Depending on your kid’s activities and where you live, the best winter gloves may be a heavy-duty, waterproof pair for extended outdoor play, or a lightweight pair with touchscreen-compatible fingertips so they can use their tablet in the car. Plus, keep your kid’s personal preferences in mind: “Finding what children will keep on is just as important as anything else so involving them in the selection and shopping process can make all the difference,” San Diego-based pediatrician Curtis Leong, MD, tells Verywell Family. To find the best winter gloves for kids, we spoke with multiple pediatricians about how to pick warm, safe gloves for different age groups. We also carefully examined dozens of popular, highly-reviewed products, keeping in mind that the best winter gloves for kids are warm, made from high-quality materials, and easy to clean. These gloves come in two different kids’ sizes, and the hook and loop fasteners around the wrists can be tightened or loosened to best fit your child. The polyfill interlining keeps hands warm, while the patterned PU leather on the outside helps improve grip. Available in several color combinations, these windproof gloves are must-haves for winter. Price at time of publication: $12 These gloves also have knit cuffs and elastic wrists to keep snow from getting into your kid’s jacket sleeves, as well as non-slip PU leather palms for better gripping. Buckles keep the pair together when not in use. Price at time of publication: From $15 Adjustable wrist straps and elastic straps offer a customized, secure fit, and detachable wrist loops make for easy hanging when not in use. Check REI’s size chart for detailed measuring instructions before purchasing. Price at time of publication: $35 Polyester insulation keeps hands warm, while a waterproof membrane keeps moisture out. A hook and loop closure and an adjustable strap keep the mittens securely on wiggly fingers, and a clip and name label on the inside help keep them connected to their owners. Price at time of publication: $25 Price at time of publication: Starting at $29 Price at time of publication: $22 There are sizes to fit kids between 3 and 12 years old, and there are multiple color options available. Price at time of publication: $19 Price at time of publication: Starting at $17 The elastic straps with hook and loop closures helps the gloves tighten easily while keeping out the cold. Featuring a curved design, these gloves are meant to follow the natural bend of the hand for a closer fit and better grip. Price at time of publication: $120 Price at time of publication: $16 Whether they’re being worn as gloves or mittens, the thumbs are fully enclosed for extra warmth. The Thinsulate lining makes little hands nice and cozy, and a 2.5-inch knitted cuff can be tucked under clothing layers to thoroughly keep out snow. Elastic wrists widen to help the gloves slide on easily, and a grippy palm area and thumbs amp up the functionality during snow play or activities. Price at time of publication: $19
What to Look for in Winter Gloves for Kids
Materials
When picking the best pair of winter gloves for a kid, look for gloves that are made with comfortable yet functional outer materials, such as waterproof or windproof fabric. You’ll also want to look for an insulated inside and a warm, soft lining to keep their little hands cozy and dry. “Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton, muslin, and fleece,” Dr. Poinsett tells Verywell Family. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, are also safe and can be more budget-friendly than other options. Wool may irritate infants’ sensitive skin, so Dr. Poinsett recommends that babies wear a layer of cotton under wool garments.
Warmth
Warmth is a key factor in all winter gloves, but it may be more of a priority for some outdoor activities over others. For instance, a day on the slopes will require maximum warmth and waterproofing, while everyday use might favor other features, such as touchscreen compatibility. “Babies and kids need one extra layer of clothing compared to adults, and layering is the most effective way to bundle up babies and kids,” Dr. Poinsett says. “Watch for overheating signs such as sweating on the forehead, reddish face color, damp hair, and rapid breathing. Note it is normal for a baby’s hands and feet to be cool, so do not rely on checking hands and feet to determine if a baby is overheating.” Overall, prioritize function over style, Dr. Leong advises. While it can be tempting to pick a pair of kids’ gloves for the cuteness factor, it’s most important to go with a pair that will keep your kid warm and safe in the cold winter.
Care Instructions
Note the care instructions when buying winter gloves for kids, including how to spot clean, wash, and store when not in use. Many gloves are machine washable, but some materials, like leather, are hand-wash only, so consider your family’s laundry habits before purchasing a pair. If your little one is a thumbsucker, keep that in mind when making your purchase, since you’ll likely be doing frequent loads of laundry—Dr. Poinsett recommends keeping an extra pair of gloves on hand while you’re out and about so you can swap them with the slobbery ones.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Alesandra Dubin is a professional product reviewer in the parenting and lifestyle space. She’s also mom to boy-girl twins and has eight years of in-home, hands-on, kid-tested experience. However, gloves have their benefits, too. By separating the digits, gloves allow for more finger mobility, increasing overall dexterity. This is ideal for kiddos who enjoy outdoor activities for which they need to be able to use their hands and fingers—think gripping ski poles, tying ice skates, building snow forts, and more. Synthetic materials, like polyester, are great options for warmth in the snow. Made of breathable polyester fiber, the Hestra Junior Heli Gloves keep hands warm and dry—they’re windproof, waterproof, and help retain heat, even in wet conditions.
