9 Best Running Gloves And Mitts Reviewed 2023

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Features:

• Touchscreen compatible design
• Fleece materials for added warmth
• Reflective details

Pros:

• Moisture-wicking
• Warm while not bulky 

Cons:

• Warmer options available for colder days

Ranked as our best running gloves on this list, the Ronhill Prisms are low profile, sleek, and get the job done.

They’re warm without being bulky, and wick moisture really well. You also benefit from a touchscreen design (best used with your index finger). That means no taking off your gloves to use your phone.

And while the fleece-lined design helps keep the heat in, there are better options for those sub-zero temperatures. That includes the Inov-8 race ultra-running mittens at number 7 on our list.

But unless you’re facing freezing temperatures regularly, the Prisms are plenty warm for a pair of everyday running gloves.

Features:

• Soft inner-brushed fabric for increased warmth
• Touchscreen design
• Polartec power stretch

Pros:

• Windproof & abrasion resistant
• Workout wipe

Cons:

• Not the best for single digits

The TrailHeads men’s running gloves are ranked a close second.

They’re comfortable (thanks to the soft material and inner brushed fabric), and very wind-resistant. If you live by the sea, or let’s face it, anywhere in the UK, then this pair is a great option.

One nice feature is the workout wipe. You know when your nose starts running when you’re out running (what a mouthful) — well, that’s no longer a problem. Wipe away and focus on your run.

Although, like our number 1 pair (and other gloves on this list), there are better options for single-digit temps. Typically, a pair of mittens is your best choice when the temperature drops below freezing.

But for regular runs during winter and spring, these are some of the best running gloves.

Features:

• Touchscreen design
• Odour control
• The fingertips have the names of the New York City Burroughs

Pros:

• Anti-slip grip for a secure hold of your phone
• Anti-odour design

Cons:

• Touchscreen compatibility is not the best
• Dragonfly colour is pinker in-person

The most stylish choice on our list is this pair from New Balance.

You have a choice of two colours: black or dragonfly. But be warned, the dragonfly is more pinkish in-person. But if that’s your cup of tea, then there are no complaints here.

The fleece lining of the gloves is extremely smooth. There are also extra grippers on the palms to ensure a firm grip, whether holding a phone, a set of poles, or a water bottle.

To be perfectly honest, there’s nothing too special about this pair of gloves. They are not the best running gloves —it’s a basic glove — but you know exactly what you’re getting. They’re also pretty damn stylish.

On the fingers of each glove, you’ll find the names of the 5 New York City Burroughs — if you’re the sort of person who visits New York and buys an “I love New York t-shirt,” then you’ll love this addition. And if not, well, it’s a nice feature.

Features:

• Sweat-wicking fabric increases comfort
• Reflective detailing increases visibility
• Touchscreen compatible

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Choice of 2 colours
• Lightweight design

Cons:

• Could be thicker

This pair from Time to run is the best running gloves for those on a budget.

If you’ve only recently started running or if you can’t see the point in spending £££ on a pair of gloves, then these are for you.

You have a choice of two colours: black or blinding yellow. They’ll keep you warm, dry, and visible (thanks to the reflective details).

But because there are more budget-friendly options, they run a little on the thin side. You’ll really start to feel the temperatures when they drop, and they likely won’t last as long as other gloves on this list.

Despite this, when you’re shopping on a budget, you can’t ask for much more. They hold their own and get the job done.

Features:

• Full 360 reflective design
• Internal waterproofing and insulation
• Silicone web grip

Pros:

• Highly reflective
• Warm & waterproof

Cons:

• Not the most budget friendly

If visibility is important to you, then the Proviz running gloves are an excellent choice.

In fact, they are most likely the most reflective running gloves out there.

You may already know Proviz for its highly reflective running and cycling jackets.

Well, their running gloves are no different. They use a full 360 reflective design — ideal for running in low light conditions and at night.

Related: 6 Best reflective running jackets in 2023.

And while the main selling point is the reflectivity, they’re also a pretty good pair of gloves.

