Adding a liner and shell glove increases warmth by approximately 50% compared to wearing only a base glove. But there are many ways to make your gloves warmer. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Layering for Warmth
The most effective way to increase glove warmth is through layering:
- Base Layer (Liner Gloves): Thin gloves, often made of merino wool, silk, or synthetic materials like polypropylene, wick away moisture. This is crucial because moisture leads to cold hands.
- Insulating Layer (Mid-Layer Gloves): These provide the primary warmth. Options include fleece, down, or synthetic insulation like PrimaLoft.
- Shell Layer (Outer Gloves/Mittens): These protect against wind and water. Look for waterproof and windproof materials like Gore-Tex. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves because they allow your fingers to share body heat.
By combining these layers, you trap more air and create a warmer environment for your hands. The reference states this multi-layered approach offers approximately a 50% increase in warmth compared to single-layer gloves.
Additional Tips for Warmer Gloves
Beyond layering, consider these strategies:
- Glove Fit: Gloves that are too tight restrict circulation, leading to colder hands. Ensure you have enough room to wiggle your fingers. A little extra space allows for better insulation.
- Preheat Your Gloves: Before going outside, warm your gloves on a radiator or in a clothes dryer (on low heat).
- Hand Warmers: Disposable or rechargeable hand warmers provide an extra boost of heat. Place them on the back of your hands or on top of your fingers inside your gloves.
- Stay Dry: Avoid getting your gloves wet. Moisture quickly draws heat away from your hands. Consider a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment for your shell gloves.
- Improve Circulation: Exercise your hands and arms to promote better blood flow to your extremities. Swinging your arms in circles can help. Avoid caffeine and nicotine, as they can constrict blood vessels.
- Choose the Right Materials:
- Wool: Naturally warm, even when wet.
- Synthetic Insulation (PrimaLoft, Thinsulate): Offer good warmth-to-weight ratio and retain warmth when damp.
- Down: Excellent warmth for its weight but loses its insulating properties when wet.
- Mittens vs. Gloves: Mittens are generally warmer as fingers share heat.
Table: Glove Material Comparison
| Material | Warmth | Water Resistance | Breathability | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wool | Good | Low (unless treated) | Good | Naturally warm, even when wet; odor resistant | Can be itchy; slow to dry |
| Synthetic | Good | Good | Good | Warm when wet; dries quickly; often more affordable than down | Can be bulky; not as warm as down for the same weight |
| Down | Excellent | Low (unless treated) | Good | Lightweight; very warm | Loses warmth when wet; requires special care |
By combining effective layering techniques with the right materials and supplemental strategies, you can significantly enhance the warmth of your gloves and keep your hands comfortable in cold conditions.
