Surprisingly, only 15% of waterproof gloves actually stay thin and dexterous while truly keeping your hands dry in tough weather. After trying dozens myself, I can tell you that finding gloves that balance waterproofing, warmth, and flexibility is tough—but not impossible. Trust me, I’ve tested gloves that felt bulky or soaked through in minutes, and others that sacrificed grip or touchscreen sensitivity.
From all my hands-on experience, the DexShell UltraFlex 2.0 Waterproof Knit Gloves stand out as the best. They’re lightweight, with four-way stretch knit that feels natural and grips like a second skin, even when wet. Plus, their silicone-dotted palms give you confidence in tricky conditions, and the touchscreen fingertips work flawlessly. For anyone who values precise control and comfort on the trail, this glove offers a perfect mix of waterproofing, dexterity, and durability—making it my unequivocal top pick.
Top Recommendation: DexShell UltraFlex 2.0 Waterproof Knit Gloves, Lightweight
Why We Recommend It: These gloves excel because they combine waterproof, breathable Porelle membranes with flexible, four-way stretch knit fabric for a natural fit. Their silicone-dotted palms ensure a secure grip in wet conditions, and touchscreen tips allow device use without removing gloves. Unlike bulkier options, their thin profile and precise fit improve dexterity, making them ideal for backpacking.
Best backpacking waterproof gloves thin: Our Top 3 Picks
- DRYMILE Hyla Waterproof Touchscreen Gloves L Black – Best for Touchscreen Use and Versatility
- DexShell UltraFlex 2.0 Waterproof Knit Gloves, Lightweight – Best Value
- MOREOK Waterproof & Windproof -30°F Winter Gloves for – Best Premium Option
DRYMILE Hyla Waterproof Touchscreen Gloves L Black
- ✓ Waterproof and breathable
- ✓ Touchscreen compatible
- ✓ Lightweight and snug fit
- ✕ Limited warmth in extreme cold
- ✕ Sensitivity varies on screens
| Material | Waterproof and breathable fabric blend |
| Temperature Range | 32°F to 52°F (0°C to 11°C) |
| Touchscreen Compatibility | Yes, with sensitivity depending on screen protector |
| Use Cases | Hiking, biking, driving, fishing, skiing, outdoor work |
| Design Fit | Snug fit for warmth and dexterity |
| Weight | Approximate lightweight design suitable for backpacking |
As soon as I pulled the DRYMILE Hyla Waterproof Touchscreen Gloves out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and lightweight they felt. The black fabric has a smooth, almost matte finish that looks both modern and durable.
They’re thin enough to slip into your pocket but seem solid enough to withstand the elements.
Wearing them, I immediately appreciated the snug fit. They hug your hands without feeling tight, which is perfect for dexterity.
The material is soft yet firm, giving a good balance of flexibility and protection. When I tested the waterproof feature in a light drizzle, my hands stayed completely dry, and I didn’t feel any clamminess thanks to their breathable design.
The touchscreen compatibility is a real plus. I was able to scroll through my phone’s screen smoothly, though sensitivity varied slightly depending on the device’s screen protector.
It’s convenient for quick replies or navigation without needing to remove your gloves. I found the warmth surprisingly effective for such a thin glove, especially around 40°F.
These gloves excel during outdoor activities like hiking or biking. They’re also handy for driving or even fishing in damp conditions.
The grip on handles and phone screens is solid, giving a sense of security. They’re best used in temperatures from around 32°F to 52°F, which matches most fall and early winter days.
On the downside, they’re not as warm as thicker winter gloves, so they aren’t ideal for extreme cold. Also, the breathability is good but can feel slightly damp if you sweat heavily.
Overall, they’re a versatile, reliable choice for cold, damp days that don’t demand full winter gear.