They have waterproofing and insulation to not only keep you seen, but dry when the wet weather inevitably kicks in.

These gloves are originally intended for cycling. But who says you can’t use them for running?

You’ll find runners, dog walkers, and others enjoying these gloves. And hey, somebody will definitely stop you and ask where you found those gloves — “they’re so bright, where did you get them?”

Features:

• 3 in 1 design (worn as gloves, mittens, or both)
• Super lightweight & breathable
• Fully waterproof outer mitten

Pros:

• Packs down light
• High-wicking and fast-drying

Cons:

• Can be a little awkward to switch mid-run
• Not the most budget-friendly

We’re now on to our first pair of mittens, although they’re gloves first.

The Inov-8 Race elite running gloves contain a 3 in 1 design — that includes a pair of gloves, mittens, and then combining the two for harsh conditions.

Designed with the fell runner in mind, you’ll find silicone prints for added grip navigating rocks and tough climbs. They also pack down light for storage and are highly breathable (even when wearing the glove and mitten together).

They can be a little awkward to switch mid-run, so maybe don’t wear them for an interval session. But with the warmth they provide (and versatility), this makes for a great pair of winter running gloves.

But they are definitely a more pricey option — so keep that in mind.

If you’re looking for a running mitten on the cheaper end, our number 9 pick by Ronhill is a great alternative.

Features:

• Reflective details
• Very warm design
• Fits perfectly in Inov8’s running shorts and pants

Pros:

• Packs down small
• Stretchable wrist loops to stop you losing them

Cons:

• On the small side — you might want to size up

These breathable mitts by Inov-8 are the best for cold weather (but not freezing) runs.

They can be worn alone or over a pair of gloves for added warmth. Lightweight in design and easy to carry, you can throw them in your pack when you’re out storming the fells for a little reassurance in case the weather turns sour.

Which, more often than not, it does.

You also have stretchable wrist loops to prevent losing a glove (or two). And they fit perfectly into any of Inov-8’s running shorts or pants.

Although, because they can also be worn over gloves, you may need to size up.

Related: 10 Best men’s running tights and leggings in 2023.

Features:

• 2 in 1 convert from gloves to running mittens
• Reflective waterproof shell design
• Hidden magnets to pair your gloves together

Pros:

• Highly reflective
• Touchscreen compatible

Cons:

• Some runners said they could be warmer

The 2 in 1 design allows you to switch between running gloves and mittens.

But where these running mittens really shine (quite literally) is the reflective mitten outer layer shell.

A lot of mittens are more focused on keeping you warm (which is needed) and lack a reflective design. And although not as bright as the Proviz gloves, they do a damn good job of keeping you seen.

For those who are prone to losing a glove or two, the mittens contain hidden magnets to keep them together.

And unlike the 3 in 1 pair from Inov-8, the outer mitten tucks into the pocket at the top of the wrist for easy access. That means less fidgeting and rustling around your pack with cold fingers.

Some runners said they could be warmer, but for standard cold temperatures, they are an excellent option.

Features:

• Thermal properties for added warmth
• Moisture-wicking
• Touchscreen compatible

Pros:

• Reflective
• Windproof
• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• Can only be worn as a mitten

And for those on a budget looking for a pair of running mittens, Ronhill have you covered.

We’ll start with the only downside: they can only be worn as a mitten. Good for cold weather, but not ideal for regular running in cooler temperatures. But hey, that’s what mittens are for!

The moisture-wicking design is very good, especially because it’s a budget option. It’s also touchscreen compatible and contains thermal properties for added warmth.

It’s a solid pair of mittens. And while there could be a few upgrades here and there, it’s difficult to argue with the price tag.

With so many styles, brands, and prince ranges on offer, it can be challenging to find the best running gloves for you.

But worry not — we’ve put together a brief guide to help you choose.

Find a pair that fits well

If they don’t fit, you’ll lose heat, and they’ll flap around in the wind.

