Ice fishing is one of the most rewarding cold-weather sports—but without the right gloves, it can also be one of the most uncomfortable. The best ice fishing gloves combine warmth, water protection, and dexterity, helping anglers stay safe and effective even in sub-zero conditions.
In this expert guide, we break down the top waterproof ice fishing gloves, explore the different styles (mittens, convertible, heated), and help you choose the perfect pair for your next icy adventure.
❄️ Why You Need Ice Fishing Gloves (Not Just Any Gloves)
Ordinary winter gloves won’t cut it on the ice. Ice fishing demands gloves that are:
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Waterproof – To prevent icy water from seeping in
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Insulated – To trap heat and protect from frostbite
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Flexible – So you can tie lines, bait hooks, and reel with precision
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Durable – To withstand sharp gear and abrasive ice
The best waterproof ice fishing gloves provide all of these without sacrificing comfort or control.
🧤 Types of Ice Fishing Gloves
When searching for fishing gloves for winter, you'll encounter several types. Each has unique pros depending on your activity level and the conditions:
1. Full-Finger Gloves
Great for maximum warmth and waterproof protection, these are perfect for extremely cold conditions but may slightly reduce dexterity.
2. Convertible Mittens (Flip Mitts)
Also known as glove-mittens, these offer a hybrid design—flip the mitten cover back for finger access. Ideal for quick gear adjustments.
3. Fingerless Gloves with Liners
Designed for tasks needing ultimate precision. Typically layered over or under insulated mitts.
4. Heated Ice Fishing Gloves
These battery-powered gloves are game-changers for deep-freeze fishing. Some models include multiple heat settings and last 4–10 hours on a single charge.
🏆 Best Ice Fishing Gloves for 2025
Here are our top picks for warm gloves for ice fishing, based on insulation, waterproofing, flexibility, and real-world angler reviews.
1. 🧤 Fish Monkey Yeti Ice Fishing Gloves
✅ Best Overall Ice Fishing Gloves
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Waterproof: Yes (HydroShield technology)
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Insulation: Thermal fleece lining
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Dexterity: Excellent grip and flexibility
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Extras: Adjustable wrist strap, anti-slip palm
Why We Love It: Fish Monkey combines warmth, grip, and water protection—perfect for all-day fishing.
2. 🔥 Savior Heated Gloves
✅ Best Heated Gloves for Ice Fishing
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Heating Element: Up to 10 hours with 3 heat settings
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Material: Waterproof polyester and goatskin leather
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Insulation: Breathable cotton interior
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Bonus: Touchscreen compatibility
Ideal For: Extremely cold climates or long sessions on the ice.
3. 🧊 Striker Ice Combat Gloves
✅ Best Waterproof Ice Fishing Gloves
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Waterproofing: Hipora breathable waterproof insert
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Insulation: 150g of 3M Thinsulate
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Grip: Reinforced palm for durability
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Fit: Extended gauntlet with wrist cinch
Top Pick For: Ice fishing in slush or heavy snow.
4. 👩 Glacier Glove Ice Bay (Women’s Model Available)
✅ Best Women's Ice Fishing Gloves
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Design: Available in women's-specific fit
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Material: Neoprene (waterproof)
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Warmth: Fleece-lined interior
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Durability: Seam-sealed for full waterproof protection
Why Anglers Love It: Comfortable, form-fitting gloves perfect for women who need precision and warmth.
5. ❄️ Hanvosafety Cut-Resistant Ice Fishing Gloves
✅ Best Gloves for Safety & Grip
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Feature: Cut-resistant fibers for handling sharp tools
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Grip: Anti-slip textured palm
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Design: Full-finger with reinforced stitching
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Protection: Ideal for icy tools, sharp hooks
Perfect For: Safe and secure handling in extreme cold.
🛠️ Key Features to Look For
✅ Waterproof Protection
Look for fully sealed seams and water-repelling materials like neoprene or laminated synthetics.
✅ Insulation Layers
Top brands use Thinsulate™, fleece, or multi-layer systems to trap body heat.
✅ Dexterity & Grip
Rubberized or silicone-enhanced palms help you hold rods, reels, and bait without slipping—even in icy water.
✅ Adjustable Wrist Closures
Wrist straps or gauntlet-style cuffs block out wind, snow, and cold air.
👩🔬 Women’s Ice Fishing Gloves: What to Look For
Women’s hands often require slightly different sizing and fit. Choose gloves that:
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Offer smaller sizes for narrow hands
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Still include all the same performance features: insulation, grip, waterproofing
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Avoid bulk while preserving dexterity
The Glacier Glove Women's Ice Bay and Fish Monkey Women’s Ice Gloves are two standout options.
💡 Pro Tips for Staying Warm on the Ice
Even the best gloves can fall short without proper prep. Here’s how to keep your hands warm and functional:
🔄 Layer Smartly
Use a liner glove beneath your main glove for warmth and wicking.
🔥 Add Hand Warmers
Many ice fishing gloves have pockets for chemical or electric warmers—use them!
🕳️ Minimize Exposure
Only expose fingers when necessary. Convertible mittens help with this.
🧼 Keep Gloves Dry
Wet gloves = cold hands. Always carry a backup pair and dry gloves at day’s end.
🧼 Caring for Your Ice Fishing Gloves
Maintain performance with these tips:
| Step | What to Do |
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| Clean | Hand wash or spot clean with mild soap. Avoid harsh detergents. |
| Dry | Air dry flat, away from direct heat sources (no dryers). |
| Inspect | Check seams, insulation, and grip areas for wear and tear. |
| Store | Store in a cool, dry space—never crumpled or damp. |
🧭 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Ice Fishing Gloves
The right ice fishing gloves waterproof your hands, insulate them from harsh cold, and still let you bait hooks and handle gear with ease. Whether you're out for a few hours or a full day on the lake, investing in high-quality gloves is crucial to enjoying the experience.
✅ Our Top Recommendations:
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Best Overall: Fish Monkey Yeti Gloves
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Best Heated Option: Savior Heated Gloves
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Best Waterproof Protection: Striker Ice Combat Gloves
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Best Women’s Fit: Glacier Glove Ice Bay