What Are The Best Sailing Gloves? 11 Sailing Gloves Reviewed
Contents
- 1 Background
- 2 Our Picks of the Best Sailing Gloves
- 3 What To Look For In Sailing Gloves
- 4 Detailed Reviews Of Some Of The Best Sailing Gloves
- 4.1 Ronstan Race Gloves
- 4.2 Gill Short Finger Championship Sailing Gloves
- 4.3 Gill Deckhand Gloves
- 4.4 Gill Pro Gloves
- 4.5 Helly Hansen Short Sailing Gloves
- 4.6 Zhik G1 Sailing Gloves
- 4.7 Burke Leather Sailing Glove
- 4.8 Burke Performance Amara Sailing Glove
- 4.9 Burke Full Finger Sailing Glove
- 4.10 Harken Sport Men’s Spectrum 3/4 Finger Gloves
- 4.11 Gill Junior Short Finger Deckhand Gloves
- 5 Do You Have A Preference In Sailing Gloves?
To Summarize: We picked 11 of the most popular sailing gloves available on the market. We compared the construction, durability, design, and features of each. We also looked at fingerless and full-fingered gloves.
Many of the choices here scored high marks on design, fit, and strength. Most fared well on dexterity, gripping ability, and comfort (including quick drying).
Our top pick, however, is the Ronstan Sticky Race Sailing Glove. Not only did we find that they were long-lasting, but they were very well-priced, so should be a good option for many sailors. Sure, there may be better gloves out there, but when you take into consideration value for money, these were our pick.
The complete list of sailing gloves we looked at is included below along with a list of pros and cons for each, a short review, and information on how to order your pair.
Background
Every sailor knows that choosing the right sailing gear, such as a good pair of sailing gloves, is important to sailing performance. The best sailing gloves protect your hands from rope burn, as well as sunburn, the cold, and general knocks and bumps.
Fortunately, there are several types of sailing gloves that sailors can choose from and this article aims to give a review of some of the best sailing gloves, and the more popular brands and styles.
Our Picks of the Best Sailing Gloves
Here are our picks of some of the best sailing gloves that dinghy sailors & yachties can choose from:
| Image | Title | Rating | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ronstan Race Gloves | 4.4 out of 5 stars | |
 | Gill Short Finger Championship Sailing Gloves | 4.8 out of 5 stars | |
 | Gill Deckhand Gloves | 5.0 out of 5 stars | |
 | Gill Pro Gloves | 4.0 out of 5 stars | |
 | Helly Hansen Short Sailing Gloves | 4.5 out of 5 stars | |
 | Zhik G1 Sailing Gloves | 5.0 out of 5 stars | |
 | Harken Sport Men’s Spectrum 3/4 Finger Gloves | 4.4 out of 5 stars | |
| Gill Junior Short Finger Deckhand Gloves | 5.0 out of 5 stars | |
What To Look For In Sailing Gloves
The most effective way to protect your hands from rope burns, cuts, and blisters from handling lines is with a good pair of sailing gloves. There are gloves that provide extra grip, additional padding, and increased protection. However, the type of sailing that you do and your position in the boat should guide you on the type of glove you should purchase.
There are two basic kinds of sailing gloves:
- fingerless (or short-fingered), and
- three-fingered / long-fingered / full-fingered gloves.
Fingerless gloves tend to be the most popular choice and the exposed fingertips can provide additional dexterity while sailing or racing. It is also much easier to find the right fit with fingerless gloves.
You will have far more protection with full-finger gloves, however, the added dexterity of the finger-less variety often outweighs the extra protection for many sailors. The full-finger design will not roll down the fingers as fingerless gloves can sometimes do, especially when they age.
Another consideration with sailing gloves is the fabric they are made of. Synthetic leather, known as Amara, heavy-duty Proton, polyester, and sticky coating are common choices.
