar
Touch-screen compatible: No

Pros

Extra heavy-duty utility work glove
Waterproof, windproof, fire-resistant, cut-resistant
OSHA-certified work glove
ANSI-compliant welding glove

Cons

Premium price point
Not as flexible as synthetic material

Get the Youngstown waterproof gloves on JB Tools or Youngstown Glove Company.

Best for Winter

Carhartt Men’s Cold Snap Insulated Work Glove

Carhartt’s Cold Snap insulated work gloves offer both cold-weather protection and long-lasting construction that’s tough enough for the jobsite. With warm insulation on the outer shell and a reinforced palm, these polyester gloves are reinforced with leather for extra durability. They’re waterproof and have a nose wipe on the thumb, making them a good choice for working in rough weather.

Cold Snap gloves feature some of Carhartt’s proprietary materials, including a FastDry lining for wicking moisture and Storm Defender waterproofing treatment. They have a thick cuff with an adjustable drawstring for improved weather protection. A small section of goatskin around the finger and thumb area provides added grip.

Our second pair of Carhartt waterproof work gloves performed nearly as well as the first. It provided excellent waterproof and wet-grip performance along with excellent dexterity, considering the lofty insulation. The polyester and leather exterior sheds water very well instead of becoming saturated and heavy. We liked the drawcord cuff on these gloves a little less than we liked the hook-and-loop strap closure on our “Best Overall” selection because the barrel-cord tightener is harder to manipulate with gloved hands. Nevertheless, pairing outstanding waterproofing, warmth, and comfort with a great look is the winning recipe for an all-around great pair of gloves.

Product Specs

Type: Winter work
Material: Polyester, leather trim
Touch-screen compatible: No

Pros

Roomy, with good dexterity
Moisture-wicking lining
Fast-drying materials
Warm and waterproof

Cons

Slightly small wrist opening
Not touch-screen compatible

Get the Carhartt Cold Snap waterproof gloves on Amazon, Zappos, or ConstructionGear.com.

Best Touch Screen

Sealskinz Waterproof All Weather Knitted Gloves

No more freezing hands when you try to take a pic or return an important text. These low-profile knitted Sealskinz gloves offer triple-layer insulated waterproof, windproof protection from the elements with touch-screen-capable fingertips and outstanding range of motion. The nylon and elastane outer layer offers excellent durability with silicone-printed grips on the palm and fingers for a secure grip. A mid-layer windproof, waterproof, breathable membrane keeps the warmth in and the elements out. The lining is made of merino wool, nylon, and elastane for added warmth and breathability.

These Sealskinz gloves offered a lot of things we really liked but a few things we didn’t. We appreciated that they were truly 100 percent waterproof, both in our simulated rain test and when immersed in water. They also offer outstanding wet-grip capability, with touch-perfect touch-screen functionality. The low-profile design, moderate amount of insulation, and superior wet performance are perfect for getting outside on those miserable raw days when it’s 30 degrees Fahrenheit with freezing rain. But we didn’t love the semi-absorbent exterior because it holds on to more than its share of water, even though the water never reached our hands. It makes these otherwise excellent gloves feel heavy and a little bit squelchy. However, these may be the best gloves when wet weather threatens.

Product Specs

Type: Fall/winter/spring outdoor recreation
Material: Nylon, elastane, merino wool
Touch-screen compatible: Yes

Pros

Close, flexible fit
Touch-screen capable
Midweight for 3-season use
Dense, triple-layer construction

Cons

Extra-long fingers
Somewhat loose in the palm

Get the Sealskinz waterproof gloves on Amazon, The Warming Store, or Sealskinz USA.

Best for Hiking

Outdoor Research Alti Gloves

Hikers know that layering is the key to comfort. Outdoor Research’s Alti gloves feature a double-layer system in which the inner and outer layers can be used separately or together. The outer layer comprises an insulated gauntlet-style glove with a sure-grip coating on the palm and fingers, wrist leashes, and closures at the wrist and cuff. The outer layer provides complete waterproofing with Gore-Tex fabric. It’s built with three-dimensional fit technology for dexterity in the cold. The inner layer is a lightweight, breathable liner glove with touch-screen capability and moisture-wicking insulation. In mild temps, the liner can be used alone. Add the shell when the mercury drops and the snow flies.

