Nothing could be worse than cold hands when you are out winter hiking in the chilling and cruel weather conditions. You might have packed some regular gloves only to realize they don’t provide the warmth you need in such cold conditions. How, then, can you prevent yourself from suffering from frostbite?
Well, this is where glove liners come in. They help to keep your hand effective in different climatic conditions. These gloves will give you the right amount of warmth you need for your hiking adventures. We will be reviewing some of the best glove liners you can find available.
11 Best Glove Liners for Hiking, Extreme Cold & Quality
We will be reviewing eleven of the best glove liners. We will check out their main features and functionality as we look to enlighten you so you can be better prepared for any weather conditions during your hiking endeavors.
1. Smart Wool Liner Gloves
They serve as the first layer of protection for your hands against the elements. It will keep you warm and comfortable.
These are very versatile liners that are great for outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, running, bike riding, and so on. This lightweight glove liner and its bulk-free weight make it usable as a glove during mild winter conditions.
In colder weather scenarios, you can use this glove as a liner under a shell. It also allows for excellent maximum dexterity as they boast a screen-friendly design. They work considerably well with electronics.
The soft and comfy material used in making these liners makes them very soft as they add an extra layer between your hands and fingers. These glove liners feature a great blend of merino wool and acrylic.
Highlighted Features:
- Lightweight knit for ease of movement.
- Touchscreen-friendly features on thumbs and index fingers.
- Cuff finishing for bulk-free fit.
2. Arc’teryx Rho Gloves
These are the best cold-weather liner gloves you can get for your hands. It will protect your hands all day long.
These Rho liners feature a durable, breathable, and stretch fabric. They are lightweight and compact such that you can use them for different outdoor activities, including hiking. You can use them as gloves during mild winter conditions. They come in as liners under winter gloves for severe winter conditions.
These liners feel and look very comfortable and come with long wrists. Even though they can be used as gloves, you will get the best of their functionality when you use them as glove liners.
The Rho liners feature a moisture-wicking and breathable fabric that helps you manage humid conditions well. The fabric is fairly durable, and it comes with touchscreen adaptive abilities. This means you should not have issues operating your smartphones when wearing them.
Highlighted Features:
- Smooth material to ensure a comfortable next-to-skin feel.
- Sensor pads on the thumbs for ease in using smartphones.
- Durable and breathable.
3. Santic Dorin Cycling Liner Gloves
They are thin and fit your hand perfectly. They can be worn inside your gloves to warm your hands during winter.
The Santic glove liners are great multipurpose gloves that you can use for different sports and outdoor activities. You can use them as gloves or as liners beneath a more solid pair of gloves in cold weather.
The silicone elements of these liners make them grippy, ensuring that your palms and fingers are well covered. They come with good stretching features and are also snug fit. These liners are also easy to wear and put off, and come with great finesse features, especially when you want to work with your fingers.
The Santic Dorin glove liners also feature screen-friendly abilities to allow you to work well with touchscreen devices. They also work well with your laptop and computer keyboards. The wind-stopper fabric makes the gloves wind-resistant, keeping you comfortable in windy conditions.
Highlighted Features:
- Silicone coating to aid the grip on your palms and fingers.
- Microfleece lining helps to regulate the microclimate inside the liners.
- Wind-stopper fabric to reduce the impact of wind.
- Wear-resistant.
4. Outdoor Research Waterproof Liners
They are made from the finest wool in the world. This makes them not just comfortable but also durable and reliable.
These liners have great grip features as they work well when fine motor skills are necessary,, even when wet outside. Usually, most gloves won’t have such features as they will freeze stiffly and almost become useless.
These liners are very comfortable, and they are quite versatile. You can use them for various activities, from hiking to cross-country skiing. They are considerably thick and warmer than most glove liners. They can be worn all alone or used as liners underneath burlier gloves.
The Ventia inserts make these outdoor liners keep your hands dry in inclement weather. They also come with anti-silicone slip pads on the palms and fingers to ensure they don’t feel wobbly on your hands.
