Kayaking is hard on your hands. Hours of gripping a paddle shaft leads to blisters, friction burns, and in cold conditions, numbness that affects your control and enjoyment on the water. A good pair of kayaking gloves solves all of that.
The challenge is choosing the right pair. Summer paddling calls for lightweight, breathable gloves with sun protection, while winter paddling needs neoprene insulation that keeps your hands warm without sacrificing grip. We’ve reviewed 6 of the best kayaking gloves across both categories so you can find the right pair for your conditions and budget.
6 Best Kayaking Gloves For Summer
KastKing Sol Armis Sun Gloves – Best Kayaking Glove Overall
The KastKing Sol Armis is our top pick for summer paddling. Made from Poly Spandex, it offers a flexible, comfortable fit with reinforced palm and finger regions to protect against paddle friction and blisters. The breathable fabric wicks moisture quickly, and the extra-long cuff with SPF 50 protection keeps the sun off your wrists.
The pull tabs make them easy to get on and off with wet hands, and they come in a range of colours and sizes. Lightweight and quick-drying, these are a great all-round summer glove at an excellent price point.
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NRS Men’s Boater – Best UV Protection Glove
The NRS Men’s Boater is a reliable warm weather glove from one of the most trusted names in paddling. The synthetic leather palm provides a solid grip on the paddle shaft, and the H2Core rashguard back offers UPF 50 sun protection. The fingerless design keeps your fingers free for handling ropes and gear, and the velcro wrist strap ensures a secure fit.
A well-made, no-fuss glove from a brand that knows paddling.
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Hyperflex 3/4 Fingerless Gloves – Best Padded Summer Glove
The Hyperflex gloves are a solid choice for paddlers who want extra palm protection without sacrificing dexterity. The synthetic leather palms are well padded and durable, and the breathable vented fabric keeps hands cool in warm conditions. The Lycra stretch adds flexibility, and the velcro wrist strap gives you an adjustable fit.
Available in multiple sizes and built to last season after season.
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5 Best Kayaking Gloves For Winter
NeoSport Premium Kayak Gloves – Best For Cold Weather
The NeoSport Premium gloves are the go-to choice for cold water paddling. Available in 3mm and 5mm neoprene, they provide serious insulation while the pre-formed palms, fingers, and thumbs reduce hand fatigue on longer paddles. Silicone grip pads on the palm give you a confident hold on the paddle shaft even in wet conditions.
Note that the 5mm version provides maximum warmth but reduces dexterity — for most conditions the 3mm is the better balance.
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Nrs Men’s Hydroskin Gloves – Best Premium Winter Glove
The NRS HydroSkin gloves are the premium cold weather option on this list. The 0.5mm neoprene construction is thinner than most winter gloves, which means better paddle feel and dexterity without sacrificing warmth. The ThermalPlush interior lining retains heat effectively, and the water repellent coating keeps hands dry. Silicone grip patterns on the palm add extra control.
More expensive than other options but worth it for serious cold weather paddlers.
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BPS Water Gloves – Best Budget Winter Glove
The BPS Water Gloves are a practical budget option for cold weather paddling. Made from 3mm double-layered neoprene, they provide solid insulation and durability at an accessible price. The rubberised palm gives a reliable grip on the paddle, and the elastic and velcro wrist straps keep them securely in place.
A no-frills cold weather glove that does the job without breaking the budget.
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How to Choose Kayaking Gloves
For those who enjoy kayaking, finding the best gloves can be a real challenge. To help you find the perfect pair, we’ve outlined some important characteristics that will ensure optimal performance in your next adventure.
Material
The right material depends on the season. For summer paddling, look for Spandex or Lycra — lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. For winter, neoprene is the standard choice. A 1-2mm thickness suits mild conditions, while 3mm is better for cold water. Avoid going thicker than 3mm unless you’re paddling in genuinely icy conditions as it significantly reduces dexterity.
Grip
Look for gloves with synthetic leather or rubberised palms — these maintain grip on a wet paddle shaft. Fit matters too. Too tight and you’ll restrict blood flow, making your hands colder. Too loose and friction builds up causing blisters. Measure at the palm and check that fingers, knuckles, and wrists all fit comfortably.
Aftercare – Look After Your Gloves
Rinse gloves with fresh water and a small amount of baby soap or wetsuit detergent after each use — especially after saltwater paddling. Dry them slowly in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which breaks down synthetic fabrics over time. Store in a cool, dark, dry place between sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear gloves kayaking?
Yes, you should definitely wear gloves while kayaking as they provide a better grip and protect your hands from blisters. They also keep your hands warm during the colder months.
How do I keep my hands dry while kayaking?
To keep your hands dry while kayaking, use full finger kayaking gloves.
What kind of glove material do you use for kayaking?
For summer, spandex and lycra material gloves are best for kayaking. Whole neoprene-made gloves are the best option for winter paddling.
Summing Up — Best Kayaking Gloves
The right kayaking glove depends on when and where you paddle. For warm weather, the KastKing Sol Armis is our top pick — it’s breathable, well padded, and offers excellent sun protection at a great price point. For cold weather paddling, the NeoSport Premium Gloves are the most versatile option, available in both 3mm and 5mm neoprene to suit a range of conditions.
If you paddle year-round, consider buying one pair from each category. The price difference between a summer and winter glove is small, and having the right glove for the conditions makes a noticeable difference to your comfort and performance on the water.