One additional factor that will have an impact on your sailing glove selection is durability. In other words, the strength of the construction and how well the glove holds up to the amount of use it will have. Your particular circumstances will have a bearing on this. Frequent sailors and racers obviously require stronger gloves.
Detailed Reviews Of Some Of The Best Sailing Gloves
Ronstan Race Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Ronstan |
| Material | Faux Leather, Mesh |
| Sizes | XX-Small, X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | Short Finger |
| Color | Black / Grey |
| Closure Type | Hook and Loop |
| Other features | Double stitching in high-wear areas Double thickness in palm, fingers Mesh in low-wear areas for flexibility, comfort Added grip reduces fatigue Low cut wrist allows free movement and good visibility of a watch |
These gloves are made from ‘Amara’ synthetic leather which is known for its maximum strength and minimum stretch and shrinkage. It has double Aramid stitching in high wear areas and also boasts double thickness in the palm and fingers area for better protection and grip. It uses mesh panels for better flexibility and comfort and also for quick drying.
Its neoprene wristband is low cut and specially designed for a snug fit and easy access to the sailor’s watch. It also has UPF 50 (Ultra-Violet Protection Factor). Sticky gloves lessen exhaustion caused by too much physical effort when holding the rope.
Ronstan short finger “Sticky” Race Sailing Gloves
Pros
Cons
The Ronstan Race Gloves come in double extra-small to double extra-large sizes. Prices range from about $25-35. For more information about the product, visit the Ronstan website here.
Gill Short Finger Championship Sailing Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Gill |
| Material | Panel: 93% Nylon / 7% Elastane Main: 60% Nylon / 40% Polyurethane Cuffs: 60% Neoprene / 40% Nylon |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | 3/4 Finger |
| Color | Black |
| Washing | Hand Wash |
| Other features | Wraparound palm protection Easy to grab silicone grip at cuff Dura-Grip on the palm provides good grip without compromising flexibility, durability UV 50+ protection & water repellent Finger seams are offset to reduce pressure points |
When it comes to gloves for sailing, Gill is one of the most innovative brands available. This particular style of Gill sailing gloves provides not only flexibility but is comfortable as well. The unique design incorporates a pre-shaped fabric that perfectly conforms to the shape of your hand, which assists in providing grip and traction when needed. The fabric is stretchy on the back of the hand and includes reinforcement around the fingers with a seamless design.
The ‘fingerless’ style keeps fingertips free for chores requiring higher dexterity. A clever addition is the location of the wrist closure – on the inside of it – which prevents false and premature watch starts. The black finish makes these functional gloves sporty and classic in appearance.
Pros
Cons
Gill Deckhand Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Gill |
| Material | Panel: 93% Nylon / 7% Elastane Main: 60% Nylon / 40% Polyurethane Cuffs: 60% Neoprene / 40% Nylon |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | 3/4 Finger |
| Color | Black / Grey |
| Washing | Hand Wash |
| Other features | Finger seams are offset to remove pressure points Reduced cuff length eliminates bulk, and improves comfort Silicone grip on the cuff is easy to grip UV 50+ & water repellent |
Another set of gloves in the Gill range is the Gill Short Finger Deckhand Sailing Gloves.
These gloves are comfortable and well-made. They are also durable and long-lasting.
They are very reasonably priced and will do a great job of protecting your hands from rope burns and other injuries.
Pros
Cons
Gill Pro Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Gill |
| Material | Nylon, Elastane, Neoprene |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | 3/4 Finger |
| Color | Black / Yellow |
| Closure Type | Outside-facing wrist closure |
| Washing | Hand Wash |
| Other features | Finger seams are offset to remove pressure points Designed to ensure maximum wrist flex and comfort Flexible and comfortable UV 50+ & water repellent |
The Gill Pro Gloves are for serious sailors. If you are looking for the best sailing gloves that can withstand constantly serious sailing work then these may be the gloves for you.
They have a contoured fit and the back of the gloves feature a stretchable woven fabric for easy movement and more flexibility. The lengths of the fingers are generous and thus provide added protection. The cuffs are made of neoprene and provide maximum closure.
