In winter, hands suffer from the cold faster than other parts of the body, and choosing the wrong protection can lead not only to discomfort but also to hypothermia. A dermatologist explained why mittens are considered warmer when gloves are necessary and how to find the optimal option for severe frosts.
Why Hands Freeze First
The skin on the fingers is thin, and blood circulation is weaker than in other areas of the body. At low temperatures, blood vessels constrict quickly, causing heat to escape particularly rapidly. Even a short stay in the cold without protection can lead to numbness and the risk of frostbite.
Why Mittens Keep You Warmer
According to dermatologist Olga Tarnavskaya, the warmest option for winter is mittens. In mittens, the fingers are together and warm each other. Additionally, mittens have a smaller surface area in contact with cold air than gloves, so heat is retained longer, especially in strong winds and freezing temperatures.
When Gloves Are More Convenient
Gloves win not in warmth but in functionality. They are convenient for driving, working with small objects, using a phone, or tools. However, when staying in the cold for extended periods, gloves fall short compared to mittens, as each finger cools separately.
The Best Option for Winter
The optimal solution, according to the specialist, is layered protection. Thin thermal gloves worn under thick mittens help retain heat while keeping hands protected if something needs to be done. Simply removing the outer layer keeps the hands warm.
What Else to Consider When Choosing
It is important to consider not only the shape but also the material. Gloves and mittens should be dry, not tight, and preferably have a windproof layer. Wet or overly tight items significantly increase the risk of hypothermia.
Properly selected hand protection is not only a matter of comfort but also an important preventive measure against frostbite in cold weather.
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