If you’re a passionate photographer, I’m sure you’ve found yourself in some incredibly frosty situations, trying to capture the perfect winter shot. Don’t worry, I’ve been there, too. Numb fingers and fumbling dials, that’s the reality of winter photography without the right gear. Lucky for us, there are so many amazing winter photography gloves out there. These are essential gear in my cold-weather kit. From full-fingered warmth to convertible convenience, these gloves strike the perfect balance between insulation and functionality, allowing my hands to stay agile even when the temperature drops. Want to know which gloves on the market are worth your attention? Check out my favorites below! They’ll keep your fingers toasty and happy all winter long.
Table of contents
- Freehands Stretch Thinsulate Gloves
- Beststeven Winter Convertible Gloves
- EnergeticSky Waterproof Winter Gloves
- KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves
- Cevapro -30°F Winter Gloves
- Vallerret Hatchet Photography Gloves
- Vallerret Milford Photography Gloves
- RucPac Professional Tech Gloves
- Vallerret Urbex Photography Gloves
- Extremus Winter Gloves
- Palmyth Flexible Fishing Gloves
- RucPac Extreme Tech Gloves
- Vallerret Markhof Pro 2.0 Photography Gloves
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Winter Photography Gloves
- Why do photographers wear gloves?
- Is it better to shoot with gloves?
- Do tight gloves make your hands colder?
Freehands Stretch Thinsulate Gloves
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Kicking off this list are the Freehands Stretch Thinsulate Gloves, budget-friendly gloves that offer more than their price tag. When I wore them for the first time, they almost felt like a second skin as the stretchy fabric moved with me. The Thinsulate lining was also instantly noticeable, offering a comforting warmth without feeling bulky.
With these gloves, I was able to survive the icy winds easily and my fingers could stay toasty. Meanwhile, the silicone palm patches add extra grip. I was able to grip my camera with confidence and no clumsiness at all. Best of all, the magnetic fingertip flaps allowed me to have quick touchscreen access. No more bulky mitten gloves!
Pros
- Their high-quality construction premises have long-lasting use.
- They have a snug fit but allow your fingers to move comfortably.
- Among the most affordable options.
Cons
- Unfortunately, they’re waterproof.
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Beststeven Winter Convertible Gloves
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Up next are the Beststeven Winter Convertible Gloves, a pair of 2-in-1 gloves with a flip-top design. When I needed to protect my precious fingers from the chilly winds, I would use the gloves as mittens. But when I needed to control my camera dial or use my phone, all I had to do was flip the mitten and my fingers would be exposed. Talk about convenience!
One of the reasons why these gloves could keep my hands toasty was because of their polar fleece shell. It was thick and extremely warm. Wearing the gloves was also easy thanks to the elastic cuffs. On top of that, these affordable gloves are available in five different sizes, from XS to XL, so you’ll definitely find a pair that suits you perfectly.
Pros
- They’re one of the cheapest choices on the market.
- These gloves have a classic and simple design.
- Warmer than many other gloves around the same price range.
Cons
- Their durability isn’t on par with more expensive gloves.
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EnergeticSky Waterproof Winter Gloves
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Whether I want to take photos using my phone or camera, the last thing I want is to look like I’m wearing some ridiculous oven mitts. This is why I was intrigued by the EnergeticSky Waterproof Winter Gloves. They promised all the warmth and waterproofing I needed with the added bonus of touchscreen compatibility and a sleek design.
I wore these gloves when there was a full-blown blizzard and I was able to stay toasty. The 3M Thinsulate insulation was no joke as it trapped heat effectively. Not to mention, the fingertips of these gloves have a special conductive coating that works like magic. And when I wanted to feel the dial more precisely, all I had to do was flip back the finger cap.
Pros
- Though cheap, these gloves are extremely warm.
- There are four sizes to choose from.
- They’re flexible and comfortable.
Cons
- Not the most breathable gloves.
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KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves
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Despite their name, you don’t have to be an angler to wear these gloves. The KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves are also amazing photography gloves, thanks to their open finger slots for index, middle, and ring fingers. Once I popped them open I was able to control my camera dial more precisely and use my phone more easily. Don’t worry; the rest of the fingers stayed cozy under the softshell hood. These gloves truly offered me the perfect balance of warmth and feel.
What about the grip? I’m happy to tell you that it didn’t disappoint me either. The neoprene and microfiber palm kept the water out the entire time but it also showed me its crazy grip. My camera was always in my hand all the time. Finally, these gloves are available in three different colorways, but the blackout variant has to be the most eye-catching one. By the way, did you know that these gloves are featured on our list of the best fly-fishing winter gloves?
Pros
- All the finger caps are touchscreen-friendly.
- They’re highly versatile gloves that can be worn for various activities.
- They’re cheap but warm.
Cons
- They’re a bit bulky.