These Gill sailing gloves are best for inshore dinghy & yacht racing, and short offshore racing. They come in short-finger and long-finger versions.
They have gloves that can fit a child’s hand and have sizes up to double extra-large. Visit their site here.
Pros
Cons
Helly Hansen Short Sailing Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Helly-Hansen |
| Material | Leather, Polyester |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | Short Finger |
| Color | Black / Grey |
| Closure Type | Velcro wrist hook and loop closure |
| Washing | Machine Wash |
| Other features | Short finger for extra dexterity Limited lifetime warranty |
These lightweight sailing gloves are made from 100% polyester. They feature a fingerless design to allow for extra grip and dexterity.
The sailing glove design has extra stitching where it is needed most making these a durable pair of gloves. Each finger hole is reinforced with additional padding and stitching to prevent fraying.
They are available in black with grey trim and are in sizes ranging from XS to XL. These well-designed sailing gloves are considered by the manufacturer to be the perfect sailing companion.
They come in short- and long-finger glove options.
Pros
Cons
Zhik G1 Sailing Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Zhik |
| Material | Polyester, Nylon, Polyurethane |
| Sizes | X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | Half Finger |
| Color | Black / Yellow |
| Closure Type | Pull On |
| Other features | Lightweight and breathable fabric Durable stitching for extra reinforcement Offset stitching for comfort, durability Targeted padding in the palm for comfort, performance |
These Zhik gloves for sailing are best for sailors who prefer lightweight with superior grip.
Sailors love the feel of high sensitivity and dexterity that these gloves provide. The reinforced palm has targeted padding giving the sailor superior grip and comfort. They also minimize pressure points by using offset seams that eliminate bulk in key areas.
Learn more about Zhik sailing gloves by visiting their website here.
Pros
Cons
Burke Leather Sailing Glove
Key Specs
| Brand | Burke |
| Material | Marine-grade natural leather |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | 3/4 Finger |
| Color | Black / White |
| Closure Type | Double velcro locking system |
| Other features | Ergonomic design Anti-snag neoprene wrist closure with watch cut-out Reinforced palm & fingers Stretch mesh back |
The Burke Leather Sailing Glove is made of high-quality, marine-grade natural leather and held together by strong Polyamide stitching. Its palm and finger panels are reinforced and its ergonomic grip design allows the sailor to have a firm yet comfortable hold.
It has a stretch mesh back for comfort and ventilation. Its Neoprene wrist closure is designed to avoid snags while working the ropes and it has a cut-out to accommodate a watch while maintaining a comfortable and secure fit.
Sizes are available starting from extra-small to double extra-large. The price is about $25. Find out more about Burke Leather Sailing Glove here.
Pros
Cons
Burke Performance Amara Sailing Glove
Key Specs
| Brand | Burke |
| Material | Amara synthetic leather |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | 3/4 Finger |
| Color | Black / White |
| Closure Type | Double velcro locking system |
| Other features | Durable high-grip palm & finger reinforcement Abrasion-resistant kevlar stitching Ergonomic design Anti-snag neoprene wrist closure with watch cut-out Stretch mesh back |
The Performance Amara Sailing Glove is made from Amara leather known for its suppleness and strength. This kind of leather helps maintain the glove’s elasticity and form after drying.
It is ergonomically designed to allow for a stable yet comfortable grip. Its back is made of stretchable mesh for ventilation and its Neoprene wrist closure gives a snug fit. It has even a handy cut-out to allow easy access to the sailor’s watch.
The Kevlar stitches are scratch-resistant and the double Velcro lock system ensures that unintentional release from ripping is prevented.
These gloves cost about $35 and are available in XS up to XXL. Learn more about the product here.