Highlighted Features:
- Under cuff construction.
- Anti-silicone slip pads for excellent grip.
- Tapered wrists and pull loops.
- Ventia inserts to ensure that your hands stay completely dry.
5. Dakine Element Liner Gloves
High-quality and warm wool liners for men and women. Great as an extra layer or base layer in extremely cold weather.
These gloves are versatile as they are great as standalone gloves for spring and fall. They also work well beneath more substantial gloves in cold winter conditions. They are very breathable, so you can be sure that you won’t sit too much in these liners.
These Dakine Element glove liners are thin yet very warm for liner gloves. They feature a Polartec Wind Pro material that is engineered to reduce the extent of the wind chill you feel on your fingers when you go out hiking in the winter.
They also come in a snug fit, and allow excellent fine motor dexterity. The silicone grip palm pattern helps to make these liners have a firm grip on tools and other equipment you want to work with.
Highlighted Features:
- Polartec Wind Pro material to reduce wind chill.
- Silicone grip palm pattern for a firm grip on tools.
- Touch-friendly fingertips to aid the use of smartphones.
6. Minus 33 Merino Wool Fingerless Glove liners
This glove Liner was designed to give you the most comfort, softness, and warmth. It is also made to last.
These liners are particularly unique as they feature a half-finger design to preserve the dexterity of your fingers. They are very easy to work with as they allow for the full use of your fingers without any restrictions in movement.
They feature a high merino wool content, which is why these liners have the characteristics and properties typical of the merino wool material. These features include moisture-wicking, anti-odor, anti-microbial, and fire-resistance properties.
They have a good stretch fit, and are quite comfortable working outside and other outdoor activities like hiking. They can work as standalone or liner gloves in very chilly winter conditions.
Highlighted Features:
- Merion wool for anti-microbial and water-resistant properties.
- Good stretch fit.
- Half-finger design for ease in using your fingers.
7. Columbia Omni-Heat Touch Liner Gloves
It is made from a blend of high-quality materials, giving it strength and durability.
The Columbia Omni-Heat liners are versatile as they work well as normal gloves, mitten liners, or even a standalone during winter activities. They are of excellent quality and reasonably priced, which is typical of Columbia products.
These liners feature an Omni-wick technology for excellent moisture management. This means that these liners pull moisture from your skin and spread it to the fabric. Then, the moisture is transported to the surface, where it evaporates.
They also come with an Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining. This helps the liners reflect body heat and retains the warmth necessary to protect you from severe cold conditions whenever you are hiking in the winter.
Highlighted Features:
- Omni-heat thermal lining to reflect body heat.
- Omni-wick technology for moisture management.
- Pull-on closure.
8. Minus 33 Merino Wool Glove Liner
They are soft, smooth, thin, and comfortable to wear. They also provide you warm even in extremely cold weather.
These liners are versatile and very easy to use, especially during outdoor activities such as hiking, running, cycling, fishing, or hunting. They come with a compact and comfortable fit. So, putting them on and off should be without issues.
These Merino glove liners fit well under gloves or mittens as they help with additional warmth. They also add the agility and sensitivity that is missing in other gloves. So, you can be certain that having them as liners will be great for your winter adventures.
These liners feature the merino wool content that helps with anti-microbial, anti-odor, and fire-resistant qualities. They also come with good-quality construction that delivers excellent performance all season long.
Highlighted Features:
- Perfect for layering beneath shell gloves for additional warmth.
- Combination of merino wool and nylon stretch.
- Knit glove liner.
- Anti-microbial, anti-odor, and fire-resistant qualities.
9. Outdoor Research Vigor Midweight Sensor Liner Gloves
They are lightweight and have some stretch to help move your hand while providing a snug fit.
These outdoor research liners come in with a very nice fit, and they also have breathable and moisture-wicking abilities. The quick-drying fleece material used in making them comes in handy for different kinds of use.
These liners feature an active temp technology that makes them great for high-output activities. They work with adjusting your climatic conditions per the environmental changes so they can keep you comfortable in different kinds of conditions.
