The Best Winter Gloves for Men

These gloves guarantee your hands will see spring.

collage of three winter gloves courtesy

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Unlike gloves designed for skiers, the gloves on this list emphasize style over function. They do, of course, keep you warm. That’s the whole point. These strive to look polished paired with a knit beanie and some kind of overcoat. Unequipped with bells and whistles like reflective striping, cinched cuffs or artificial grip, options here favor leather, woolen or suede construction, save for the occasional polyester sherpa or nylon weave.

When the temperatures drop below freezing, it matters what you wear. And with no part of your body is this truer than your hands: They’re often first to succumb to sub-zero temperatures. Sure, you’d freeze without your parka, but few strut out into the cold without a single layer on. Gloves, I’d guess, are what men skip most. So, get yourself a pair — ones equipped with tech-friendly fingertips included.

Products in the Guide

  • Best Overall Gloves for Men: Hestra John Sheepskin Gloves

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  • Best Upgrade Gloves for Men: Filson Original Lined Goatskin Gloves

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  • Best Affordable Gloves for Men: L.L. Bean Windproof Wool Gloves

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  • Best Waxed Gloves: Give’r 4 Season Glove

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  • Best Knit Gloves: Filson Full Finger Knit Gloves

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  • Best Affordable Cashmere- Lined Gloves: Overland Sycamore Cashmere-Lined Deerskin Leather Gloves

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What to Look for

Just as with shopping for men’s denim or a classic flannel shirt – all cold-weather staples in their own right – it’s important to keep some crucial considerations top of mind. Particularly when on the hunt for the best men’s gloves, you don’t want to find out you’ve made a wrong move when it’s too late (as in, when the temperatures plummet and you desperately need to put on your gloves).

How to Measure for Fit

Before you can protect your digits in style this winter, you’ve got to know your glove size (yes, it’s a real thing). To find your glove size, measure your dominant hand using a tape measure: Wrap the tape measure around your palm below your knuckles (not including your thumb), rounding up to the nearest half-inch.

Some gloves are offered in numerical sizes, while others are offered at a more standard listing, like Small, Medium and so on – refer to the size guide for your gloves of choice to figure out your measurement and corresponding size.

How to Pick the Right Size

Once you know your glove size, it’s all about fit. The operative word as to how the best men’s gloves should fit might be: Snug. Snug, but not too tight – you should be able to comfortably make a fist when wearing your gloves without too much room at the end of the gloves past your fingertips.

Think of your gloves, especially leather gloves (more on those in a moment) like an extension of, say, a leather jacket. The best leather gloves should fit like a leather jacket for your hands, funnily enough: Again, snug but not too tight. They should also ideally cover most of, if not all of, your wrist for maximum protection from the elements.

Materials to Consider

With those fit considerations out of the way, let’s get into the good stuff: The material your new favorite gloves are crafted from is just as important. Remember what we said about the best men’s gloves exuding the right balance of style and functionality? That’s where the material really shines through.

The best gloves for men can go anywhere you go in terms of style, yet some are inherently just a touch more refined. There are varieties of leather gloves you can easily wear with tailored pieces like a topcoat and a winter wool suit, for instance. These are often made from smooth, sleek, relatively thin and supple leather, often with a hint of shine (look at the gloves worn by James Bond in Skyfall).

Suede

If you find yourself dressing up often, leather gloves are a solid bet, as are smooth, rich suede gloves. Bear in mind that suede gloves are more expensive – as with, say, a finely crafted Italian suede jacket – and they’re also harder and more time-consuming to care for, given the fact that suede doesn’t perform well in winter snow or rain.

Leather

But there are also leather gloves – and gloves made out of ultra-warm materials like wool – that are a bit more rugged yet no less versatile. Some varieties of leather gloves are made with thicker, more textured leather (Hestra is a brand that excels in this category – again, more on them in a moment). Leather gloves are perhaps the most versatile, and some options even feature a waxed coating atop the leather to bolster their durability.