Pros
Cons
Burke Full Finger Sailing Glove
Key Specs
| Brand | Burke |
| Material | Amara Leather, Neoprene |
| Sizes | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large |
| Finger Length | Full finger with exposed finger/thumb |
| Color | Black / White |
| Closure Type | Velcro locking hook |
| Other features | Watch cut-out wrist to reduce accidental pressing of watch buttons Amara leather is soft but durable |
This is one of the most comfortable sailing gloves. The fabric used is Amara synthetic leather, its design is ergonomic, and has 3 long fingers, and ¾ thumb and index fingers.
The durable grip is comfortable, while the back of the glove is ventilated through a stretch mesh, and the contoured Neoprene wristband is anti-snag.
A cutout is provided for the sailor’s watch and the double velcro tab closures cutout secures the glove in place.
The price is pegged at $39.00 and sizes range from extra small to double extra-large.
Read more on the Burke Full Finger Sailing Glove here.
Pros
Cons
Harken Sport Men’s Spectrum 3/4 Finger Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Harken Sport |
| Material | 50% Black Magic, 30% Nylon, 20% Rubber |
| Sizes | Junior Medium |
| Finger Length | 3/4 Finger |
| Color | Blue / Black / White |
| Closure Type | Hook |
| Washing | Machine Wash |
| Other features | Low-profile wrist to reduce accidental pressing of watch buttons Black Magic material provides superior grip |
With material identified as Black Magic, and the construction of the palm area of this glove containing a 50-percent blend of it, Harken Sport has done something incredible with sailing gloves.
The Black Magic material, mixed with 30-percent nylon and 20-percent rubber, provides a combination of strength, durability, and comfort that can stand up to the punishment you can give them.
The low profile design won’t mess with your watch and slim construction removes seam size and improves dexterity. The base of the fingers is treated to air-cooled comfort with mesh vents and these gloves have a tab built-in for quick and easy pull-on or pull-off action.
They come in your choice of Nautical Blue or Sunset Pink.
Pros
Cons
Gill Junior Short Finger Deckhand Gloves
Key Specs
| Brand | Gill |
| Material | Nylon, Elastane, Neoprene, Polyurethane |
| Sizes | Child (6″/15cm) / Junior (6″-6.5″ / 15-16.5 cm) |
| Finger Length | Short finger |
| Color | Black / Grey |
| Closure Type | Hook |
| Other features | UV 50+ & water repellent |
These Gill Junior Short Finger Deckhand Gloves are a smaller version of the Deckhand Gloves mentioned above. They come with adjustable neoprene wristbands.
These are reinforced gloves that are comfortable and very reasonably priced.
They offer superior grip and are abrasion-resistant.
Pros
Cons
Do You Have A Preference In Sailing Gloves?
Every sailor knows that choosing the right sailing gear, such as a good pair of sailing gloves, is important to sailing performance. The best sailing gloves protect your hands from rope burn, as well as sunburn, the cold, and general knocks and bumps.
There are many different brands and styles on the market today. A lot of trial and error on your part is necessary in order to find the perfect glove for your personal preference and style of sailing. The amount of sailing you do will have a bearing on the type and style of sailing glove you need.
The reviews of the sailing gloves featured here are intended to assist you with additional information when you are looking for a new pair. We hope this information has helped you with your decision.
After many years of using various sailing gloves, I have settled on Metolius Climbing Gloves.
These are a short finger leather glove, about the same price as a sailing glove, but made with a heavier leather, and in particular, a double layer of leather around the outside of your hand.
Recommended
Hi Geoff, thanks for your recommendation.
For anyone wanting to check these out, here is some more info… click here.
I’m using 5 years french assembly gloves from a building store. There are closed and open fingers. Reliable and durable 🙂
https://www.epi-net.fr/nouveau-epi-net/la-main-et-le-bras/mitaines-et-gants-doigts-coupes/mitaine-5-doigts-ouverts-paume-renforcee-mo990.html
Gill Fingerless gone massively downhill, suede/suedelike fabric around thumb /thumb heel wears out in days of racing use. Be wary of offshoring quality issues!
In short: ” **** “