Hand warmers are an excellent way to stay warm during winter and colder months. They provide great comfort while engaging in activities like camping, hiking or other outdoor sports to spend a long time outside. Based on our experiences and in-depth research, we have shortlisted the best hand warmers and a handy buying guide. The list of hand warmers includes disposable, reusable, and rechargeable hand warmer options to meet the varying needs of individuals. So whether you’re hitting the slopes, skiing or braving the cold weather on a hike, hand warmers can make a big difference in your comfort level.
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Quick Recommendations
- Best Overall Наnd Wаrmer: HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmer
- Refillable: Zippo Refillable Hand Warmers
- Best Electric Hand Warmer: Ocoopa Hand Warmers
- Best Rechargeable Hand Warmer: Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer, Ocoopa Hand Warmers
- Best Disposable: Lentra Hot Hand Warmers, HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmer
- Best Reusable Hand Warmer: Hot to Go Reusable Heat Packs
- Best Value For The Money: Grabber Hand warmer (HWPP10)
What is a hand warmer?
Hand warmers are small packets placed in your pocket or anywhere else on your body to provide warmth. Hand warmers are commonly used by people who work outdoors in cold weather and athletes, and others who participate in winter sports. The most common type of hand warmer is activated by air and contains iron powder, water, charcoal, and salt. When the pouch is exposed to air, the iron oxidizes and produces heat.
Some hand warmers also contain chemicals that produce heat when they come into contact with water. This type of hand warmer must be activated before use by adding water to a designated area on the warmer. Outdoor enthusiasts often use hand warmers to keep their hands warm during skiing, hiking, or camping.
Hand Warmers Types
There are two main types of hand warmers:
- Those that use chemical reactions: Chemical hand warmers use a mix of iron powder and salt to create heat. When combined and exposed to air, the ingredients oxidize and create an exothermic reaction, providing up to eight hours of warmth.
- Electric hand warmers rely on battery power to generate heat. They are typically more expensive than chemical hand warmers but provide a longer-lasting and more consistent source of heat.
Some models even come with settings that allow you to control the heat level, making them ideal for extended outdoor activities in colder weather.
Here are our top picks for the best hand warmers for outdoor use, hiking, and backpacking.
Best Overall Наnd Wаrmer
1. HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmer
HotHands Air-Activated Hand Warmers are my go-to choice for reliable, long-lasting heat. We appreciate that they are natural and safe, with no artificial scents or chemicals. They’re easy to activate: shake them and wait a few minutes for the warmth to begin. And when We are done using them, they’re easy to dispose of. No mess, no fuss. Overall, We think these are the best on the market. They provide consistent heat for an extended period and don’t have any adverse side effects.
These little packets of warmth provide up to 10 hours of heat, with a maximum temperature of 158 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re perfect for winter activities like hiking, camping, trail walking, and hunting. Plus, they’re lightweight and compact, so you can easily pack them.
These hand warmers need oxygen to work, and they do an excellent job of keeping your hands warm even during snowfall and cold breezes. We have used these hand warmers often during winter hiking, which has always worked great. They fit well in hiking gloves and easy to use and do keep your hands warm. So, if you are looking for a way to keep your hands warm during winter, HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmers are worth trying.
Pros
- Ideal for outdoor sports
- Long-lasting and natural heat
- A multipurpose warmer
- Compact and portable
- Stay hot for hours
- No wires or batteries needed
- Fit in most gloves
Cons
- Occasionally, moisture gets in
Refillable Hand Warmer
2. Zippo Refillable Hand Warmers
The Zippo Refillable Hand Warmer is a small and lightweight hand warmer that can easily fit into your pocket. It is made of durable materials and will last for 12 hours. It warms quickly and evenly, providing gentle warmth. The easy-fill technology makes it easy to refill the hand warmer, and it is also reusable. The design is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry, and the rugged construction makes it durable. The Zippo Refillable Hand Warmer is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a compact, lightweight, and stable hand warmer that will provide gentle warmth for 12 hours.
