Best Dive Gloves of 2022

Updated on March 9, 2022

Do you dive with gloves? If you haven’t been a certified SCUBA diver for long, you might think that gloves are only used in cold water. But, there are plenty of reasons to dive using hand protection, no matter what water temperature you’re jumping into. In this article, we’ll break down the best dive gloves on the market, handpicked to protect you in icy water, shipwrecks, caves, and beyond.

A high-quality pair of gloves should cushion and insulate your hands without restricting movement. They should be easy to don and doff, fit comfortably, and offer just the right amount of protection for the climate and conditions you’re planning to explore. Keep reading to learn about the most exciting models available and our top tips for shopping.

For more of our top scuba gear recommendations, check out the Best Dive Boots.

 

Quick Answer – The Best Dive Gloves

Tusa TropicalView at AmazonMustang Survival TractionView at REILavacore Five FingerView at AmazonAqua Lung ThermoclineView at AmazonScubapro EverflexView at AmazonXS Scuba Dry FiveView at AmazonBare Three Finger MittView at AmazonPinnacle Merino Karbon FlexView at AmazonWaterproof G1View at AmazonScubapro Easy DonView at Amazon

 

Comparison Table – Best Dive Gloves

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Name	Style	Thickness	Closure	Price	Rating	Review
Tusa Tropical	Full Finger	Uninsulated	Hook and Loop Wrist Strap	$	4.3	Read Review
Mustang Survival Traction	Open Finger	Uninsulated	Hook and Loop Wrist Strap	$	4.5	Read Review
Lavacore Five Finger	Full Finger	Uninsulated	None	$	4.6	Read Review
Aqua Lung Thermocline	Full Finger	5mm	Zipper, Hook and Loop Wrist Strap	$	4.4	Read Review
Scubapro Everflex	Full Finger	3mm	Rolled Cuff	$$	4.8	Read Review
XS Scuba Dry Five	Full Finger	5mm	Semi-Dry Rubber Cuff	$$	4.7	Read Review
Bare Three Finger Mitt	Three Finger Mitten	7mm	Gauntlet Style Cuff	$$	4.6	Read Review
Pinnacle Merino Karbon Flex	Full Finger	4mm	Hook and Loop Wrist Strap	$	4.3	Read Review
Waterproof G1	Three Finger Mitten	7mm	Zipper	$$$	4.7	Read Review
Scubapro Easy Don	Full Finger	Insulated Liner	Drysuit Seal	$$$	5.0	Read Review
Name	Style	Thickness	Closure	Price	Rating	Review

Want to learn more about a technical term? Check out our Features Explained section below.

Need buying advice? Take a look at these Things to Consider.

Reviews – The Best Gloves for Diving

Tusa Tropical

Specs

Closure: Hook and Loop Wrist StrapSeams: SewnStyle: Full FingerThickness: UninsulatedMaterials: Poly-Mesh, Poly-Vinyl

Features

Textured Palm for Added GripAdjustable Wrist Closure for Custom FitLightweight and Travel-FriendlySoft and Stretchable Backing for Added Comfort

BEST FOR: WARM WATER

If you’re a warm water diver or snorkeler in search of lightweight hand protection, the TUSA Tropical is one of your best options. These gloves feature a texturized palm that offers plenty of non-slip grip, perfect for grasping and adjusting your gear underwater. They combine an adjustable wrist closure and super stretchy backing for a nearly custom fit. Their ultra-light, foldable design makes them perfect for dive travel or to carry for backup in your BCD pocket. And, sewn seams add plenty of warmth without the bulk of thick Neoprene. Best of all, the TUSA Tropical is one of the most affordable options on the market.

View at Amazon

Mustang Survival Traction

Specs

Closure: Hook and Loop Wrist StrapSeams: SewnStyle: Open FingerThickness: UninsulatedMaterials: Nylon, Rubber, Suede

Features

3/4 Finger Design for Increased DexteritySuede Palm for Added Grip Useful for Multiple SportsAvailable in Multiple Colors

BEST FOR: TECH DIVERS

The Mustang Survival Traction glove wasn’t designed for diving. But, that doesn’t take away from its popularity and usefulness. Its open finger design provides the most dexterity and grip possible, while still offering plenty of protection. This feature is perfect for fine-tuning gear, working with tools, and adjusting camera equipment underwater. A suede palm gives you plenty of cushion while carrying tanks and setting up your kit before diving, too. This model is lightweight and flexible, and even the largest of sizes will take up very little room in your gear bag. Plus, these gloves work well for watersports of all kinds, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing.

