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
- The Outdoors Way Rechargeable
- Grabber Warmers
- HotHands Hand Warmers
- Zippo Hand Warmer
- Heat Factory Premium
- Little Hotties Hand Warmer
Comparison Table - Best Hand Warmers
For the best experience turn your device horizontally| Name | Type | Hours of Warmth | Price | Rating | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Outdoors Way Rechargeable | Reusable | 7 Hours | $$$ | 4.8 | Read Review |
| Grabber Warmers | Disposable | 7 Hours | $ | 4.4 | Read Review |
| HotHands Hand Warmers | Disposable | 10 Hours | $ | 4.5 | Read Review |
| Zippo Hand Warmer | Reusable | 12 Hours | $ | 4.3 | Read Review |
| Heat Factory Premium | Disposable | 10 Hours | $ | 4.4 | Read Review |
| Little Hotties Hand Warmer | Disposable | 8 Hours | $ | 4.4 | Read Review |
| Name | Type | Hours of Warmth | Price | Rating | Review |
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
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
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.
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