Paddling gloves are a very good accessory for any SUPer to have no matter your experience level. Having gloves will allow you to enjoy what you do for much longer without having to worry about blisters and calluses. In this article, we will discuss 5 pairs of paddle gloves that are very good for stand up paddle boarding.
If you are a short time user meaning that you only go out for less than an hour, then you probably do not need paddle gloves. If you are one of those that enjoy cruising or touring on the calm ocean or lakes for many hours then having paddle gloves are essential. Not only does to protect you from getting blisters but it provides some good grip and protection from the sun.
We will explore what paddling gloves are, why they are important, and reveal the top 5 best-selling paddling gloves on Amazon. We will also discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the right pair of gloves and provide tips on how to properly care for them.
| Brand | UV Protection | |
|---|---|---|
| Palmyth Paddling Gloves | +50 | Check Price |
| KastKing Sol Armis | +50 | Check Price |
| Fish Monkey Second Skin | +50 | Check Price |
| Riverruns Paddling Gloves | +50 | Check Price |
| Sea to Summit Solution Gear | +50 | Check Price |
We categorize gloves into closed and open fingers. My preference is open fingered gloves as they feel better than closed gloves when they are wet and more functional. This is just my humble opinion. Not everyone is the same so it would be more of a personal preference.
I have listed the top 5 stand-up paddle board gloves based on customer reviews and feedback and mention my personal favorite which you can read about below.
What Are Paddling Gloves?
Paddling gloves are essential accessories designed to provide protection and enhance performance during water sports activities, safeguarding hands and fingers from potential injuries.
They are crafted using durable materials that offer grip and insulation, ensuring a secure hold on paddles even in wet conditions. For kayakers, sailors, surfers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, these gloves are a game-changer, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience on the water.
Hand protection is crucial in preventing blisters, calluses, and cuts, enabling individuals to focus on their technique and agility without the worry of discomfort. With adjustable wrist closures and reinforced palms, paddling gloves are versatile gear that cater to varying water sport needs.
Why Are Paddling Gloves Important?
Paddling gloves play a crucial role in water sports by offering protection, enhancing grip, ensuring comfort, and optimizing performance for kayaking, canoeing, and other aquatic activities.
They are designed to shield the hands from blisters, cuts, and abrasions caused by rough equipment or environmental elements, allowing paddlers to focus on their technique and enjoyment of the sport.
The enhanced grip provided by these gloves not only ensures better control of the paddle but also reduces the strain on the hands and forearms during extended periods of paddling.
The comfort offered by padded palms and adjustable closures enhances the overall paddling experience, enabling enthusiasts to perform at their best while minimizing discomfort and fatigue.
5 Best Stand-up Paddling Gloves 2024
- Discover the top 5 best-selling paddling gloves on Amazon, based on customer reviews and ratings, offering a blend of waterproof, neoprene, durable, comfortable, and flexible options for men, women, and unisex users.
These popular paddling gloves cater to a wide range of needs, with features like adjustable straps for a customized fit, reinforced palms for enhanced grip and protection, and touchscreen compatibility for easy access to devices without having to remove the gloves.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned paddler, these gloves provide the necessary support and performance on the water. With various color options and sizes available, there’s a suitable pair for every individual, ensuring both style and functionality are covered in your paddling adventures.
1. Palmyth Paddling Gloves
After testing and trying out a lot of different paddle gloves, the Palmyth Paddling Gloves performed the best. This has been my preferred glove for paddle boarding for the last 6 months.
The Certified UPF 50+ and SPF UV Protection is woven into the fabric and not a spray on chemical used by many of the cheaper brands. These are comfortable with their shortened fingers and shortened wrist makes the fit very good.
The synthetic leather palm provides very good grip while paddling and the silicone dots makes the gripping very real.
They are good for a range of water sports and come highly recommended.
Features:
- Unisex
- Certified UPF 50+ and SPF UV Protection
- Silicone dots for a better grip
- Finger-Tip pull tabs easy to take off
- Extra wide wrist engineered for a more secure fit
- Two layers of synthetic leather for next level grip and durability
- Great for paddling, canoeing, rowing, sailing, hiking and driving
Available Colors:
- Light Grey
- Navy Blue
2. KastKing Sol Armis Paddling Gloves
The saying fits like a glove really applies to the KastKing Sol Armis. When you first put them on, they feel nice and snug and very comfortable between the fingers.
Another excellent multi-purpose glove that can be used for paddling, rowing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and sailing with UV protection giving you all that you need for your water adventure.
These make #2 on our list as they are also very good for stand-up paddle boarding. They are comfortable and offer good grip when wet.
A top performer for long distance touring as the padding provides decent support. They are offer good protection from the sun. If you prefer longer fingers and longer wrist cuff, then these are for you.
The poly-spandex material fits snug and with the micro-fiber material on the palms provides good
Features:
- UPF 50 UV protection for your hands
- Breathable poly-spandex material
- Re-enforced wear points
- Integrated pull tabs
- Fashionable Prym1 colors
Available Colors:
- Silver Mist
- Shoreline
- Blackout
- Ambush
- Blue Patriot
- Purple Tang
- Blue Tang
3. Fish Monkey Second Skin Fit Gloves
The Fish Monkey Second Skin fit gloves are excellent all-round gloves and can be used for many water sports such as paddle boarding and and outdoor activities such as climbing. These are breathable and fast drying so that you do not have to worry about your skin becoming clammy and wrinkly.
If your hands stay wet for a long period of time while paddling or fishing, your hands tend blister more and start chaffing. We found the Fish Monkey range to work well over a good period of time on the water and feel very comfortable.
They provide excellent protection against blistering and rope burns so that you can enjoy your time more not worrying about your hands.
Even though The Fish Monkey are fishing gloves, they are an excellent multi-sport gloves and equally good for women and men. Very agile for tying knots and opening bags.
Overall, these gloves are excellent and very affordable too.
Features:
- Non-slip silicone palm print for added comfort and support
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Superior construction for second skin fit
- Quick dry breathable fabric for all-day comfort
- Short (stubby) cut for increased comfort
Available Colors:
- Americana
- Bass
- Blue water camo
- Grey water camo
- Light grey
- VooDoo swamp green
- VooDoo swamp red
- VooDoo swamp neon purple
4. Riverruns Paddling Gloves
Number 4 on top 5 best paddling gloves list is the Riverruns Paddle Gloves. Great unisex glove that fits comfortably and protects your hands from the sun and blistering.
The quick drying material is really good and do not feel heavy when they are wet. The pull tabs on the fingers and wrists make these gloves very simple to put on, adjust and take off. No messing about.
The 3/4 finger design protects the hot spots from paddling while keeping your finger tips free for fine movement, electronics, fishing and control.
Can be used for multiple outdoor activities and water sports as well as very good for driving.
We found the grip to be decent but over a long paddle day, you do feel it in your palms. The stitching could be a lot better as I found they did start giving out after a few uses.
Features:
- Finger pull tab for easy taking off
- Wrist pull tab for easy wearing and adjusting
- three quarter finger length
- Anti-slip material for better grip
- Breathable and quick drying 4-way stretch fabric
- Anti-odor
- UPF 50+ protection
Available Colors:
- Black
- Fish Bone
- Fishwater Camoblue
- Fishwater Silicone
- Light Grey
5. Sea to Summit Eclipse Paddle Glove
The Sea to Summit paddling glove rounds off our top 5 gloves that are ideal for stand up paddle boarding.
These are a good choice as they offer protection from the sun with +50 UV protection. The material on this pair is nice and thin which makes it lightweight.
They offer good grip with nice flexibility and good support in the high wear areas. These are also good for multi sports and exercising as they provide good protection from the sun.
The material used is comfortable and does not make your hand hot on warm sunny days. A good pair of gloves and is the expensive of the 5 that we have listed here.
Features:
- Paddling glove that offers excellent protection against the sun & helps prevent blisters
- Double layer palm & thumb area
- UPF 50+ back fabric is stretchy & breathable
- 2mm neoprene cuff with hook & loop
- Rubberized tab closure
Available Colors:
- Blue
Benefits of using paddle gloves
If you are an avid outdoors person who likes to spend a good amount of time on the water paddling, kayaking, wind-surfing, fishing or even hiking and climbing, gloves are a very good accessory to have.
They provide the protection that you need that will prevent blistering and rope burns. Being finger-less, you will have the freedom to use your fingers for any task that requires them without having to remove your gloves.
From the various people that we have spoken to, the above mentioned gloves have also been used at obstacle races and mountain biking. With the grip that they provide as well as comfort, gave the obstacle race participants added motivation when performing each task. They are quick drying so will not stay wet for long. Keep them in your bag for whenever you are out and about.
What Are the Factors to Consider When Choosing Paddling Gloves?
When selecting paddling gloves, essential factors to consider include the material’s durability, grip quality, comfort level, protection features, insulation properties, sizing options, and overall value for money.
- Material durability plays a significant role in the longevity of paddling gloves, with high-quality fabrics like neoprene or Kevlar offering superior resistance to wear and tear.
- Grip effectiveness is crucial for a secure hold on paddles, especially in wet conditions, where textures or rubberized palms can enhance control.
- Comfort attributes such as adjustable straps, breathable fabrics, and seamless stitching contribute to a pleasant paddling experience.
- Protective elements like reinforced knuckles or UV protection safeguard hands during aquatic activities.
- Insulation capabilities are vital for cold water paddling, with thermal linings or layered construction maintaining warmth.
- Ensuring a wide range of sizing options helps users find the perfect fit, from snug to loose, preventing discomfort or restricted movement.
- Comparing pricing across brands allows for a balance between budget and quality, while a comprehensive value assessment considers the features offered relative to the cost.
1. Material and Durability
The material composition and durability of paddling gloves are paramount factors to assess, ensuring long-term quality, performance, and resilience during water sports activities.
When selecting paddling gloves, it is crucial to consider the quality attributes of the materials used, as they play a significant role in determining the longevity and performance of the products.
High-quality materials such as neoprene or synthetic leather provide excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear from frequent use in various water conditions. Material performance is key in ensuring that the gloves maintain their shape, grip, and insulation properties over time, enhancing comfort and protection for the hands during paddling adventures.
Therefore, investing in paddling gloves made from durable materials leads to higher expectations of overall longevity and reliable performance on the water.
2. Grip and Comfort
The grip and comfort provided by paddling gloves are essential aspects that directly impact user experience, ensuring secure handling, optimal fit, and enhanced dexterity for water sports enthusiasts.
The right paddling gloves offer a balance of grip performance and ergonomic design, allowing users to maintain a strong hold on their paddles while ensuring comfort during long hours on the water.
A secure grip not only enhances control but also reduces the risk of accidents. A well-fitted glove with ergonomic features improves overall dexterity, enabling smoother and more efficient movements while paddling.
By prioritizing grip quality and comfort in glove selection, paddlers can optimize their performance and enjoy a more enjoyable and safe experience out on the water.
3. Fit and Sizing
The fit and sizing of paddling gloves are critical factors to ensure optimal performance, requiring precise measurements, accurate sizing charts, and potential customization options for personalized comfort and functionality.
When choosing paddling gloves, proper fit is essential not only for comfort but also for efficiency and safety on the water. Ill-fitting gloves can cause discomfort, restrict movement, and hinder your paddling experience.
In addition to following sizing charts provided by manufacturers, consider any customization features offered, such as adjustable wrist closures or stretch panels, to fine-tune the fit to your specific needs.
By investing time in getting the right size and exploring customization options, you can enhance your overall enjoyment and performance while paddling.
4. Protection and Insulation
Protection and insulation capabilities in paddling gloves are vital for safeguarding hands against external elements, providing waterproofing, weather resistance, and thermal insulation benefits for enhanced comfort and safety.
These advanced features play a crucial role in ensuring that water activities can be enjoyed without compromise, as they help to keep hands dry and warm even in chilly conditions.
The waterproof properties of these gloves prevent water from seeping in, while their weather-resilient design offers durability against harsh outdoor elements. The thermal insulation capability not only keeps hands comfortably cozy but also allows for better dexterity and grip during paddling adventures.
5. Price and Value for Money
Considering the price and value for money when purchasing paddling gloves is essential, requiring a balance between affordability, quality, features, and cost-effectiveness to make a well-informed buying decision.
These factors play a crucial role in determining the overall satisfaction and performance level that the paddling gloves can offer. Assessing affordability ensures that the gloves fit within the budget constraints, while evaluating product value helps in understanding the worth of the investment.
Focusing on quality features such as material, durability, and design enhances the functionality and longevity of the gloves. Cost-effectiveness becomes significant as it denotes the efficiency of the purchase in relation to its benefits.
By considering these aspects collectively, paddlers can choose gloves that not only meet their needs but also provide excellent value for their money.
How to Properly Care for Paddling Gloves?
Proper maintenance and care routines are essential for preserving the quality, durability, and functionality of paddling gloves, involving regular cleaning, appropriate storage methods, and timely repairs to extend their lifespan.
By implementing proper cleaning techniques, paddling enthusiasts can ensure that salt, sand, and other debris accumulated during use are effectively removed, preventing premature wear and tear.
It is recommended to hand wash the gloves with mild soap and lukewarm water, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric or neoprene. After cleaning, allow the gloves to air dry completely before storing them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent mold growth and maintain their shape.
Final Thoughts
This concludes are 5 best SUP paddling gloves. The colors are very limited with these gloves. It would be nice if different colors were offered. But none the less these are much better and more versatile than the others that we reviewed.
These offer the use for multi purpose sports and are recommended for stand-up paddle boarding.
We love your content. Regards from Pissouri Bay Divers from Cyprus!
Any good spots in Cyprus to go paddle boarding?
Hi, thanks for this post. I bought the Neoprene gloves through your link and I am happy to say that these gloves are brilliant :). I received them last week and tried it with my paddle board this weekend as the weather was great. They are very comfortable and fit like a glove lmao. No seriously, they are very good and provide good grip while paddling. Good to get wet as they do not feel heavy. I am very glad that I bought these and highly recommend them. Will be buying another pair for my husband. Happy SUPing everyone.
Glad to hear that Velia. Enjoy the weather and the outdoors.