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Tested & Reviewed: Best Ice Fishing Gloves

By Updated:21 Mins Read

Ice fishing exposes your hands to some of the harshest conditions in the outdoors. Few experiences compare to plunging wet fingers into freezing water over and over again—yet that’s precisely what hard-water anglers do all day. Since fingers lose heat faster than any other body part, keeping them warm, dry, and functional is essential.

Modern ice fishing gloves are designed to solve this challenge with advanced insulation, waterproof materials, and improved flexibility. But even with today’s technology, there’s still a tradeoff: the thicker the glove, the harder it can be to bait hooks, unclip fish, or tie knots. Anyone who has tried handling live bait or removing a fish while wearing bulky gloves knows the struggle.

Fortunately, the glove market has expanded dramatically in recent decades. Leading brands continue to upgrade materials and designs, offering anglers an impressive range of options. A recent industry shift—Normark’s takeover of Clam distribution in Canada beginning in October 2025—will make Clam’s ice-fishing gloves even easier to find at more retailers.

Choosing the best ice fishing glove depends heavily on how and where you fish. Anglers working outside in sub-zero temperatures need heavily insulated gloves, while those fishing inside heated shelters can opt for lighter, more dexterous models. Traveling across the ice on foot, ATV, or snowmobile often requires warmer gloves than those used for tying knots or handling gear.

Your target species also influences your glove choice. Anglers chasing perch or other panfish handle far more (and much smaller) fish than those targeting walleye, pike, or trout—so they need gloves with greater dexterity and grip. And if your hands frequently come into contact with water, waterproof protection becomes even more critical.

Ice fishing gloves span a wide range of prices and, as with most gear, you generally get what you pay for.

Best Overall Ice Fishing Glove: Clam Edge X

Why this glove was chosen:

When it comes to ice fishing, anglers need a glove that protects their hands from brutal cold and wet conditions while still allowing them to bait hooks, handle line, and land fish with minimal fuss. The Edge X hits that sweet spot. With premium mapped insulation—150 grams in the palm for dexterity, 200 grams across the back for warmth—plus a waterproof, breathable insert, this glove delivers serious performance in sub-zero, wet scenarios. Its textured polyurethane palm with polysuede reinforcements improves grip on wet ice and slippery gear. In short, you get rugged warmth and dryness without completely sacrificing tactile function. That balance makes it the top pick overall for ice-fishing gloves.

Pros:

  • Excellent warmth for cold, wet ice-fishing situations thanks to 150 g/200 g Thinsulate.

  • Waterproof/breathable liner keeps hands drier and more comfortable when dipping into water or handling wet gear.

  • Reinforced palm and grip surface help maintain control of gear, even when things are slick.

  • Good size range so a wide variety of anglers can find a fit.

  • Built explicitly for ice-fishing rather than being a generic winter glove.

Cons:

  • Bulkier than lighter “dexterity” gloves—so tying fine hooks or making delicate adjustments may feel a little more awkward.

  • As with any high-insulation glove, if ventilation is limited, your hands may get damp from the inside when they sweat.

Best Neoprene Ice Fishing Gloves: Bass Pro Shops Neoprene Fishing Gloves 

Why this glove was chosen:

The Bass Pro Shops Neoprene Fishing Gloves stand out as our top pick for best neoprene ice-fishing gloves because they strike an ideal balance between warmth, waterproof protection, and practical functionality. Built with a 2 mm neoprene body and reinforced 3 mm shark-skin rubber covering the palms, they defend well against icy wind and water intrusion. What really sets them apart is the clever fold-back-of-thumb-and-index-finger design, which uses a Velcro strap to expose just enough of your fingertips for tasks like baiting hooks, tying knots, or handling line without entirely removing your gloves. This makes them especially suited for the active, cold, wet conditions of ice fishing, where you need both dexterity and insulation.

Pros:

  • Excellent waterproof and windproof performance with neoprene body and rubberized palms.

