Whether you’re an avid kayaker, a week-end canoer, or a recreational paddler, a good pair of rowing gloves is important to have in your gear bag. Unprotected wet hands can easily become uncomfortable and fatigued, develop a slippery grip, and result in debilitating blisters. The best gloves for rowing depends on how long your outings typically last, how strenuously you paddle, and how cold the water and the outside temperature are. All of these things need to be considered when making your selection among these types of gloves.
Even in warm weather and water conditions, some people like wearing thin gloves that protect the palms and friction points on fingers so they can keep a solid grip without having to keep the fist so tightly clenched. They often opt for fingerless gloves so that their fingertips are exposed for maximum sensitivity and feel of the grip. Coastal and white water paddlers frequently prefer full fingered gloves that keep hands dry and warm.
Here are some of the best gloves for rowing to consider. All receive the highest user ratings, and choosing any of these will surely protect your hands and enhance your paddling experience.
Sea to Summit Solution Gear Eclipse Paddle Glove
Protect your hands from the harsh rays of the sun with these UPF 50+ UV protective Sea to Summit Eclipse Paddle Glove. These open-fingered gloves are thoughtfully designed with all of the key features you need for hand protection and grip. Made of a soft comfortable spandex blend, they provide a close yet flexible fit, letting you keep a good close feel of the paddle without chafing your hands.
The fingerless design and anatomical fit help maintain a solid grip, even in the wettest conditions. The palm and thumbs have a dual-layer construction that offers durability and reduces blister-causing friction.
Choose blue or gray, and from 4 sizes – S, M, L, or XL.
CrewStop Rowing Gloves
Perhaps the best rowing gloves for the minimalist, these sculling and rowing gloves from CrewStop offer all the protection you need in a minimal coverage, ultra lightweight package.
If you typically just want to apply tape to your hands but are getting tired of the hassle of doing so, then these could be just your solution. Designed to cover just the essential areas of the hands where grip meets oar handles, preventing hot spots and providing a solid grip even when wet, these CrewStop rowing gloves may be for you. The glove is designed to promote the natural curve of the hand, and the 100% silicone thumb and trim areas allow for a close comfortable fit.
These rowing gloves have been custom designed by experienced competition rowers who value the importance of uninterrupted training and avoidance of painful blisters. They help keep bandaids in place and allow callouses to develop without breaking the skin, so you can just focus on improving technique and time.
Choose from a range of sizes from XS – XL.
NeoSport Wetsuits Adults Premium Neoprene 3mm Five Finger Gloves
These Premium Neoprene Five Finger Gloves from NeoSport are specifically designed for water sports of all kinds. Great for cool to cold water temperatures, these full fingered gloves are constructed of 3mm thick neoprene, which provides a warm and dry waterproofing and insulation.
These gloves do an excellent job of providing abrasion and thermal protection, without sacrificing tactile dexterity. The max-grip textured palms and fingers create a secure grip when handling oars and gear. These water sports gloves have an anatomically curved construction for a natural fit that’s easy to maneuver in, resulting in minimal hand fatigue.
Ideal for both men and women, these gloves are available in 6 sizes ranging from X-Small – XX-Large.
Warmers Barnacle Half Finger Paddling Gloves
Barnacle Half Finger Gloves from Warmers are ultra lightweight glove designed for complete dexterity while providing comfort and protection. The 1/2 finger style leaves the finger tips exposed, for direct contact. Yet the remainder of hand and fingers are protected from friction that can generate callouses and painful blisters.
Barnacles-like tactile zones made of silicone create a superior grip while still maintaining a thin second skin feel.
Choose from six unisex sizes XSmall through XX-Large.
NeoSport Wetsuits Unisex Premium Neoprene 3/4 Finger Gloves
These Premium Neoprene Fingerless Gloves from NeoSport Wetsuits are a great choice for rowing in moderate water temperatures. Their open fingers design provide coverage for the essential areas – the palm and finger friction points – while fingertips are exposed for cool comfort and maximum dexterity.
1.5mm of Neoprene adds warmth, and the palm is lightly padding for protection and vented for breathability. These gloves are designed with a flexible fabric that fits closely to the hand, making them comfortable for long periods of time. The slip-free reinforced palms maintain a superior grip when wet.
Choose from 6 unisex sizes XS through XL, for a fit that works for most women, men, and older youth.
Glacier Glove Premium Waterproof Gloves – Unisex
These Premium Waterproof Gloves from Glacier Glove offer an optimal combination of durable, lightweight, waterproof protection. Constructed of premium Yamamoto neoprene, they deliver a superior sealed waterproofing. A fleece lining is fused in the interior to add soft comfort and warmth.
The pre-curved anatomical fit mimics the position of a hand at rest and is easy to flex, reducing user fatigue. Wet or dry, the outer surface is designed to keep a no-slip solid grip. Extra length at the wrists allows for tucking in or over outer wear, so that a secure seal can be created.
Available in 6 unisex sizes ranging from XS – XX-L.
Warmers Sun Paddling Glove
For those on a budget, these low-priced (under $15) Sun Paddling Gloves from Warmers offer a great value in an effective package, preventing blisters and sunburns.
The back of hand material is a thin lycra that is lightweight and allows you full dexterity. The palm and thumb are made of a poly suede that provides an enhanced grip dry or wet. The entire glove is breathable, keeping hands cool and comfortable, even after long hours of paddling.
With a choice of 6 sizes from XS to XL that offer a close fit for men, women, and older youth.
Stohlquist Toaster Pogies
Some kayakers prefer the use of pogies in place of standard sports gloves. Pogies secure onto the paddle shaft, providing hand protection while allowing you to maintain direct contact with the paddle. Toaser Pogies by Stohlquist are constructed of 2mm thick neoprene for warmth and protection from the wind, and deliver a great grip while protecting hands from abrasion.
The neoprene cuff of these pogies is cut to remain slightly open, making the inserting of hands super easy and quick. They secure to the shaft of your paddle with a hook and loop closure, and a webbing strap that enables you to roll the ends up onto the shaft for added security.
Pogies come in one size. They have enough extra room so that you can also wear a pair of thin gloves for colder water protection.