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- 9 Best UV Protection Gloves in 2023 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
9 Best UV Protection Gloves in 2023 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
However, picking a pair of UV protection gloves isn’t something that you want to do off the cuff as there are a lot of factors to keep in mind. We’ll show you what to look for when shopping for the best UV protection gloves with input from a board certified dermatologist, as well as tell you what gloves we thought made the top ranking on the market this year. Our favorite gloves are Outdoor Research's Activeice Chroma Full Sun Gloves! Read on for the reasons these gloves made the cut, as well as a list of other great options.
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- 9 Best UV Protection Gloves
- No. 1: Outdoor Research | ActiveIce Chroma Full Sun Gloves
- No. 2: Palmyth | UV Protection Fingerless Kayaking Fishing Gloves
- No. 3: B-Driven | Compression Sun Sleeves
- No. 4: Comfecto | Sunshine Lady Gloves Arm Length UV Protection Gloves
- No. 5: The Fishing Tree | The Fishing Tree Half Finger Fishing Gloves
- 4 more products
- Get Even More UV Protection for Your Skin
How to Choose UV Protection Gloves – Buying Guide
Finding a pair of UV protection gloves that are the right size and material for your needs can be tricky. We've created this buying guide to help you know what to look for!
① Check the UPF Rating
As with SPF ratings, a higher UPF rating is better than a lower one. The highest rating you'll probably find is 50 UPF, meaning that only one-fiftieth of the UV rays will be able to get through to your skin.
A moderate UPF rating will be up to 24 UPF, while a good rating goes towards the upper 30s. Lower UPF ratings are fine if you only tend to be out for a short time or in direct sunlight. But if you want to stay extra safe, we recommend an excellent UPF rating, which falls between 40 and 50 UPF.
If you have fair skin or a history of skin cancer, choose a glove with a higher UPF rating. This will allow you to get more protection. You should still use a cream or lotion SPF for the fingers or other exposed parts of the hands the gloves do not cover.
② Find a Material That's Comfortable but Effective
Each material used to make UV protection gloves has its strengths and weaknesses. While there are no bad materials, some might be better for you than others, depending on your needs. Here's a breakdown of each material that's typically used to make UV protection gloves.
Synthetic Materials Are Stronger Than Natural Ones
Wool, cotton, and silk can be comfortable and do tend to breathe well. They can also be more aesthetically appealing. The downside is that these natural fibers aren't very protective without additional treatment. Still, if you want a cute pair of UV protection gloves to wear in less direct sunlight, these natural materials can be a fine choice.
Thick Material Gives Greater Protection
Thicker, more densely woven fabrics block more UV rays than thin or fine fabrics. So if you're planning a long outing in direct sunlight, you might want to look for UV protection gloves that are thick and sturdy, like faux leather or water-resistant fabrics. Thinner gloves made of fine or soft fabrics like cotton should be reserved for an occasion with less sun exposure.
It's important to be aware that stretchy UV gloves do provide less protection as they stretch thinner. However, spandex gloves and other similar types meant to stretch often have a purpose behind their design. You might need more stretch to your UV protection gloves if you're using them for sports or other active events. Some protection is still better than none.
When you get the gloves wet or wash them repeatedly, they will lose some effectiveness. This is why choosing a thicker glove is better since it takes more time for them to lose effectiveness. However, thicker materials may be warmer for your hands and are not as comfortable as lighter-weight Spandex gloves.
The Color of Your Glove's Material Matters
Light-colored gloves also generate less heat. This means you will be cooler in them and more likely to wear them for longer periods of time. They're also better for sports or periods of time where you may be sweating since they tend to be cooler.
③ Consider How Much You Want to Cover Up
The goal of UV protection gloves is to protect you from the sun, but depending on the cut of your shirt, you may want to protect your arms as well. Gloves come in a wide range of cuts from wrist-length all the way up to mid-bicep.
Although the goal is to protect yourself as much as possible from the sun, sometimes wearing full gloves can be too unwieldy, especially if you’re doing something that requires smaller movements. If you're going to be doing activities that require quick fingerwork, you may want to choose UV protection gloves that are fingerless.
Fingerless gloves also come in handy if you need to handle a smartphone or tablet. However, if you want full protection no matter what, touch-screen UV protection gloves do exist!
For patients that are very prone to sun damage or skin cancer, I recommend keeping a pair of UV gloves in the car that cover the hands. UVA rays from the sun can penetrate the window and can cause sun damage to the hands.
For longer days at the beach, a full-length pair of gloves that cover the arms is recommended. Some women (and men) may get melasma on the forearms. These full-length gloves are great for this condition to help prevent further hyperpigmentation.
Also, some gel manicures use a UV light to set the polish. Use a pair of UV gloves with fingertip holes while getting a gel manicure to protect your hands.
9 Best UV Protection Gloves
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Outdoor Research ActiveIce Chroma Full Sun Gloves | | Our Top Choice - Sturdy Gloves With Cooling Technology and a Strong Grip | |
2 | Palmyth UV Protection Fingerless Kayaking Fishing Gloves | | Best for Dexterity and Lightweight Feel | |
3 | B-Driven Compression Sun Sleeves | | Best UV Protection Sports Sleeves | |
4 | Comfecto Sunshine Lady Gloves Arm Length UV Protection Gloves | | Best Long Gloves With Full Finger Coverage | |
5 | The Fishing Tree The Fishing Tree Half Finger Fishing Gloves | | Best for Short Finger Coverage and Fishing | |
6 | Coolibar Coolibar Unisex UV Gloves | | Best for Cooling Fabric and a Standard Design | |
7 | Bassdash Women’s Fingerless Gloves | | Best for Petit Hands and Long Finger Coverage | |
8 | ManiGlovz Fingerless Gloves | | Best for Getting a Gel Manicure | |
9 | MarJunSep MarJunSep Women’s Lace Driving Gloves (Set of 4) | | Best Multi-Pack of UV Gloves |
Outdoor ResearchActiveIce Chroma Full Sun Gloves
Our Top Choice - Sturdy Gloves With Cooling Technology and a Strong Grip
Features:
- perforated overlay grips on palms and fingers
- tapered wrist for a snug fit
- fabric infused with xylitol crystals for a cooling effect
Recommended for:
- outdoor activities that require a good grip, like biking or boating
Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or fishing, these gloves will serve you well if you’re outdoors and active. Full-fingered with a UPF rating of 50+, these gloves will keep the sun at bay no matter how hot the weather is or how long you’re outside. In addition, they come in sizes ranging from extra small to extra large, ensuring that they will be a good fit for all.
A few users complained that wearing these gloves made it difficult to use smart devices due to the lack of touchscreen accessibility. However, most were thrilled with how well ventilated the gloves were and how firm the perforated grips turned out to be. Many reported great success in both sports and yardwork, saying they stayed cool and sunburn-free.
PalmythUV Protection Fingerless Kayaking Fishing Gloves
Best for Dexterity and Lightweight Feel
- open-palm design for breathability and heat release
- synthetic leather for grip without added bulkiness
- adjustable wrists
Recommended for:
- those who want fingerless UV gloves but still need extra coverage
These fingerless gloves cover your fingers up to the first knuckle, allowing for semi-full coverage without giving up your sense of touch. They are certified UPF 50+ and have an adjustable wrist cuff to ensure that you maintain your mobility while fishing or kayaking.
While these gloves are great for long-term outdoor exposure, a few people who bought them reported fragile stitchwork made them a poor fit for heavy-duty yard work or sports. However, those who bought them for gentler tasks like fishing or kayaking said they loved the light feel of the gloves and highly recommended them for long-term UV protection.
B-Driven Compression Sun Sleeves
Best UV Protection Sports Sleeves
Features:
- dynamic material promotes blood flow and keeps muscles from getting stiff
- extreme moisture-wicking material keeps wearers cool
- provides arm-length coverage for a day out in the sun
Recommended for:
- long-term exposure or high-impact sports
These slick-looking UV protection sleeves are lab-tested to ensure their quality. In addition, the compression design promotes a healthy amount of blood flow so your muscles won't be sore after your day on the field, and the 50+ UPF rating will keep your arms safe from the sun. Just be aware that you have to order each sleeve separately!
Some who bought these sleeves found that their elastic bands were uncomfortably tight. We recommend taking care in selecting your size; the official website has a guide! However, most reviewers rave about how supportive and protective the sleeves are, both for their muscles and skin. The fabric is of sturdy quality and also comes in various great designs.
ComfectoSunshine Lady Gloves Arm Length UV Protection Gloves
Best Long Gloves With Full Finger Coverage
- 21.7-inch gloves that give elbow-length protection
- mesh inlay and 100% cotton make for breathability
- grips on fingers and upper palms
Recommended for:
- a dressy outing or a long road trip
These cotton UV protection gloves are incredibly light and breathable. They come in three cute colors, all of which are bright and will reflect sunlight well. The modest grips on the palm and finger areas make these gloves a good choice for driving or for some light gardening.
A few people who bought these gloves complained that their single size isn't a fit for everyone. You may want to look elsewhere if your coverage preference goes above the elbow. On the other hand, many found the gloves to be incredibly soft and light, adding that the cotton and mesh breathe well. These gloves are also often bought as gifts.
The Fishing TreeThe Fishing Tree Half Finger Fishing Gloves
Best for Short Finger Coverage and Fishing
- adjustable velcro wrist wrap for a good fit
- washable without losing any UV protection
- quick-drying fabric for those who want to go fishing
Recommended for:
- fishing trips or other activities that require finger dexterity
Looking for protection for your hands without sacrificing finger dexterity? These might be just the gloves for you. These gloves are made for fishing with an incredibly short finger coverage and are ideal for any outdoor activity that requires a good grip. In addition, they're available in unisex sizes, making them a great fit for everyone.
A common complaint among those who bought these gloves is that they don't provide enough padding for safe use while kayaking in rougher waters. However, others who used the gloves for less friction-heavy boating found that they protected well against blisters and UV rays. Fishers also reported that they got plenty of finger dexterity with these light and well-fitting gloves.
CoolibarCoolibar Unisex UV Gloves
Best for Cooling Fabric and a Standard Design
- touchscreen-friendly fingertips on forefinger and thumb
- machine washable
- cooling technology in the fabric allows for comfortable wear in hot weather
Recommended for:
- those who want full finger coverage but also want to access smart devices
Coolibar's patented cooling fabric and a breathable micro-mesh inlay ensure that these gloves will be comfortable to wear on even the hottest day. They're best for light activities or spending a long time outside. They also come with their own matching storage pouch for easy transport!
Quite a few customers have experienced quality issues when ordering these gloves on Amazon this year, so we've added the manufacturer's link. As for the gloves themselves, most who bought them reported a perfect fit and added the cooling technology felt lovely. They were able to wear the gloves for up to 10 hours and enjoyed the handy storage pouch.
BassdashWomen’s Fingerless Gloves
Best for Petit Hands and Long Finger Coverage
Features:
- three-quarter finger coverage offers protection without compromising dexterity
- faux leather padding at the base of thumbs supports kayaking
- tabs for easy pull-on
Recommended for:
- those who want a little more finger coverage but still need their fingertips unhindered
Bassdash's UV protection gloves offer a little more coverage finger-wise than the other set of fishing gloves on our list. They're made of sweat-wicking, stretchy polyester and come in five vibrant designs. The faux leather palm and finger pads double as grips, making these gloves durable and useful for various activities.
A few purchasers warn that if you aren't used to longer finger coverage, the finger length of these gloves feels awkward. However, those who don't mind the length rave about how lightweight and well-fitted to smaller hands the gloves are. Reviewers find them useful for almost anything, from kayaking with friends to keeping their hands chafe-free when using a wheelchair.
ManiGlovzFingerless Gloves
Best for Getting a Gel Manicure
Features:
- gives generous finger coverage while leaving nails free to dry underneath a UV lamp
- comes with a matching storage pouch
- thoroughly tested to meet USA standards for UV protection
Recommended for:
- getting your nails done without worry or just enjoying a day out beneath the sun
The act of getting our nails done and dried beneath a lamp also exposes our hands to harmful UV rays. These cute gloves by ManiGlovz provide an answer to this problem. They're one size but incredibly stretchy and come in a rainbow of fun prints and colors! They're also water-resistant and breathe well, so feel free to wear them to the pool or out for a walk.
One or two reviewers warn that the gloves run a bit small, but it may be worth squeezing your hands in to protect your skin. Most who bought these manicure-specific gloves rave about the sturdy quality and flashy designs available. Some are happy they don't have to use sunscreen and risk ruining their nails. These gloves are a good choice for your spa day.
MarJunSepMarJunSep Women’s Lace Driving Gloves (Set of 4)
Best Multi-Pack of UV Gloves
- come in a pack of four
- touchscreen-friendly fingertip on forefinger
- grips on fingers and palms
Recommended for:
- those who want to match different gloves to different outfits
These driving gloves come in a set of four with four different colors, making them ideal for any outfit or if you need spares to leave in different places. They have a grippy palm for traction and are made of breathable cotton with cute lace trim. Due to the natural fibers and thin make, these gloves are a lower UPF than others but still provide some protection.
Some people who bought these gloves warn that the stitching isn't the sturdiest. For the most part, however, customers were pleased with how cute each pair looked and found the UV protection sufficient for a drive or short errand out of doors. They could use the touchscreen prints without any issue, and many added the gloves felt cool and light on their hands.
Get Even More UV Protection for Your Skin
Chances are that at least some of your skin is still exposed. Don't forget to slather on some quality SPF as well!
Top 5 UV Protection Gloves
No. 1: Outdoor Research | ActiveIce Chroma Full Sun Gloves
No. 2: Palmyth | UV Protection Fingerless Kayaking Fishing Gloves
No. 3: B-Driven | Compression Sun Sleeves
No. 4: Comfecto | Sunshine Lady Gloves Arm Length UV Protection Gloves
No. 5: The Fishing Tree | The Fishing Tree Half Finger Fishing Gloves
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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