Best kids’ waterproof gloves 2024: 18 options for whatever the weather

Skiing? Throwing snowballs? Or braving the rain? The best kids' waterproof gloves are the finishing touch

collage showing some of the best kids' waterproof gloves
(Image credit: Future)

With our pick of the best kids’ waterproof gloves, you can keep little hands warm and dry all season long. Along with a waterproof puddle suit, a pair of winter boots or Wellington boots, kids' waterproof gloves are all your child needs to get stuck into some serious outdoor fun. It's fair to say that waterproof gloves are an essential piece of outdoor kit come autumn, winter and spring as nothing stops outdoor playtime faster than when little hands are cold. So making sure your little explorers are protected against the elements is essential. 

Protection is key, but so is personality. We've included a broad selection of designs, colourways and shapes across gloves and mittens to appeal to kids of all ages and temperaments, whether they're after playful prints or prefer something no-nonsense and functional. 

We've listed a number of options with prices starting under £10, in styles and colours to suit everyone. Keep reading to discover the best kids' gloves on the market right now. 

Best kids' waterproof gloves 2024

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How to choose the best waterproof gloves for your child

For the best protection in waterproof gloves, look for taped seams and a water-resistant outer layer, such as nylon and coated fabrics. A thicker insulating inner layer - such as fleece, cotton or Thinsulate - is ideal for keeping little hands extra cosy and warm. 

In our guide, you'll see that the most reliable options for waterproof gloves come with a waterproof rating. Fabric waterproof rating is measured in millimetres. This refers to the pressure at which water is able to press through the fabric. Anything between 1,500mm-5,000mm is suitable for everyday adventures. For more exciting excursions - think skiing or sledging - opt for a higher rating of up to 10,000mm. 

Are mittens or gloves better for toddlers?

When it comes to choosing kids' waterproof gloves, a key decision is whether to opt for gloves or mittens. Mittens are designed to keep fingers together, so they are more efficient at trapping warmth and keeping little hands warm. For babies and toddlers - and particularly cold days - mittens are the best option for keeping frosty fingertips at bay. 

Mittens also tend to be easier to get on and off than gloves, which is something to take into consideration when you're bundling your child up and trying to get out the door - kitting out a baby or toddler in rain- or snow-ready gear can feel a lot trickier than getting ourselves dressed, but getting kids into the habit of wearing gloves when it's cold and wet from a young age can help kids from getting overly dry, chapped hands.

On the other hand, gloves give kids more freedom and the ability to do more with their hands, and tend to become more popular as kids start nursery and school, so for slightly older children - or for more hands-on outdoor activities - consider gloves. 

If your little ones are always losing their gloves, it's worth organising your kid's wardrobe and arranging accessories in their own storage box. Or choose one of the pairs with handy clips so you can ensure your kids' gloves have something easy to attach to once you're back indoors. You definitely won't want to misplace any of the waterproof gloves included on this list.

Best places to buy kids' waterproof gloves


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Heidi Scrimgeour
Deputy Editor

Heidi is a seasoned parenting journalist with over 15 years of experience. She has contributed to numerous UK national newspapers, including The Guardian, The Times, and The Telegraph. Her work has also appeared in a variety of print and digital magazines, such as Psychologies and Mother & Baby, where she was Shopping Editor for six years. In this role, she specialised in consumer features, including buying guides and baby gear reviews. Heidi is also a mum of three.

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