Wool

Wool gloves, like your trusty wool sweater, are the most well-suited for extreme cold, and if you select the right wool gloves, they’ll keep your digits warm without overdoing it.

Pros

  • They’re touchscreen-compatible
  • Insulated with a top-level material

Cons

  • May be tough to get size down
  • High price
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Brushed polyester, hairsheep leather
  • Sizes: 7 to 10

Looking for a workhorse pair of gloves made to be worn with looks both casual and more formal? Hestra’s gloves are as solid as any on the market, made from soft, rich brown leather featuring a ribbed knit cuff. As a bonus, Primaloft insulation should prove ultra-warming.

Pros

  • These gloves are made from insulating ragg wool that’s still warming when wet
  • Available in three colors

Cons

  • These gloves function better as a liner beneath heavier gloves in extreme cold
  • Users say sizing runs small
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Goatskin, Merino wool lining
  • Sizes: S to XL

Filson’s Original Lined Goatskin Gloves are, well, the original. The brand’s made other iterations based off it, but there’s no beating it — and they know it too. They make it easy to move and use your fingers still, guarantee warmth within and are rip and tear resistant. Users say sizing on these gloves run small, so size up for the best fit.

L.L. Bean Windproof Wool GlovesL.L.Bean

Best Affordable Gloves for Men: L.L. Bean Windproof Wool Gloves

Pros

  • They’re designed to be abrasion-resistant
  • Windproof to prevent chilled hands

Cons

  • Microsuede palm patches require more care and attention to detail
  • Some users say they’re so thick, it’s hard to grip things
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Polyester, polyurethane, wool, nylon
  • Sizes: M to XXL

For as stellar a job as L.L. Bean does at making some of the best winter boots, they’ve also done quite the job with these windproof wool gloves, made with a wool-poly-nylon blend with a soft microsuede palm patch. They’re really thick, so if you need an extra hand to grip something, you’ll have to take them off.

Pros

  • Waxed coating keeps hands dry
  • Incredibly durable for taking on tough jobs

Cons

  • Less capable than others on this list
  • Runs too small, according to several reviewers
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Leather, polyester
  • Sizes: S to XXL

Give’r’s 4 Season Glove comes finished with a wax coating, making them essentially waterproof. They’re harder to wear when doing smaller tasks, but true chores are totally achievable.They run small, so size up for the best fit.

Pros

  • These gloves are made from insulating ragg wool that’s still warming when wet
  • Superb fit

Cons

  • These gloves function better as a liner beneath heavier gloves in extreme cold
  • Despite being thin, you can’t use touchscreens with them
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Wool, nylon
  • Sizes: S to L

As the name implies, these are not fingerless. The full-knit Filson glove works even when wet and are thin enough to slip under a bulkier work glove.

Overland Sycamore Cashmere-Lined Deerskin Leather GlovesCourtesy

Best Affordable Cashmere- Lined Gloves: Overland Sycamore Cashmere-Lined Deerskin Leather Gloves

Pros

  • These gloves also feature knit wrist cuffs for maximum protection
  • No slippage, plus many users say it sports a perfect fit

Cons

  • These gloves are pricier than other options on this list
  • Wrist strap is just for aesthetics and is non-functional
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Deerskin leather, cashmere
  • Sizes: S to XXL

Best known for its seriously cool, rugged-meets-refined leather jackets and shearling boots, Overland’s go-anywhere cashmere-lined gloves are nothing to sleep on, either. The wriststrap, however, is just for show, and it doesn’t work for functionality.

Pros

  • Has an adjustable strap for a better fit around the wrist
  • Lined with soft, cozy fleece

Cons

  • Must be professionally cleaned
  • Sizing runs on the large side
  • Country of Manufacture: Scotland
  • Material(s): Leather, polyester
  • Sizes: S to L

Barbour’s fleece-lined leather gloves come with an adjustable cuff to guarantee the proper (and most protective) fit. Grab this classic black pair, but maybe size down for a better fit.

