Chill-Proof Your Photography: Choosing the Best Gloves for Cold Weather
Photography gloves are essential for photographers who shoot in cold weather. Not only do they keep your hands warm, but they also protect your camera equipment from the harsh conditions. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best photography gloves for winter. In this guide, we will discuss some of the top options and what to look for when purchasing photography gloves.
Benefits of Photography Gloves for cold weather
Winter weather can be tough on your hands, especially if you are outside for extended periods. As a photographer, it is important to keep your hands warm and comfortable so that you can focus on capturing the perfect shot. Investing in high-quality photography gloves can provide several benefits, including:
- Protection from the cold: The first and most obvious benefit of photography gloves is their ability to keep your hands warm in cold weather. This can prevent discomfort and even potential health issues such as frostbite.
- Better grip: Many photography gloves are designed with a textured surface or added grip on the palm, making it easier to hold onto your camera and other equipment. This is especially useful when shooting in wet or snowy conditions.
What To Consider When Buying Winter Photography Gloves
Before you jump into a shopping spree there are a few things to consider when purchasing photography gloves for winter shoots. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Material
The material of the gloves will determine their warmth, durability, and flexibility. Some popular materials used in photography gloves include fleece, merino wool, and neoprene. Fleece gloves are great for moderate cold weather, while merino wool offers excellent warmth and moisture-wicking properties. Neoprene is a waterproof material that is ideal for shooting in wet conditions.
Warmth Rating
When shopping for photography gloves, you may come across a warmth rating. This is typically measured in grams and indicates how much insulation the gloves have. The higher the number, the warmer the gloves will be. The level of insulation needed will depend on how cold the weather gets in your location. If you live in an area with extremely low temperatures, look for gloves with thicker insulation to keep your hands warm. For milder climates, lighter insulation may be sufficient. Alternatively, an additional layer or glove liner can also help increase the warmth of your gloves.
Fit and Comfort
It is important to consider the fit and comfort of photography gloves, especially if you will be wearing them for extended periods. Look for gloves that have a snug fit without being too tight or restricting movement. Also, pay attention to any additional features such as adjustable wrist straps or touchscreen compatibility.
Waterproofing
If you plan on shooting in wet conditions, it’s important to choose waterproof photography gloves. This will protect your hands from getting wet and ensure the safety of your camera equipment.
Dexterity
As a photographer, you need to be able to easily adjust your camera settings and handle small buttons and controls. Look for gloves that offer good dexterity, meaning they allow you to move your fingers freely without hindrance. You might want to consider fingerless photography gloves or even gloves with finger caps.
Extra Features:
Some photography gloves come with a built-in pocket specifically designed to hold memory cards. This can be incredibly useful when shooting in the winter as it gives you a safe and easily accessible place to store your cards.
Touchscreen compatibility: Many photographers use touch screen devices for editing and reviewing their photos. Look for gloves that are touchscreen compatible so you can easily use your devices without having to take off your gloves.
Price: Photography gloves come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to consider your budget. While high-end gloves may offer more features and better quality materials, there are also affordable options that can still provide adequate protection and functionality.
In conclusion, investing in a good pair of photography gloves is essential for any photographer who shoots in cold weather. Consider the material, warmth rating, fit and comfort, waterproofing, dexterity, and any extra features when choosing the best gloves for your needs. With the right pair of photography gloves, you can keep your hands warm and comfortable while capturing stunning shots during the winter season. So, make sure to do your research and find a pair that fits all your needs before heading out to capture the winter wonderland.
The Best Winter Photography Gloves for outdoor photography
MERINO LINER LIGHT POLARTEC Power Wool Gloves:
The Merino Liner Gloves boast a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers, providing a lightweight yet effective solution for cold weather. These gloves are designed with touchscreen compatibility, allowing easy device use without removing them. The Polartec Power Wool material ensures a comfortable and snug fit, while also offering excellent moisture management to keep hands dry. Versatility is a key feature, as these gloves can be used on their own or as liners in extreme cold.
