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5 Best Paddleboarding Gloves for Protection: Top Picks for Comfort and Safety

September 13, 2024 7 min read

When engaging in paddleboarding, your hands are frequently exposed to the elements, making proper protection essential. Choosing the right paddleboarding gloves can enhance your performance and provide the necessary protection against blisters, UV rays, and cold water.

A hand reaching for a pair of paddleboarding gloves on a store shelf, with various options displayed in the background

Given the variety of options available, it can be challenging to decide which gloves best suit your needs. This article will guide you through the five best options, focusing on the different features and benefits each pair offers.

1) NRS Maverick Gloves

NRS Maverick Gloves offer excellent protection and durability for paddleboarding. Made from 2mm neoprene, these gloves ensure your hands stay warm in cool conditions. They also provide a snug fit, which helps in avoiding water seepage.

The seams are liquid-sealed, enhancing the gloves' durability and effectiveness in wet environments. Additionally, the gloves have a sticky silicone pattern on the palms. This feature improves grip, ensuring you have better control over your paddle in varying conditions.

The stretchy material provides flexibility, making it easier to move your fingers. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining dexterity and comfort during long paddleboarding sessions. These gloves also feature a HydroCuff wrist closure that prevents water from entering.

NRS Maverick Gloves are designed to be both functional and comfortable. You’ll find that the quality of construction and the thoughtful design features cater to the needs of paddleboarders. Whether you’re navigating calm waters or tackling more challenging conditions, these gloves are a reliable choice.

By choosing NRS Maverick Gloves, you invest in a product tailored for performance and protection.

2) Kokatat Lightweight Gloves

A pair of Kokatat Lightweight Gloves lying on a paddleboard, with water droplets and sunlight reflecting off the smooth, protective material

Kokatat Lightweight Gloves are built with comfort and flexibility in mind. These gloves utilize a combination of spandex and Amara synthetic leather to provide a snug fit.

You will appreciate the breathable fabric that keeps your hands cool during long paddleboarding sessions. The gloves also feature reinforced padding on the palms to protect against blisters.

The adjustable wrist closure ensures that the gloves stay secure while you paddle. They are designed to dry quickly, reducing the risk of irritation from prolonged wetness.

These gloves offer excellent grip, allowing better control and maneuverability of your paddle. Suitable for various water conditions, they enhance your overall paddleboarding experience.

You can find these gloves available in multiple sizes, ensuring a precise fit for different hand dimensions. Machine washable, they are easy to clean and maintain.

3) Seavenger Abyss Dive Gloves

A pair of Seavenger Abyss Dive Gloves lays on a paddleboard, ready for action. The gloves feature durable material and reinforced palms for maximum protection

Seavenger Abyss Dive Gloves offer excellent protection for paddleboarding. These gloves are made from high-quality neoprene, which provides durability and flexibility. You'll appreciate the snug fit, ensuring they stay secure during your activities.

The rubberized grip on the palms and fingers enhances your hold on the paddle. This feature is particularly useful when navigating through wet conditions or strong currents. You can maintain control without worrying about slippage.

Another benefit is the glove's thermal protection. If you're paddling in colder waters, these gloves help retain heat, keeping your hands warm. They also offer some protection against minor abrasions and cuts from rough surfaces or sharp objects.

The Seavenger Abyss Dive Gloves are designed for comfort. They are easy to put on and take off, thanks to the adjustable wrist strap. This allows you to quickly secure or remove the gloves as needed.

These gloves are versatile and suitable for various water sports, not just paddleboarding. If you engage in snorkeling or diving, you can use the same pair for multiple activities. This makes them a practical option if you enjoy different water-based hobbies.

4) H2Odyssey Neoprene Gloves

A pair of H2Odyssey neoprene gloves lay on a sandy beach, next to a paddleboard and a calm ocean. The gloves are black with a blue logo, and they appear to be durable and protective

H2Odyssey Neoprene Gloves are designed for durability and comfort. These gloves feature a 3mm neoprene construction, which offers excellent insulation against cold water. Perfect for paddleboarding in cooler environments.

The gloves have reinforced palm areas to enhance grip and prevent slippage. This means you can maintain a firm hold on your paddle, even when wet.

Velcro wrist straps ensure a secure fit. They keep the gloves in place during intense paddling sessions. Additionally, the gloves are easy to put on and take off.

Your hands will stay warm, protecting them from frigid conditions. These gloves are suitable for long hours on the water.

The H2Odyssey Neoprene Gloves come in various sizes to fit different hand shapes. The design accommodates both men and women.

Care is simple—just rinse with fresh water after use. Store them away from direct sunlight to prolong their lifespan.

For those needing reliable protection against the elements, these gloves are a solid choice.

5) Body Glove Power Paddle Paws

A paddleboarder wearing Body Glove Power Paddle Paws, gliding through calm waters with protective gloves gripping the paddle, surrounded by a serene natural landscape

Body Glove Power Paddle Paws provide excellent grip and comfort. These gloves are designed to protect your hands during long paddleboarding sessions. They come in various sizes, ensuring a snug fit for everyone.

The gloves feature padded palms that reduce pressure on your hands. This padding helps prevent blisters and calluses. Additionally, the fabric is designed to wick away moisture, keeping your hands dry.

The Power Paddle Paws are also lightweight and breathable. This ensures that your hands stay cool even in warm weather. The gloves are easy to put on and take off with their adjustable straps.