  • Palm material and textured grip keep you in control of gear, even when it’s wet or cold.

  • Velcro-adjustable wrist strap ensures a snug fit and helps seal out drafts.

  • The fold-back fingertip feature adds practical dexterity for hook handling and rigging without exposing all your fingers.

  • Reasonably priced for the protection and features offered.

Cons:

  • While the fold-back design improves dexterity, the glove is still thicker than ultra-light models, so tying ultra-fine hooks or doing extremely delicate work may feel somewhat bulky.

  • The fold-back fingertip feature may expose the fingertips to cold if the Velcro isn’t secured tightly or if you leave the slots open for extended periods.

  • The glove style is optimized for cold-wet conditions, so in milder or heated-hut scenarios it may feel over-insulated and less comfortable than lighter gloves.

Best Wool/Fingerless Option: Clam Wooly Fingerless

Why this glove was chosen:

For ice anglers who are working within a heated shack or on milder days—when extreme insulation isn’t necessary, but dexterity is—the Wooly Fingerless Gloves deliver a superb balance of warmth and function. Their wool-blend keeps your hands comfortably warm even when damp, while the fingerless design gives you unhindered control for tasks like tying knots, changing jigs, or handling fish. Unlike standard wool gloves with frayed tips or slippery palms, this model adds suede reinforcements on the palms and fingers, plus silicone grip pads to maintain grip on slick rods, ice-cold gear, or slimy fish. They also work well as liners under heavier mitts if conditions worsen, making them versatile for a range of ice-fishing scenarios.

Pros

  • Wool-blend material (70% lambswool / 30% nylon) ensures warmth even when the gloves get moist.

  • Fingerless design preserves fingertip dexterity—valuable when baiting hooks, tying knots, or handling small fish.

  • Suede palm/finger reinforcement, plus silicone-printed grip pads, provide reliable grip and durability—even on wet or icy surfaces.

  • Works either as a standalone glove on moderate days or as a liner under a bulkier glove or mitt for added insulation.

  • Lightweight and less bulky than full-finger, heavily insulated gloves, making them comfortable for extended sessions in milder conditions.

Cons

  • Because the fingertips are exposed (or semi-exposed), your fingers will lose heat faster than in a full-glove option; this is not ideal for extremely cold or windy conditions.

  • While suede + silicone grip pads improve hold, the fingerless design still leaves some of the finger surface uncovered, which may reduce insulation and protection against splash or wind.

  • Not waterproof—if you’re frequently putting your hands into slush, water, or an unheated hole, you may end up with cold, damp fingers.

  • Because these are less insulated than heavy-duty gloves, you may need to pair them with another layer or a mitt when conditions drop well below freezing or when exposed to wind chill for long durations.

  • Fingerless style may not appeal if you prefer full coverage or are fishing in extremely harsh weather.

Best Ice Fishing Gloves for Mobile Style: Glacier Glove Alaska Pro

Why this glove was chosen:

The Glacier Glove Alaska Pro earns the top spot for mobile anglers because it delivers the rare combination of warmth, waterproof protection, and exceptional dexterity—ideal for anglers who are constantly moving, hole-hopping, or working gear on the fly. While it’s insulated with Thinsulate for reliable cold-weather performance, the standout feature is its soft goatskin leather palm. Goatskin is more flexible than cowhide, resists water absorption, and molds naturally to the hand, giving you superior control when gripping rods, operating electronics, or adjusting reels in freezing temperatures. The synthetic upper further boosts mobility, and the adjustable cuffs help seal out cold drafts and water. For anglers who want a glove that keeps up with constant movement without feeling bulky, this is the go-to choice.

Pros

  • Excellent dexterity thanks to goatskin leather palms, which stay soft and flexible even in the cold.

  • Thinsulate insulation provides solid warmth without adding bulk.

  • Goatskin resists water absorption better than many synthetic materials, helping maintain grip and comfort.

  • High-tech synthetic shell enhances mobility for hole-hoppers and active anglers.

