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You might not think much about your hands when running.
Original photos taken by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich / Laneen Wells
We also wore several gloves in cold weather ourselves to see how they actually hold up.
Heres what to know if youre on the hunt for your new favorite pair.
Keep these three things in mind when youre considering your options.
Materials
For running, its best to choose moisture-wicking materials that provide warm insulation without being too bulky.
Design
Many running gloves offer a few design details that can come in handy when youre on the move.
Lightweight or liner gloves that offer some breathability are best for mild conditions.
When it dips into the 20s or teens, you might want a thicker, midweight option.
Frequently asked questions about running gloves
Why is it important to keep your hands warm while running?
In short, it can help keep them healthyand much more comfortable.
How do you find the right glove size?
Most companies offer a size chart with instructions on how to measure your hand.
Are Merino gloves good?
Merino wool is a great fabric for running clothes because its temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant.
Nurse highly recommends Merino wool because they create a great amount of warmth, but also theyre very breathable.
Which running gloves provide the best warmth and breathability?
The only red flag?
Theres some scratchy inner stitching that doesnt feel great when youre slipping them on.
Theyve always been a favorite of mine, Nurse says.
They’re just very comfortable and have a nice little stretch to them.
My fingers aren’t stiff or uncomfortable in them.
Lululemons Rulu fleece is known for being soft, stretchy, and sweat-wickinga.k.a.
Think: All the snot that comes with logging cold, dry winter miles.
On the outside, recycled polyester helps keep the winter weather from creeping inside.
During testing, we even found it kept our hands dry in the snow.
But when conditions got especially chilly (in the low 20s or teens), we craved something alittlethicker.
Our tester particularly appreciated that theres thinner material between the fingers to keep them from feeling too bulky.
But for just a little more, this pair from New Balance is a far more runner-friendly option.
It really does make a difference if I just don’t want it as warm.
One unique feature: Theres a magnet inside to keep the two gloves together when youre not wearing them.
The detail that sets this pair apart is the zipper on the back of each hand.
With a simple unzip, she could let a little air flow in.
Bonus: Trailheads says these can work as ski gloves too.
