Best Tactical Gloves in 2022
You’re all about the tactical, the logistics of how you’re going to carry out your goals and recreational activities. Whether you’re a frequent visitor at the shooting range, or you’re just spending time with the kids in a paintball arena, tactical gloves are going to be the best friend you never knew you needed. Protection doesn’t have to be that expensive; we’re about to show you the ins and outs of tactical gloves, their frequent questions, pros and cons, and the eight best pairs we’ve ever had the pleasure of using.
The Best Tactical Glove
1PIG Full Dexterity Tactical Gloves
Keep your tactile dexterity in good form with the best choice you can choose from on the market. PIG Full Dexterity Tactical (FDT) Delta Utility Gloves are designed just for your comfort round the clock. Knowing that many people leave their shooting gloves in place while on or off the range, this product gives you maximum comfort and full usage of your fingers without having to take the gloves off. This gear offers a single layer multi-piece palm to offer a bare hand shooting feel; furthermore, they retain the ultimate sensitivity you need to stay in touch with your weapon through one layer of the thinnest material that targets the trigger finger. Again, the padding around the knuckles is also thin to allow more flexibility.
Additionally, this product is good news for smartphone lovers and those who can’t go for long without sliding through their phones; these tactical gloves are touch screen conducive, which means you can operate your device without compromising tactile dexterity. What’s more, the venting material used on the inner fourchettes provides enough ventilation and wicking to keep your hands dry and comfortable at all times. Other notable features include the elastic wrists for more flexibility, as well as the discomfort it eliminates off the fingertips when the hands are folded. Overall, these PIG Utility Gloves are very efficient in their job and can be acquired in a variety of colors including black, coyote, carbon grey and ranger green. You may also be interested in some of the best anti vibration gloves from our list, so check them out.
High-dexterity
Silicon grip on the palm and fingers
Full touch screen compatible forefinger and thumb
Bar-tacked paracord pull loop
- BrandPIG
2Glove Station The Combat Knuckle Tactical Gloves
Bearing in mind the kind of task which tactical gloves are often used for, the manufacturer of this next product went the extra mile to ensure durability and safety by using tough but comfortable materials. The Glove Station Outdoor Tactical Gloves have reinforced molding around the knuckles to ensure maximum protection during operation. Tough conditions are anticipated during intensive operations that require you to wear these gloves, thus, the double-stitch seams guaranty the longevity of the hand gear, irrespective of the tough conditions they are subjected to.
Additionally, this product is made with ergonomic materials and allows the hand to breathe. What’s more, the PU leather covering the palm area, as well as the fingertips, offer a strong grip to operate on and you don’t have to worry about any kind of slip when holding on tightly. Even better os the fact that a padded mesh and rubber aero vents have been put in place on the back of the gloves to get rid of sweat faster. All in all, the Glove Station piece is made of long-lasting seamless synthetic leather that covers the palm, as well as a breathable padded mesh on the back, and neoprene fabric aimed at flexibility around the joints.
PU leather palm and padded mesh
Durable double-stitch seams
Tactical rubber knuckle gloves
Unhindered range of motion
- BrandGlove Station
- Weight4 ounces
3Mechanix Wear Multicam FastFit Tactical Touchscreen Gloves
There is nothing more important than giving your full attention to the task ahead during operation and this cannot be possible if you have to worry about your gloves slipping off. Notably, with Mechanix Wear – Multicam Camouflage Tactical Gloves, you are assured of the best comfort. One great feature this product offers is the stretch-elastic cuffs that provide comfortable closure around the wrist, giving the needed confidence to carry out tasks effortlessly. Additionally, on the palm area of the piece is a two-piece material anatomically designed to fit perfectly like your natural palm. This eliminates friction that might cause discomfort when certain movements are required. Furthermore, the TrekDry fabric on the back of the gloves is equally breathable and works to regulate and evaporate heat at all times.
What’s the point of effective tactical gloves without high-dexterity? This product offers 0. 6mm synthetic leather infused with touch screen technology on the fingertips to allow you to have full control while using your touch screen devices. Another interesting feature that sets this pair of gloves aside is the nylon carrier loops which come in handy for easy hanging and storage. Overall, these are a great pair of gloves that prevent discomfort as a result of sweaty hands – which is something any wearer wouldn’t want especially during intense operations. And to top things off they can be cleaned with ease in a washine machine.
Elastic cuffs for a secure wrist fit
Touch screen palm technology
Washing machine friendly
MultiCam Camouflage
- BrandMechanix Wear
- ModelFFTAB-78-010
- Weight2.4 ounces
4WTACTFUL Touch Screen Full Finger Gloves
When carrying out heavy-duty tasks, it is important to take proper measures to protect your hands. On that note, the amazing features that the Wtactful Touch Screen Full Finger Gloves have to offer come almost unmatched. With this piece, you can bid farewell to abrasion thanks to the reinforced palm and double stitching technology provided on these gloves.
Made from a microfiber material that lasts, the Wtactful gloves are wear-resistant, lightweight and sweatproof, so you won’t need to worry about slippery hands. What’s more, with the material being anti-slip, you are assured of a perfect grip at all times. Even better is the fact that the designated fingers are made to be touch screen friendly to allow easy use of your phone which is a feat that is not common among many tactical gloves.
Additionally, the wrist cuffs are adjustable and comfortable, giving a sense of support and security whilst the perfect stitches pay meticulous attention to human anatomy which is apparently why it fits so well. All in all, the gloves are generally durable and have been constructed from a breathable and comfortable material that won’t burden you with unnecessary weight. High performance is what you get from these gloves, when used both on heavy-duty jobs or for outdoor sports, such as hiking, riding, climbing, cycling, and much more.
Microfiber wear-resistant material
Adjustable wrist design
Touch screen compatible
Versatile design
- BrandWTACTFUL
5Seibertron S.O.L.A.G. Special Ops Combat Tactical Gloves
Seibertron S.O.L.A.G. Special Ops Combat Gloves were so easy to love. While you’re going to trade in a little bit of breathability, you’re sure as hell not going to sacrifice durability. These gloves are built to last; the first signs of wear-and-tear are when a few of the thousands of micro grips along the palm of the hand begin to fade, or the PU begins to crack. You’re getting a great introductory price for one of the internet’s favorite pairs of combat gloves, but there’s more to it.
We’re all akin to buying something online, thinking we have the right size, and then being disappointed (especially after long shipping periods and even longer return expectancies). With the wrist velcro, and strap along the top of your hand, you’ll be able to slip into these with premium comfort. You will experience slight moisture from sweating about about ninety minutes of use, which can quickly be remedied with a one to two minute break.
Easy tightening w/ velcro grip located on top of hand
Thousands of micro rubber grips along glove palm area
- BrandSeibertron
- Weight5 ounces
Excellent price
Long lifespan
PU is prone to cracking/fading, but will not degrade the gloves
Sweating after 1 ½ hours on average
6FREETOO Rubber Knuckle Tactical Gloves
When we tried FREETOO’s excellent pair of gloves, we were compelled to put them close to the top of our list. For the initial price, we had expected it to land a little lower than halfway, but we’ve found one of the few exceptions to our rule: you get what you pay for. People loved being able to purchase these for a great introductory price, and FREETOO didn’t dare disappoint their amassing fans. You get a set of rubber knuckles for added protection, as well as mobility, as well as one of the sturdiest velcro grips we’ve ever used before.
Depending on your size (and if you decide to select another color option than the all-black), Rubber Knuckle gloves will remain at a rock bottom price while offering excellent wrist motion and light protection from airsoft, paintballs, and any kickback from firing down at the range. While these aren’t water resistant, they’re still rated for a snug fit and a wide range of activities. While they didn’t have any warning information, we’re going to tell you right now that you need to wash these once before you try them on, due to the caustic dye. All together, this pair took the cake on value, comfort, and just enough protection to make them well worth your while. Be sure to also check out our list of the best weightlifting gloves for more great items like this.
Top notch customer service
USMC approved pair of gloves
- BrandFREETOO
Excellent introductory price for quality
Customer rated for 300+ hours of use
Contains caustic dye; wash before using, though they don’t tell you that in the package instructions
7Mechanix Wear Original Covert Tactical Gloves
Mechanix has been one of the leading champions of gloves for years now, and they continue to impress with their original run of covert tactical gloves. Hunters and professional paintballers have been using them for years, putting their faith in the ultra durable grip and tight fit that Mechanix is famous for. From the TrekDry technology, your gloves are ultra breathable, while keeping them dry from exterior liquid.
Right around your wrist, you get a thermal plastic rubber closure (which also comes with a nylon loop for hanging by the door), giving you an enclosure that’s dedicated to keeping your hands wrapped in durable material. We’ll be the first to tell you the one downfall of Mechanix Wear Original Covert gloves: they have a shorter lifespan than most. You should get between three to six months of total use, if you’re planning on taking your gloves out two times a week. They’re machine washable, which doesn’t negatively affect the quality of the fabric.
Machine washable without material degradation
Nylon loop for easy hanging
- BrandMechanix Wear
- ModelMG-55-009
- Weight3.52 ounces
Thermal plastic rubber closure
TrekDry keeps these gloves breathable, and your hands dry
Shorter lifespan than average
8Mechanix MultiCam M-Pact Tactical Gloves
You get a volley of sizes from one of America’s top providers of tactical gloves, promising you a great glove lifespan and machine washable material. One of our favorite aspects of Mechanix MultiCam M-Pact is the three-part palm padding, designed to provide better grip on gun stocks and hilts, as well as crossbow handles. These pads also aid in shock absorption, whether you’re firing a high-powered rifle or using them as extra grips and protection on a parkour run.
These gloves come at the higher end of our price range, and while that still isn’t a hefty load out of your wallet, it’s still reaching higher than our top two picks. TrekDry gives you the power to remain dry on the inside, while remaining breathable to reduce sweat buildup. From the form-fitting shape to the velcro wrist clasp, this glove has everything going for it.
Nylon loop for easy hanging
Excellent wrist enclosure
TrekDry keeps your hands cool and dry
- BrandMechanix Wear
- ModelMPT-78-010
- Weight1.44 ounces
One-year lifespan on average
Three-part durable palm grips that absorb impact/shock
Higher price tier
Only comes in woodland camouflage
9Oakley SI Assault Gloves
It doesn’t get much more combat-ready than this. The SI Assault Gloves give you the necessary grips and support to feel more in-command of your pistol or rifle out in the woods, or on the shooting range. You’ll be able to exhibit your dominance over paper targets, or fresh game with less kickback after each shot, thanks to proper shock absorption (which is something that about two dozen brands that didn’t make our list were lacking).
Much like another pick higher on the list, we have to warn you that you’re going to experience some issues with the caustic dye. Not only will these bleed into your skin, but they’re going to take about two washes (your hands) to come clean. It’s persistent, and it’ll take more than a few washes to get your gloves completely ready to go again. That being said, they’re long-lasting, from the fingertip grips right on down to the breathable attributes. SI is built to last, when other brands simply don’t step up to the plate. Our guide to the best cycling gloves offers more great items like this.
Comes in multiple colors to contour to your preexisting gear
Additional support for shooting
- BrandOakley SI
- ModelAssault
Excellent breathability
Excellent puncture and crush protection
Dye bleeds into hands; takes two washes to remove
10Condor Tactician Gloves
Last but not least comes the littlest brother of the list. Condor offers three colors, and a Shaolin ninja look about them from the outside. Condor Tactician Gloves are made-up of goatskin, adding to the initial cost and making them right smack dab in the middle of the price range on our list. We enjoy the seamless look, though the protection is a little bit flimsy. We think it’s due to the fact that these may be the most breathable gloves on the list; they almost feel like they’re not even there.
Padding along the palms and finger back area adds a wonderful touch, while the contour padding adds to the overall value. You’re not going to waste money, especially since they’re built to last for about a year, all without the common dye-bleeding effect that most gloves face. So why did we rank it at the bottom of our list? You really have to pay attention to the sizing chart information, because they’re not as adjustable as most tactical gloves. That being said, pay close attention, and you’ll do just fine.
Padded palms and finger back area for reduced recoil
Crafted of a goatskin leather blend construction
- BrandCONDOR
Seamless appearance; looks like an extension of your clothing
Double reinforced padding along the knuckles
Higher tier cost
Not as adjustable as other gloves; pay attention to sizing information
Tactical Gloves Buying Guide & FAQs
We absolutely hate when you find an awesome product, but nobody answers all the must-know questions about them. The main thing that a lot of guides lack is the answer to the most simple question: what are tactical gloves? We’re all about keeping you as informed as possible, and with that, we’ve answered the tough questions, and given you a broader range of understanding regarding tactical gloves, and all the reasons that we use them today. You sided with Gear Hungry because you know we bring everything out into the light - time to strap in.
Q: What are tactical gloves used for?
A: Initially, they were developed for police and special operations units to provide between traction and handling for their weapons and knives. They also protect the users from a wide array of various threats, from puncture wounds to dog bites, and more. Today, with the range of sports at our disposal, they’re also used by the masses for the following activities:
Airsoft - In recent years, airsoft arenas have become one of the go-to weekender activities that are seriously fun, but can seriously hurt if you’re not careful. Tactical gloves / Tactical vests & pens are primarily used for protection along your hands in airsoft battles.
Paintball - One of America’s greatest sports: paintball. You’re going to be sore after a few good rounds in a paintball pit or our in the marsh with your mates, but you don’t want to sport bruises and stiffness in your hands. That’s not going to help anyone out.
Motorcycle riding - The right set of tactical gloves will improve your grip on the back of a bike, giving you better handling and dexterity. In the event of a fall, your hands are one of the worst spot on your body to lose skin. It takes longer to heal, and hurts like a son of a bitch at just about all times (you can’t really avoid using your hands in most situations). Protection, and increased grip are why bikers turn to tactical gloves.
Winter - You know how when you were a kid, you would leave your house, then stuff your hat in your bag or mailbox? That’s because you sacrificed warmth at the expense of a cool look, and didn’t really like the way it fit in the first place. Tactical gloves are the toned man’s best friend for winter - they provide ample support and protection from the cold, insulating your natural body heat, while also looking tight and flattering.
Q: Is it important to find the right fit for tactical gloves?
A: If your tactical gloves are too tight, you’re going to notice extreme hand fatigue, and muscle soreness. You may look at your hand and wonder, “What muscle is he talking about?” Your hand’s anatomy is made up of tendons, stretching up your forearm to your elbow. When your funny bone gets whacked, you often feel it all the way up to your pinky and ring finger, and it vibrates for a few seconds.
Your hands are essentially muscles more than anything else. They’re one of the last places on your body that develop unhealthy fat storage, because one way or another, you’re using your hands every single day. Having the right fit reduces tendon flare-ups, and for those with RA or other forms of arthritis, getting the right fit is ten times more important (explained further in this guide). Too tight: tendon flare-ups and decreased range of motion; too loose: you’re not going to reap the protective rewards of your gloves along with your tactical pants & wallet.
Q: What is the knuckle padding used for?
A: It’s used for additional protection for your knuckles, while also allowing a full range of motion, regardless of what sport or activity you’re doing. Right now, place your non-dominant hand over one knuckle on a dominant finger, and try to bend the entire finger (keeping it mostly straight). Now, remove your hand and bend that finger. You’ll notice it’s two or three times easier. Now imagine having padding on your knuckles, prohibiting movement.
Knuckle padding is used to encase your knuckles for protection, while also raising the material to allow split-second decisions to still be made. If a police officer were out in the field, a hair trigger reaction can’t be achieved with a 200% decreased range of motion.
Q: Do tactical gloves work on touchscreens?
A: It all depends on the individual set of gloves. Some will, and some won’t. Most touchscreens are actually activated by thermal recognition, which is why you’ll take your smartphone out of your pocket on a hot summer day, and sometimes it’ll be on your lock screen already (on phones that you can double-tap to open the lock screen_. Thermal recognition is a bit tricky when your tactical gloves insulate your hands, which is why certain gloves thin-out the material along your fingertips, allowing you to activate your phone or tablet with ease.
Q: How long will a pair of combat gloves last?
A: On average, you’re only going to see warranties last from three months, up to a year (two at best). This doesn’t mean they’re going to die-out on you anytime soon, though; it’s all about how and how often you use them. If you’re into tactical sports every single weekend, you can expect to get up to two years of use out of these. If you’re one for eight-hour hunting days and free time spent exercising your second amendment right, you’re looking at about six months to one year before you’ll need to consider retiring them, and grabbing a new pair.
Q: Do tactical gloves provide much protection?
A: It all depends on the material, and the thickness. It’s also going to depend on what activity you’re doing. Combat gloves have been known to save bikers some skin when they flip off their ride, but that doesn’t mean they’re going to protect you against sharp items. Some men prefer to use tactical gloves when they’re treating game meat ou in the wilderness to avoid the potential risk of cutting or scraping their own hands.
Most gloves are going to have certain areas that contain rubber and/or PC, which offer puncture resistance and protection against the pressure from airsoft guns and paintballs. The gloves we’re showcasing in this guide are primarily used recreation, while police and military combat gloves would traditionally be made out of carbon fiber, and other hardened materials.
Q: Do combat gloves help with gun accuracy?
A: Whether you’re a recreational sharpshooter or you enjoy Sundays at the range with a glock, you’ll notice one thing: you get casing gunpowder on your hands. You’ll prevent the muck from gathering on your fingertips when you use combat gloves, but you’ll also be able to squeeze the trigger more easily (primarily why they’re excellent for split-second decisions in police and military situations).
Q: Can tactical gloves be used to help rheumatoid arthritis?
A: RA sufferers will find a small level of pain reduction when using tactical gloves, provided they’re not too tight, or too loose. With RA or any other form of arthritis, gentle compression adds warmth to your troubled joints, allowing you to feel less pain and a wider range of motion, due to the lack of inflammation. If you’ve ever used medical compression gloves in the past, you’ll feel right at home in the proper pair of tactical gloves. They can help, but they’re not designed for it.
Q: What are common issues with combat gloves after extended use?
A: On average, your gloves are going to last you a pretty long time. However, if you paid a pretty penny for them, you want them to last as long as possible; we don’t blame you. On average, these are the main issues that arise with prolonged combat glove use:
- Loosened stitches/stitching coming out
- Fungal growth inside gloves without proper cleaning
- Fingertips will be the first area to show enough wear-and-tear to rip
Most of these issues can be resolved with maintenance and cleaning, as well as opting for a more durable and reliable pair of combat gloves right from the start.