Additionally, this warmer is a great way to keep your hands warm during cold weather camping trips. However, if we compare it with the HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmer, the Zippo hand warmer is a little behind in terms of performance, ease of use, and quality. We tried them out during our cold weather camping, and overall they were good. They kept our hand warm mostly. This comes with a small pouch and a proper instruction manual, which is very handy. However, the HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmer is easier to use and provides better results.
Pros
- Flame-less heat
- Easy filling technology
- Rugged and durable
- The warmth lasts for hours
- just refill as needed
- Versatile
Cons
- It smells a bit
- Refilling can be bit annoying
Best Electric Hand Warmer
3. Ocoopa Hand Warmers Rechargeable
The Ocoopa rechargeable hand warmer is a versatile and compact pocket heater that is perfect for winter outdoor activities. The hand warmer has three temperature settings so you can choose the ideal heat level for your needs. The high-tech aircraft-grade aluminum and ABS material construction ensure that the hand warmer is durable and can withstand repeated use. The smooth exterior finish is comfortable to hold, and the anti-skid design prevents the hand warmer from slipping out of your hand. The battery provides heat for a few hours, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power.
The Ocoopa hand warmer is the perfect gift for anyone who loves spending time outdoors in the winter. Some people prefer battery-operated rechargeable hand warmers because they are environmentally friendly and economical in the long run—additionally, many like the design and shape of these warmers. OCOOPA rechargeable hand warmers worked well for us. We loved that there are three different temperature settings so you can adjust the warmth accordingly. However, we did not find that they worked well inside gloves.
Furthermore, these hand warmers are a great addition to any winter gear collection. They heat up quickly, and the flat surface makes them easy to hold in your hands. Additionally, you don’t need to worry about disposing of anything, which is always a plus. Overall, these hand warmers are an excellent value for the money, comfortable to use and easily rechargeable.
Pros
- Rechargeable Battery
- Adjustable heating levels
- Water-resistant
- Compact and light
- No waste
- Perfect size
- Quick warm up
Cons
- Overheating can cause smoke
Best Rechargeable Hand Warmer
4. Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer
The Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer is a must-have for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, or fishing, this handy device will keep your hands warm and toasty for up to four hours. Then, simply charge it via USB from your laptop or computer, and it will be ready in two minutes. With its elegant design, the Orastone hand warmer is perfect for both men and women.
And if you’re looking for a reading light while reading at night, the Orastone comes with a built-in flashlight function. The rechargeable hand warmer is a great little gadget to have on hand. It warms up quickly and does an excellent job of keeping your hands warm. Additionally, the small built-in flashlight that comes with it is convenient. The flashlight is bright and useful.
However, the hand warmer itself does not have a long battery life, so it is not suitable for long camping trips or hikes. It lasts for a few hours unless you have something to recharge it with. Overall, we found the rechargeable hand warmer a great little product.
Pros
- Immediately warm-up
- LED torch light
- Strap makes it easy to carry
- Stylish and Elegant Design
Cons
- Temperature rises slightly
- Less battery life
Best Disposable
5. Lentra Hot Hand Warmers
These single-use heat packs are perfect for slipping into your gloves or pockets. They start to heat up within minutes, and if they begin to cool off, you can quickly reheat them by exposing them to air. Best of all, they’re made with natural ingredients. These are good for hiking, winter camping, skiing and other outdoor winter sports. These ultra-thin disposable heaters provide safe, natural heat lasting up to 8 hours. Since they are TSA-approved, you can take them on any outdoor adventure. And because they don’t apply directly to your skin, they’re entirely odorless and dry.
Lentra Hot Hand Warmers are an excellent choice for those looking for a quality hand warmer at a reasonable price. Additionally, they are cheaper and more plentiful than other brands. Their size and design make them perfect for gloves or pockets and maintain their warmth for quite some time. One downside of the Lentra hand warmers is that they cannot be used in shoes.
Pros
- Safe, natural heat
- Dry and odorless
- Activates easily
- Fit easily into your gloves
- Last a long time
- Budget-friendly
- Activates upon contact with air
Cons
- Little less heat than others
- Take time to warm
Best Reusable Hand Warmer
6. Hot to Go Reusable Heat Packs
If you are looking for a fast-acting, portable, and compact heat pack, then the Hot to Go reusable heat pack is a great option. This heat pack can be applied to any part of the body, and it does not require batteries or extra components. The Hot to Go heat pack is also easy to use, and it provides long-lasting relief from pain. This heat pack can help to provide comfort in case of pain so that you can live a more active lifestyle.
