Gloves & Mittens

Best Women's Gloves & Mittens in the US: A Shopper’s Guide to Warmth, Style, and Function

Why the Right Gloves Matter More Than You Think

Gloves are one of those small accessories that punch well above their weight. They protect your hands from cold, wind, and sun, enable smartphone use without freezing your fingers, and can even elevate your outfit. Whether you commute, hike, drive, or just walk the dog, the right pair makes life more comfortable. Think of gloves as a second skin for your hands — they should fit, perform, and look good.

Where to Shop: Top US Retailers for Women's Gloves & Mittens

Shopping for gloves can feel overwhelming with so many stores and styles. To simplify things, here are some reliable places to shop, each with its own strengths: value buys, designer lines, outdoor performance, and specialty options. I’ll highlight what each retailer does best so you can match your needs to the right shop.

Walmart — Bulk, Budget, and Everyday Variety

Walmart is a go-to when you want broad selection at low prices. They stock everything from basic knit gloves and affordable touchscreen styles to bulk packs aimed at events or resale — handy if you need dozens for a group. You’ll also find thermal and inexpensive heated options, plus driving gloves and mixed assortments for kids and adults. If you want to outfit a whole household without breaking the bank, Walmart is a smart starting point.

Drestige — Designer Leather and Luxury Options

Drestige focuses on high-end gloves with premium materials and craftsmanship. Expect nappa leather driving gloves, couture-style short gloves, and refined dress gloves that complement formal outerwear. Designer names and handcrafted pieces dominate here, perfect if you’re shopping for a statement accessory or a long-lasting leather pair that will only get better with care.

Nordstrom & Neiman Marcus — Department Store Selection

Department stores like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus blend mid-range to luxury picks. They’re great if you want to try gloves on in person and explore designer labels alongside more affordable brands. You’ll often find touchscreen leather gloves, wool blends, and lined options for extra warmth, plus helpful staff who can recommend fit and style.

REI & Backcountry — Outdoor Performance and Heated Options

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, REI and Backcountry are worth visiting. These retailers emphasize technical features: waterproof membranes, reinforced palms, dexterity for skiing, and battery-powered heated gloves rated for freezing temps. Look for insulation ratings in Fahrenheit and features like wrist cinches and gauntlets to seal out wind and snow.

Target, Amazon, Macy’s — Convenience and Variety

Target and Amazon cover the middle ground: accessible prices, a wide array of styles, and fast shipping. Macy’s often brings big seasonal selections, including branded touchscreen gloves and lined leather options. These retailers are useful when you want multiple choices quickly and access to customer reviews to guide your pick.

Types of Gloves & Mittens Explained

Knowing what type of glove you need helps you filter through thousands of options. Here’s a quick breakdown so you can match glove type to activity.

Touchscreen-Friendly Gloves

These gloves have conductive fibers or pads on the index finger and thumb so you can use your phone without taking them off. They’re perfect for commuting or running errands in temperatures from the mid-30s to the 50s Fahrenheit, depending on the insulation level. Many everyday knit gloves and leather driving gloves now include this feature.

Heated and Thermal Gloves

Battery-heated gloves are a game-changer if you face single-digit or sub-zero conditions. Most heated gloves specify a safe operating range in Fahrenheit and offer multiple heat settings for back-of-hand warmth. If you prefer passive insulation, look for gloves with synthetic loft or down lining rated for cold-weather use; choose a pair that keeps hands warm in the expected temperature range.

Driving Gloves & UV-Protective Styles

Driving gloves are slim-fitting and often made of soft leather for grip and wheel feel. Some modern driving gloves also offer sun protection and touchscreen compatibility, so they’re useful for both driving and everyday use. They typically sit around the wrist or slightly above, with lengths measured in inches for style preference.

Fingerless and Magic Stretch Gloves

Fingerless gloves, or stretch knit "magic" gloves, give you dexterity and layering options. They’re handy in transitional weather or when you need fingertip freedom for tasks like photography or cash handling. Many come in bulk assortments if you’re packing for events or retail resale.

Mittens vs. Gloves

Mittens trap more warmth because fingers share heat under one cover; they’re ideal for very cold conditions and snowy play. Gloves offer superior dexterity for driving, texting, and handling gear. Choose mittens for warmth-first scenarios and gloves for function-first situations.

Materials Matter: Choosing by Fabric and Function

The material dictates warmth, durability, and care. Here’s how common materials stack up so you can pick a pair that matches your lifestyle.

Leather — Classic, Durable, and Stylish

Leather is a favorite for dressy gloves and driving gloves. It molds to your hand over time and can last for years with proper conditioning. Look for leather lined with cashmere or wool if you want both style and warmth. Measure your hand across the knuckles in inches to pick the right leather size — snug is better than loose.

Wool & Cashmere — Warm and Breathable

Wool offers excellent natural insulation and breathability, while cashmere provides a softer, more luxurious feel. These fibers are great for everyday winter wear but typically need more delicate care than synthetic gloves. They perform well in dry cold, but if you expect wet conditions, choose a wool blend with a water-resistant finish or add a shell layer.

Synthetics & Softshell — Waterproof and Technical

Synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and softshell fabrics shine in wet or snowy conditions. Many winter sports gloves use these materials with waterproof membranes and synthetic insulation rated in Fahrenheit. They’re easy to wash and dry faster than natural fibers.

How to Measure for the Perfect Fit

Buying gloves online is easier when you know how to measure. Use a soft tape measure and follow these simple steps for an accurate fit.

Measure Hand Circumference

Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your palm, excluding the thumb. Record the measurement in inches. Most brands list glove sizes in inches, so this figure helps you choose a size that won’t be too tight when you move your fingers.

Consider Finger Length and Cuff Style

Shorter hands may prefer a standard wrist-length glove, while those who want extra protection should pick a gauntlet-style cuff that extends several inches up the wrist. If you’re between sizes, size up for added comfort if you’ll layer thin liners underneath.

Styling Tips: Make Gloves Part of Your Outfit

Gloves can be an accent piece or a functional staple. Here are simple styling tips to get the most from your picks.

Match to Your Coat or Contrast for Pop

Neutral gloves in black, gray, or tan pair easily with most coats for a classic look. Alternatively, go bold with a bright color or patterned mittens to inject personality into a neutral winter coat. Leather gloves in a rich brown or oxblood add polish to both casual and dress outfits.

Accessorize with Scarves and Hats

Tie your gloves into your overall look by coordinating them with a scarf or hat. You don’t have to match exactly — think harmonic colors or textures instead. A cashmere scarf with cashmere-lined gloves feels cohesive and indulgent.

Care and Maintenance: Keep Gloves Working Longer

Good glove care extends lifespan and keeps materials looking top-notch. Here’s how to treat different materials so your gloves stay functional and attractive.

Leather Care

Leather gloves benefit from periodic cleaning with a damp cloth and conditioning with a leather balm. Avoid soaking leather in water, and store gloves flat or on a form to keep their shape. If gloves get wet, let them dry at room temperature and avoid direct heat, which can crack leather.

Wool and Cashmere Care

Many wool and cashmere gloves are hand-washable in cool water using a gentle detergent. Lay them flat to dry. Avoid wringing to prevent stretching. For stubborn pilling, use a fabric shaver carefully to restore a neat look.

Washing Synthetics

Synthetic gloves usually tolerate machine washing on a gentle cycle, but check the tag. Remove batteries before washing heated gloves and follow manufacturer instructions for battery care and storage. Inspect seams and reinforcements after washing to ensure longevity.

Budgeting: Where to Save and Where to Splurge

Not all gloves are created equal, and spending wisely helps you get the best value. Here’s how to allocate your budget depending on use.

Save on Bulk and Everyday Pairs

If you need affordable coverage for daily tasks or plan to replace gloves frequently, look at value retailers offering bulk packs or low-cost knit styles. These are great for kids, single-season wear, or backup pairs.

Invest in Performance and Leather

For cold climates, outdoor activities, or a pair meant to last several winters, invest more in performance features and high-quality leather. A well-made leather glove or a battery-heated technical glove can outlast several cheaper pairs and deliver better protection in extreme conditions.

Top Picks by Use Case

To wrap things up, here are quick store recommendations based on what you’ll use your gloves for.

Everyday Commuting

Walmart, Target, and Macy’s offer a range of touchscreen-friendly knit gloves for commuting in temperatures from the mid-30s to low-50s Fahrenheit. They’re affordable, readily available, and often come in multipacks.

Designer & Dressy Looks

Drestige and department stores like Nordstrom carry luxury leather gloves and tailored short gloves that pair with coats and formalwear. Expect premium materials and refined styling here.

Outdoor Sports & Cold-Weather Adventures

For skiing, snowboarding, or extended outdoor exposure, shop REI and Backcountry for gloves with waterproof shells, reinforced palms, and insulation rated for colder Fahrenheit temperatures. For hands that get painfully cold, look into battery-heated models from reputable outdoor brands.

Bulk or Event Needs

If you need many pairs — for events, team giveaways, or retail resale — big-box retailers and wholesalers stocked in bulk are the most cost-effective. These often include assortments of knit and stretch gloves suitable for mild to cool weather.

Final Thoughts Before You Buy

Choosing the right glove boils down to use, material, fit, and budget. Measure your hand in inches, decide whether warmth or dexterity matters more, and pick a retailer that specializes in that category. Whether you pick a plush cashmere-lined leather glove for dates and city life or a battery-heated technical glove for winter treks, the goal is the same: comfortable hands that let you focus on what matters.

Ready to shop? Start with the type of glove you truly need and then compare options across retailers — from budget bulk at big-box stores to designer leather at specialty shops — to find the sweet spot between price and performance.

Conclusion: Good gloves are both practical and personal. Invest time in choosing the right pair, and they’ll keep your hands warm, your style sharp, and your day more comfortable.