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One of the things that drives me the most crazy when I’m outside in the winter is when unexpected patches of skin get exposed, leaving me FREEZING! My biggest problem area is my wrists (followed closely behind by my ankles). Even worse is that my kids have the same problem, but they usually don’t notice how cold they are until they’re FREEZING! We’ve done a deep dive into how to keep your wrists warm and covered to help everyone enjoy their outdoor adventures more. Here are seven tried-and-true tips to help keep your wrists warm when the weather is cold.
1. Opt for Base Layers with Thumb Holes
A great way to extend warmth to the wrists is by choosing base layers with thumb holes. These layers act like a second skin, covering the gap between the glove and the jacket sleeve. The thumb hole ensures the sleeve stays in place, providing continuous coverage and warmth over the wrist area. It’s an excellent first line of defense against the cold. Our favorite base layer set with thumb holes is made by Iksplor. Even the toddler base layers have thumb holes. Use code bringthekids for 10% off. You can read our full review of base layers here.
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2. Select Coats with Lycra Wrist Cuffs
When shopping for winter coats, look for ones with Lycra wrist cuffs. These snug cuffs fit comfortably around the wrist, creating a seal that prevents cold air from sneaking in and warmth from escaping. The elasticity of Lycra ensures a close fit without being too tight, keeping you comfortable while playing in the snow.
3. Wear Mittens with Longer Cuffs
This is our favorite solution and why all of the best kids mittens we recommend have longer cuffs. Mittens with longer cuffs are a game-changer in wrist warmth. These longer cuffs can be pulled over the jacket sleeve, forming an effective barrier against the cold. This design is particularly useful in deep snow or during active play, as it prevents snow from entering the glove. We recommend getting longer cuff mittens that have an insulated wrist gasket so that not only does the snow stay out, but the warmth stays in.
4. Invest in Reusable Wrist Warmers from Aurora Heat
Consider Aurora Heat’s reusable wrist warmers. These innovative accessories are made from natural furs and can be worn around the wrist inside the glove or mitten. We use their hand and foot warmers all the time and they work wonders at keeping us comfortably warm. Read about our other top picks for hand warmers here. They provide an added layer of insulation, keeping the wrist area warm without the bulkiness of additional layers or burns from chemical hand warmers.
5. Tuck Mittens or Gloves into Coat Sleeves
If you have gloves or mittens with shorter cuffs, you can tuck them into your coat sleeves. The easiest way to do this is to put your gloves or mittens on before your coat and then put your coat on top. When your wrists are almost through, tighten your wrist straps on your coat. This simple yet effective technique minimizes exposure and keeps the warmth locked in. It’s a straightforward habit that can make a significant difference in comfort and warmth. The one downside to this is that it’s a bit harder to get them under some coats without taking your arm out and putting it back on again.
6. Use Adjustable Wrist Straps on Coats
Many coats come with adjustable wrist straps. Tightening these straps can help seal in warmth and prevent snow and cold air from entering. It’s a small detail that can greatly enhance the overall effectiveness of your child’s winter gear.
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7. Layer Wisely
Layering is key in winter. Encourage wearing a thin pair of longer gloves under mittens for an additional layer of warmth. This double-layer system provides extra insulation for the wrists and can be easily adjusted if temperatures vary.
Keeping your family warm and comfortable in winter doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these tips, you can ensure their wrists and hands stay warm, letting them enjoy the winter wonderland to the fullest. Remember, warmer hands mean your body will be warmer overall.