Durability is another key feature. Made from high-quality materials, these gloves can withstand regular use. The reinforced stitching adds to their longevity, making them a reliable choice for paddleboarders.

These gloves also improve your overall grip on the paddle. The textured surface on the palms ensures that you maintain control even in wet conditions. This enhances your paddling experience by providing added security and stability.

Body Glove Power Paddle Paws combine comfort, durability, and functionality. They are a great choice for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.

Why Use Paddleboarding Gloves

A paddleboard sits on calm waters, with a pair of gloves resting on the board. The sun shines overhead, and the gloves provide protection for the hands during paddleboarding activities

Paddleboarding gloves are essential for anyone serious about the sport. They offer improved grip, blister protection, and thermal insulation.

Enhanced Grip and Control

Paddleboarding requires precise control over the paddle. Gloves provide enhanced grip, ensuring the paddle doesn't slip from your hands. This grip can improve your performance, allowing for more efficient and controlled strokes.

Many gloves come with textured palms. These textures maximize contact with the paddle, offering better control over your movements. This is particularly beneficial in wet conditions, where maintaining a good grip is challenging.

Using gloves reduces hand fatigue. With a firm grip, you exert less force, making it easier to handle long sessions on the water. Reduced strain also means you can enjoy the activity longer without discomfort.

Protection Against Blisters

Paddleboarding can cause blisters, especially during extended sessions. Gloves act as a protective barrier. They reduce friction between your hands and the paddle, preventing blisters from forming.

Materials like neoprene and silicone are often used for this purpose. These materials are soft yet durable. They provide a cushion that absorbs the pressure and motion, minimizing skin irritation.

Blister protection is crucial for those who paddle regularly. Without gloves, your hands are vulnerable to painful blisters. This can hinder your ability to paddle effectively and may require time off from the sport to heal.

Thermal Insulation

Paddleboarding in colder weather conditions can be uncomfortable. Gloves with thermal insulation help keep your hands warm. Materials like neoprene offer good insulation, retaining heat even when wet.

This is particularly important in cold waters. Cold hands can reduce your ability to grip and control the paddle. Gloves maintain your hand's dexterity, ensuring you can paddle efficiently even in chilly conditions.

Thermal gloves also protect against wind chill. The combination of cold air and water can quickly numb your hands. Insulated gloves form a barrier against the elements, keeping your hands functional and warm.

Features to Look for in Paddleboarding Gloves

The scene shows a variety of paddleboarding gloves laid out with different features highlighted. The gloves are arranged neatly, and the top five best gloves are emphasized

When selecting paddleboarding gloves, your focus should be on finding gloves that offer durability, comfort, and effective water resistance. These key features ensure a better experience on the water, enhancing both protection and performance.

Material and Durability

Look for gloves made from high-quality materials such as neoprene, polyester, or synthetic leather. These materials provide excellent longevity and are resilient against wear and tear. Neoprene is particularly valued for its flexibility and resistance to water.

Stitching quality also impacts durability. Double-stitched seams or reinforced stitching help the gloves withstand constant use. Durability is crucial as it affects how well the gloves can protect your hands over time.

Fit and Comfort

Proper fit is essential. Gloves should be snug without being too tight. Measure your hand size and refer to the manufacturer’s size chart to ensure the best fit. Gloves with adjustable straps or elastic cuffs can provide a better fit and prevent slipping.

Comfort also comes from the inner lining. Gloves with a soft, moisture-wicking lining can keep your hands dry and comfortable. Padding in key areas can help reduce blisters and calluses, enhancing grip and control.

Water Resistance

Water resistance is a key feature for paddleboarding gloves to keep your hands dry and warm. Neoprene gloves excel in this aspect due to their natural water-resistant properties. Look for gloves with water-resistant coatings or membranes that can seal out moisture.

Seams also play a role in water resistance. Sealed or taped seams provide additional barriers against water ingress. Properly designed gloves will minimize water absorption, ensuring your hands stay protected in wet conditions.

Proper Maintenance and Care

A pair of paddleboarding gloves laid out on a clean, well-maintained paddleboard. The gloves are made of durable material and show no signs of wear and tear

To extend the life of your paddleboarding gloves, follow specific cleaning routines, store them correctly, and know when to replace them.

Cleaning Tips

After each use, rinse your gloves with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and any other debris. This prevents material degradation. Use a mild soap for a deeper clean and scrub gently with a soft brush.

Avoid harsh chemicals which can damage the material. Always thoroughly rinse off any soap to prevent buildup.

Air dry the gloves completely before storing, preferably out of direct sunlight to prevent UV damage. This minimizes the risk of mold and mildew growth.

Storage Advice

Proper storage is key to maintaining your gloves' condition. Store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or a hot car, as this can degrade the material and cause them to lose flexibility.

Use a breathable bag or container to store your gloves. Ensure they are completely dry before putting them away to prevent odor and bacterial growth.

Hang them up if possible to keep their shape intact and avoid crumpling or deforming.

When to Replace

Inspect your gloves regularly for signs of wear and tear. Look for holes, thinning material, or frayed stitching. If the gloves are no longer providing adequate protection or comfort, it's time to replace them.

Consider how often you use your gloves. Frequent paddlers might need to replace their gloves more often compared to occasional users.

If your gloves start to feel stiff or if they no longer fit well, new gloves are likely necessary.