Open main menu

Paddling Gloves

Top Picks

How we choose: The best paddling gloves highlighted here were selected based on 8 reviews of 5 products. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers.

How we test: Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts just like you.

If you've used a paddling glove that you think should be listed here, please share your experience.

Disclosure: Trailspace never accepts payment for gear reviews, product placement, or editorial coverage. When you buy through affiliate links on our site, Trailspace may earn a small commission, which helps cover the costs of running the site.

NRS Maverick Glove

user rating: 5 of 5 (1 review)

An awesome, all weather DRY glove!

Reasons to Buy

  • Dry

My Fire Department Swift Water Rescue team trains in the river 12 months of the year and is called on for rescue efforts in all conditions. These gloves work well in snow, sleet, ice cold water — you name it they work!   When our swift water team was formed we specced out some cheap neoprene gloves in an attempt to save the taxpayers money. As it turns out those gloves were near unusable during the winter months and a lot of  the guys were going gloveless rather than wear neoprene.   We then went to the NRS Maverick Glove which remains dry provided you spend the extra thirty seconds or so required to get a good seal over your dry suit wrist seals.

Read more: NRS Maverick Glove review (1)

NRS Boaters Gloves

user rating: 3.5 of 5 (4 reviews)

Great blister and sun protection, but the palms "pill" quickly.

Reasons to Buy

  • Blister protection
  • Sun protection
  • Fit nicely

Reasons to Avoid

  • Palm material could be better
  • I wish the palms weren't white—show dirt easily
  • Don't dry quickly

I like these fingerless gloves a lot, but I'm not sure I will buy another pair when these wear out. They do keep my hands from getting blistered, and the fingerless design allows for good digital dexterity. However, I don't like that the material on the palms is white—after one use they looked pretty grubby, and the suede was "pilling" (like a sweater).  On hot days, it is nice to wear these because you can dip your hands in the water and the fabric retains it so it keeps you cool. Transversely, that same quality is not so great when you'd rather be warm and dry! I would recommend them if blisters are a big problem for you. They are better in hot weather than cold.

Read more: NRS Boaters Gloves reviews (4)

Stohlquist Contact Fingerless

user rating: 4 of 5 (1 review)

A surprisingly good pair of gloves for the price. Decent fit and breathable enough in most conditions. Have held up really well over the past few years.

Reasons to Buy

  • Successfully prevents blisters
  • Fuzzy spot for wiping water off your sunglasses

Reasons to Avoid

  • Tight on fingers, while loose on wrists

I bought these because they were on sale and I need something to stop my hands from blistering. I get terrible blisters on the sides of my thumbs and between my thumb and first finger when I kayak or canoe without gloves. I’ve been using them for about three years now, and they have minimal visible wear. There’s nothing that stands out as making these gloves super awesome, but they perfectly fulfilled my expectations and perform the task I got them for without me ever having to think about it.

Read more: Stohlquist Contact Fingerless review (1)

More Reviews of Paddling Gloves

Trailspace reviewers have shared 8 reviews of 5 different paddling gloves.

Show All »

or add yours

Other Types of Paddling Apparel

Find more paddling apparel reviewed in these related categories:

Dry Suits

Wet Suits

Paddle Jackets

+1 more type

Review Your Outdoor Gear

If you've found this site helpful — or if we've missed something important — please consider paying it forward by some of your favorite outdoor gear.

Why? From professional gearheads to outdoor novices, everyone has an important point of view to contribute. will support the outdoor community and help others find the best gear.

Trailspace reviewers are outdoor enthusiasts like you: hikers, climbers, paddlers, backcountry skiers, and trail runners who share our experiences with the gear and clothing we rely on to get outside. Learn more about Trailspace