Running Gloves

Whether you run early in the morning or in late autumn and winter, cold hands are an annoying obstacle during your training. Running gloves protect your hands against cold, wind and rain without compromising on grip, flexibility and breathability. Thanks to lightweight and quick-drying materials you barely notice them, while your hands stay warm and functional. The right gloves make your running outfit completely complete.

The range varies from thin wind-resistant models for autumn to thickly lined thermal gloves for intense freezing cold. The most important selection criteria are the season in which you train, the desired insulation, the material, the fit and the touchscreen compatibility. Running gloves are an indispensable part of your winter running kit, together with a running hat and running jacket. Choose gloves that match the conditions you usually run in for the best protection and comfort throughout the colder season.

Cold hands not only distract but can also affect your grip, running technique and overall performance. When your hands get cold, your blood vessels constrict and reduce blood flow to your fingers. This gives a painful, stiff feeling that disrupts your concentration and affects your arm movement. Running gloves prevent this by retaining warmth while providing ventilation and freedom of movement at the same time.

Also read our blog starting with running for tips on how to fully equip yourself for every season.

The benefits of running gloves are:

• Protection of hands and fingers against cold, wind and rain
• Maintaining grip and fine motor skills at low temperatures
• Lightweight and barely noticeable while running
• Quick-dry material for dry hands after a shower
• Touchscreen-compatible on many models for using your phone on the go
• Easy to store in a pocket when you warm up

Which running gloves suit you?

You run in autumn at temperatures above zero and want to protect your hands against wind and light cold: Choose thin, wind-resistant running gloves. These are lightweight, well-ventilating and protect against cold wind without overheating at more intensive training. Combine with a long-sleeve running shirt for optimal comfort.

You run in winter at freezing temperatures and want maximum warmth: Choose thermal running gloves with fleece lining or insulating filling. These keep your hands warm even in severe cold without greatly restricting freedom of movement. Combine with arm and leg warmers and a warm running jacket for complete winter protection.

You run in changeable weather where you want to easily put on and take off: Choose thin convertible gloves that you can put in your pocket when you warm up. Models with a flip-back design or touchscreen fingers are extra handy for using your GPS watch or phone on the go.

You are a triathlete and looking for gloves for off-season training: Choose light, functional gloves that go with your triathlon clothing and do not interfere with gear changes or operating your bike computer during cold cycling training.

You run in rain or wet winter conditions: Choose gloves with water-repellent coating or waterproof material. Combine with reflective details for extra safety in gloomy weather conditions.

Materials and properties

Thermal fleece or insulating filling

The warmest option for training at freezing temperatures. Fleece lining is soft, comfortable and retains warmth effectively. Suitable for temperatures well below zero. The downside is less ventilation at more intensive paces.

Thin polyester or mesh material

The choice for autumn training and mild winters. Lightweight, well-ventilating and barely noticeable. Protects against cold wind but offers less warmth at freezing temperatures. Ideal if you warm up quickly or in changeable conditions.

Water-repellent coating

Keeps your hands dry in light rain and wet conditions. Water-repellent gloves are usually treated with a DWR coating that repels the first impact of a rain shower. In persistent heavy rain they can still get wet through.

Touchscreen-compatible fingers

A valuable feature for runners who want to operate their phone, GPS watch or sports watch without taking off their gloves. Always check when purchasing whether the model is touchscreen-compatible.

Reflective details

Running gloves with reflective elements increase your visibility during dark morning or evening runs. Combine with a running light or reflective vest for maximum visibility.

Our advice: Invest in two pairs of running gloves: a thin pair for the autumn and spring season and a thermal pair for winter. With two pairs you are well protected all year round. Always combine with a good sports watch for targeted training.

Who are running gloves suitable for?

• Runners who train outdoors all year round and want to protect their hands against winter cold.
• Triathletes who continue to train outdoors in autumn and winter in preparation for the next season.
• Marathon and long-distance runners who also do long endurance runs in the colder months.
• Beginning runners who are putting together their first winter running outfit.
• Athletes who train early or late and want to move comfortably even in the cold.

Need help with your choice?

We will be happy to help you. You can reach our running specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about running gloves

From what temperature do you wear running gloves?

Most runners start wearing gloves at temperatures below 7 to 10 degrees Celsius. When running you generate extra body heat, so your hands get cold later than when standing still. Personal sensitivity to cold also plays a big role.

Can I operate my phone with running gloves on?

That depends on the model. Many modern running gloves have touchscreen-compatible fingers that allow you to operate your phone, smartwatch or GPS watch without taking off your gloves. Check the product description for this feature.

How do I wash running gloves?

Most running gloves are machine washable on a delicate programme with cold or lukewarm water. Do not use fabric softener and preferably air dry. Always check the care label for specific instructions.

Are running gloves waterproof?

Not all models are waterproof. Some gloves have a water-repellent DWR coating that repels light rain, but in persistent heavy rain they can still get soaked. Check the product specifications for whether a model is specifically listed as waterproof or water-repellent.

What is the difference between thin and thermal?

Thin gloves are ideal for autumn and light cold. They are lightweight, ventilating and protect against cold wind. Thermal gloves have extra insulation for training at freezing temperatures. They keep your hands warmer but are slightly thicker and less ventilating at higher effort.