As the chill of winter takes hold, the quest to find the perfect pair of mittens to keep your hands toasty becomes more pressing. From the casual walker to the avid snow adventurer, everyone seeks a pair that promises warmth, comfort, and durability.
With an array of materials, designs, and thermal technologies available, it's essential to have a guide that navigates through the vast sea of options. We have meticulously tested and curated a list to help you find the mittens that will stand up to the coldest of days.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
One of the critical aspects of choosing the warmest mittens is the quality and type of insulation material used. Natural materials like wool or down offer excellent warmth and can retain heat even when damp. However, synthetic insulations, such as Thinsulate or PrimaLoft, are also preferred due to their ability to retain warmth, light weight, and quick drying properties. Ensure the mittens have sufficient insulation without compromising dexterity.
2.) Waterproofing and Breathability
Waterproofing is essential to keep hands dry in snowy or wet conditions. Look for mittens that feature waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex, which not only prevent moisture from seeping in but also allow sweat to evaporate. This function is paramount to maintaining warmth, as wet hands can lead to a significant loss of body heat. However, the mittens should also be breathable to prevent moisture build-up from sweat.
Proper fitting mittens are vital for comfort and function. They should not be too tight as this reduces circulation, leading to colder hands. Conversely, mittens that are too loose can make it difficult to grip items and may compromise the insulation’s effectiveness. Pay attention to the interior lining as well; a soft lining can increase comfort and warmth.
4.) Durability and Design
Consider the durability of the mittens based on the activities you plan to undertake. Reinforced palms and fingers can resist wear and tear, which is beneficial for sports or work activities. Additionally, design features like wrist cinches can help keep snow out, while removable liners can be useful for adjusting warmth levels or ease of cleaning.
The Warmest Mittens of our Choice
Our Pick
SEFZONE Ski Mittens Waterproof
Model: SM-XLType/Color: Mittens-XLSize: X-Large
Properties
Provides extra warmth with 150g 3M thinsulate insulation
Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying in cold weather
Waterproof nylon surface and PU leather palm
Blocks snow and water, keeping hands dry always
Surface TPU film promotes breathable air circulation
Non-slip and durable PU leather for improved grip
High-quality materials for long-lasting use
Adjustable wrist strap for better fit and warmth
Side lock to prevent losing mittens
Ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding
Available in M/L/XL sizes, suitable for both genders
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Find the Coziest Mittens for Every Type of Shopper
Budget-Conscious Buyers
For those looking to keep their hands toasty without breaking the bank, we've curated a selection of warm mittens that offer both comfort and value. Navigate through a variety of choices that ensure warmth with affordability in mind.
Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you love exploring the great outdoors, even in cold weather, we've got you covered. Our recommended mittens are designed to withstand the elements, ensuring your hands stay warm during any adventure.
Fashion-Forward Shoppers
Keep your hands warm without sacrificing style. Our selection includes the latest trends in mitten fashion, blending aesthetics with function to ensure you look on point while keeping cozy.
Tech-Savvy Consumers
For those who want to stay connected and warm, we've identified mittens featuring touchscreen compatibility. These mittens allow you to use your devices effortlessly without exposing your hands to the cold.
Questions You Might Ask
Quality mittens are often made from wool, fleece, or synthetic insulators. Wool is naturally insulating and moisture-wicking, while fleece provides warmth without a lot of weight. Synthetic materials such as Thinsulate or PrimaLoft offer excellent warmth-to-weight ratios and are often water-resistant.
To determine your mitten size, measure the circumference of your hand around the palm, not including the thumb, and compare it to the manufacturer's size chart. Your fingers should have some wiggle room without too much excess fabric, ensuring both warmth and dexterity.
Consider features like waterproofing for wet conditions, breathability for active use, a snug cuff to keep snow out, and touchscreen compatibility if you need to use devices. Also, look for mittens that have a good grip pattern or material on the palm for handling objects easily.
Mittens tend to be warmer than gloves because they keep your fingers together, generating and retaining more heat. They are ideal for activities like skiing and snowboarding. However, if you need more dexterity, such as for climbing or adjusting equipment, gloves might be a better option.
Some mittens come with touchscreen-compatible material on the fingertips, allowing you to use a smartphone without removing them. Otherwise, you may need to remove them or look for mittens with a removable liner that includes touchscreen capabilities.
When the chill of winter bites at your fingertips, it's time to arm yourself with the warmest mittens. But not all mittens are created equal; selecting the perfect pair requires a blend of material insight, design understanding, and personal preference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential aspects to consider, ensuring your hands remain toasty even in the frostiest conditions.
Understanding Insulation Options
The cornerstone of warm mittens is exceptional insulation. Materials like Thinsulate, Primaloft, and natural down provide superior warmth-to-weight ratios, keeping your hands warm without the bulk. Thinsulate, a synthetic fiber, works well even when damp, while Primaloft offers a soft, down-like feel without the allergens. Natural down, on the other hand, boasts unparalleled warmth but loses its insulating properties if it gets wet.
For extreme cold, look for mittens that feature a combination of these insulators, often with a heavier down or synthetic fill on the back of the hand and a lighter fill on the palm for improved grip. Pay attention to the fill power of down as well; higher numbers indicate better quality insulation capable of trapping more air and, consequently, more heat.
Material Matters: Outer Shell and Lining
The outer shell of your mittens can deal a knockout blow to the cold. Materials like leather, nylon, and Gore-Tex not only serve to block wind and moisture but also add durability. Leather mittens, while heavier, are naturally wind-resistant and can be waterproof with proper treatment. Nylon is lighter, and when combined with a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex, it provides robust protection against the wet and wind.
A mitten’s lining is just as crucial for comfort and warmth. Look for soft, moisture-wicking materials like fleece or wool that will keep your hands dry and cozy. Some mittens feature removable liners, allowing you to adjust the level of insulation to the weather or even wash the liner separately to maintain freshness.
Fit and Functionality
Finding mittens that fit well will substantially increase their warmth. Mittens should be snug enough to trap body heat yet loose enough to encourage circulation. Try them on while wearing any liners you plan to use. Make sure you can wiggle your fingers; restricted movement can lead to cold hands.
Moreover, think about the mittens' intended use. Do you need them for casual wear, or will you be engaging in winter sports? Features such as wrist straps, drawstrings, and touchscreen compatibility might be crucial for your winter activities. If you're a skier or snowboarder, you'll need durable, waterproof, and breathable mittens with reinforced palms and fingertips.
Caring for Your Mittens
To maintain the warmth and longevity of your mittens, proper care is key. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and drying. For leather mittens, use a conditioner to keep the leather supple and water-resistant.
Avoid placing mittens on direct heat sources to dry, as this can damage both the insulation and the shell materials. Instead, let them air dry by laying them out flat or hanging them in a dry, warm area. If your mittens have a removable liner, take it out to dry separately for faster and thorough drying.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In this section, we provide a curated list of resources for those seeking the warmest mittens. Our selections are broken down into four distinct categories: expert reviews, forum discussions, Reddit threads, and informative videos. Each has been chosen for its relevance and credibility to ensure you access top-notch information and advice.
Jan 26, 2008 — This is the perfect glove to use throughout the season: use the "grip" chamber for Spring skiing and the insulated chamber through the colder...
Dec 24, 2021 — Freezing temperatures and snow and ice can be dangerous when the weather gets cold. Consumer Reports offers advice for staying warm and...