  • Adjustable cuffs help seal out ice, wind, and moisture.

  • Great “do-everything” glove for run-and-gun fishing styles.

Cons

  • Not as warm as heavy expedition-level gloves; extreme cold anglers may want additional protection.

  • Goatskin leather requires periodic care to maintain water resistance and longevity.

  • Although dexterous, still not ideal for ultra-fine tasks like tying tiny jigs or re-rigging micro-tackle.

  • Not fully waterproof if submerged—best for mobile use, not hand-in-the-hole fishing.

  • The focus on mobility results in less overall insulation than with bulkier ice-specific mitts.

Warmest Ice Fishing Glove: Striker Apex Glove

Why this glove was chosen:

For anglers who fish fully exposed on the ice—no hut, no heater, just brutal wind and sub-zero temps—the Striker Apex stands alone as the warmest, most storm-ready glove available. Its Primaloft® Silver insulation is the key: 170 grams across the back of the hand and 100 grams throughout the rest of the glove deliver exceptional heat retention without the crippling bulk found in typical extreme-weather gloves. That insulation balance gives anglers far better flexibility when gripping a reel, setting the hook, or fighting fish. The gloves are fully waterproof and immersion-proof, so dipping your hands into slush or handling wet fish won’t soak the liner. An adjustable neoprene cuff seals out cold air and water, and smart touches such as removal tabs and a soft synthetic nose wipe show that Striker designed this glove for real-world ice use, not just cold-weather marketing claims.

Pros

  • Among the warmest ice fishing gloves available, thanks to high-loft Primaloft Silver insulation (170g back / 100g palm).

  • Immersion-proof construction keeps hands dry even when reaching into holes or handling wet fish.

  • Remarkably good dexterity for such a warm glove, making it great for reel operation and general gear handling.

  • Adjustable neoprene cuffs block wind, snow, and splash.

  • Thoughtful features like pull tabs and a soft nose-wipe improve field comfort.

  • Excellent choice for anglers fishing exposed, windy lakes where frostbite risk is high.

Cons

  • Warmer than most anglers need inside a heated hut or on mild days; can feel too hot in warm conditions.

  • Bulkier than midweight or mobile-style gloves, so tying micro jigs is still challenging.

  • Premium warmth comes with a premium price tag.

  • Immersion-proof design is robust but may feel stiffer until broken in.

  • Not ideal for anglers who prioritize maximum fingertip dexterity above all else.

Warmest for The Money Ice Fishing Glove: Glacier Ice Bay Glove

Why this glove was chosen:

When you’re looking for serious cold-weather protection without spending top-dollar, the Ice Bay gloves stand out as a smart value. They use 2 mm fleece-lined TechLine™ neoprene with fully sealed seams (blind-stitched and glued) that deliver 100% waterproof performance, so your hands stay warm and dry even when dipping into slush or cold water. The sharkskin-textured palm improves grip even when things get slick. Because these gloves often retail for significantly less than high-end insulated options, they offer superb warmth for the price. For anglers who want dependable insulation and waterproofing without exotic materials or premium pricing, the Ice Bay is the clear choice.

Pros

  • Waterproof, wind-resistant construction with sealed seams keeps hands dry.

  • Fleece-lined neoprene provides solid warmth and comfort in cold, wet conditions.

  • Sharkskin textured palm enhances grip on rods, gear, and fish when things are slick.

  • Excellent value — while more expensive gloves may offer marginal improvements, this model gives great performance for the price.

  • Versatile enough to use for ice fishing or other cold-weather outdoor work where waterproof warm gloves are needed.  Perfect warmth to be used inside and outside the ice shanty.

Cons

  • While warm and waterproof, the insulation level is modest compared to premium expedition gloves—it might be marginal in extremely frigid or windy conditions.

  • Because it’s full-fingered, dexterity (for tying tiny jig hooks or performing ultra-fine work) will still be less than that of lighter, more specialized gloves.