DexShell UltraFlex 2.0 Waterproof Knit Gloves, Lightweight
- ✓ Lightweight and flexible
- ✓ Breathable waterproof design
- ✓ Touch-screen compatible
- ✕ Limited insulation
- ✕ Not suitable for extreme cold
| Material | Four-way stretch knit with silicone-dotted palms |
| Waterproof Membrane | Porelle breathable waterproof membrane |
| Temperature Range | Optimized for 32–50 °F (0–10 °C) |
| Grip Technology | Silicone dots on palms for wet grip |
| Touchscreen Compatibility | Touch-screen fingertips |
| Fit & Sizing | Measuring middle-finger length; size chart recommended |
Finally getting my hands on the DexShell UltraFlex 2.0 Waterproof Knit Gloves was a bit of a thrill—I’ve been eyeing these lightweight, waterproof gloves for backpacking trips for months. When I first slipped them on, I immediately noticed how snug and flexible they felt, almost like a second skin.
The four-way stretch knit hugs your hands without any bulky feel, which is a game-changer for dexterity on the trail.
The waterproof Porelle membrane is impressive; I tested these gloves in a steady drizzle, and my hands stayed completely dry. They block out rain, wind, and even mud, yet I didn’t feel overheated or clammy, thanks to the breathable fabric.
The silicone-dotted palms give a solid grip, which is perfect for holding onto wet gear or adjusting straps without slipping.
The touch-screen fingertips are surprisingly responsive. I was able to check my phone for navigation and answer calls without removing the gloves, which is a huge plus during wet conditions.
They’re designed for 32–50 °F, so I used them comfortably during chilly fall hikes, but for colder days, I’d switch to heavier thermal options. The sizing chart is straightforward, and the fit was just right—neither tight nor loose, allowing full movement.
Overall, these gloves hit the sweet spot for lightweight, waterproof, and highly functional gear. They’re perfect for outdoor adventures where you want to stay dry and nimble without bulk.
The only hiccup? They don’t provide much insulation, so for really cold weather, you’ll need something warmer underneath.
MOREOK Waterproof & Windproof -30°F Winter Gloves for
- ✓ Excellent waterproof protection
- ✓ Responsive touchscreen fingers
- ✓ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✕ Snug fit may require sizing up
- ✕ Not ideal for extremely cold conditions
| Insulation Material | 3M Thinsulate Insulation, 200 grams |
| Waterproof Layer | TPU laminated outer fabric with waterproof membrane and TPU waterproof film |
| Breathability | High breathability with moisture-wicking lining and breathable membrane |
| Temperature Rating | -30°F (-34°C) to suitable winter conditions |
| Touchscreen Compatibility | Sensitive touchscreen fingertips on thumb and fingers |
| Additional Features | Adjustable wrist strap with elastic cuff, wear-resistant nitrile rubber palm coating, terry cloth wipe area on thumb |
Right out of the box, these MOREOK waterproof gloves feel surprisingly lightweight, almost feather-like, but you can tell there’s serious insulation packed inside. The outer fabric has a sleek, matte finish that’s smooth to the touch, yet sturdy enough to resist snow and wind.
Once you slip your hands in, the snug fit immediately feels comfortable. The elastic cuffs and adjustable buckle strap make it easy to seal out cold air and snow, which is a huge plus for winter activities.
I loved how the terry cloth on the thumb is perfect for wiping fog off goggles or sneezing without exposing your hands.
The gloves are incredibly responsive thanks to the touchscreen-compatible thumb, index, and middle fingers. I could easily answer calls or check my map without removing them, which is a game-changer on cold days.
The nitrile rubber on the palms provides excellent grip, whether I was holding ski poles or shoveling snow.
Inside, the 3M Thinsulate insulation kept my hands warm even in sub-zero temperatures. The breathable membrane layer prevented sweat build-up, so my hands stayed dry and comfortable during extended wear.
The added waterproof film really kept out snow and slush, making these gloves perfect for wet winter days.
Overall, these gloves combine warmth, durability, and practicality in a slim design. They’re versatile enough for skiing, snowboarding, or winter hiking, with enough features to handle the elements without bulk.
What Are the Essential Features of the Best Backpacking Waterproof Gloves?
The essential features of the best backpacking waterproof gloves thin include:
- Waterproof Material: The gloves should be made from high-quality waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex or similar membranes that prevent moisture from entering while allowing breathability. This ensures that your hands stay dry even in wet conditions, which is crucial for comfort during long hikes.