These liners also come with a useful set of features to offer you better functionality levels. These features include glove clips to make them attachable to belt loops or packs, anti-slip silicone palms for non-slip gripping, and tapered wrists for a snug fit. You can certainly count on these liners.
Highlighted Features:
- Breathable and moisture-wicking features.
- Glove clips to attach them to belt loops.
- Anti-slip silicone palms for non-slip gripping.
- Tapered wrists for a snug fit.
- Active temp technology.
10. Carhartt Force Heavyweight Liner Knit Glove
This Glove Liner is ideal for Hiking. They are warm and comfortable, with a soft wool feel.
The Carhartt Force glove liners are very warm gloves. As much as they are incredibly lightweight, they come in thicker than most liner gloves available. The knit liner comes in great for cold weather conditions. So, you should consider them a top consideration for your outdoor activities in winter.
These liners can be used as a standalone in warm temperatures; they will serve well as gloves in such conditions. However, in colder temperatures, you will have to use them as liners which is where their exceptional qualities are displayed. They come with breathable fabric responsible for their moisture-wicking and quick-drying features. These liners are of decent quality, and you can use them with your touchscreen devices.
These Carhartt liners come with great fit and high skill, so you can easily use them with tools and smartphones. They feature silicone palms and fingers for great grip features.
Highlighted Features:
- Built-in with force technology that makes them wick, sweat, and dry fast.
- Silicone palm and fingers for excellent grip features.
- Knit cuff.
- Touch screen adaptability features.
- Lightweight and warm.
11. UA Armor Liner 2.0 Gloves
Made from comfortable and high-quality materials. This liner super soft, and it doesn’t retain odor.
The Armor Liner gloves are flexible and versatile. They do a great job of ensuring that your hands are sufficiently warm. They also perform great in snow gloves for artic sub-zero conditions.
These glove liners have a great grip for handling trekking poles, ice tools, or even driving. They also feature a nice and comfortable fit making sure you can do other things with them on your fingers. You can be sure that they won’t restrict the movement of your fingers.
The material used in making them comes with great response to touch devices, so you should not have issues working with your smartphones in these liners.
Highlighted Features:
- Breathable material quality.
- Soft-knit fabric with a smooth exterior and plush interior.
- Snug and comfortable fit.
How to Choose The Right Gloves For Hiking
Do you love hiking and spending as much time as possible outdoors? If so, you know the importance of having the right gear to help you get the most out of your hiking adventures. You may like camping and exploring new places, but sometimes it can get scary. You don’t want to get caught off guard by a wild animal or get lost in a maze of stone pillars and tall grass. The right hiking gloves can distinguish between a fun day out and a miserable failure.
1. Know your Glove Needs
Before you start hiking, it’s important to have a good understanding of what your specific needs are. What activities will you be doing in the woods? How cold will it be? How much weight will you be carrying?
Once you know your needs, it’s time to start shopping. There are many types of hiking gloves, and you don’t want to choose just one type without knowing the other options. There are two main types of gloves: closed-toe and open-toe.
Closed-toe gloves protect your feet from sharp rocks and branches, while open-toe gloves allow for more breathability so you can stay cool during long hikes. The best way to find out what type of glove is right for you is to ask a friend or family member if they have ever hiked in them. They may have had good experiences or bad experiences with them.
Once you know the type of glove is right for you; the next step is to choose a size. When buying a new pair of hiking gloves, ensure the size is correct for your hand size. The smaller hands might find it difficult to fit into the large gloves, so the size must be correct when buying new gloves. Another thing to consider when choosing a new pair of hiking gloves is whether they will be wet or dry.
2. Be patient
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing hiking gloves is how long they will last. You’ll be hands-on with many different tasks if you’re always on the go. Your gloves must last for as long as possible. Hiking gloves should also be able to protect your hands from harmful sun exposure, rain, and snow.
3. Look for Protection
One of the most important things to consider when choosing hiking gloves is their level of protection. Hiking gloves should protect your hands from small scratches, cuts, and bruises.