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Cevapro -30°F Winter Gloves
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With fantastic reviews on Amazon, it’s easy to see why the Cevapro -30°F Winter Gloves are so popular. For one, the outer shell is a mix of deerskin suede and PU leather, which makes the gloves feel both supple and durable. When I tested them, I was also impressed by the inner lining, which is a luxuriously thick fleece. It allowed my hands to feel a one-of-a-kind cozy comfort.
I tested these gloves when the temperature hovered around -15°F, and let me tell you, these gloves were amazing. My hands stayed snug and warm throughout the day, even when I stopped to snap photos. Yes; I didn’t have to take the gloves off since the fingertips are touchscreen compatible, which is perfect for mobile photography. Not to mention, the grip was excellent, allowing me to confidently grab my camera without worry. Are you into biking? If so, check out these best gloves for winter biking!
Pros
- These gloves are waterproof.
- They can be worn for various winter activities like cycling and skiing, too.
- They’re available in four sizes.
Cons
- The thick fleece makes the gloves a bit bulky for delicate tasks.
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Vallerret Hatchet Photography Gloves
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Looking for a rugged guardian for those precious fingers? Look no further than the Vallerret Hatchet Photography Gloves! Made from thick, supple goat leather, these gloves aren’t something you want to overlook. Right out of the box, I could tell they were really durable. With minimal seams and reinforced palms, I quickly understood why they cost over a hundred dollars.
I’ve worn and tested these gloves in a brutal condition. Though the icy mountain winds were unforgiving, my hands were kept warm and cozy thanks to these gloves. The water beads rolled off the leather easily, too. The touchscreen compatibility is another gem. No more taking off your glove just to answer a call or check the map.
Pros
- They’re available in two colors: black and natural tan.
- With the Flip-Tech finger caps, you can adjust your camera more comfortably.
- They’re lined with merino wool for optimal warmth.
Cons
- They’re on the pricier side.
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Vallerret Milford Photography Gloves
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Most Innovative. A cozy fleece liner paired with a waterproof shell? Sign me up! The Vallerret Milford Photography Gloves excel in adaptability. The fleece liner, as I first expected, was warm. But when the weather decides to throw a tantrum, don’t panic! Simply pull out the ripstop shell from the back pocket and it’ll protect your hands from the elements. That sounds pretty cool, right?
Like many other gloves from Vallerret, the Milford also features the Flip-Tech fingertips. With a flick of my wrist, I could expose my thumb, index, and middle fingers for a more precise camera control and touchscreen magic. The non-slip grip was also a highlight. Whether I was bracing against the wind or adjusting my tripod, the gloves provided me with a reassuring hold. Learn more about these gloves on their official product page!
Pros
- These gloves provide a 2-in-1 photography solution.
- The shell is water-repellent and highly durable.
- There are five sizes to choose from.
Cons
- The sizing runs a bit snug.
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RucPac Professional Tech Gloves
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Best Budget. Compared to its big-brand competitors, the RucPac Professional Tech Gloves are noticeably more affordable. However, don’t underestimate these beasts! Like the brand’s more expensive gloves, they’re constructed from a durable, weather-resistant material. Though I only spent a day with them, I knew how good they were. They felt lightweight and not bulky at all.
Unlike some photography gloves, they don’t expose your fingers at all. The touchscreen-compatible fingertips, along with the rubberized palms were thoughtful touches, allowing me to grip my camera properly. Even when I was running I never dropped my camera. With these gloves, you can snap your favorite pictures without those hand warmers anymore. But in case you’re also looking for a new one, here are some of the best electric hand warmers!
Pros
- They’re some of the most lightweight gloves out there.
- These gloves have the perfect balance of price and performance.
- Since they’re lightweight, they’re also great as a base layer.
Cons
- May not be warm enough for extremely cold weather.
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Vallerret Urbex Photography Gloves
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Most Stylish. Who says the best photography gloves for winter have to look the same? Perfect for urban photographers who are style-conscious, the Vallerret Urbex Photography Gloves have the right balance of style and performance. I still remember the first time I unboxed the gloves. I was awed by the beautiful brown leather, and the buttery-soft merino wool lining was a highlight. The merino kept my fingers toasty even during a frigid morning, while the goat leather exterior shrugged off the elements with ease.
Another welcome surprise was the magnetic FlipTech finger caps, which allowed for quick touchscreen access without sacrificing warmth. This is such a clever design for on-the-go shooting. Also, you don’t have to think of the size of your hands, as these gloves are available in five different sizes, from XS to XL. Also, make sure to watch this review video!
Pros
- Arguably the most stylish options on the market.
- The genuine goat leather exterior makes the gloves feel luxurious.
- The cuff is flexible and can keep your wrist warm.
Cons
- Only available in one color.
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Extremus Winter Gloves
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Our list won’t be the same without the Extremus Winter Gloves. I wore these gloves when I was on a snowshoeing trip with my friends last year. While the weather was cold, my hands were snug as a bug in a rug. The fleece lining was no joke, as it trapped precious body heat like a champ. To make things better, these gloves come with an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, so you can make sure no chilly wind can enter.