Pros

  • They’re affordably priced and versatile
  • Classic styling

Cons

  • Although they’re lined with fleece, these are thinner than other cold-weather gloves
  • Gloves run small
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Leather, polyester
  • Sizes: S to XL

Head to the tried-and-true department store to get some no-frills, subtly stylish leather gloves perfect for just about any type of everyday wear.They’re basic and black without an adjustable cuff, so if you prefer barebones, grab these.

Pros

  • Deerskin leather is tough but supple
  • Thick pile lining

Cons

  • While warm, the pile lining might prove too hot on your hands
  • Danner logo may be a drawback for some
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A
  • Material(s): Leather, polypropylene, polyester
  • Sizes: Unisex 7 to 11

These gloves from legendary bootmaker Danner blend rough-and-tumble attitude with rugged good looks and 14oz. pile lining, plus a stylish, deep tan leather.

Pros

  • The cashmere lining should prove soft and supremely comfortable
  • Attractive contrast stitching

Cons

  • These gloves are quite the expensive investment
  • Requires more upkeep than other gloves on this list
  • Country of Manufacture: Italy
  • Material(s): Leather, cashmere
  • Sizes: S to XL

Slide into super-luxurious gloves with on-point, refined details, including Italian leather, eye-catching contrast stitching and warm cashmere lining.

Pros

  • Waxed cotton throughout the gloves gives them abrasion resistance in tough conditions
  • Elasticated cuff for a cinched fit

Cons

  • The fleece lining might prove a touch too thin for extremely cold days
  • Waxed cotton requires maintenance down the line
  • Country of Manufacture: Scotland
  • Material(s): Cotton, leather, polyester
  • Sizes: S to XL

Strike out on the road this winter with Barbour’s go-anywhere gloves (not all that different from its road-ready outerwear, when you get right down to it). This pair uses waxed cotton trim for an added touch of rugged durability.

Pros

  • They’re touchscreen-compatible for ease of use on the go
  • Cashmere blended with synthetics for stronger glove

Cons

  • They require more intensive professional dry cleaning care
  • Color isn’t accurately reflected online
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Leather, wool, nylon, cashmere
  • Sizes: S to XL

Refined style has always been the name of the game with Club Monaco, and these sleek, supple leather gloves in an eye-catching shade of tan fit the bill nicely.

Pros

  • These overbuilt gloves are fire-resistant and waterproof
  • Coated in beeswax for weatherproofing

Cons

  • They only feature light insulation, unlike other gloves with thicker insulating liners
  • Sizing runs small
  • Country of Manufacture: Pakistan
  • Material(s): Leather, recycled polyester
  • Sizes: S to XXL

If you want rugged, hard-wearing gloves that toe the line between work gloves and everyday gloves, it’s hard to go wrong with this hardy leather pair from Give’r.

Pros

  • These gloves are handsewn, exceptionally high-quality and made to last
  • Incredibly stylish

Cons

  • They’re much more expensive than more traditional gloves
  • Not enough sizes
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Cashmere, deerskin
  • Sizes: M to XL

Dents are the gloves of choice for James Bond, and they can be your go-to set of gloves now, too – no “Double-O” status required. Soft cashmere lining is a luxurious addition to your winter accessories lineup.

Pros

  • They’re supremely rugged and abrasion-resistant, thanks to the cotton canvas “Fire Hose” fabric
  • Insulates even when wet

Cons

  • They’re better suited for work and extreme conditions than stylish everyday wear
  • Sizing runs large
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Leather, cotton canvas, nylon
  • Sizes: M to XXL

Duluth Trading gear is tough as nails and made to stand up to just about anything you put ‘em through, and this hybrid pair of gloves (which blend leather and cotton canvas detailing) should certainly pass muster.

Pros

  • Sheepskin liner is ultra-warm
  • Extended sizing offers better fit

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Country of Manufacture: Turkey
  • Material(s): Sheepskin
  • Sizes: S to XXL

Overland’s specialized in sheepskin since 1973. That means nearly 50 years of experience crafting jackets, blankets and, evident by this note here, gloves from the stuff. Trust the experts.

