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Outdoor Research ActiveIce Chroma Sun Gloves
#12 — Best Sun Protection Glove

Outdoor Research ActiveIce Chroma Sun Gloves Review (2026)

UPF 50+ on the backs of your hands, which is where skin damage actually happens

★★★★★
8.2/10
Reviewed by William • Updated August 2026 $38

The backs of your hands take more direct sun than almost any other skin on a hiking day, and they are the spot people forget to reapply sunscreen. These solve the problem structurally: UPF 50+ fabric, fingerless cut so dexterity is unaffected, and an ActiveIce finish that feels genuinely cool when damp. They are useless for warmth and they leave a tan line at the knuckles, but for desert hiking, paddling, and long exposed ridgelines they earn their spot.

TrailCraft Score

What Works

  • UPF 50+ where sunscreen gets missed
  • Fingerless — no dexterity penalty
  • ActiveIce finish feels cool when damp
  • 1.1oz
  • Eliminates constant hand sunscreen reapplication

Limitations

  • No warmth whatsoever
  • Leaves a distinct tan line
  • Thin fabric snags easily
  • Fingers still need sunscreen

At a Glance

TypeFingerless sun glove
MaterialUPF 50+ ActiveIce nylon
Weight1.1oz / 31g pair
UPF50+
TouchscreenN/A — fingerless
SeasonSummer / high exposure
WarrantyOR Infinite Guarantee

Score Breakdown

Value for Money
8.4
Dexterity
9.8
Warmth
2.0
Durability
7.6
Weather Protection
7.0

What Sets It Apart

Paddling and desert hiking are where these stop being optional. On a long day on open water the backs of the hands burn through one sunscreen application, and reapplying with wet hands does not work. The cooling effect when damp is a genuine comfort improvement in heat, not just marketing.

UPF 50+ on the backs of your hands, which is where skin damage actually happens

Who This Is For

Desert and high-altitude hikers, paddlers, anyone with sun-sensitive skin, and hikers who use trekking poles in summer.

Note: Prices are current as of August 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

Also Consider

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Common Questions

Do I still need sunscreen with these?
On your fingers and any exposed skin at the wrist, yes. The gloves cover the back of the hand and knuckles.
Are these worth it if I already wear sunscreen?
If you reapply reliably every two hours, less so. If you do not — and most people do not — these remove the failure mode.