View at REI

Lavacore Five Finger

Specs

Closure: NoneSeams: SewnStyle: Full FingerThickness: UninsulatedMaterials: Lycra, Polyurethane Film, Fleece

Features

Overlapped Flat Lock Seams Decrease Water Flow Moisture Wicking Anti-Bacterial LinerCan Be Worn as a Primary Glove or Used for Layering Quick Drying Water Resistant Outer Layer

BEST FOR: LAYERING 

The Lavacore Five Finger glove can be worn as your primary hand protection in warm water, or combined with other layers in icy conditions. In fact, it’s one of the most popular options around for a drysuit base layer. This model uses a combination of Merino fleece, Stretch Polyurethane, and Lycra to keep the chill away, no matter what temperature you’re diving in. And, because it doesn’t use any Neoprene, the Lavacore Five Finger is ultra-thin, easy to don and doff, and neutrally buoyant. Plus, its moisture-wicking fuzzy interior and windproof shell make this glove comfortable enough to wear between your dives.

View at Amazon

Aqua Lung Thermocline

Specs

Closure: Zipper, Hook and Loop Wrist StrapSeams: Glued, SewnStyle: Full FingerThickness: 5mmMaterials: Nylon 2 Neoprene

Features

Textured Palm for Added GripAdjustable Wrist Closure for Custom FitZippered Closure for Easy Donning and Doffing Gusseted for Extra Warmth and Flexibility

BEST FOR: COMFORT

Have you ever struggled to pull thick gloves on and off between dives? If you have, you know it isn’t much fun. The Aqua Lung Thermocline helps avoid this issue by combining a gusseted wrist, thick and easy to grasp zipper, and a hook and loop tab. These features work together to make this one of the most comfortable models on the market to don and doff. This glove’s body is 5mm Neoprene with glued and sewn seams to reduce water exchange, so it’ll keep your hands nice and warm no matter how cold the climate is. And, its texturized palm increases your grip underwater, allowing you to grasp and adjust dive gear with ease.

View at Amazon

Scubapro Everflex

Specs

Closure: Rolled CuffSeams: Glued, SewnStyle: Full FingerThickness: 3mmMaterials: Nylon 2 Neoprene

Features

Textured Palm for Added GripLightweight and Travel-FriendlyQuick Drying Water Resistant Outer Layer Smooth Interior Finish for Ease of Donning and Doffing

BEST FOR: DIVE TRAVEL

The ScubaPro Everflex is the ultimate glove for dive travel. Despite its thickness, this model is lightweight and foldable, so it’s super easy to pack or stuff inside a BCD pocket for backup. And, it offers the perfect combination of warmth and dexterity for warm and temperate water divers. Its 3mm Neoprene exterior features glued and sewn seams and a rolled wristband to keep cold water out. A smooth, easy to pull on liner and quick-drying outer layer combine to make the Everflex easy to get in and out of. These features also help draw moisture away from your skin so you’ll never start a dive with soaking wet hands.

View at Amazon

XS Scuba Dry Five

Specs

Closure: Semi-Dry Rubber CuffSeams: Glued, Sewn, TapedStyle: Full FingerThickness: 5mmMaterials: Nylon 2 Neoprene

Features

Textured Palm for Added GripTriple Sealed Seams Decrease Water FlowSemi-Dry Wrist Seal for Extra WarmthAnatomically Cut and Bent Fingers Travel Bag Included

BEST FOR: OVERALL VALUE

Cold water divers know how hard it can be to keep their hands warm. The XS Scuba Dry Five tackles this problem with a semi-dry wrist seal and triple-sealed seams to keep cold water out. Texturized palms, paired with highly flexible Neoprene, make it easy to grasp and grip even the smallest of objects underwater. And, anatomically cut and bent fingers give you plenty of flexibility. These gloves aren’t the most lightweight or compact, but they are one of the warmest options out there. For divers who tend to get cold, the Dry Five is well worth the extra space it’ll take up in your gear bag.