Pros

  • Deerskin leather is resilient, tough and performs well even after getting wet
  • Offers terrific grip

Cons

  • These gloves are unlined, offering less insulation during extreme cold
  • Must be professionally cleaned
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Deerskin
  • Sizes: M to XL

It takes quite the extra effort to craft some of the best men’s gloves – Best Made lives up to its name, though. These dependable deerskin gloves are made with supple, elastic leather that’s well-suited for winter excursions in the city or the country.

Pros

  • These gloves should be able to stand up to abrasions and wet conditions with ease
  • Available in multiple colors

Cons

  • These deerskin gloves are unlined, providing less protection in colder weather
  • Deerskin takes a while to break in and loosen up
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Deerskin
  • Sizes: XS to XXL

Shorty: Vintage — the name suits these well. They are retro-tinged but in the right way. The leather has a grained finish, and the wrist is cinched, while the back of the hand has decorative stitching for seriousness.

Pros

  • Touchscreen-capable thumb
  • Excellent fit due to elastane

Cons

  • Large batch logo is distracting
  • Some say the sizing runs too big, causing them to not fit as a liner
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Sizes: Polyester, merino wool, elastane

Perhaps you’ve got a Smartwool base layer or two in your cold-weather rotation – if so, you know the company’s merino wool blends are cozy yet breathable, insulating and yet comfortable. Get that same performance from the Liner Gloves, and stuck them underneath your main ones if you need some extra warmth.

Pros

  • The touchscreen performance detailing is highly useful
  • Has a buckle to keep gloves together in storage

Cons

  • These gloves are made from a thinner recycled polyester fleece and aren’t as ready for incredibly cold temperatures
  • Runs slightly small
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Material(s): Leather, polyester, elastane
  • Sizes: S to XXL

You trust The North Face to outfit you for all manner of alpine pursuits, so entrust the famed outdoor gear company with your next pair of gloves at lower elevations, too. These gloves are specifically designed for touchscreen performance across all five fingertips.

Ragg Wool Gloves Deerskin PalmCourtesy

Best Deerskin Gloves: Upstate Stock Ragg Wool Gloves / Deerskin Palm

Pros

  • The blend of ragg wool and nylon makes these an optimal pair of work gloves – your hands shouldn’t overheat
  • Moisture wicking to keep comfy

Cons

  • The use of deerskin leather requires more care and meticulous cleaning
  • More upkeep and work to maintain
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Wool, nylon
  • Sizes: S to L

Upstate Stock mixes materials for its eponymous glove, which has a ragg wool back and a deerskin palm. The former promises durability, while the latter emphasizes comfort.

Pros

  • These gloves are highly stylish, made from two shades of rich full-grain leather
  • Brass snap-button closure for wrist adjustments

Cons

  • Thinner, cashmere-lined gloves like these aren’t best-suited for long periods of time spent outdoors
  • Some say construction isn’t great
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Leather, cashmere
  • Sizes: M to XL

The right balance of style and performance shines through in these handsome two-tone leather gloves. Brass wrist snaps offer up optimal cold-weather coverage, too.

Pros

  • These gloves are made with tremendous attention to detail in New Jersey and in Brooklyn
  • Terrific style and color

Cons

  • The lack of fingertip coverage exposes your digits to cold temps (of course)
  • Large patch logo may be distracting
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Material(s): Wool, nylon
  • Sizes: S/M, L/XL

We remain confused by fingerless gloves, but Upstate Stock’s melange pair might be cool enough to change my mind.

Knit Fingerless GlovesAmazon

Best Budget Fingerless Gloves: Levi’s Knit Fingerless Gloves

Pros

  • These are highly affordable and made from a brand name you can trust
  • Roomy enough for those with larger hands

Cons

  • We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: The fingerless design doesn’t deliver much-needed winter coverage
  • Only available in one size, so fit may be wonky for some
  • Material(s): Acrylic
  • Sizes: One size

Levi’s line of basics — T-shirts, socks, beanies — is nothing to overlook. It includes gloves, both fingerless and full fingered, in a few colors. It’s only one size, however, which may result in a wonky fit.

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