Updated on April 22, 2021

Hand warmers are a simple and easy way to keep your hands and fingers nice and toasty. A good hand warmer is small enough to tuck into your glove or pocket. It’s also comfortable enough not to inhibit your outdoor exploration. But how do you know what are the best hand warmers for you?

 That’s where we come in! In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for when shopping for hand warmers. We’ll also show you the best models so you can pick one that’s right for you.

For more of our top hiking accessory recommendations, check out the Best Hiking Poles.

 

Quick Answer - The Best Hand Warmers

  1. The Outdoors Way Rechargeable
  2. Grabber Warmers
  3. HotHands Hand Warmers
  4. Zippo Hand Warmer
  5. Heat Factory Premium
  6. Little Hotties Hand Warmer

 

Comparison Table - Best Hand Warmers

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NameTypeHours of WarmthPriceRatingReview
The Outdoors Way RechargeableReusable7 Hours$$$4.8Read Review
Grabber WarmersDisposable7 Hours$4.4Read Review
HotHands Hand WarmersDisposable10 Hours$4.5Read Review
Zippo Hand WarmerReusable12 Hours$4.3Read Review
Heat Factory PremiumDisposable10 Hours$4.4Read Review
Little Hotties Hand WarmerDisposable8 Hours$4.4Read Review
NameTypeHours of WarmthPriceRatingReview

Reviews - The Best Hand Warmers for Hiking

The Outdoors Way Rechargeable

Specs
  • Type: Reusable
  • Hours of Warmth: 7 Hours
Features
  • Rechargeable 7200mAh lithium-ion battery
  • Odorless
  • Two heat settings
  • Flashlight with SOS setting
  • Carry pouch included

BEST FOR: HIKERS WANTING MULTIPLE HEAT SETTINGS

PROS: Multi-use, multiple heat settings, heats quickly, uses rechargeable lithium batteries, charges digital devices, LED built-in flashlight

CONS: Too large to fit in gloves, may run too hot, not flexible, doesn’t come as a pair

Grabber Warmers

Specs
  • Type: Disposable
  • Hours of Warmth: 7 Hours
Features
  • Environmentally safe, nontoxic ingredients
  • Air-activated
  • Odorless
  • Warms up in 15-30 minutes

BEST FOR: USE IN GLOVES AND POCKETS

PROS: Air activated, easy to use, gets warm quickly, fits well in gloves, comes as a pair

CONS: Single use, poor shelf life, needs exposure to air to reach maximum warmth

HotHands Hand Warmers

Specs
  • Type: Disposable
  • Hours of Warmth: 10 Hours
Features
  • Heats up in 15-30 minutes
  • Air-activated
  • Single use
  • Safe

BEST FOR: LONG LASTING HEAT

PROS: Stays warm for a long time, air activated, easy to use, fits well in gloves, odorless, comes as a pair

CONS: Single use, need to be exposed to air to reach maximum warmth, can take a while to warm up

Zippo Hand Warmer

Specs
  • Type: Reusable
  • Hours of Warmth: 12 Hours
Features
  • Sleek, compact design
  • Easily refillable
  • Durable metal construction
  • Long-lasting warmth

BEST FOR: LONG, COLD DAYS

PROS: Multi-use, stays warm for a long time, flameless

CONS: Too large to comfortably fit in gloves, not flexible, needs lighter fluid, slight odor, doesn’t come as a pair, can’t be turned off – you have to let the fuel burn out

Heat Factory Premium

Specs
  • Type: Disposable
  • Hours of Warmth: 10 Hours
Features
  • Fits inside pockets, gloves, and beanies
  • Air-activated
  • Safe, non-toxic
  • Odorless

BEST FOR: SHORT TRIPS

PROS: Stays warm for a long time, air activated, easy to use, fits well in gloves, odorless, comes as a pair

CONS: Single use, need to be exposed to air to reach maximum warmth, heat doesn’t last as long as advertised

Little Hotties Hand Warmer

Specs
  • Type: Disposable
  • Hours of Warmth: 8 Hours
Features
  • Odorless
  • Environmentally safe
  • Average activated temperature is 135 F

BEST FOR: EASE OF USE

PROS: Stays warm for a long time, air activated, easy to use, fits well in gloves, odorless, comes as a pair

CONS: Single use, short shelf life, inconsistent warmth, lacks durability

 

 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST HAND WARMERS

LENGTH OF HIKE

How long will you be out in the cold? Will you hike for one hour or eight? You will need to plan how you will keep your hands at an optimal temperature the entire time you’re outdoors. When it comes to hiking in cold weather, you must be vigilant to avoid temperature-related injury. You don’t want to allow your hands to freeze, thaw, and then refreeze.

Look for hand warmers that last the entire duration of your hike. If you will be out on the trail for more than one day, then you should plan accordingly. Bring several pairs of disposable hand warmers or carry a charger or fuel for a reusable device.

 

DISPOSABLE OR REUSABLE?

Hand warmers come in two varieties: disposable & reusable.

There are upsides and downsides to both types. Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for your needs.

Most reusable hand warmers produce less waste. And, over time, they are more cost effective than disposable options. Many electronic hand warmers models are also multi-functional. They can charge electronic devices and operate as a flashlight in an emergency. The downsides to reusable hand warmers are they are bulkier and much larger than their disposable ones.

Disposable hand warmers create more waste. Depending on the length of your hike, you may need multiple pairs. If you use hand warmers regularly when it’s cold out, disposable varieties are less cost effective than reusable options. However, most disposable devices are flexible and can comfortably tuck into your gloves. If you need constant warmth against your hands as you hike, then a disposable hand warmer may be best for you.

 

EASE OF USE

When you’re in the middle of a long, cold hike, you don’t want to struggle with trying to operate your hand warming device. Make sure you select a hand warmer you feel comfortable using even with tired, stiff fingers. Remember, you may be operating your hand warmer in freezing temperatures. Test it out before you head out on the trail. If you find it difficult to use, then it may not be right for you.