View at Amazon

Bare Three Finger Mitt

Specs

Closure: Gauntlet Style CuffSeams: Double Glued, SewnStyle: Three Finger MittenThickness: 7mmMaterials: Nylon 2 Neoprene

Features

Textured Palm for Added GripAdjustable Wrist Closure for Custom FitSold in a Wide Range of Sizes Blind Stitched for Reduced Water Flow Forearm Gauntlet for Added WarmthAnatomically Cut and Bent Fingers

BEST FOR: DIVE MITTEN 

If you’re a cold water diver, you may have experienced white, nearly frozen fingers on a dive. But, with the Bare Three Finger Mitt, you’ll never have to worry about this issue again. This practical model is far from stylish, but it gets the job done, even in the coldest of climates. Pre-bent fingers and a texturized palm let plenty of blood flow to your fingers while still offering tons of grip. Its gauntlet style forearm cuff is easy to pull on and off, and adds an extra layer of warmth around your wetsuit’s wrist seal. Plus, these gloves are available in sizes from XXSmall – XXLarge, so you’re sure to find a perfect fit, no matter how big or small your hands are.

View at Amazon

Pinnacle Merino Karbon Flex

Specs

Closure: Hook and Loop Wrist StrapSeams: Glued, SewnStyle: Full Finger Thickness: 4mmMaterials: Nylon 2 Neoprene, Merino, Kevlar

Features

Kevlar Palm for Extra Protection Adjustable Wrist Closure for Custom FitLightweight and Travel-FriendlyMoisture Wicking Anti-Bacterial LinerOverlapped Flat Lock Seams Decrease Water Flow

BEST FOR: HARDCORE WEAR AND TEAR

Do your dive plans include spearfishing, wreck penetration, salvage, or other tough jobs underwater? The Pinnacle Merino Karbon Flex glove is packed with features like an easy to pull on and adjust wrist seal, glued and sewn seams, and a super stretchy outer layer. These gloves are lightweight, travel-friendly, and easy to fold and store in your BCD pocket until you need them. Plus, their merino liner wicks moisture away from your hands and prevents bacterial growth, making them a top pick for daily use. Best of all, a kevlar enforced palm promises the most hardcore hand protection on the market.

View at Amazon

Waterproof G1

Specs

Closure: ZipperSeams: Glued, SewnStyle: Three Finger MittenThickness: 7mmMaterials: Nylon 2 Neoprene, Polyurethane, Nylon Thread

Features

Zippered Closure for Easy Donning and Doffing Gusseted for Extra Warmth and Flexibility Semi-Dry Wrist Seal for Extra WarmthAnatomically Cut and Bent Fingers ID Plate for Easy Labeling

BEST FOR: COLD CLIMATES  

Are you taking the plunge in freezing temperatures? The Waterproof G1 is one of the warmest gloves on the market. This model is easy to slip on and off thanks to its flexible internal gusset and extra long zipper. Its semi-dry seal locks moisture out at the wrist, and its glued and sewn seams prevent unwanted seepage while you dive. Pre-bent and anatomically cut fingers prevent constriction at depth and make this one of the most flexible diving mitts around. And, an internal label plate makes it easy to mark your gear, so you’ll never mix your gloves up with other divers in your group.

View at Amazon

Scubapro Easy Don

Specs

Closure: Drysuit SealSeams: Solid ConstructionStyle: Full Finger Thickness: Insulated LinerMaterials: Vulcanized Latex

Features

All Over Texture for Added Grip Dry Wrist Seal for 100% Waterproof ProtectionAnatomically Cut and Bent Fingers Removable Liner for Added Warmth

BEST FOR: DRY GLOVE  

The Scubapro Easy Don dry glove is the warmest option on our list. But, it isn’t meant for use with a standard wetsuit. This model uses a rubber wrist coupling to lock into your dry suit’s wrist seal and maintain 100% waterproof protection. Unlike a standard diving glove, the Easy Don’s exterior doesn’t insulate against the cold. Instead, it’s worn with a removable liner for extra warmth. Its anatomically cut and bent fingers plus all over texture offer about as much dexterity as any dry glove can, but do keep in mind that multiple layers do reduce your grip and range of motion.

View at Amazon

 

 

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING DIVE GLOVES

 

FIT

As always, fit is the most crucial factor to look for when shopping for dive gloves. To ensure a proper fit, follow these easy steps.

Because your two hands are not identical, you should try on both gloves in each pair. As you slide your hands in, expect to feel some slight resistance. But, you shouldn’t struggle excessively. Keep in mind that gloves become more difficult to don and doff once they are wet. Once your hands are inside, try bending your fingers and making a fist. You shouldn’t feel strong binding or pinching anywhere in your fingers or palm, as this can lead to a painful squeeze as you descend during a dive. 

Remember that you’ll want gloves that fit tight enough to keep water out, or you’ll lose vital warmth. But, don’t select a model that constricts or restricts your hands. A glove that’s too tight will be uncomfortable at depth, and you won’t want to use it. 

