The 10 Best Running Gloves of 2021

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

It only takes one painful run with exposed hands for exercisers to realize that running gloves are essential for cold weather runs. Running without gloves in frigid weather is not only uncomfortable and distracting, but it can also lead to issues such as cracked and chafed skin, as well as more severe skin damage in extreme temperatures.

You can lose a lot of body heat through your extremities, so leaving your hands uncovered can make you feel even colder during runs. Running gloves can also keep your hands protected from wind, precipitation, and even germy surfaces.

Here are the best running gloves on the market for all your needs.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall for Women:

The North Face Etip Recycled Gloves at Amazon

An eco-friendly choice made of recycled materials, its tips are tech-friendly while its silicone palms ensure a non-slip grip.

Best Overall for Men:

Under Armour Amour Liner 2.0 Gloves at Amazon

Designed to repel water without sacrificing breathability.

Best Budget for Men:

OutdoorEssentials Touch Screen Running Gloves at Amazon

Access important notifications or change the music while keeping warm with these touchscreen-friendly, form-fitting gloves.

Best for Winter:

Trailheads Men's Power Stretch Convertible Mittens at Amazon

If you can't decide between gloves and mittens, this convertible pick features both for added versatility and warmth.

Best for Rain:

Under Armour Men's Storm Run Liner Gloves at Amazon

A pair that can be worn alone or as a base layer, its material keeps your hands warm while repelling water in case it rains.

Best Reflective:

Zensah Smart Running Gloves at Amazon

Low visibility during dawn doesn't have to deter your runs, especially with this option featuring reflective stripes.

Best Lightweight:

Nike Women's Dry Element Running Gloves at Amazon

A layering pair that can be worn under mittens, they're conveniently touchscreen-friendly and as lightweight as they are flexible.

Best Tech-Friendly:

New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves at Runningwarehouse.com

When your coat doesn't have pockets, gloves make all the difference, especially when they're screen-friendly and water-resistant.

Best Heated:

Sharper Image Battery Heated Gloves at Sharperimage.com

Keep your hands toasty with this battery-powered option that is sure to add more warmth than your typical cotton pair.

These popular gloves from The North Face are made with cozy, four-way-stretch fleece that keeps your hands warm and protected. The Etip functionality allows you to use touchscreen devices with ease, while the silicone palm provides exceptional grip for holding onto your phone, water bottle, or other gear during your run.

Although these gloves are designed with outdoor activities in mind, they’re also perfect for casual wear, protecting your hands even when you’re not running. The gloves come in four sizes—extra-small, small, medium, and large—and in a variety of color schemes.

Your hands will stay warm and dry in these gloves, which feature Under Armour’s Storm technology, designed to repel water without sacrificing breathability. For extremely cold runs, these versatile gloves can be worn underneath thicker gloves for an added layer of warmth.

The gloves’ cuff extends well past the wrist, so you can tuck them into your jacket for a snug fit and additional warmth. Plus, the Tech Touch technology lets you use your phone, tablet, or smartwatch without having to remove your gloves.

These running gloves from Outdoor Essentials are very reasonably priced, without sacrificing in quality. Made of four-way stretch fabric, they conform to the shape of your hands for a custom fit and have touchscreen capability that’s comparable to much more expensive pairs.

The grippy silicone dots on the fingers and palm allow you to securely hold your phone or water bottle. With no prominent logo on them, these versatile gloves can also serve double-duty for casual wear and are perfect for driving or running errands.

For unpredictable winter weather, a glove-and-mitten combination is a versatile choice. These convertible mittens feature thermal interior gloves, plus a windproof and waterproof outer mitt for extra protection and warmth.

When your hands warm up or you need to use the touchscreen gloves, just tuck the attached mitten top back into the storage pocket. The reflective elements on the cuff and mitten cover also increase your visibility during winter mornings and evenings.

Most running gloves are not truly waterproof, but this pair from Under Armour will keep your hands dry and warm even in wet conditions. The UA Storm technology repels water, while the soft, smooth exterior and plush lining provide some extra warmth and add to the overall comfort.

Your hands will stay nice and toasty when using your phone or device, thanks to the Tech Touch technology on the thumbs and fingers.

Mostly known for their high-performance compression socks, Zensah also makes a quality running glove with plenty of cool features. These gloves combine high breathability with stretchy comfort and warmth. Perfect for running in the dark or low-light conditions, they have reflective stripes on the fingers, so oncoming cars can spot you.

Runners also appreciate the palms’ grippy surface, touchscreen capability on the thumbs and forefingers, and the microsuede nose wipe on the back of the thumb.

Lightweight and durable, these Nike gloves are ideal for chilly runs and also make an excellent base layer when used in combination with a mitten or thicker gloves. The soft polyester and Spandex fabric wicks moisture away from you, so you don’t have to worry about your hands getting wet and cold.

With touchscreen compatibility on the forefingers and thumbs, your hands won’t be exposed to the cold when using your smartphone or watch.

With all the features you’d want in lightweight running gloves, this versatile pair from New Balance are an excellent addition to any cold weather running wardrobe. The touchscreen compatible fingertips make it easy to answer a call or snap a selfie on the run, while the grippy palm ensures a solid hold. These gloves provide good warmth and protection without feeling bulky, and they’re also water-resistant, easy to wash, and made with antimicrobial properties to protect against odors.

If you run in extremely cold conditions and just can’t seem to find a pair of gloves that provide enough protection and warmth, consider this pair from Sharper Image. With ultra-thin heating panels that extend from the backs of the palms down to each fingertip, they can keep your entire hands warm for up to five hours.

They’re also water- and wind-resistant, but are breathable so moisture can escape. While some battery-heated gloves are bulky, these have a snug fit that allows for exceptional mobility. Runners also appreciate the touchscreen-sensitive thumbs and index fingers.

One downside is that the gloves are extremely pricey, but they’re certainly splurge-worthy for guaranteed toasty hands.

Final Verdict

For a versatile pair of running gloves, women can’t go wrong with The North Face Etip Recycled Gloves (view on Amazon), which will keep your hands warm and protected while still allowing for enough dexterity to use your phone, tie your shoes, and hold onto your water bottle. With superb protection, performance, and functionality, Under Armour’s Liner 2.0 Gloves (view on Amazon) are a solid choice for male runners.

Why Trust Verywell Fit?

As a marathon runner and running coach, Christine Luff has researched and recommended lots of running gloves and mittens, as well as personally tested them during frigid training runs and races.

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!