Best Cold Weather Paddling Gloves: Gloves, Mittens, or Pogies?!

When the temperatures drop, keeping your hands warm is crucial for an enjoyable winter paddling experience. Unlike summer paddling, winter conditions expose your hands to constant cold water, wind chill, and low air temperatures. Without proper hand protection, your grip can weaken, dexterity can decline, and hypothermia becomes a real risk.

The best choice— gloves, mittens, or pogies —depends on your paddling style and how much grip and warmth you need. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you find the right fit for your next cold-water adventure.

Neoprene gloves are an all-around great choice for paddlers. They come in different thicknesses, typically ranging from 0.5mm to 3mm , so you can balance warmth with dexterity.

Key Benefits of Neoprene Gloves:

✅ Moderate warmth for cold water paddling
✅ Better dexterity than mittens
✅ Good grip for flatwater and coastal kayaking

For coastal kayaking, touring, or recreational paddling, neoprene gloves provide enough insulation without sacrificing paddle control . Some models feature grippy palms for enhanced traction and pre-curved fingers for comfort.

Recommended Gloves:

• WS Hydroskin Gloves - Next Adventure 
• Proton 2mm Glove - Next Adventure
• Forecast 2.0 Gloves - Next Adventure
• Electron 2mm Glove - Next Adventure

Mittens offer the most warmth by keeping your fingers together for heat retention. If you paddle in extreme cold, mittens are the best way to prevent numb fingers and discomfort.

Pros & Cons of Paddling Mittens:

✅ Superior insulation for frigid conditions
✅ Ideal for expeditions and extended paddling trips
❌ Reduced dexterity compared to gloves
❌ Bulkier fit may make handling small gear difficult

Some mittens come with cut-out palms that let you grip the paddle directly while still insulating the backs of your hands—great for those who want warmth without sacrificing control .

Recommended Mittens:

• Shittens - Next Adventure
• Gritstone Mitt 3mm - Next Adventure

Pogies are neoprene hand covers that attach to your paddle shaft with Velcro, forming an insulated cocoon for your hands. These are a top choice for whitewater paddlers and anyone who prioritizes grip and dexterity over insulation.

Why Choose Pogies?

✅ Allows direct contact with the paddle for superior control
✅ Traps warmth inside without restricting movement
✅ Ideal for whitewater kayaking, surf kayaking, or rapid river paddling

However, pogies limit hand mobility outside of paddling , meaning you might have to remove your hands for tasks like adjusting gear or grabbing snacks.

Recommended Pogies:

• Microwave Handwarmers - Next Adventure
• Clutch Pogies - Next Adventure

Still unsure what to get? Consider these factors when choosing the right hand protection:

1. Water Temperature

• Above 50°F (10°C): Thin neoprene gloves (0.5mm-2mm) are sufficient.
• Below 50°F (10°C): Go for thicker gloves (3mm) or mittens.
• Near-Freezing Water: Pogies for whitewater, mittens for touring.

2. Paddling Style

• Flatwater / Touring: Neoprene gloves or mittens.
• Whitewater / Surf Kayaking: Pogies for better grip.
• Expedition Paddling: Mittens for long-term warmth.

3. Dexterity Needs

• If you need precise finger movements , go for gloves.
• If you just want pure warmth , mittens are your best bet.

Q: Can I use ski gloves for paddling?

❌ No! Ski gloves aren’t waterproof and don’t offer the grip needed for paddling . Neoprene paddling gloves or mittens are designed for water exposure.

Q: What’s the warmest paddling glove material?

🔸 Neoprene is the most popular because it provides insulation even when wet . Some gloves use fleece-lined interiors for added warmth.

Q: Do pogies work in extreme cold?

⚠️ Pogies work well in cold air but not extreme cold water . If your hands frequently leave the paddle, gloves or mittens may be better.

Winter paddling offers breathtaking scenery and a peaceful experience—but staying warm is key. Whether you choose neoprene gloves, insulated mittens, or performance pogies , investing in the right hand protection will make all the difference.

🔥 Shop cold weather paddling gloves, mittens, and pogies at Next Adventure to stay warm and extend your paddling season!