In our tests, Alti’s outer-shell gloves provided outstanding waterproof protection and excellent wet grip. The three-dimensional shape provides a comfortable contour, and the insulation feels warm. The liner gloves, which are touch-screen capable, can be worn alone or with the shell, but they’re not waterproof. Together, this glove system provides a gradient of comfort and protection for changing weather conditions. But because of their bulk, they are not the easiest to pack. An excellent choice for exploring outdoors in the coldest conditions, Alti gloves should be a contender for any wintertime outdoor activity, especially when rain or snow is in the forecast.

Product Specs

Type: Winter outdoor recreation
Material: Nylon, Gore-Tex
Touch-screen compatible: Yes (liner glove only)

Pros

Deep cold protection
Touch-screen capable, removable liner glove
Flexible fit for dexterity
Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable liner

Cons

For extreme cold only
Premium price point

Get the Outdoor Research waterproof gloves on Amazon, Backcountry, or Outdoor Research.

Best for Skiing

Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski 3-Finger Gloves

Hestra’s Army Leather Heli Ski 3-Finger Gloves are designed for men and women who spend their time atop some of the coldest mountains. These three-finger gloves are constructed from Hestra’s windproof, breathable, and water-resistant Triton fabric, with goat leather on the palms and fingers for improved grip in cold and slippery conditions.

The insides of these Hestra gloves are made of a very thin polyester fiber with efficient insulating properties, which makes them warm without being overly bulky. The oversize cuffs feature a drawstring closure to keep out snow and moisture, and leashes ensure the gloves won’t get lost. These Army Leather Heli gloves are available in three colors.

These gloves looked great and performed better than expected in our tests, but they were not totally waterproof. We anticipated soaking-wet hands because of the leather and “water- resistant” fabric. In our tests, the leather eventually became wet, and some moisture from outside did seep inside. They offered an OK but not great grip when wet. The best advantages of these gloves are the finger configuration, which offers better warmth than a conventional glove and better articulation than a mitten. That said, we did not test for performance in cold weather. On the downside, the leather must be regularly oiled (a tube is included), and they take a long time to dry once wet.

Product Specs

Type: Winter outdoor recreation
Material: Leather, polyester
Touch-screen compatible: No

Pros

Available in men’s or women’s sizes
Leather and fabric construction
Ergonomic eagle-grip design
Removable liner

Cons

Premium price point
Leather must be oiled

Get the Hestra Heli waterproof gloves at Amazon, REI, or Backcountry.

Best for Work

Hestra Job Titan Flex Gloves

Built in the style of traditional cuff-length work gloves, Hestra Job Titan Flex Gloves bring the outstanding comfort and durability of goatskin leather with waterproof neoprene cuffs and Hestra Flex fabric. The stress points on the palm and fingers are reinforced with double-layered leather, while the index fingers and thumbs feature touch-screen pads for convenience. These three-season work gloves are lined with moisture-wicking fleece for added warmth and comfort in cold, wet weather.

In our tests, these gloves provided good waterproof protection and excellent wet-gripping ability. They resisted water penetration for over a minute before moisture found its entry point at the edges of the touch-screen pad on the index finger. The touch-screen pad functioned well, and the glove offered good dexterity and comfort overall, but the sizing runs a bit small. The moderate price point and durable construction make them ideal spring, fall, or mild winter weather general-use work gloves.

Product Specs

Type: Fall/winter/spring work glove
Material: Leather, neoprene
Touch-screen compatible: Yes

Pros

Durable leather construction
Moisture-wicking lining
Insulated for cold weather
Ergonomic fit

Cons

Sizing runs small

Get the Hestra Titan waterproof gloves on Amazon or Gempler’s.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Waterproof Gloves

Before shopping for the best waterproof gloves, consider the type of work planned for the gloves as well as the kind of materials and construction desired. In this section, we review some key considerations to keep in mind while shopping for the best waterproof gloves, including materials, use, fit, and more.