They are made of a material that can be heated in a microwave or boiled in water and then reused multiple times. You need to boil them for around 15 min, and they will look the same as you purchased. They are also much cheaper than disposable heat packs and don’t create any waste. The only downside is that they can be a bit tricky to reset, but with a little practice, it’s not complicated. Hot to Go makes some of the best reusable heat packs, and their customer service is excellent and very responsive
Pros
- Portable heat packs
- Relaxation and relief
- Boosts oxygen flow
- Completely reusable
- Excellent customer service
- Reusable
Cons
- Heat doesn’t last for long
Best Value For The Money
7. Grabber Hand warmer (HWPP10)
The Grabber Hand warmer is a single-use heat source that provides up to seven hours of continuous warmth. It is ideal for use while skiing or snowboarding, as it can be tucked into gloves or pockets to provide direct heat. The hand warmer operates at 135 degrees, making it comfortable without being too hot. It can also be helpful for long-distance runners, hunters, fishermen, and anyone who plans to hike at high altitudes.
In addition, the Grabber Handwarmer makes an excellent addition to any emergency preparedness kit. We’ve decided to test two of the most popular hand warmers: the HotHands Hand Warmer and the Grabber Hand Warmer. After using both for an extended period, we’ve concluded that the HotHands Hand Warmer is slightly better.
However, the Grabber warmer provides consistent heat for up to 10 hours, and it’s small enough to fit in your pocket without being cumbersome. These hand warmers are just slightly behind HotHands hand warmers in performance, but they are still excellent. In addition, hundreds of customers have given them positive reviews, praising their warmth and effectiveness.
Pros
- A compact heat source
- Prepared in minutes
- Fits in pockets or gloves
- Suitable for travel
- Warmth for long periods of time
- Works great for outdoor activities
Cons
- You can only use it once
Comparison Table: Hand Warmers
We have created a hand warmers comparison table to help you find the best hand warmer for your needs. This table includes price, weight, heat duration, heating method and other helpful performance parameters. By looking at this table, you will quickly see where each hand warmer stands in terms of performance.
| Name | Price | Weight | Type | Heat Duration | Best For | Heating Method |
| HotHands Аir Activаted Hand Warmer | $26.89 | 0.125 lbs | Disposable | Up to 10 Hours | Hands Pockets Head | Air Expose |
| Zippo Refillable Hand Warmers | $8.25 | 0.16 Pounds | Reusable | Up to 12 Hours | Hands | Air Expose |
| Ocoopa Hand Warmers Rechargeable | $20.28 | 132 Grams | Rechargeable | 8 – 15 Hours | Hands Foot | Battery Powered |
| Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer | $12.61 | 100 Grams | Rechargeable Reusable | 3 – 4 Hours | Hands | Hand Electric |
| Lentra Hot Hand Warmers | $19.91 | 1.5 Oz | Disposable | Up to 11 Hours | Hands Foot | Air Activated |
| Hot to Go Reusable Heat Packs | $34.90 | 2.6 Pounds | Reusable | 30 – 40 Minutes | To relief pain Hand Foot Back Neck | Air Expose |
| Grabber Hand warmer (HWPP10) | $11.52 | 2 Pounds | Disposable | Up to 10 Hours | Hands | Air Activated |
How To Choose The Best Hand Warmer? Buyers Guide
Most people tend to underestimate the importance of having a good pair of hand warmers. If you live in a cold climate or enjoy outdoor activities in the cold weather, you know how important it is to have a good pair of hand warmers.
Here are 5 factors to consider before buying the hand warmers:
Size
When choosing a hand warmer, size is an important consideration. Some hand warmers are designed to fit in the palm of your hand, while others are larger and designed to fit in your pocket. Make sure to pick a size that will fit comfortably in your pocket or glove. You don’t want something too bulky that will be difficult to carry around.
