I’ve been testing some of the best rated heated gloves, and let me tell you, they’re an absolute game-changer. Whether you’re hiking in the snow, skiing, or just walking the dog, these gloves are designed to keep your hands warm and cozy, no matter how cold it gets.
I know how frustrating cold hands can be when you’re outside trying to enjoy the winter. Let’s walk through some of the best options I’ve found and why they’re worth every penny.
Why Heated Gloves Are a Must-Have
You’ve probably felt it—those icy fingers that just won’t warm up no matter how thick your regular gloves are. It’s frustrating, right? Now, imagine you’re outside on a cold day, and your hands feel like they’re wrapped in a soft, constant warmth. That’s what heated gloves do, and they’re more than just a winter luxury—they’re a cold-weather essential. Finding the best rated heated gloves can make all the difference when you’re battling cold weather. These gloves are more than just a winter luxury—they’re a cold-weather essential for anyone looking to stay warm in extreme conditions.
Regular gloves might provide some insulation, but when the temperature drops below freezing, they just can’t keep up. Heated gloves, on the other hand, have rechargeable batteries powering heating elements woven through the palms and fingers. These heating elements actively generate warmth, meaning your hands stay toasty no matter how cold it gets. It’s like having a heated blanket, but specifically designed for your hands—keeping you comfortable whether you’re hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying a winter walk.
Key Features to Look for in Heated Gloves
When I first set out to find the best heated gloves, there were a few features that immediately stood out, and I think you’ll want to keep these in mind as well. Heated gloves aren’t just about warmth—they’re about giving you the perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and durability. Here’s what you should look for:
1. Battery Life
Imagine being halfway through a hike or ski trip, and your gloves suddenly stop heating. It’s not just uncomfortable—it can ruin your whole experience. That’s why battery life is so important. The best rated heated gloves that made it to my top recommendations all have reliable battery lives, lasting anywhere from 6 to 12 hours on a single charge, depending on the heat setting you use. The last thing you want is for your gloves to run out of power just when you need them most, so always check how long they’ll last on high and low settings.
2. Full-Hand Heating
Some heated gloves only focus on warming the back of your hand. While that’s better than nothing, it’s definitely not ideal. The warmth needs to reach every part of your hand, especially your fingers. Trust me, your fingers are usually the first to feel the cold, and if they’re not getting heat, you’ll be uncomfortable fast. So, when looking for heated gloves, make sure the heating elements run through both the palms and fingers. You want that full-hand warmth to keep every part of your hand toasty.
3. Comfort
Comfort is non-negotiable. If the gloves are bulky or too tight, you won’t want to wear them for long, and that defeats the purpose. The best heated gloves feel like a cozy fit that’s snug but never restrictive—like a warm hug for your hands. Look for gloves with soft inner linings that feel great to wear for hours at a time, especially if you’re out skiing or working outdoors.
4. Durability
When you’re dealing with harsh winter conditions, you need gloves that can handle it. That means your heated gloves should be windproof and waterproof. Whether you’re facing snow, rain, or just biting winds, you want to be sure that your gloves are keeping you warm and dry. And let’s not forget about touchscreen compatibility—because you and I both know we’re not going to stop checking our phones just because it’s cold out! Gloves that allow you to use your phone without taking them off are a huge bonus.
My Top 5 Heated Gloves for 2024
I’ve tested and read through countless reviews to bring you my top recommendations. These gloves won’t just keep you warm—they’ll also make you wonder how you survived winter without them.
How to Pick the Best Heated Gloves for You
Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Which pair is right for me?” Here’s the thing: it really comes down to how you plan to use them.
1. Outdoor Adventurer
If you’re someone who loves skiing, snowboarding, or even hiking in the mountains during the coldest months, you’ll want gloves that can handle the extreme conditions. You can’t go wrong with the Savior Heated Gloves or Volt Heated Work Gloves. These are built tough and designed to keep you warm in even the most challenging weather. They’re durable, waterproof, and windproof—everything you need when battling the elements.
The best heated gloves for outdoor are the following ones:
SAVIOR HEAT Heated Glove Liners for Men Women, Rechargeable Battery Electric Heated Gloves, Winter Warm Glove Liners, Thin Gloves Riding Ski Snowboarding Hiking Cycling Hand Warmers
These are perfect for anyone who needs full-hand heating with a snug fit. The material is durable enough for all sorts of outdoor activities, and they heat up fast. They’re also great for skiing or snowboarding.
Volt Heated Leather Work Gloves - Rechargeable Battery Heated Working Gloves for Men - Ideal for Work and Hunting - Durable Heating Men's Gloves Ensuring Warm Hands in Cold Conditions - Large
If you need something that’s more rugged for work or extreme cold, the Volt gloves are ideal. They offer serious warmth and battery life that lasts longer than most, making them perfect for long days outside.
2. Daily Commuter
For those of you who just need reliable warmth while getting through your daily routine, you’ll want something lightweight yet powerful. The Snow Deer or Sun Will Heated Gloves are both great options for commuting or casual outdoor activities. They’ll keep your hands warm without feeling too bulky, which means you can wear them comfortably throughout the day.
For Daily Commuter, the most rated heated gloves are:
Snow Dear Electric Heated Gloves for Men & Women, Waterproof & Windproof Ski Gloves Rechargeable Battery Gloves with Touchscreen for Cold Weather Snowboarding Shovel Snow
If you’re often outside in the cold for shorter periods, like when walking to work or waiting for the bus, these gloves provide quick heating and great comfort. They’re flexible enough for everyday use but still warm enough to handle winter’s bite.