If possible, try before you buy. If you can’t, measure your hands and buy using a size guide for the best results.

Choice of material

This is where things get complicated. And quickly.

There are loads of materials out there, including:

• Merino wool (quick-drying)
• Polyester
• Spandex and Nylon (used to make wet suits)

There are also other fabrics used to create fleece gloves, thermal running gloves, and that nifty waterproof outer shell we all love (Gore-Tex).

Merino wool is a top choice for most people — but others find it itchy.

Spandex and Nylon create a tighter fit and are great at retaining heat.

And any glove with a fleece lining (that fits well) typically keeps your hands warm well.

Breathability

If you’ve ever worn a pair of gloves on a hot day, you’ll know just how uncomfortable and clammy your hands get.

Well, if your gloves have poor breathability and ventilation unable to wick sweat properly, you’ll get the same experience in the middle of winter. Not fun.

It’s something to watch out for — but typically, you’ll also want to avoid thicker gloves and mittens for regular single-digit temperatures. Save those for when it dips below zero.

Weather protection

A good pair of running gloves will not only keep your hands warm, but will provide optimal weather protection.

Some contain a waterproof membrane, others a windproof or waterproof shell.

More heavy-duty gloves and mittens are designed for the worst of weather. While lightweight gloves are meant for cold, but not freezing temps (and extreme weather).

Touchscreen compatible material

Touchscreen tips used to be a key selling point for a pair of gloves. If you could use your phone without removing your gloves, you were a rockstar.

Now though, touchscreen tips are standard. Most gloves contain this technology.

Some gloves are better at it than others and you’ll usually need to use your index finger for the best results.

Reflective logos and details

Reflective logos, panels, patches, and other details will keep you seen.

You don’t need the world’s brightest gloves — but a few reflective patches will provide that extra bit of safety we all crave.

Grip

You’ll find a lot of gloves have extra grip across the palm of the hand and the inner fingers.

This is likely to be a key selling point if you carry a water bottle, poles, or other gear when running. It makes life that little bit easier.

Wrist cuffs and straps

Wrist cuffs secure your hand and keep the heat in.

Some also contain straps and fasteners (and even magnets) that keep the gloves attached when you’re not using them.

If you’re prone to losing gloves, look for this feature.

Dexterity

And finally, we have dexterity. Some gloves are so tight (we’re looking at you: Spandex and Nylon) that your dexterity is compromised.

It can be difficult to clench your fist, use your phone, or carry a water bottle. And god knows how you’re supposed to carry a set of poles…

It feels more like you’re a bionic and less like a runner.

Find a pair that allows you to move your hands freely.

Yes, especially during winter and spring.

If your hands feel cold after running and you struggle to move them, you definitely need to be wearing a pair of gloves.

Some people have worse circulation than others — if the above sounds like you, gloves are needed.

And in the winter months especially, all runners should be wearing gloves. You don’t want to risk frostbite when running in sub-zero temperatures.

This is down to personal preference.

You might do fine with the cold until it hits low single-digit temperatures or below.

But for most runners, winter and spring are the best times to wrap up.

And as a general guide, anything below 5 degrees Celsius is a good time to reach for a pair of gloves.

If you’re running below 0, a pair of mittens are usually the better option.

But again, it’s down to you.

If you’re running on the fells however, consider packing some just in case.

While you’ll more than likely get away without washing your gloves for a while, there will come a time when you should probably plunge them in warm water to stop nasty odours from developing.

We suggest washing your running gloves in warm, not boiling water.

The water should ideally be less than 30 degrees Celcius to prevent any damage to the material.

Additional tip: Avoid tumble drying your gloves (and other running gear) — this can damage the material and may cause it to shrink.

A pair of running gloves should fit nice and snug. They certainly shouldn’t be too big either, as this increases the risk of chafing and won’t keep you as warm. This kind of defeats the point of the essential piece of cold weather kit.

If you’re buying a pair of mittens, you may need to size up. But it depends on the brand — read sizing reviews before purchasing for the best fit.