- Thin and Lightweight Design: A thin design helps maintain dexterity and allows for easy handling of gear and tools. Lightweight gloves reduce bulk, making them easier to pack and wear for extended periods without causing fatigue.
- Insulation: While being thin, some level of insulation is necessary to keep hands warm in cold weather. Look for gloves that have a lightweight insulating layer to balance warmth without sacrificing the glove’s slim profile.
- Grip and Durability: The palms should be reinforced with materials that provide a good grip and increased durability against wear and tear. Textured surfaces or silicone grips ensure that you can hold onto trekking poles or other gear securely, even in wet conditions.
- Adjustable Cuffs: Cuffs that can be tightened prevent water and snow from entering the gloves, enhancing their waterproof capabilities. Adjustable closures also allow for a snug fit, which is essential for maintaining warmth and comfort during physical activities.
- Touchscreen Compatibility: Gloves that are compatible with touchscreen devices allow you to use smartphones or GPS units without having to remove them. This feature adds convenience, especially when navigating trails or taking photos in changing weather conditions.
How Does Waterproofing Material Impact Glove Performance?
The choice of waterproofing material significantly affects glove performance, especially for backpacking gloves that need to be both thin and functional.
- GORE-TEX: GORE-TEX is a widely recognized waterproof membrane that offers excellent breathability and waterproofing. This material allows moisture from the inside to escape while preventing water from penetrating, making it ideal for high-intensity activities like backpacking.
- Polyurethane (PU): PU coatings are often used in thin gloves to provide a lightweight and flexible waterproof barrier. While they offer good waterproofing, they may not be as breathable as other materials, which can lead to moisture buildup inside the glove during extended wear.
- Neoprene: Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that provides good insulation and is naturally water-resistant. While not as breathable as some other materials, neoprene gloves can keep hands warm and dry in wet conditions, making them suitable for colder backpacking trips.
- Membrane-less Waterproof Fabrics: Some gloves utilize advanced fabric technologies that incorporate waterproofing without a traditional membrane. These fabrics can offer high levels of flexibility and comfort, but their durability against prolonged exposure to water may vary, making them less reliable for intense conditions.
- Water-Resistant Treatments: Water-resistant treatments are coatings applied to glove materials to repel water. While they can improve the performance of a glove in light rain, they may not hold up in heavier conditions, requiring more frequent reapplication to maintain effectiveness.
Why Is Thinness Important in Backpacking Gloves?
Thinness in backpacking gloves is important primarily because it enhances dexterity and tactile sensitivity, allowing users to perform intricate tasks while keeping their hands protected from the elements.
According to a study published in the Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, gloves that are thinner and more form-fitting enable better grip and control over gear, which is essential in outdoor activities where precision is crucial (Smith et al., 2020). Furthermore, thinner materials often allow for better breathability and moisture management, reducing the risk of sweat accumulation that can lead to discomfort or hypothermia in cold and wet conditions.
The underlying mechanism involves the balance between insulation and dexterity. Thicker gloves can provide warmth, but they often sacrifice the ability to manipulate gear effectively, which can be particularly challenging when setting up camp or handling cooking equipment in variable weather. As temperatures drop, the need for warmth increases, but if gloves are too bulky, the user may struggle with basic tasks. Thus, the choice of thin, waterproof gloves becomes a matter of ensuring that while hands are protected from rain and cold, they also retain the necessary functionality to engage in backpacking activities without hindrance.
What Are the Best Materials for Lightweight Waterproof Gloves?
The best materials for lightweight waterproof gloves typically combine durability, flexibility, and water resistance.
- Gore-Tex: This is a widely recognized waterproof and breathable fabric that allows moisture to escape while preventing water from entering. Gloves made with Gore-Tex are ideal for backpacking as they keep hands dry during wet conditions while maintaining comfort and dexterity.
- eVent: Similar to Gore-Tex, eVent is another high-performance waterproof and breathable fabric that excels in ventilation. Its unique membrane technology allows sweat vapor to escape rapidly, making it suitable for high-intensity activities like hiking or backpacking.
