When the temperature drops, keeping your hands warm without sacrificing smartphone access is key. We've tested a range of touchscreen gloves, from budget-friendly finds to high-tech options, to see how they perform in both warmth and usability.
The Verloop Twist Knit Touchscreen Gloves ($35) offer a fun pop of color and feature touchscreen-friendly tips on the thumb and index/middle fingers. While great for swiping and basic navigation, precise typing requires a snug fit. They're cozy and machine washable but not waterproof.
For a balance of dexterity and warmth, the Black Diamond Lightweight Screentap Gloves ($35) impressed. Their thin design allows for good finger movement, and a suede palm patch adds grip. Touchscreen use, especially with the thumb, is easy and accurate, enabling near-normal typing speeds. An elasticated wrist ensures a secure fit, and a handy clip keeps them paired.
The Canada Goose Mixed Media Gloves ($175) boast an incredibly comfortable, soft-shell and leather exterior with a brushed lining for superior warmth. However, their touchscreen performance falls short, requiring significant effort for accurate input, making them less ideal for quick interactions.
Affordable options like the Marks and Spencer Knitted Gloves ($20) and Trendoux Winter Gloves ($12) provide decent warmth and touchscreen compatibility. The M&S gloves offer good coziness with specific pads on the index finger and thumb for reasonable swipe and typing accuracy. The Trendoux gloves are slim and water-resistant with anti-slip palms, featuring a handy clip, but internal seams can affect comfort and typing precision.
For those who prefer their existing gloves or want an alternative, a simple stylus like the Bargains Depot 2-in-1 Stylus ($9) offers an accurate way to interact with devices. Alternatively, a rechargeable handwarmer, such as the VQ Rechargeable 10,000-mAh Power Bank Hand Warmer (£30), can provide essential warmth for hands that go bare or are covered by thinner gloves.