Open water swimming demands reliable protection for your hands in chilly UK seas and lakes. The following gloves combine warmth, grip, and a secure fit to help you swim, snorkel or kayak with confidence. Each product is designed to reduce heat loss, protect against rough surfaces, and stay put during dynamic water activities. Below you’ll find five gloves that balance warmth, flexibility and durability for diverse conditions.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature | Weight/Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUAUY Wetsuit Gloves (A-L) | AUAUY | 3mm neoprene, adjustable wrist strap | 3mm |
| Risipu 3mm Neoprene Gloves (M) | Risipu | Thermal, anti-slip palm, secure Velcro | 3mm |
| Risipu 3mm Neoprene Gloves (L) | Risipu | Thermal, anti-slip palm, secure Velcro | 3mm |
| SUPERFA 5mm Neoprene Gloves | SUPERFA | Thicker insulation, adjustable strap | 5mm |
| Qchomee 3mm Neoprene Wetsuit Gloves | Qchomee | Warm, snug fit, quick-dry | 3mm |
AUAUY Wetsuit Gloves A-L
These 3mm neoprene gloves provide warmth and flexibility for open water swimming, diving and paddling. They use glued blind seams for durability and feature a soft interior to reduce hand fatigue. The flexible fit supports natural hand movement during swimming strokes and paddle work.
With an adjustable Velcro wrist strap, the gloves secure firmly to prevent entry of sand and small debris. The anti-slip palm design increases grip on wet surfaces, useful when handling equipment or catching onto boats and boards. Note that these are not fully waterproof on their own but are designed to work with a wetsuit for enhanced warmth.
AUAUY Wetsuit Gloves A-M
Another 3mm option from AUAUY, these gloves prioritise warmth and comfort with a similar 3mm neoprene blend. The flexible material supports extended swims and water sports, reducing stiffness at the finish of a session. The wrist strap helps lock in heat and prevent water intrusion around the wrist.
As with the A-L variant, the anti-slip palm improves grip on equipment and surfaces, aiding in safer handling of lights, slates and other gear. They are designed as diving gear suitable to be used with a wetsuit, not as a standalone waterproof glove.
Risipu 3mm Neoprene Gloves M
Risipu’s 3mm gloves for men and women emphasize thermal protection with a textured anti-slip palm for reliable grip in wet conditions. An adjustable Velcro wrist strap seals out water and debris, helping keep the glove in place during swimming, snorkeling or kayaking. They are designed for both genders and suitable for open water and colder water expeditions.
The gloves offer a snug fit without excessive bulk, allowing natural finger movement while maintaining warmth. The neoprene composition provides resistance to wear and a degree of flexibility essential for paddling and diving activities.
Risipu 3mm Neoprene Gloves L
The L size Risipu glove mirrors the M version with 3mm neoprene insulation, a textured anti-slip palm and a secure Velcro wrist strap to seal water out. This size-focused fit supports a comfortable and controlled grip for diverse open water activities, from diving to cold-weather swimming. The flexible material aids long sessions without excessive fatigue.
Despite the warmth, the design keeps dexterity in mind for equipment handling and quick adjustments during activity, while maintaining a snug, secure feel around the wrist area.
SUPERFA 5mm Neoprene Gloves
For colder water conditions, these 5mm gloves from SUPERFA offer enhanced insulation. The thicker neoprene delivers improved warmth for longer sessions in chilly seas and lakes. An adjustable strap secures the wrist to reduce water entry and maintain a comfortable, secure fit during vigorous activities.
The anti-slip rubber palm enhances grip for paddling, surfing or snorkeling, helping you maintain control of equipment in wet environments. The additional thickness may reduce finger dexterity slightly, so intended use leans toward sustained warmth over ultra-fine manoeuvrability.
Qchomee 3mm Neoprene Wetsuit Gloves
Qchomee offers a reliable 3mm neoprene option designed to keep hands warm while remaining flexible for water sports. The gloves feature a snug adjustable wrist band to minimise water ingress, with a breathable, skin-friendly interior for comfort during longer swims or paddling sessions. The gloves are well-suited to surfers, divers and kayakers seeking a balance of heat retention and mobility.
The materials and stitching aim to withstand regular use in cold waters, while the quick-dry properties reduce drying time between sessions. These gloves provide a practical all-round choice for varied UK open-water activities.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Thickness and warmth: 3mm gloves balance warmth and flexibility for mild to cool conditions, while 5mm gloves offer more insulation for very cold days.
- Fit and fastening: A secure Velcro or adjustable strap around the wrist helps minimize water entry and prevents gloves from slipping during movement.
- Grip and material: Anti-slip palms improve control of equipment in wet conditions; neoprene provides insulation and flexibility but check for seam durability.
- Intended activity: For open water swimming, you may prioritise warmth and flexibility; for paddling or surfing, grip and wrist security become more important.
- Compatibility with wetsuits: Some gloves are designed to complement wetsuits rather than be fully waterproof alone; pair accordingly to maximise warmth.
- Durability and care: Look for glued seams and reinforced stitching. Rinse after use and air-dry to extend glove life.
- Gender sizing and availability: Consider unisex sizing or multiple sizes (M, L) to ensure a snug, comfortable fit across users.