  • Neoprene doesn’t breathe as well as some synthetic liners, so if your hands sweat inside, you may end up with dampness.

  • Bulkier than minimalist gloves, so less ideal when you mostly fish inside a heated hut or in mild conditions.

  • As with many neoprene gloves, fit and sizing matter a lot—too loose, and you’ll lose warmth; too tight, and you’ll restrict circulation.

Best Ice Fishing Glove for Panfishing: HydroGrip Max

Why this glove was chosen:

For anglers targeting panfish such as crappie, bluegill, perch—where the action is constant, gear is lighter, and you’re often working in close quarters and handling lots of small bites, the HydroGrip Max hits the sweet spot. The glove is built of ultra-stretch neoprene that offers a snug, low-bulk fit so you maintain the tactile feel needed for light rods, light line, and subtle bites. According to the manufacturer, the ultra-stretch material can stretch up to 200% of its original size, enabling good mobility and fit. At just 2.5 mm thick, it stays nimble rather than bulky. Add a silicone-grip palm overlay and blind‐stitched/glued waterproof seams and you get a glove that stays dry, grips well, and lets you stay focused on the fish rather than frozen fingers.

Pros

  • Ultra-stretch neoprene (2.5 mm) gives a close, flexible fit ideal for light-gear panfishing.

  • Silicone palm overlay enhances grip on rods, fish and wet surfaces.

  • Fully waterproof with blind-stitched and glued seams to keep out slush and spray.

  • Low bulk means better dexterity when tying light jigs or handling small panfish.

Cons

  • At 2.5 mm thickness, the glove may not provide enough insulation for very cold, windy or exposed deep-ice conditions.

  • Higher price point than bare-bones gloves with similar waterproofing.

Best Women’s Ice Fishing Glove: Striker Stella

Why it was chosen:

The Striker Women’s Stella Glove is explicitly designed so female ice anglers don’t have to compromise on warmth, protection, or performance. With 170 g of PrimaLoft® Silver insulation, a Hipora® waterproof/breathable membrane, and full leather palm, it delivers premium cold-weather performance in a tailored fit for women. The glove’s pre-curved fingers and adjustable wrist + gauntlet closures create a comfortable, secure fit that keeps out wind and water, while the reinforced 300D shell ensures durability. In short: if you’re serious about staying out on the ice all day and want a glove built for women’s hands that doesn’t sacrifice features, the Stella hits the mark.

Pros

  • 170 g PrimaLoft® Silver insulation for perfect warmth with lighter bulk.

  • Hipora® waterproof/breathable technology and immersion-proof build keep hands dry and protected.

  • Full leather palm offers excellent grip and durability when handling rods, gear, or fish.

  • Adjustable wrist and gauntlet closures help seal out cold air and water, and create a more customized fit.

Cons

  • Premium materials and a feature set come at a higher price point than those of more basic women’s gloves.

  • The level of insulation and bulk may be overkill for light hut fishing or mild conditions, which may feel warm or restrict finer tasks.

Best Cheap Ice Fishing Glove: Cabela’s Extreme Ice Gloves 

Why this glove was chosen:

For budget-conscious anglers who still need dependable warmth and waterproofing on the ice, the Cabela’s Extreme Ice Gloves deliver impressive value. These gloves feature a waterproof latex-coated shell and a soft brushed acrylic interior to keep hands warm and dry even when conditions get wet. Though they lack the premium insulation and ultra-dexterity of top-tier models, they hit the essentials like good grip, wind and water protection, and functional durability for a fraction of the cost. If you’re stocking up for casual ice sessions, less-frequent outings, or want a solid backup pair, these gloves offer more than enough performance for the price.

Pros

  • Waterproof latex coating and sealing keep the hands dry and protected in slushy or icy conditions.

  • Soft brushed acrylic interior provides decent warmth and comfort without breaking the bank.

  • Tacky surface for improved grip ensures you can handle rods, reels, and fish without slipping.