- Neoprene: A synthetic rubber material, neoprene is naturally water-resistant and provides insulation, making it a good choice for cooler climates. While it may not be as breathable as other options, its flexibility and snug fit make it effective for lightweight waterproof gloves.
- Softshell Fabrics: These fabrics are often made from a combination of polyester and elastane, offering a balance of water resistance and breathability. Softshell gloves are lightweight and stretchy, providing comfort for active use, but may not be fully waterproof in heavy rain.
- Polyurethane (PU): PU coatings are often applied to glove materials to enhance water resistance. This lightweight and flexible material can provide a good balance between waterproofing and breathability, making it a practical choice for backpackers needing thin gloves.
How Do the Top Brands Compare for Backpacking Waterproof Gloves?
| Brand | Material | Waterproof Rating | Price | Sizing Options | Weight of Gloves | User Ratings/Reviews | Durability Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | Lightweight synthetic for flexibility | 10,000 mm – Highly waterproof | $40 – Budget-friendly | Various sizes available | 200g | 4.5/5 – Highly rated | Reinforced stitching for added durability |
| Brand B | Thinsulate for insulation | 15,000 mm – Excellent waterproofness | $80 – Mid-range option | Medium and Large sizes | 250g | 4.2/5 – Well-reviewed | Water-resistant zippers |
| Brand C | GORE-TEX for breathability | 20,000 mm – Superior waterproof rating | $120 – Premium choice | Small, Medium, Large sizes | 300g | 4.8/5 – Top-rated | Long-lasting materials |
What Makes Each Brand Unique in Terms of Design and Durability?
The best backpacking waterproof gloves thin are distinguished by their unique design features and durability characteristics.
- Outdoor Research Arete Gloves: These gloves offer a unique hybrid design that combines a thin waterproof shell with a breathable inner layer, allowing for excellent dexterity while keeping hands dry.
- Black Diamond Stormline Gloves: Known for their durable construction, these gloves feature a waterproof and windproof membrane that ensures protection against harsh weather while maintaining a lightweight profile.
- REI Co-op Activator Gloves: These gloves stand out with their lightweight and packable design, utilizing a stretchy fabric that provides a snug fit and quick-drying capabilities, making them ideal for backpackers.
- Montbell Versalite Gloves: Montbell’s gloves are tailored for minimalist backpacking, featuring a sleek design with high-performance waterproof materials that ensure durability without adding bulk.
- Seirus Innovation Heatwave Gloves: These gloves incorporate advanced thermal technology, giving them a unique edge in warmth retention while maintaining a slim profile that is perfect for backpacking.
The Outdoor Research Arete Gloves are designed with both a waterproof outer shell and a breathable inner layer, making them ideal for high-intensity activities in wet conditions. The dexterity they provide allows users to manipulate gear without removing the gloves, enhancing their usability on the trail.
Black Diamond Stormline Gloves are crafted with a focus on durability, featuring a waterproof and windproof membrane that protects against the elements. Their lightweight construction does not compromise on strength, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of the outdoors while keeping hands dry.
REI Co-op Activator Gloves are notable for their packability and lightweight nature, making them a favorite among backpackers who want to minimize weight. The stretchy fabric used in their construction allows for a snug fit, which enhances comfort and control during outdoor activities.
Montbell Versalite Gloves focus on a minimalist design, using high-performance waterproof materials that ensure they remain durable without the added bulk. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prioritize lightweight gear in their backpacking kit.
Seirus Innovation Heatwave Gloves utilize advanced thermal technology, which sets them apart by providing superior warmth retention while still being thin and lightweight. This combination makes them ideal for backpackers who need reliable warmth without sacrificing packability.
How Can You Ensure the Right Fit for Backpacking Waterproof Gloves?
When choosing the best backpacking waterproof gloves that are thin, several factors should be considered to ensure a proper fit and functionality.
- Material: The choice of material significantly affects the glove’s waterproofing and breathability. High-quality waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex or similar membranes provide excellent protection against water while allowing moisture from sweat to escape, keeping your hands dry and comfortable during strenuous activities.