Another important consideration is how long the hand warmer will last. Some hand warmers only last a few hours, while others can last for days. Choose a hand warmer that will give you the amount of heat you need for the amount of time you’ll be using it.
Material
When choosing a hand warmer, it is important to consider the material. Electric, portable, and rechargeable warmers are all great options, but each has its own set of pros and cons. Electric warmers are the most expensive, but they are also the most convenient.
Portable warmers are less expensive, but they require you to keep them filled with fuel. Rechargeable warmers are the most affordable, but they need to be recharged frequently.
Heat Output
One important factor to consider before purchasing a hand warmer, one important factor is its heat output. Different hand warmers have different heat outputs, so it’s important to choose one that will suit your needs.
Hand warmers typically have two settings, high and low. The higher the heat output, the warmer your hands. If you need a hand warmer for outdoor activities, make sure to choose one with high heat output. For indoor use, a lower heat output may be sufficient.
Battery Life
Before buying a hand warmer, it is important to consider the battery life. Hand warmers use battery power to generate heat, and the amount of battery life will determine how long the hand warmer can be used. Some hand warmers have replaceable batteries, while others do not. It is important to know how long the battery will last before purchasing a hand warmer.
Additionally, it is important to consider how often the hand warmer will be used. If the hand warmer will be used frequently, it is important to buy a hand warmer with long battery life. Otherwise, the hand warmer may need to be replaced frequently.
Price
If you’re looking for the best hand warmer, price is definitely an important factor to consider. Depending on the brand and model, hand warmers can range in price from around $10 to $30 or more. So, choose the best hand warmer that fits your needs and your budget.
FAQs
How Good Are Hand Warmers?
Hand warmers are good because they provide heat to the hands and fingers, which can be helpful in cold weather conditions. Hand warmers can also be helpful for people who have poor circulation or arthritis. There are many different types of hand warmers available, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs.
Some hand warmers use chemical reactions to generate heat, while others use battery-powered heating elements. Before using a hand warmer, read the instructions carefully, and follow all safety precautions. Hand warmers can be a great way to keep your hands warm in cold weather, but they are not a substitute for proper clothing and insulation.
How Long Do Hand Warmers Stay Hot?
How long hand warmers stay hot depends on the type of hand warmer you have. Some hand warmers use chemical reactions to generate heat, while others use electricity. The chemical ones usually last for around 6-8 hours, while the electric ones can last for up to 12 hours.
Are Reusable Hand Warmers Good?
Reusable hand warmers are good because they can be used over and over again. You don’t have to worry about running out of them or buying new ones. Once activated, these gloves will keep your hands warm, if not hot, for at least a couple of hours as long as you maintain an insulated pocket or glove during this time.
They are also great for the environment because you’re not throwing away anything after one use. And they’re usually cheaper in the long run than buying disposable hand warmers. So if you’re looking for a way to keep your hands warm, consider reusable hand warmers.
Is Electric Hand Warmer Safe?
Electric hand warmers are safe because they don’t use an open flame. Instead, they use a heating element to generate heat. It means that there is no risk of fire or burns. Additionally, electric hand warmers are usually made with a thermal cutoff switch. It ensures that the hand warmer will shut off automatically if it gets too hot.
Are Rechargeable Hand Warmers Worth It?
Rechargeable hand warmers are worth it and are a great investment for anyone who spends time outdoors in cold weather. Batteries power rechargeable hand warmers, so you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel. They’re also usually smaller and more portable than traditional hand warmers. They’re more expensive than disposable hand warmers, but they’re also more convenient and environmentally friendly.
Summary
Hand warmers are one of the most helpful winter accessories that you can have. They are portable, lightweight and easy to use. Hand warmers can provide instant warmth and be a lifesaver in extremely cold conditions. Some hand warmers use chemical heat packs, while others use electricity or battery power.
When choosing a hand warmer, it is essential to consider your needs and budget. For example, a battery-powered hand warmer would be a better choice if you plan to use it for outdoor activities. If you want a hand warmer that you can use indoors, then an electric hand warmer would be a better choice. Just go through our buying guide for more information on choosing the best hand warmer for your needs.