The pocket can be used to house a hand warmer or an extra memory card. The only downside is that they are not waterproof, so they are not suitable for heavy rain or snow unless paired with one of their waterproof cover shell. Nonetheless, for photographers seeking a lightweight option that does not compromise on warmth or dexterity, the MERINO LINER LIGHT POLARTEC Power Wool Gloves are a solid choice for a base layer or warm photography gloves for a crisp dry fall day.
The Heat Company Photography Gloves:
These gloves offer excellent warmth and dexterity with their Primaloft insulation and four-way stretch material. The palm is made from synthetic leather, providing a good grip, while the fingertips are touchscreen compatible. They also come with a zipper pocket for hand warmers, making them suitable for shooting in extremely cold conditions. However, they may not be as durable as other options and may require frequent washing to maintain their warmth properties. Overall, The Heat Company Photography Gloves are a good choice for photographers looking for warmth and dexterity in moderate weather conditions.
Don’t underestimate these. They are a great addition to your gear when heading out.
Vallerret Markhof Pro 2.0 Photography Gloves:
These Vallerret gloves are designed specifically for photographers, with a focus on warmth, dexterity, and versatility. The outer shell is made from goat leather, providing a good grip and durability. The inner lining is made from merino wool, offering excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties. The fingertips and thumb feature flip-over finger caps, allowing for easy camera adjustments and touchscreen use. They also come with a hand-warmer pocket and wrist straps for added convenience. The only downside is that they are not fully waterproof, so they may not be suitable for extremely wet conditions. However, the Vallerret Markhof Pro 2.0 Photography Gloves are a well-rounded option for photographers needing warmth, dexterity, and added features.
SEALSKINS UPWELL WATERPROOF HEATED GLOVE: Best heated photography gloves
These gloves are a great option for those in need of extreme warmth and waterproofing. Made from neoprene material, they offer excellent insulation and protection against wet conditions. The heating element runs on batteries, providing up to 8 hours of warmth. The fit is comfortable, with adjustable wrist straps and touchscreen compatibility. However, the heated element can be bulky and may interfere with camera adjustments. Also, the battery pack can be heavy and may not be ideal for long periods of use. Nonetheless, the SEALSKINS UPWELL WATERPROOF HEATED CYCLE GLOVE is a top choice for photographers working in extremely cold and wet conditions.
RucPac Professional Tech Gloves:
These gloves are designed for photographers and videographers, offering a balance of warmth, dexterity, and practical features. The outer shell is made from softshell material with a waterproof and windproof membrane, while the inner lining is made from Thinsulate insulation. They also feature touchscreen-compatible fingertips and thumb, an anti-slip grip on the palm, and a pocket for hand warmers. The only downside is that they may not be suitable for extremely cold weather, as they are unlined and may require additional layers for added warmth. However, for photographers and videographers needing a versatile option with added features, the RucPac Professional Tech Gloves are a solid choice.
Do You Actually Need Photography Gloves?
- While photography gloves can provide added warmth and dexterity for shooting in cold weather, they may not be a necessary investment for everyone.
- If you primarily shoot in mild or moderate weather conditions, regular gloves with touchscreen compatibility or fingerless gloves may suffice.
- However, if you often find yourself working in extreme cold or wet conditions, investing in specialized photography gloves can greatly improve your winter photos.
- Check out our Winter Photography tips for some must know tips.
Overall, photography gloves can provide added warmth and dexterity for photographers working in cold and wet conditions. Some top options include Hestra Photography Gloves, Glacier Glove Ice Bay Neoprene Gloves, The Heat Company Photography Gloves, Nanuk Polar Bear Claw Mitts, The North Face Etip Gloves, and Freehands Polartec Fleece Unlined Gloves. Remember to consider your specific needs and shooting environment before making a purchase. Whether it is extreme cold, wet conditions, or touchscreen compatibility, there is a photography glove option available for you. Ultimately, investing in high-quality photography gloves can greatly improve your comfort and performance while shooting, but they may not be necessary for everyone. Assess your needs and choose the right pair of gloves