  • The affordable price point makes it easy to pick up a pair without a heavy investment and is ideal for casual or occasional ice-fishing trips.

Cons

  • Insulation is modest compared to premium gloves, so for icy, windy, or exposed conditions, they may underperform.

  • Dexterity and fine-motor control may be limited due to the thicker/waterproof build making it less ideal for tying ultra-fine jigs or working in tight quarters.

Best Ice Fishing Glove for Kids: Striker Avenger 

Why this glove was chosen:

When it comes to outfitting young anglers for cold-weather ice fishing, the Striker Youth Avenger Glove ticks every box: serious insulation, waterproof protection, and a fit for smaller hands. It offers the same performance specs as adult premium models—200 g of 3M® Thinsulate® insulation on the back of the hand, a Hipora® waterproof/breathable insert, and an immersion-proof build. Designed for smaller builds (Youth S to XL), this glove ensures kids don’t have to sacrifice warmth or protection just because their hands are smaller. Whether drilling holes, grabbing fish, or operating a reel on the ice, it gives them the gear they need to stay comfortable, confident, and focused.

Pros

  • High-level insulation (200 g Thinsulate®) keeps young hands warm in icy conditions. Fully waterproof/breathable Hipora® insert and immersion‐proof construction prevent soggy, cold hands.

  • Shell and synthetic palm built for durability and grip in rugged ice conditions—ideal for kids who might be less consistent with gear care. Sized for youth hands (Children’s sizes YS-YXL) so the glove fits properly rather than being an oversized adult version.

Cons

  • Premium features mean a higher cost compared with simpler kids’ winter gloves—might stretch a tight budget.

  • With serious insulation and full coverage, the glove may be bulkier than ultra-light options—less ideal for mild hut conditions or when maximum fingertip dexterity is required.

Best ice fishing glove with cell phone tips: Striker Stealth Glove

Why this glove was chosen:

For ice anglers who still rely on their phone for everything from lake maps (instead of their ice fishing fish finders) to quick photos of the catch, the Striker Stealth Glove stands out by combining absolute weather protection with modern touchscreen convenience. The glove features a waterproof/breathable shell with a seamless 4-way stretch fabric for excellent dexterity. The silicone-print palm keeps you from slipping, even when your hands are wet or cold. Most importantly, the “tech touch” index fingertip lets you operate smartphones, tablets, or fish-finder screens without ever removing your glove.

Pros

  • Touchscreen-compatible fingertip: you can use your phone or take a photo while still wearing gloves.

  • Excellent dexterity thanks to seamless 4-way stretch construction, making it easier to tie knots, handle reels, and do fine tasks.

  • Waterproof/breathable construction keeps hands dry in slush or wet conditions.

  • Silicone print palm offers enhanced grip, even on slick or icy surfaces.

Cons

  • Not the warmest glove for extreme deep-ice or wind-blasted outposts — focus is more on dexterity than heavy insulation.

  • Premium materials and features mean a higher price point compared to basic gloves.

Best gauntlet fishing glove: Predator Fishing Gloves

Why this glove was chosen:

The StrikerICE Predator Glove earns the top spot in the gauntlet category because it delivers full-coverage protection built for the harshest ice-fishing conditions. Its tall gauntlet cuff seals securely over jacket sleeves, blocking out wind, snow, and slush better than standard-length gloves. With 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation, a waterproof/breathable membrane, and a rugged shell, it provides dependable warmth and dryness during long days on the ice. The adjustable wrist and gauntlet closures let anglers fine-tune the fit, while the durable palm material adds grip and longevity. For anyone spending hours exposed to the elements, the Predator’s combination of insulation, coverage, and durability makes it the best gauntlet-style glove available.

Pros

  • Tall gauntlet cuff seals tightly over sleeves to keep out snow, wind, and slush.

  • 200g Thinsulate insulation offers serious warmth for extreme conditions.

  • Waterproof/breathable membrane keeps hands dry during long sessions.