Another thing that you’ll like is their touch-screen-friendly fingertips. That way, you don’t have to remove your glove to use your phone or touch the camera screen anymore. What’s more, the palms provided me with excellent grip. I never accidentally let go of my camera and I was able to grasp onto slippery branches with power.
Pros
- These gloves are available in various color options.
- Though cheap, they’re highly durable.
- Aside from photography, they can also be used for other winter activities.
Cons
- The sizing is a bit off.
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Palmyth Flexible Fishing Gloves
3
While the Palmyth Flexible Fishing Gloves, as you can guess, are made for fishing, they’re great for photography, too. With flip-back thumb, index, and middle finger caps, I was able to use my phone and touch the screen of my camera with ease. I also loved how the fleece lining kept my hands warm. The weather was about 42°F back then and I didn’t feel cold at all.
On top of that, these highly breathable gloves are also water-repellent and windproof. As long as it doesn’t rain heavily, you have nothing to worry about. I got the large variant of these gloves and they fitted my hands well. They weren’t too tight but not loose either. And if you have really big hands, fret not, as they come in XS to 3XL.
Pros
- These are some of the most versatile gloves on the market.
- With an adjustable wrist strap, you can easily have the perfect fit.
- Though cheap, they’re really comfortable.
Cons
- Not for extremely cold weather.
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RucPac Extreme Tech Gloves
2
Best for Dry Winter. While there are so many self-proclaimed “great” photography gloves on the market, not many quite measure up to the RucPac Extreme Tech Gloves. They’re no ordinary gloves, and I’m here to tell you why. One of the things that caught my attention when I first received them was their minimalist design. As you can see, they have a professional look that’s far from bulky.
The high-quality materials were evident the moment I slipped them on. The inside cradled my hands and the durable mitt-style outer shell felt durable. Whenever I wanted to set my fingers free, all I had to do was flip back the hood. Moreover, thanks to the rubberized palms, I was able to hold my camera tightly.
Pros
- Even though these gloves are thick, controlling the camera dials is easy.
- They’re available in three sizes, all with the same price tags.
- A super comfortable option for dry winter days.
Cons
- They don’t perform well in heavy snow.
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Vallerret Markhof Pro 2.0 Photography Gloves
1
Best Overall. I’ve tried and tested some of the best gloves for photography in cold weather, but the Vallerret Markhof Pro 2.0 Photography Gloves remain my favorite. Pulling on these gloves, I was immediately impressed by the snug, pre-curved fit. More importantly, the merino wool liner felt soft against my skin, and the Thinsulate insulation offered a reassuringly substantial layer of warmth. And no; the gloves didn’t feel bulky at all.
“With these gloves, winter photography has never been more enjoyable.”
WOW Travel
On top of that, the outer shell, which is a blend of weather-resistant nylon and PU, exuded a quality like no other. I tried wearing these gloves when the temperature was around 14°F. Despite the biting chill, my hands remained comfortably warm. The touch-screen compatible fingertips also allowed me to adjust my camera settings easily without removing them. Even with the gloves on, I could still feel the subtle ridges of the dials and click the buttons with zero problems. Need more convincing? Check out this review by danielwrethamphotography.com!
Pros
- Built-in SD card pocket for convenience.
- These gloves are designed to withstand many winter adventures.
- The fingertips are flippable.
Cons
- They’re slightly smaller than expected.
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Our Verdict!
Comparing all of the gloves’ features and performance, I think the Vallerret Markhof Pro 2.0 Photography Gloves are the best overall option. However, depending on your needs and preferences, the rest are worth considering, too. Below are the standouts based on their respective categories:
- Best for Dry Winter: RucPac Extreme Tech Gloves
- Most Stylish: Vallerret Urbex Photography Gloves
- Best Budget: RucPac Professional Tech Gloves
- Most Innovative: Vallerret Milford Photography Gloves
How To Choose The Best Winter Photography Gloves
Choosing the right photography gloves is crucial for capturing the perfect shots. Here are some key factors to consider:
Warmth
First of all, your gloves have to be able to keep your hands warm in cold conditions. Look for gloves with high-quality insulation, such as Thinsulate or PrimaLoft, as it’s key for trapping heat without excessive bulk. If possible, look for gloves with windproof and waterproof properties, too.
Dexterity
In addition to that, your gloves must also allow for precise control of your camera’s buttons and dials. Look for gloves with a snug fit and articulated fingers. Or, you can also opt for those with flip-back finger caps for better control.
Comfort
Comfort is paramount, as you may be wearing the gloves for extended periods. So, look for gloves with a good fit that isn’t too tight or too loose. Additionally, you’ll want to consider soft linings and adjustable wrist closures to enhance comfort and retain heat.
Why do photographers wear gloves?
Some photographers wear gloves to keep their hands warm when the weather is cold. That way, they won’t have cold and clammy hands.
Is it better to shoot with gloves?
Of course, it’s always better to shoot without gloves. However, they do come in handy when you’re shooting in cold climates.
Do tight gloves make your hands colder?
Yes, tight gloves can make your hands colder as they can constrict blood flow to your fingers and hands.