Intended Use

Choosing the best waterproof gloves depends on how they’ll be used. Work gloves are completely different from those intended for outdoor sports or casual wear.

Work gloves: Work gloves, much like work boots, are made of heavy-duty, wear-resistant materials that can stand up to the rigors of manual labor. Although frequently heavy and a bit clumsy, they’re very tough, and many are waterproof.
Lightweight gloves: For activities like hiking or running, experts recommend wearing a lightweight, breathable pair of gloves. These gloves typically can wick moisture away from the skin and have a shell that protects the skin from water and weather.
Cold-weather gloves: Keeping hands warm, dry, and frostbite-free is incredibly important when the temperatures drop. Cold-weather gloves contain insulation that traps body heat, while a waterproof shell keeps the insulation dry. To keep hands toasty at all times, you may want to investigate heated gloves.

Outer Shell

On garments labeled “waterproof,” the outer shell is usually where the magic happens. Materials like tightly woven nylon, polyester, softshell technical materials, treated leather, and others work well to shed water before it can seep through to the lining. Keep in mind that it’s very rare for leather gloves to actually be waterproof; more likely, they are simply water-resistant.

Aside from shell material, other elements in waterproof gloves’ exteriors make them useful in wet or messy situations. Some of the best waterproof gloves, for example, have textured grips that make it easier for the wearer to grab on to wet, slippery surfaces, making them ideal for skiing, cycling, and other active pursuits. Those looking for waterproof gloves for work may want to invest in gloves with reinforced palms and thumbs, which should last longer and stand up to more wear.

The best waterproof gloves contain an optional outer shell with conductors that transfer the electrical charge from a finger to a touch screen, allowing users to manipulate their phones without removing their gloves.

Warmth and Insulation

Some of the best waterproof gloves contain insulation that captures body heat, which forms air pockets that warm with the heat from the hand. Most insulation is a man-made poly-fill material such as Thinsulate or 3M.

To ensure gloves keep warm air inside and cold air from seeping in, some waterproof gloves have long elastic cuffs that hug tight to the wrist and arm, closing off any pathway for air to enter. For even warmer gloves, look for removable liners that can slip inside a waterproof glove to add another layer of insulation.

Comfort and Fit

When selecting the best waterproof gloves, fit and comfort are essential. However, a “good fit” is relative to the activity. A pair of running gloves fits quite differently than a pair of winter work gloves or ski gloves.

Waterproof running or hiking gloves often feel like a stretchy, flexible second skin. Because they’re lightweight and wick away moisture, users sometimes forget they’re even wearing them.

Waterproof work gloves are bulkier and a bit stiff because they’re generally made from thick nylon or leather that resists ripping, tearing, and friction. Moreover, extra padding or reinforcement on the thumbs or palms can add to their bulk. Though work gloves fit loosely, they shouldn’t be so loose that it’s difficult to pick up small items while wearing them.

Ski gloves are flexible but don’t wear particularly well because they’re typically made from materials like nylon. Properly fitting ski gloves fit snugly around the wrist but are roomy enough to allow the skier to manipulate straps on ski poles and boot bindings.

Additional Features

Also consider breathability. If hands sweat and moisture collects inside the glove, it won’t matter that the shell is waterproof because hands will still get wet. Breathable gloves help some of the heat and moisture escape without letting in cold outer air and moisture.

FAQs

Now that you know a bit more about the factors to consider when choosing the best waterproof gloves for your needs, some questions may remain. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about the best waterproof gloves, so check for an answer to your question below.

Q. What’s the difference between “water-resistant” and “waterproof” gloves?

Waterproof means that absolutely no water makes its way into the glove. Water-resistant means that the gloves shed water to a degree before water comes in.

Q. What are the warmest waterproof gloves?

As one of the best options for the warmest waterproof gloves, the Carhartt Cold Snap waterproof gloves are warm enough to protect your hands in very cold temperatures.