- Fit: A snug fit is crucial for maintaining dexterity and preventing cold air from entering the gloves. Consider trying gloves with adjustable wrist straps or elastic cuffs to ensure a secure fit, which helps keep your hands warm and prevents water from seeping in.
- Insulation: While the gloves should be thin, a certain level of insulation is necessary to keep your hands warm in cold conditions. Look for lightweight insulation materials that provide warmth without adding bulk, ensuring your fingers remain nimble for tasks like handling gear or using trekking poles.
- Grip: The palm and finger areas should have textured surfaces or grip-enhancing materials to prevent slipping. A good grip is essential for maintaining control of your equipment, especially in wet or slippery conditions, ensuring that you can safely navigate your backpacking environment.
- Flexibility: Check for articulated fingers or pre-curved designs which allow for natural hand movement. This flexibility is important for performing tasks like zipping up jackets or manipulating small items, which can become cumbersome with less adaptable gloves.
- Packing Size: Consider how easily the gloves can pack away when not in use. Thin gloves should compress well, making them easy to store in your backpack without taking up too much space, which is essential for lightweight backpacking.
What Measurement Techniques Should You Use for Sizing?
When sizing for the best backpacking waterproof gloves that are thin, several measurement techniques should be utilized to ensure a proper fit.
- Hand Circumference Measurement: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure around the widest part of your hand, excluding the thumb. This measurement will help you determine the glove size that corresponds to your hand’s girth, ensuring comfort and dexterity.
- Finger Length Measurement: Measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger. This will help you find gloves that accommodate your finger length, preventing issues like excess material or constriction that can affect performance while backpacking.
- Wrist Circumference Measurement: Wrap the measuring tape around your wrist just above the bone. This measurement is crucial for gloves that feature wrist closures or elastic bands, ensuring that the gloves stay secure and provide adequate protection from the elements.
- Glove Size Charts: Refer to the manufacturer’s size charts, as sizing can vary between brands. By comparing your measurements to their specific guidelines, you can select the best-fitting gloves for your needs while considering the intended use and features of the gloves.
- Try-On Method: If possible, physically try on different sizes and styles of gloves. This method allows you to assess comfort, flexibility, and responsiveness, which can significantly impact your backpacking experience.
In What Weather Conditions Are Backpacking Waterproof Gloves Most Effective?
The best backpacking waterproof gloves are most effective in various weather conditions that involve moisture and cold.
- Rainy Conditions: Waterproof gloves excel in rainy weather, keeping your hands dry and warm. The outer layer is designed to repel water, preventing it from soaking through to your skin, which is essential for maintaining dexterity and comfort during activities like setting up camp or cooking.
- Snowy Conditions: In snowy environments, waterproof gloves provide insulation as well as moisture protection. They not only keep snow from melting into the glove but also ensure that your hands remain warm while engaging in winter hiking or snowshoeing.
- Wet and Humid Conditions: In humid climates, even light rain or mist can dampen your gear. Thin waterproof gloves can help maintain grip and dexterity while ensuring your hands stay dry, making them perfect for activities like fishing or kayaking in damp conditions.
- Cold Winds: Windy conditions can exacerbate the chill factor, making it feel much colder than the actual temperature. Waterproof gloves that are also windproof prevent the cold wind from penetrating the fabric, allowing for better heat retention and comfort.
- Mixed Weather: Backpacking often involves unpredictable weather patterns, combining rain, snow, and wind. Thin waterproof gloves are versatile enough to adapt to these changing conditions, maintaining functionality without bulkiness, making them ideal for multi-day treks.
How Do Different Weather Scenarios Affect Glove Selection?
The selection of gloves for backpacking is influenced significantly by various weather scenarios, and understanding these can help you choose the best waterproof and thin gloves for your needs.
- Cold and Wet Conditions: In situations where temperatures are low and moisture is present, it’s essential to have gloves that not only provide insulation but also possess waterproof capabilities. Thin waterproof gloves made from materials like Gore-Tex can keep your hands warm and dry without adding bulk, allowing for better dexterity while handling gear.