They should also be able to protect your hands from the cold so that you can stay warm on long hikes. You want to make sure that your gloves are comfortable to wear, too – they should fit comfortably and be able to keep your hands warm without feeling constricted.
4. Look for Warmth
The first and most important thing to consider when choosing hiking gloves is their warmth. If you’re cold at the beginning of your hike, you won’t be able to enjoy your journey as much.
You may even have to stop and take a break. Hiking gloves are designed to keep you warm, so make sure they do that.
5. Look for Dexterity
One of the most important things to consider when choosing hiking gloves is their talent. Agility helps you grip tools and other objects precisely, which is essential for completing tasks safely and efficiently.
If your gloves don’t have enough Dexterity, they will likely be unable to protect your hands from the elements.
6. Look for Comfort
One of the most important factors to consider regarding hiking gloves is the comfort they provide. You don’t want to be able to feel your hands or arms the entire time you are out there. If the gloves are uncomfortable, you cannot hike as comfortably as you would like.
Look for gloves with large fingers and soft palms to ensure your gloves are comfortable. You also want gloves that fit well to avoid getting in the way while hiking. And finally, make sure the gloves have a good grip on your skin so you can control your hike.
Can Glove Liners be Worn Alone or Do They Require an Outer Glove?
Glove liners can be worn alone in certain situations, but they are primarily designed to be used as a layering system with an outer glove. When worn alone, glove liners offer minimal protection from harsh weather conditions, making them more suitable for mild climates or standalone gloves for activities requiring enhanced dexterity, such as photography or smartphone use.
However, for hiking purposes, it is generally recommended to wear glove liners as a base layer beneath outer gloves. This layering system provides several advantages. The outer glove offers additional insulation, protection against wind and moisture, and durability against abrasions from rugged terrain. Combining glove liners and outer gloves creates an effective barrier against the elements while maximizing warmth, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. It also allows for easy adjustment and versatility as conditions change during the hike.
How Should I Choose the Right Size of Glove Liners for Hiking?
When choosing the right size of glove liners for hiking, it’s important to consider comfort and functionality. Start by measuring your hand circumference around the widest part, typically around the knuckles. Compare your measurements to the size chart provided by the manufacturer. Remember that some glove liners are designed to fit snugly, while others may have a looser fit.
Consider your layering needs and whether you prefer a tighter or more relaxed fit. If you’re between sizes, it’s generally recommended to size up for a better range of motion. Don’t forget to read customer reviews for specific brands and models, as they can provide insights into sizing accuracy and fit.
What Materials Should I Look for in Glove Liners for Hiking?
Merino wool is an excellent choice due to its natural moisture-wicking properties, breathability, and insulation, even when wet. It helps regulate temperature, keeping your hands warm in cold weather and cool in warmer conditions. Additionally, merino wool resists odor buildup, making it ideal for longer hikes.
Synthetic blends like polyester or nylon are durable, lightweight, and quick-drying. They often incorporate moisture-wicking and breathability features, ensuring your hands stay dry during strenuous activities. Synthetic liners are also less bulky, allowing for improved dexterity.
Silk glove liners are lightweight, soft, and provide excellent warmth retention. They are suitable for milder temperatures or as an additional layer under thicker gloves. Silk liners offer a comfortable fit and are known for their moisture-wicking capabilities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right glove liners for hiking can greatly enhance your outdoor experience. We explored some of the best options available on the market, considering factors such as material, insulation, breathability, and dexterity.
Merino wool liners proved to be a top choice, providing excellent warmth, moisture management, and odor control. They are also naturally soft and comfortable, ideal for long hikes in various weather conditions.
Synthetic liners, particularly those made with materials like polyester or nylon, offer durability and quick-drying properties. They are a great option for hikers who expect to encounter wet or rainy conditions, as they effectively wick away moisture and maintain warmth even when wet. Glove liners with conductive fingertips are a game-changer for those seeking added dexterity and touchscreen compatibility. These allow you to operate your smartphone or GPS device without removing your gloves, which can be incredibly convenient and time-saving on the trail.
