Hiking & Trekking Gloves, Mittens & Over Gloves

How do I choose between hiking gloves and hiking mittens for cold weather?

The choice between hiking gloves and hiking mittens usually comes down to the balance between dexterity and warmth. Gloves provide individual finger movement, which is essential for handling gear, zippers, or equipment. However, hiking mittens are significantly warmer because they keep your fingers together, generating and retaining more collective body heat. The technical reason for this is the reduced surface area exposed to the cold, which minimizes heat loss through radiation. For extreme conditions, many experienced trekkers utilize a layering system, starting with lightweight liner gloves and over-gloves to provide modular protection. Pro-tip: If you often suffer from cold hands, mittens are the superior choice, but always carry a thin liner glove underneath so you still have some protection if you need to briefly remove the outer mitten to perform a high-dexterity task.

What are the best waterproof gloves for hiking in wet Irish conditions?

When searching for the best waterproof gloves for hiking, it is crucial to understand the difference between water-resistance and true waterproofing. True waterproof hiking gloves feature an internal membrane that blocks liquid water while allowing moisture vapor from sweat to escape. This is often measured by the RET (Resistance to Evaporative Heat Transfer) score; a lower score means higher breathability. For long days on the trail, waterproof trekking gloves are essential to prevent "evaporative cooling," which happens when wet fabric sits against your skin and draws heat away from your body. To complete your foul-weather protection, ensure your handwear overlaps correctly with the cuffs of your waterproof hiking jacket to prevent rain from trickling down your arms and into the glove. Pro-tip: Always dry your waterproof gear at room temperature; putting technical membranes on a direct heat source like a radiator can crack the waterproof layer and ruin the glove's integrity.

What should I look for in terms of grip and durability for trekking?

Durability in hiking handwear is often determined by the material used in the palm and high-friction areas. For those using trekking poles or navigating rocky scrambles, look for leather or reinforced synthetic palm overlays. These materials provide the necessary friction to maintain a secure hold and protect the base fabric from abrasion. If you are carrying heavy loads in your hiking backpack, the constant pressure on your hands makes reinforced stitching and ergonomic palm padding a high-value feature. The reason for the 10mm foam padding found in some specialized models is to dampen vibrations from poles and reduce the risk of blisters over long distances. Pro-tip: Before a major trip, "break in" leather-palmed gloves by wearing them on shorter walks to allow the material to soften and mold to your grip shape, ensuring maximum comfort when it matters most.