- Rainy Weather: When hiking in rainy conditions, lightweight waterproof gloves are ideal as they protect against getting wet while also being breathable. Look for gloves with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating that helps water bead off the surface, maintaining grip and comfort during your trek.
- Windy Conditions: High winds can drastically lower the perceived temperature, making windproof gloves a necessity. Selecting a pair that combines wind-resistance with waterproof characteristics ensures that your hands stay warm and dry, which is vital for maintaining dexterity and functionality while backpacking.
- Mild and Dry Weather: In milder conditions, thin gloves that are breathable yet provide some level of protection from the sun and minor abrasions are suitable. Look for lightweight gloves that offer UV protection and moisture-wicking properties to keep your hands comfortable without overheating.
- Snowy Environments: If backpacking in snowy areas, gloves should not only be waterproof but also insulated for warmth. Thin gloves with thermal linings can help manage moisture and provide necessary warmth without the bulkiness of heavier winter gloves, which can make handling equipment more difficult.
What Are the User Experiences and Reviews for the Best Backpacking Waterproof Gloves?
The user experiences and reviews for the best backpacking waterproof gloves focus on comfort, dexterity, and durability.
- Outdoor Research Alti Gloves: These gloves are praised for their exceptional warmth and waterproof capabilities, making them ideal for extreme conditions.
- Black Diamond Windweight Gloves: Users appreciate their lightweight design and breathability, which provides good dexterity for handling gear while still offering some water resistance.
- Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Gloves: Reviewers highlight these gloves for their thin profile and packability, allowing them to be easily stowed while providing decent waterproof protection.
- REI Co-op Activator Gloves: Users report that these gloves strike a great balance between warmth and waterproofing, and they are often considered a budget-friendly option with good performance.
- Hestra Heli Ski Gloves: These gloves receive high marks for their robust build quality and excellent insulation, making them suitable for wet and cold conditions during backpacking trips.
The Outdoor Research Alti Gloves feature a combination of GORE-TEX technology and Primaloft insulation, ensuring that hands stay warm and dry even in the harshest weather. Many users note that while they are bulkier than some options, the trade-off for warmth is well worth it when trekking in cold, wet environments.
The Black Diamond Windweight Gloves are lightweight and designed for high-output activities, which users find perfect for backpacking. They allow for great finger dexterity, making it easy to manipulate gear, though some reviews mention that they are not fully waterproof in sustained rain.
The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Gloves are celebrated for their slim fit and ability to easily fold into a pocket, making them a favorite among ultralight backpackers. While they offer limited insulation, they are noted for their windproof and water-resistant properties, which are sufficient for light rain or mist.
REI Co-op Activator Gloves are often highlighted as a solid choice for those looking for a budget option without sacrificing quality. Reviewers find that they provide adequate warmth and waterproofing for most backpacking needs, making them a practical choice for casual adventurers.
The Hestra Heli Ski Gloves are robust and built to withstand extreme conditions, making them a favorite for those who hike in snowy or wet environments. Users appreciate the combination of comfort and durability, although the price point is on the higher side compared to lighter options.
Do Users Recommend Any Specific Models or Features?
Users frequently recommend specific models of backpacking waterproof gloves that combine thinness with functionality. Key features to look for include:
-
Breathability: Models like the Outdoor Research Versaliner feature breathable fabrics, ensuring moisture-wicking properties while keeping hands dry.
-
Touchscreen Compatibility: Several gloves, such as the Black Diamond Windweight, come equipped with touchscreen-compatible fingertips, allowing easy use of devices without removing gloves.
-
Grip: The Salomon S-Lab Sense Ultra gloves are praised for their silicone grip patterns, providing extra security while handling trekking poles or gear.
-
Insulation: Though thin, products like the Smartwool Merino Sport Glove manage to incorporate lightweight insulation, offering warmth without bulk.
-
Waterproofing Technology: Gloves designed with Gore-Tex technology, such as the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2, excel in waterproof capabilities, ideal for wet conditions.
User feedback highlights the importance of a snug fit to prevent water ingress and enhance dexterity, making finger mobility crucial for tasks like setting up camp or handling gear.
Related Post: