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Are you tired of having your hand and fingers freezing cold during winter run? This past winter, I went on a morning run with temperatures in the low 40s and could barely feel my fingers by the end of it. Once I found a good pair of running mittens, my runs were so much more comfortable and my hands were not freezing the whole time.

If you are like me and often run in cold weather, then a good pair of running mittens can make a great addition to your running gear arsenal.

While traditional gloves and waterproof gloves are great options, mittens can keep your hands even warmer and more comfortable.

Searching for a pair of running mittens can be confusing to beginners, as there are a few different types of running mittens and many different companies claiming their mittens are the best. Let me help simplify it for you!

For my money, the best running mittens are:

Now let’s take a closer look at these running mittens and how to buy your first pair!

Are Running Gloves or Running Mittens Better?

The main difference between running gloves and running mittens is that mittens allow your hands to retain heat. These mittens allow your hands to stay even warmer than traditional gloves because the keep four of your fingers together rather than separated.

Your body is constantly giving off body heat. Running mittens uses this concept and by keeping your fingers together in a snug area, which generates heat to keep your hands warm.

The one draw back to running mittens is less dexterity considering your four of your fingers are bunched together. Nevertheless, when running you don’t need much if any finger movement.

One situation where you may want some dexterity is when you’re on your phone post-run. Thankfully, most running mittens come with smartphone compatibility built-in on the tip of the thumb.

What Are The Different Types Of Running Mittens?

There are two main types of running mittens:

  1. Traditional Running Mittens
  2. 2-n-1 Convertible Running Gloves/Mittens

The traditional mitten is typically has two sections, one for the thumb and one for the other four fingers.

On the other hand (pun intended 🙂 ), the 2-n-1 convertible running gloves/mittens are normal gloves but with a pullover section that can transform your gloves into mittens.

Personally, I like the versatility of being able to pull over the mitten cover at the start of the run and once I start to warm up, I take the cover off and have a cooler normal glove.

4 Main Factors For Buying Running Mittens

When it comes to buying a pair of running mittens, these are the 4 main factors you should consider:

  1. Touch Screen Capability
    • If you like to use your phone with your mittens on, then this may be an important factor for you to consider. Many modern running mittens implement a material on the fingertips that allow you to use phone without interruption. If the gloves do not have this compatible material then they will not work with a touchscreen phone.
  2. Snug Fit
    • It is important to make sure that the mittens have a secure and snug fit. Some mittens implement a velcro strap or elastic wrist cuffs to ensure no wind or rain easily seems through.
  3. Lightweight
    • When buying running mittens you want to make sure they are not too bulky because the extra weight can become tiresome over a long run. Some running mittens are a little more bulky because they are intended to keep you very warm. That is why, I like to have the option of the 2-n-1 capability.
  4. Good Warmth
    • The good thing about mittens is that they are typically warmer than traditional gloves. Because they keep your fingers together, the body heat generated by your fingers will keep each other warm.

While there are many different factors to consider, we have taken the time to consider all these factors and determined the top 3 running mittens for you. Continue reading to find out more!

How Much Should You Spend For Running Mittens?

Buying a pair of running mittens can vary depending on the quality, material, and features.  

You can purchase a pair of quality running mittens for around $25 – $40.

I would recommend getting a pair of running mittens in this price range because you can get a high quality pair that will be durable and last you a long time.

Most Versatile Running Mittens:

TrailHeads Power Stretch Convertible Mittens – Men’s and Women’s Fingerless Gloves

Here’s what I like about these running mittens:

  • Fingerless Capability
  • 4-Way Stretch Material
  • Magnetic Thumb Flaps
  • Good Return Policy

This is a great pair of running mittens for anyone that likes versatility and using their mittens for not just running.

The other benefit of having 2-n-1 fingerless capability is that if you are running in an area that is not extremely cold, then these can be a great option if you get too hot from wearing the mitten cover. You could take the mitten cover off and get good ventilation.

Another cool feature of these mittens is that the thumb has a magnetic flap. So, when you to go with the fingerless option, you can pull the flap back and it will magnetically lock into place and not get in your way.

On top of all, Trailheads offers a great return policy and state that “if you’re not happy with your purchase, let us know and we’ll provide a replacement or refund – no fine print, no time limit!”

Here’s what I don’t like about these running mittens:

There are not many downsides to these mittens, especially how functional they are.

However, some users might complain that these mittens are not the warmest for very cold temperatures. Because of their versatility and their fingerless capability, these mittens do not provide as much warmth as some of the other recommended mittens with the full-finger mitten options.

If you are looking for a great pair of versatile running mittens, then these are the mittens for you!

Men’s: Check the current price and read more user reviews of the TrailHeads Power Stretch Convertible Mittens Men’s Fingerless Gloves on Amazon.

Women’s: Check the current price and read more user reviews of the TrailHeads Power Stretch Convertible Mittens Women’s Fingerless Gloves on Amazon.

Best Everyday Use Running Mittens:

Nathan Convertible Reflective Glove/Mitt for Running

Here’s what I like about these running mittens:

  • Great Reflective Detailing
  • Stretchy and Comfortable Spandex Material
  • Smartphone Fingers
  • Nose Wipe Fabric

These running mittens provide a high amount of temperature protection while having useful everyday features.

One of the first things you will notice about these mittens is that they have reflective detailing all around the outside of the mitten. This is great if you are running in low light conditions because they can reflect light and make you more visible.

Another great feature of these mittens is that they are made out of a stretchy Spandex material and a warm thermal layer. This provides you with flexibility and warmth.

Additionally, these mittens have smartphone texting fingers so that you can use your phone with the mittens on. Also, a unique feature is a nose wipe cloth material on the top of the thumb. This is useful you need to wipe your nose because of the cold temperatures.

Here’s what I don’t like about these running mittens:

Some users may complain that the mittens run a little too big. Make sure to consider sizing down when ordering your pair of Nathan running mittens.

Additionally, some users have complained that their hands start to get a little cold at temperatures below 30 degrees.

If you are looking for a great pair of running mittens that are great for everyday use, then these Nathan Gloves/Mittens are a great option for you!

Check the current price and read more user reviews of the Nathan Convertible Reflective Glove/Mitt for Running on Amazon.

Best Overall Running Mittens:

Craft Hybrid Weather 2-in-1 Running Cycling Mitten Gloves

Here’s what I like about these running mittens:

  • Multiple Color Options
  • Silicone Plam Grips
  • Wind and Waterproof Mitten Cover
  • Touchscreen Embroidery

These running mittens are an amazing option for runners looking for a great overall pair of mittens that are high quality and are high performance.

They provide all the different features that you could want such as touchscreen fingers, silicone palm grips, and a wind and waterproof mitten cover.

One of my favorite parts about these mittens is that they are made out of a high quality polyester material. Not only is this a high quality stretchy material, but it is also extremely warm.

A great feature that makes these running mittens standout from the competition is their waterproof mitten cover. This will keep your hands dry and warm in rainy and cold conditions.

Additionally, these running mittens are not only warm but also lightweight. They are perfect for races and workouts because they will not interfere with your running motions.

Here’s what I don’t like about these running mittens:

Some users might complain about the name of these mittens. They are called bike gloves, however, they can be used for more than just biking. The only thing that is tailored to biking is the silicone palm, however, after using these mittens for a while I actually prefer having grip on the palms. They are great for holding your phone securely and it adds to the dexterity of the mittens.

If you are looking for a great high quality pair of running mittens for a good price, then these are a great option for you!

Check the current price of the Craft Hybrid Weather 2-in-1 Bike Cycling Mitten Gloves on Amazon.

Verdict

Running mittens are a great way to keep your hands warm during cold rainy days.

These running mittens keep your fingers together which allow your hands to stay warmer due to retaining body heat.

My top pick for runners wanting a great pair of running mittens for your next run or race, would be to go with the best overall running mittens, the Craft Hybrid Weather 2-in-1 Bike Cycling Mitten Gloves on Amazon.

These Craft Hybrid Running Mittens are a great pair of running mittens and are available at one of the most reasonable prices on the market. These running mittens provide features such as palm grip, elastic wrist cuffs, smartphone fingers, and a waterproof mitten cover, all while remaining lightweight! These mittens are a great option for any runner wanting high quality running mittens at an affordable price!

Hope this helps!