  • Durable shell and palm materials provide excellent grip and longevity.

Cons

  • Bulkier than mid-weight gloves, reducing fine-motor dexterity.

Understanding Neoprene vs. Membranes

There are basically two ways to make gloves waterproof: using waterproof neoprene or using waterproof, breathable membranes in a nylon glove.

Glacier Glove, a company that manufactures only outdoor gloves and hats, is an advocate of using neoprene for ice-fishing gloves.

Glacier Gloves takes neoprene further, lining its gloves with fleece and using blind-stitching to ensure they are waterproof. Smith explained that blind stitching is a technique that involves gluing the neoprene initially and then reinforcing the seams with a U-stitch that doesn’t penetrate the other side of the neoprene, ensuring water can’t seep through.

Many neoprene gloves are 3 mm thick to allow easier stitching and provide more warmth. Glacier Gloves uses high-quality 2 mm neoprene and fleece for warmth, while maintaining dexterity.

Striker, on the other hand, uses a waterproof, breathable membrane inside its gloves to achieve warmth. Using Primaloft Silver or Thinsulate synthetic insulation provides warmth in the gloves. A Hipora membrane makes the gloves waterproof. Dependent on the model, Striker often uses an adjustable neoprene cuff on the gloves to seal out water or cold air.

How To Care for Your Ice Fishing Gloves

Ice fishing gloves take more abuse than almost any other winter gear. Between dipping your hands into the hole, grabbing fish, scooping slush, and dealing with blowing snow, it’s almost guaranteed they’ll end up soaked at some point. Because of this, proper drying and care are essential if you want your gloves to last and perform well all season.

The most important rule is never put your gloves away wet. Storing damp gloves can lead to mildew, foul odors, and breakdown of the materials—especially in neoprene and insulated gloves. As soon as you get home, hang them in a warm indoor space with plenty of air circulation. A simple hook, clothesline, or drying rack works great. Just avoid placing gloves directly on a heat source like a heater vent, wood stove, or space heater, as high heat can warp synthetic materials, damage waterproof membranes, and cause neoprene to crack or separate.

A glove or boot dryer (great for your ice fishing boots as well) is another excellent option. These devices push warm air into the fingers and help dry the inside of the glove, not just the shell. This is especially helpful with fully waterproof gloves that can trap moisture inside if they’re not opened up properly.

Before you decide they’re dry, always put the gloves back on and check. Sometimes the lining can feel dry on the surface but still hold moisture deep in the insulation or fingertips. If you feel even a hint of dampness, give them more time. It’s far better to wait an extra hour inside than to discover freezing wet gloves when you’re miles out on the ice.

Caring for your gloves isn’t complicated, but doing it right dramatically extends their life, keeps them warmer, and helps them perform exactly the way they were designed to—trip after trip.

Conclusion

Ice fishing pushes your hands to the limits, and the right pair of gloves can make the difference between a full day on the ice and packing up early. Whether you need maximum warmth, waterproof protection for constant hand-in-the-hole fishing, lightweight dexterity for panfish, or a budget-friendly option, today’s glove designs offer something for every angler and every condition. The key is matching the glove to how—and where—you fish. Consider your exposure to wind, water, and cold, as well as how much fine-motor control you need for tying knots, working electronics, or handling small baits.

No single glove is perfect for every situation, which is why many seasoned ice anglers keep two or even three styles in their kit. With the right combination, you’ll stay warmer, fish longer, and enjoy every minute on the ice. In the end, comfort isn’t a luxury; it’s a real advantage when you’re chasing fish in the coldest environments of the year.

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Jeff is a passionate outdoorsman who enjoys hunting with his family in Southwestern Ontario, and beyond. Jeff looks forward to turkey hunting each spring, and then switches to fishing with his family for perch, walleye and bass in the summer. In the fall, Jeff is busy chasing whitetails, waterfowl, fall turkeys and moose when he isn’t working or pheasant hunting with his English cocker spaniel.

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