Winter Work Gloves: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Winter presents unique challenges for workers. Freezing temperatures, wet conditions, and the physical demands of work make selecting the right gloves essential for health and safety. Choosing the right winter work gloves isn’t just about comfort; it’s a necessity to maintain dexterity, prevent injuries, and enhance work performance.

Here are the main factors to consider when purchasing winter work gloves.

1. Thermal Insulation

Insulation is the first feature to evaluate for winter gloves. Insulating materials like Thinsulate™, wool, or foam help retain body heat while preventing overheating. The level of insulation you need depends on your work environment. For example, workers exposed to extreme temperatures (below -20°C) require thicker insulation than those working in mildly cold conditions.

Check out Kosto's lined work gloves

2. Water Resistance

Wet hands lose heat up to 25 times faster than dry hands. Winter gloves must provide effective protection against moisture, whether from snow, rain, or handling wet surfaces. Look for gloves with waterproof and breathable membranes, like GORE-TEX® or leather, which keep water out while allowing sweat to evaporate.

3. Dexterity and Comfort

Working with bulky or stiff gloves can be frustrating and dangerous. Well-designed winter gloves should balance insulation and dexterity. Flexible materials like soft leather and stretchable textiles help maintain finger mobility, even at low temperatures. Ensure the gloves fit snugly without compressing the hands, as good blood circulation is essential to retaining warmth.

4. Grip and Durability

Winter can make surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of losing control over tools or equipment. Gloves with leather palms or nitrile coatings offer excellent grip while resisting wear and tear. Strategic reinforcements in high-stress areas like fingers and palms extend the gloves' lifespan.

For durable gloves, think Kosto! 

5. Safety

In winter, the risks of cuts, crushes, or punctures persist or even increase due to ice and frozen tools. Winter gloves should protect against these hazards while maintaining insulation. Look for gloves certified according to safety standards like ANSI (A1-A9) for cut resistance or gloves with protective shells for heavy-duty tasks.

6. Touchscreen Compatibility

In the modern world, many workers use electronic devices even in winter. Touchscreen-compatible gloves with capacitive tips on the fingers allow the use of screens without removing the gloves. This feature is particularly useful for field workers who need to consult plans or reports on their tablet or phone. Kosto's MKVH26 work gloves offers excellent touchscreen compatibility while providing cold protection and ANSI A6 cut resistance!

7. Breathability

While insulation is crucial, breathability is also important to avoid moisture buildup inside the gloves. Poor breathability can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, and heat loss. Choose gloves made from materials that efficiently wick away sweat while retaining heat.

8. Style and Fit

While performance is the priority, style can also influence glove selection. Well-fitted work gloves with elastic or adjustable cuffs keep snow and cold out. Some models feature removable liners, allowing for separate washing or replacement when worn out.

9. Certifications and Standards

Ensure the gloves you choose comply with local health and safety standards. In Canada, for example, CSA and ANSI standards can guide your choices to ensure the gloves meet the requirements of your industry.