 

STYLE

Dive gloves come in three main styles. Which is best for you depends on the water temperature you’ll be diving in and how much dexterity you’ll want underwater.

Open finger gloves offer less insulation and protection than their full finger counterparts because they only cover your palm and the first half of each finger. But, what these gloves lack in warmth, they more than make up for in grip and range of motion, making it easy to operate camera equipment and use small tools underwater. That’s why technical divers often favor an open finger design.

Full finger gloves offer more protection and insulation than open finger designs. However, covering the tip of each finger reduces your ability to grasp and grip small items underwater. Keep in mind that the thicker your gloves are, the less flexible they will feel during your dives. Thicker gloves also mean warmer hands, so divers who tend to get cold should opt for a model with full fingers. 

Dive mittens are intended for extremely cold climates. These gloves do not separate each finger, but instead, group them to retain body heat. Unfortunately, this glove style makes it very hard to perform small and detailed tasks underwater. If you are diving in cold but not freezing water, consider a thicker full finger glove instead. You will likely prefer their added dexterity, flexibility, and grip.

 

THICKNESS

SCUBA diving gloves are sold in a range of thicknesses, from completely uninsulated up to a 100% dry sealed interior. If you dive in warm or tropical waters, consider an uninsulated or 1mm Neoprene model. In temperate climates, you’ll be more comfortable in a thicker glove with 3 to 5mm of protection. And, for divers splashing into icy conditions, a 7mm or dry glove is best. Remember that thick gloves make it harder to use your hands underwater. So, it’s essential to choose a glove that is warm enough for the conditions you’re diving in, but not so thick that you struggle with dexterity and grip. 

 

CLOSURE

How your gloves close determines how easy they are to get on and off, and how warm they keep your hands. The most basic designs often feature no closure at all, simply sliding on over the hand.

A hook and loop closure, featuring an adjustable Velcro tab is one of the most common options. This design element’s loop also comes in handy for hang drying your gloves after diving. 

Other closures like high-quality zippers, forearm gauntlets, and semi-dry cuffs are highly effective for keeping your hands dry but can present a challenge while donning and doffing. If your gloves feature these details, you might need a buddy to help you get them on. 

 

SEAMS 

You may have noticed that most dive gloves have seams, just like a wetsuit. The most basic seams are sewn, using a flatlock or blind stitch. Gloves intended for cold water use often feature glued and sewn seams to keep water out. And, the warmest models on the market are triple sealed using a combination of stitching, glue, and tape. 

 

MATERIALS 

Most gloves are made from diver friendly fabrics like rubber, neoprene, and Lycra. But, others feature materials like Merino and latex that you might not be as familiar with. When choosing a glove, keep in mind that different materials retain heat differently. If you tend to get cold during your dives, select a model with multiple layers or a moisture-wicking liner. And when in doubt, always pick the warmest option available within your budget.

 

 

FEATURES EXPLAINED

 

TEXTURE

Most surfaces are slippery when wet, so added texture is a standard feature for diving gloves. The most common design feature is a texturized palm for added grip. But, some gloves meant for extreme cold feature an all-over texture. Others, intended for spearfishing, wreck penetration, and other challenging tasks underwater, use a texturized Kevlar palm for extra protection.

 

MULTI-SPORT

Some gloves work well for multiple water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. If you’re hoping to use one pair of gloves for many applications, choose a style made from fast-drying materials. And, for the most flexibility and dexterity possible, opt for an open finger design. 

 

MOISTURE WICKING LINER  

A moisture-wicking liner will help your hands stay drier for longer, and prevent bacterial growth in your gloves. This feature adds to your internal warmth underwater and reduces the “old wetsuit smell” that wet dive gear can take on. No matter what your gloves are lined with, drying them inside out will keep them looking and smelling fresh. 

 

GUSSETED 

A gusset is a small panel of flexible material used to widen a glove’s wrist. This extra space makes it easier to pass your hand through the opening. A gusset also adds additional warmth because it folds in on itself, creating a thicker section of layered fabric. 

 

BENT FINGERS

Thick Neoprene gloves often lack flexibility, making it difficult to bend your fingers. Some models use anatomically correct pre-bent fingers to combat this issue. This feature improves your dexterity and grip underwater and helps to prevent painful binding and pinching in your fingers. 

 

REMOVABLE LINER 

Divers who get cold quickly underwater can opt for a dry or semi-dry glove with a removable liner. These models can be layered, too, using a base glove for extra insulation. 

READ MORE

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