Best Hiking Gloves of 2023

Reasons to Buy

• Touchscreen compatible
• Durable and sturdy construction
• Excellent weather resistance
• Great balance of warmth and dexterity
• Comfortable fit

Reasons to Avoid

• Pricey compared to other gloves
• Not the warmest option available
• May not be best for extreme wet weather

The Important Specs

• Material: GORE Windstopper with tricot lining
• Insulation: None
• Cuff Closure: Pull-on loop and glove clip
• Sensor Technology: Touch screen compatible

Review Roundup

The Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves stand out in the crowded world of hiking gloves. They're designed with the needs of hikers, campers, and climbers in mind, promising to offer protection and convenience in a single package.

The gloves are crafted from a mix of polyester, softshell fabric, and leather. This combination brings to the table attributes like durability, weather-resistance, and comfort. The softshell exterior also does a fantastic job resisting wind and light moisture.

A significant feature of these gloves is the touchscreen compatibility. Yes, you heard it right! The glove design includes Sensor fingertips, which means you can use your smartphone or other touchscreen devices without peeling off your gloves.

Now let's dig in to what customers have to say about the Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves. Users love the excellent fit and weather-resistant properties. The snug fit doesn't restrict their dexterity which is crucial for climbers and hikers.

Even though these gloves are lightweight, users testify that they perform well in colder temperatures too. Some have used them for winter hikes and found that they keep their hands fairly warm, which is a huge plus.

There have been a few mixed opinions regarding the gloves’ touchscreen compatibility. While some users have faced no issues, others found the Sensor feature to operate inconsistently on their devices. So, while it's a great idea, the execution seems to vary from user to user.

Durability of these gloves appears to be a strength, as per a large number of user reviews. The mix of materials used in the construction of the glove earn it sturdy and lasting. Very few complaints were noticed about stitching coming loose or fabric tearing.

Warmth-to-weight ratio is impressive too. Most users appreciated how warm these gloves kept them considering their light weight. This feature is particularly beneficial for backpackers who need to lighten their load whenever possible.

In conclusion, if you're in the market for a pair of weather-resistant, durable, and touchscreen-compatible hiking gloves, the Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves make a solid choice. Just keep in mind that the touchscreen capability might not work perfectly for everyone.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent breathability
• High durability and construction
• Comfortable fitting even for long hours
• Offers great dexterity
• Impressive weather resistance

Reasons to Avoid

• Higher price range
• Lack of touchscreen capabilities
• Might be overkill for mild weather

The Important Specs

• Design: Anatomical shaping for fit and comfort
• Materials: Three-layer WINDSTOPPER fabric
• Insulation: Non-insulated

Review Roundup

The Arc'teryx Venta Gloves are a standout choice when it comes to hiking gloves. They're designed with keen attention to detail, built mainly for those chilly yet action-packed hiking experiences where you need both dexterity and reserve heat.

When it gets frosty out there but you still want to grab hold of your equipment or scroll through your smart devices, these gloves will be your best bet. Thanks to their sensor-compatible fingertips, you can use your touchscreen devices without having to expose your fingers to the cold.

Made of three-layer GORE WINDSTOPPER technology, the Venta gloves are designed to protect you from the wind while still allowing your skin to breathe. They do well in calm, cold conditions but might struggle a bit when it gets extremely wet. However, they are not designed to be completely waterproof, rather to cope with a sprinkle or light snow.

One thing most buyers admired was the fit of the gloves. They are made to fit snugly around your fingers and hands, providing a comfortable and secure fit. This is complemented by the addition of leather pull-tabs which make getting these gloves on and off a breeze.

Another big plus of the Venta Gloves is their flexibility and range of motion. Precise finger articulation makes accomplishing fine tasks such as tying shoelaces or adjusting gear easier while wearing these gloves.

In terms of durability, customers were appreciative of the rugged Venta. True to Arc'teryx's reputation, these gloves stood up to the rough and tumble of hiking trips, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The reinforced leather palm specifically added to the glove's longevity.

While they have impressive features, some customers voiced concerns about the gloves' price tag. They fall into the higher end of the cost spectrum. However, many agreed that the comfort, wind-resistant ability, and durability of these gloves made the investment worth it.

A few users mentioned that they would appreciate if the gloves had a bit more insulation for colder weather. But that's where layering comes in, and thankfully, the slimfit design of these gloves makes that possible.

To sum it up, the Arc'teryx Venta Gloves are a prime example of quality craftsmanship. While they might not be the most budget-friendly, their performance in wind protection, comfortable fit, and durability have won over many outdoor enthusiasts.

Reasons to Buy

• Highly breathable fleece material
• Touchscreen compatibility
• Good all-around weather resistance
• Comfortable fit
• Affordable price point

Reasons to Avoid

• Not the warmest for extreme cold weather
• May wear out faster with heavy use

The Important Specs

• Gender: Unisex
• Best Use: Hiking, mountaineering, ski touring
• Material: Stretch fleece with digital thumb and index finger
• Touch Screen Compatible: Yes

Review Roundup

When it comes to hiking gloves that offer a seamless blend of comfort, functionality and toughness, the Black Diamond Midweight Screentap Fleece Gloves are a popular choice among outdoor lovers. Designed with an optimal balance of warmth and dexterity, these gloves are an excellent go-to companion for any form of outdoor adventure.

Looking at the material, the digital thumb and index finger allow for gloves-on touchscreen use. This feature was widely praised by customers online. They loved the convenience of not having to remove their gloves to use their phones or GPS devices in cold conditions.

Several users mentioned the durability of these gloves. Constructed from 251g stretch fleece and neoprene, the gloves stood up to rugged use over rocky terrains, holding their own against snagging and wear. Many hikers and climbers commended the gloves for their durability, even after a good few seasons of usage.

The comfort factor of these Black Diamond gloves was also highlighted by many customers. The gloves' fleece lining provides warmth in moderately cold conditions, while the four-way stretch offers a great deal of flexibility. The full goat leather palm added additional comfort and enhanced grip.

However, the Black Diamond Midweight Screentap Fleece Gloves were not without their criticisms. A few users noted the gloves lacked sufficient insulation for extremely cold temperatures. It's significant to note that these gloves are considered mid-weight, meaning they are not intended for extreme cold or high-altitude hiking. In these conditions, a more heavy-duty pair may be more suitable.

Another minor drawback pointed out by some users was the sizing. A handful of online reviewers suggested they run a little small, recommending potential buyers to consider sizing up.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the views were overwhelmingly positive. Hikers, backpackers, and climbers alike applauded the Black Diamond Midweight Screentap Fleece Gloves for their high usability and quality, which make the gloves a worthy consideration for anyone seeking practical and durable hiking gloves.

Reasons to Buy

• Affordable without compromising quality
• Effective touchscreen compatibility
• Impressive mix of insulation and breathability

Reasons to Avoid

• Not fully waterproof
• May run small in size

The Important Specs

• Lining: 100% polyester brushed fleece
• Material: 94% polyester, 6% spandex knit
• Touchscreen Compatible: Yes

Review Roundup

Outdoor Research's Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves are a spectacular product for those of us who love hiking but also love keeping track of our expenses. Not only is their price favorable for a tight budget, they also offer features usually found in more high-end gloves.

When it comes to warmth, the Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves score top marks. The midweight fleece provides ample insulation keeping your fingers toasty even on icy trails. Some users have challenged them in snow and were quite glad with the level of protection they offer. They are not designed for freezing sub-zero temperatures, but for a regular crisp morning hike, they are more than capable.

The gloves feature touchscreen compatibility, a feature highly appreciated by many users. This means you don't have to remove your gloves when you want to take a picture or check your route on your phone. Users have provided positive feedback about the reliability of this feature and how it can be quite handy in cold weather conditions.

Durability is another high point of these gloves according to most customers’ reviews. Made from sturdy material, they are noted to withstand normal hiking and camping wear and tear for an extended period. They're built to last, which underscores the value for money they offer.

In terms of comfort, the gloves were praised by many for their plush, snug fit. They are equally flexible, allowing for easy motion of the hands and fingers. A few users, however, did point out that they found the sizing slightly off, so it’s a good move to check the size chart carefully before purchasing.

The design of the gloves is practical with elastic cuffs that make it easy to slip them on and off. However, a minor gripe some users had was the lack of a clip for securing the gloves together when not in use, a feature they found in many other brands.

All in all, based on numerous customer reviews, the Outdoor Research Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves are a reliable companion for day hikes, camping trips, and other outdoor pursuits. They are comfortable, warm, and durable, with the added bonus of being touchscreen friendly, making them a great value for the money.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent dexterity
• Durable material
• Great weather resistance
• Comfortable for long use
• Ideal for alpine and scrambling

Reasons to Avoid

• Price point is high
• May not be breathable enough for warmer climates
• Hand sizes might not perfectly fit everyone

The Important Specs

• Lining: PrimaLoft Gold insulation Eco with Grip Control
• Material: N70p GORE-TEX with GORE grip technology
• Adjustability: Wrist cinch and drawstring gauntlet
• Sustainability: Bluesign approved material

Review Roundup

The Arc'teryx Alpha SL Gloves is a true standout in the alpine and scrambling niche. Not only does it have a sleek, modern aesthetic, but it also packs a punch when it comes to functionality. Designed with the rugged and unpredictable alpine environment in mind, these gloves are there to protect you when it gets rough out there.

Online users frequently mention the glove's water-resistant feature. They love how the GORE-TEX fabric works accurately, keeping their hands dry in the face of sudden downpours or snowfalls. If there's one thing you don't want during a scramble or hike, it's chilly, wet hands, and the Arc'teryx Alpha SL Gloves excel in preventing just that.

The durability of these gloves is another feature online reviewers rave about. Made with high-quality, rugged materials, they're designed to handle the wear and tear that comes with a day on the mountain. Scrambling typically involves a lot of contact with rocks and harsh surfaces, and according to several users, these gloves are super tough and show minimal signs of wear, even after lots of use.

Many users appreciated the excellent dexterity provided by the gloves. The careful design and snug fit of the gloves allow for a high degree of hand movement and grip control. This is particularly useful in activities such as climbing and holding onto trekking poles, where a good hold can make a world of difference.

On the negative side, some buyers found the gloves a bit pricey. However, most have remarked that the gloves' versatility, longevity, and superb performance justifies the cost. While these might not be the gloves for someone on a tighter budget, the extra dollars spent on the Alpha SL tends to pay off in the long run.

A couple of users pointed out that the gloves can run a little small, suggesting that potential buyers size up when making a purchase. But once you get the sizing right, owners of the gloves were unanimous in agreeing the fit is very comfortable.

In terms of insulation, a couple of feedback suggested it's not the best for incredibly chilly conditions. However, if you're moving a lot and staying active (like you would be while scrambling), the gloves should provide sufficient warmth.