Kayaking gloves come in many different styles and types, which is why it’s important to know what you need your gloves for before buying them.
What is the best way to kayak in cold water? With warm hands! You may be wondering what you can do to keep your hands warm. Some people wear neoprene gloves, but these are bulky and clumsy.
You may also be considering kayaking with wet hands, but this can result in numbness, skin irritation, and even tendonitis. The solution is Kayak gloves made specifically for kayaking.
Kayak gloves are great for kayaking in cool weather, but not very practical when it’s hot out. If you plan on kayaking all year long, you may want to consider buying two or three pairs of different weights to accommodate temperature changes throughout the season.
Some water handwear designed by kayakers include fingerless gloves, neoprene gloves with holes on the top, and some padding at the palm or fingertips.
Kayak paddles come in a wide variety of materials, shapes, weights, and lengths. Although many kayakers will tell you there is no “perfect” kayak paddle for everyone, most experts agree that you should try out different styles before buying one.
You may want to choose a paddle that is shorter than you think necessary, as the longer the kayak paddle, the more difficult it will be to control and maneuver in currents and windy conditions.
Top 5 Picks Comparison
Reviews – the Best Gloves for Kayaking
1. WaterLine Half Finger Paddling Gloves
The Waterlines were designed with paddling in mind and are our top choice for quality and budget. The padding is perfect and the material is great. The gloves are super grippy and have these great small loops that make taking them off a super easy process.
- No seams in important points so they won’t tear
- Good grip
- Easy to take off and dry
2. WindRider Ultra Grip
The WindRider Ultra Grip is another good set of kayaking gloves. The ergonomic design is super comfy to wear and what’s more important, they breathe. Your hands won’t get sweaty and overheat in them. These are fingerless gloves with a low-profile wrist so it won’t hit your jacket or watch.
- Nice padding
- The low profile wrist and soft velcro are handy
- Hands won’t get sweaty in them
- Super grippy and ideal for smaller hands
3. FitsT4 Unisex ¾
The FitsT4 are a great set of glove that can be used for all things wet. They are designed with soft spandex which feels great on your hands. Not too tight, just the right amount of snug. They are breathable and the seams are super high quality. The hook and loop system lets you take them off in a second.
- You really get all the dexterity you want
- Can be used for multiple sports
- Super comfy
4. RainRider Sailing Gloves for Men
These long finger gloves are great for any water-related sport and with good reason. RainRider has created some amazing sailing gloves that fit your hand perfectly. With two layers of material in the gloves, you can be sure that your hands will be protected from any chafing or accidental slips.
With a ¾ finger length, you have enough mobility to do anything and still have protection on your hands.
- Adjustable velcros will give you a snug fit
- Double layering makes the durable
- Breathable and ergonomic
5. Kemimoto Kayaking Gloves
The kemimoto kayaking gloves are a super cheap option with some great features. These offer UV and sun protection and are ideal for the summer and the heat. The inner silicone gives you great grip and paddling is a breeze in them. They are fingerless so also ideal for fishermen.
- Ideal for any sport
- Very breathable
- Amazing grip
- They are stretchy
6. FANGIER UV Protection 3
Last but not least the Fangier gloves are another three-finger open set that is great for any fisherman or outdoor sports fan. With a durable and reinforced palm they won’t tear and they will protect your hands. The breathable material is easy washed and dried and they also feature UV protection from the sun. All in all, great for dexterity and they look cool too.
- High-quality material
- Stretchy and dries easily
- Good for an outdoor sport
- Super cheap
Essential Things to Think About When Shopping for Kayak Gloves
How Do You Intend to Use the Kayaking Gloves?
Kayak gloves come in all different styles. Are you looking for a pair of waterproof kayaking gloves, or are you looking for something with abrasion resistance? Maybe both! It’s important to figure out what type of protection your hands need before buying any kind of glove.
If you’re doing anything strenuous on the water, such as paddling or pulling yourself out onto the shore, it is suggested that you look into getting some good quality kayaking gloves with wrist support and/or padding so that your fingers don’t fall off while venturing through nature’s playground.
Gloves made specifically for fishing might also be right up your alley if this interests you too!
For What Weather Am I Buying Kayaking Gloves?
It’s important to remember that you can’t wear any type of glove if it isn’t safe to do so. If you’re kayaking during colder months, for example, you should absolutely be looking into waterproof gloves.
These will not only keep your hands dry but also warm, though it is suggested that lightweight paddle gloves are worn underneath heavy-duty paddling gloves so as to maintain dexterity and movement in your fingers.
For kayakers who enjoy fun in the sun, look into getting some stylish breathable mesh kayak gloves! They’ll keep your hands cool while protecting them from harmful UV rays.
For What Activities Do I Need Kayaking Gloves
If you plan on kayaking in any conditions, it’s important to look for a pair of paddling gloves that will protect your hands from the elements.
For example, if you are planning on kayaking in colder weather or rocky terrain, you should purchase some breathable and waterproof gloves to make sure your hands stay safe and dry while out on the water.
When buying kayaking gloves, don’t forget there are many other outdoor activities:
What kind of area will I be kayaking in? No matter where you plan on kayaking, the weather conditions could quickly change and turn dangerous (cold waters and high winds).
Check the forecast before heading out and make sure to pack a dry bag with all of your supplies just in case.
Gloves that provide flexibility while being resistant to wind are great for paddling across open water. On the other hand, if you’ll be kayaking through choppy or rough waters then a neoprene mask that protects your hands is essential.
How To Fit Kayak Gloves?
How well do my kayaking gloves fit? Make sure that your gloves are adjustable around the wrist to provide a snug, but not too tight fit. Gloves that are too loose will make it difficult for you to grip your paddle and steer your kayak where you need to go.
On the other hand, gloves that are too tight can make paddling uncomfortable and even painful after long periods of time.
Can I Use My Smartphone With Kayaking Gloves?
Do I plan on using my phone while I’m out in my kayak? If so, then consider buying gloves with touchscreen fingertips like these . To use the screen on your device you’ll need to swipe or tap along the surface of the glove instead of trying to press buttons; this will prevent water damage to your phone.
How Often Will I Use My Kayaking Gloves?
If you plan on using your gloves frequently then consider investing in a pair that has insulation or is made with waterproof materials like neoprene or leather. As an added bonus, this kind of kayak gloves typically last longer than their cheaper counterparts and can also be used for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
On the other hand, if you won’t be using your kayaking gloves very often then feel free to buy a less expensive version from a place like Amazon instead.
Though there are many factors to take into consideration when buying kayaking gloves, knowing what you need them for before shopping will help narrow down your options so that finding the perfect pair is easier and less time-consuming.
As you can see, it is important to keep all of these factors in mind when buying a good-quality pair of kayak gloves. Some qualities such as comfort and dexterity may be difficult to assess based on product descriptions alone; therefore we recommend that you read through the customer reviews before adding any products into your cart!
Happy shopping!
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Adelaide Gentry, a seasoned kayaking enthusiast and expert, is the driving force behind KayakPaddling.net. With over a decade of experience navigating the world’s most challenging waterways, Adelaide combines her passion for adventure with a deep knowledge of kayaking to provide insightful and practical guidance for paddlers of all levels.