Sun Will Heated Glove Liners for Men Women,Rechargeable Electric Battery Heating Riding Ski Snowboarding Hiking Cycling Hunting Thin Gloves Hand Warmer
These are more budget-friendly while still offering excellent performance. They’re lightweight and offer enough warmth for those shorter outdoor stints, like running errands or a quick morning commute.
3. Budget Buyer
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable pair of heated gloves, the Autocastle Heated Gloves have you covered. These might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but they’ll still keep your hands warm for everyday use or light outdoor activities.
Autocastle Battery Heated Gloves - Electric Hand Warmers for Men and Women, Indoor and Outdoor Use - Thermal Liners for Climbing, Hiking, Cycling in Winter
They’re affordable but still deliver decent warmth for light outdoor tasks like walking or light hiking. If you’re not planning to spend long hours in freezing conditions, these will do the job without breaking the bank.
Heated Gloves vs. Traditional Hand Warmers: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’ve ever used traditional hand warmers, you know they can be a lifesaver in cold weather. But with heated gloves becoming more advanced, it’s worth asking: which option is better for keeping your hands warm during winter activities? Let’s break it down by looking at a few key factors: convenience, effectiveness, and overall comfort.
1. Convenience
Heated Gloves: With heated gloves, you get all-in-one warmth without needing to stop and adjust or activate anything. Once you put them on, you’re set for hours of warmth, and many models come with adjustable heat settings so you can find the perfect level of warmth for your comfort.
Hand Warmers: Traditional hand warmers, like the disposable chemical packets or reusable electric hand warmers, require a little more effort. You’ll need to hold them or keep them tucked inside your pockets. While they’re great for a quick burst of heat, they don’t warm your whole hand unless you keep them clutched in your palm. Plus, with disposable warmers, you’ll need to carry extras if you’re going to be out for a while.
Verdict: Heated gloves win for convenience, especially if you need consistent warmth without having to stop and replace or adjust warmers.
2. Heat Distribution
Heated Gloves: One of the big advantages here is the full-hand heating. Most heated gloves have elements that warm not just the palm, but the fingers and thumbs as well. This is key, especially in extremely cold conditions where your fingers are more likely to get cold quickly. Plus, with rechargeable batteries, the heat stays consistent throughout your activity.
Hand Warmers: Hand warmers typically heat only one part of your hand—the area where you’re holding them. Sure, they’re effective for short bursts of warmth, but they won’t provide the even distribution that heated gloves offer. If you’re trying to warm your fingers, you’ll need to move the warmer around or grip it tightly.
Verdict: Heated gloves offer more consistent, full-hand warmth, making them the better option if you need reliable heat for long stretches of time.
3. Battery Life vs. Duration
Heated Gloves: These gloves generally last between 6 to 12 hours on a single charge, depending on the heat setting you use. For extended outdoor adventures or workdays, this means consistent heat without interruption. Plus, you can recharge them overnight and be ready to go the next day.
Hand Warmers: Disposable chemical hand warmers last about 5 to 8 hours, which is decent, but once they’re done, they’re done. You’ll need to carry extras if you plan to be outside all day. Reusable electric hand warmers, on the other hand, can last 2 to 8 hours, but you’ll still need to take breaks to recharge them.
Verdict: If you’re looking for long-lasting, reliable warmth, heated gloves are the clear winner here. They’ll keep your hands warm for longer without needing to carry backup options.
4. Comfort and Mobility
Heated Gloves: The major perk of heated gloves is that they’re hands-free. You’re not carrying or clutching anything, so your hands are free to hold ski poles, walk the dog, or snap photos. Plus, they’re designed to be comfortable for long wear, with soft linings and ergonomic fits.
Hand Warmers: While hand warmers are effective, they can be a bit cumbersome if you need to use your hands for other things. Whether you’re holding them or moving them around in your gloves, they don’t offer the same level of freedom that heated gloves do.
Verdict: For comfort and mobility, heated gloves come out on top because they keep your hands warm without you needing to hold anything extra.
5. Cost
Heated Gloves: Heated gloves can be a bit of an investment, with prices ranging from $80 to $200, depending on the brand and features. However, they are reusable, and the only additional cost is electricity for recharging the batteries.
Hand Warmers: Disposable hand warmers are cheaper upfront, costing about $1 to $3 per pair, but if you’re using them frequently, the cost can add up quickly. Reusable hand warmers are an option too, usually priced between $20 and $40, but their duration is shorter than heated gloves.
Verdict: While hand warmers are cheaper initially, the best rated heated gloves are more cost-effective over time, especially if you need long-lasting warmth regularly.
Pro Tips for Using Heated Gloves
1. Charge ‘Em Up Overnight
You’ve probably experienced that sinking feeling when your gloves die halfway through a hike or commute. The best way to avoid this? Make it a habit to charge your gloves every night after you use them. Just like your phone, you’ll want to start with a full charge each day. Most heated gloves take around 3 to 5 hours to charge fully, so leaving them plugged in overnight is a great way to ensure they’re ready for action.
2. Layer If Necessary
On those seriously cold days, layering can make a big difference. Even though heated gloves are warm on their own, adding a thin liner underneath can help trap heat and give you that extra layer of insulation. It’s a simple way to boost the effectiveness of the gloves, especially if you’re out in extremely low temperatures. Look for thin, moisture-wicking liners that won’t make the gloves feel too tight.
3. Don’t Blast the Heat
It’s tempting to crank up the heat to max as soon as you feel the chill, but resist the urge! Most of the time, the lowest heat setting will do the trick and keep your hands comfortably warm. Plus, using lower settings extends the battery life, meaning your gloves will last longer before needing another charge. Save the high heat for those really frigid moments, but day-to-day, keep it low and cozy.
The Comparative Winner: