Top 5 Ice Fishing Gloves Best

Frozen fingers can ruin an ice fishing trip faster than you can say "fish on!" I learned that the hard way during a particularly brutal January outing a few years back. Now, I never hit the ice without a reliable pair of gloves. Finding the right gloves can be tricky, though, because you need dexterity to handle gear and sensitivity to feel subtle bites, all while battling sub-freezing temperatures. Let's take a look at some of the best options out there to keep your hands warm and ready for action.

Product Overview / Quick Summary

• Frabill FXE Glove: Great all-around glove for warmth and dexterity.
• Striker Ice SI Hardwater Mitt: Super warm mitt for extreme cold.
• Glacier Glove Ice Bay Glove: Waterproof and windproof for wet conditions.
• Clam Thermal Glove: Comfortable and flexible for extended wear.
• Northland Fishing Tackle Ice Fishing Glove: Affordable option with decent insulation.

Top 5 Ice Fishing Gloves Best

1. Frabill FXE Glove

The Frabill FXE Glove is a popular choice among ice anglers because it balances warmth and dexterity very well. It's designed to keep your hands warm without sacrificing your ability to handle fishing line, bait, and other gear.

Pros:

• ✅ Excellent dexterity for handling small items.
• ✅ Good warmth for moderately cold conditions.
• ✅ Durable construction for long-lasting use.

Cons:

• ❌ Not ideal for extremely cold temperatures.
• ❌ Can get slippery when wet.
• ❌ Some users find the sizing to be slightly off.

Verdict: The Frabill FXE Glove is a solid all-around choice for ice anglers who need a good balance of warmth and dexterity in moderate conditions.

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2. Striker Ice SI Hardwater Mitt

If you're fishing in extreme cold, the Striker Ice SI Hardwater Mitt is worth considering. These mitts are designed to provide maximum warmth, keeping your hands comfortable even when the temperature drops well below freezing.

Pros:

• ✅ Exceptional warmth for sub-zero temperatures.
• ✅ Waterproof and windproof construction.
• ✅ Long gauntlet to keep snow and ice out.

Cons:

• ❌ Limited dexterity compared to gloves.
• ❌ Can be bulky and cumbersome.
• ❌ More expensive than other options.

Verdict: The Striker Ice SI Hardwater Mitt is the best choice for anglers who prioritize warmth above all else, especially in extremely cold conditions.

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3. Glacier Glove Ice Bay Glove

The Glacier Glove Ice Bay Glove is designed to keep your hands dry and warm in wet conditions. Its waterproof and windproof construction makes it a great choice for ice anglers who frequently encounter slush, snow, or rain on the ice.

Pros:

• ✅ Fully waterproof and windproof.
• ✅ Good grip even when wet.
• ✅ Comfortable fleece lining.

Cons:

• ❌ Not as warm as some other options in extreme cold.
• ❌ Can be a bit bulky.
• ❌ Some users report durability issues over time.

Verdict: The Glacier Glove Ice Bay Glove is an excellent choice for ice anglers who need reliable waterproof protection in wet conditions.

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4. Clam Thermal Glove

The Clam Thermal Glove is designed for comfort and flexibility, making it a great choice for anglers who spend long hours on the ice. Its thermal insulation and flexible design keep your hands warm and allow for a full range of motion.

Pros:

• ✅ Very comfortable for extended wear.
• ✅ Good flexibility and dexterity.
• ✅ Decent warmth for moderate conditions.

Cons:

• ❌ Not ideal for extreme cold or wet conditions.
• ❌ Durability could be better.
• ❌ Limited waterproof protection.

Verdict: The Clam Thermal Glove is a good choice for anglers who prioritize comfort and flexibility for long days on the ice in moderate conditions.

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5. Northland Fishing Tackle Ice Fishing Glove

The Northland Fishing Tackle Ice Fishing Glove offers a budget-friendly option for ice anglers who need basic warmth and protection. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive gloves, it provides decent insulation and functionality at an affordable price.

Pros:

• ✅ Affordable price point.
• ✅ Decent insulation for mild conditions.
• ✅ Functional design for basic ice fishing tasks.

Cons:

• ❌ Not as warm as other options in cold weather.
• ❌ Limited durability.
• ❌ Not waterproof.

Verdict: The Northland Fishing Tackle Ice Fishing Glove is a good choice for budget-conscious anglers who need basic warmth and protection in mild conditions.

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Buying Guide

Choosing the right ice fishing gloves can make or break your trip. Here's what to consider:

• Warmth: Consider the typical temperatures you'll be fishing in. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves, but offer less dexterity.
• Dexterity: Think about the tasks you'll be performing. If you need to tie knots or handle small tackle, gloves with good dexterity are essential.
• Waterproof/Windproof: Wet hands get cold fast! Look for gloves with waterproof and windproof materials to stay comfortable all day.
• Fit: Make sure your gloves fit properly. Too tight, and they'll restrict circulation. Too loose, and they won't provide adequate warmth.
• Material: Neoprene, fleece, and Thinsulate are common materials used in ice fishing gloves. Each offers different levels of warmth, water resistance, and breathability.
• Cuff Length: Longer cuffs help keep snow and ice out of your gloves and sleeves.

Also, think about layering. You can wear a thin liner glove underneath your main gloves for extra warmth or to wick away moisture.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about ice fishing gloves:

• Q: Are mittens warmer than gloves?

  A: Yes, mittens are generally warmer because your fingers share heat in a single compartment.

• Q: How do I keep my gloves from getting wet?

  A: Choose gloves with waterproof and windproof materials. You can also apply a waterproof treatment to your gloves periodically.

• Q: Can I use regular winter gloves for ice fishing?

  A: Regular winter gloves can work in mild conditions, but they typically aren't waterproof or as warm as gloves specifically designed for ice fishing.

• Q: How do I clean my ice fishing gloves?

  A: Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, you can hand wash them with mild soap and water and let them air dry.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect ice fishing gloves is a personal thing. It really depends on your tolerance for cold, how much dexterity you need, and the conditions you typically fish in. Hopefully, these reviews have given you a good starting point to find the best gloves to keep your hands warm and comfortable on the ice. Don't let frozen fingers ruin your next ice fishing adventure!