Hand Warmers We Also Tested

In total, we tested ten hand warmers, but not all of them scored well enough to earn a place on our list of top picks. While these three hand warmers had noteworthy features, they ultimately scored lower in key categories than our top picks.

• Snow Deer’s Electric Heated Gloves are very warm and kept us cozy while shoveling snow, sledding, and commuting. However, we found that they only hold a charge for two hours on the highest setting, which is not long enough for a full day of outdoor activities in the cold. 
• Durable and quick to heat, Celestron Elements’ FireCel+ Hand Warmer might have been a solid choice, but we found it to be a bit bulky and too hot to hold with bare hands. 
• Karecel’s Rechargeable Hand Warmers heat quickly and hold a charge for up to eight hours, but the temperature is inconsistent, sometimes getting too hot or too cold without us changing any settings. 

What to Look for When Shopping for Hand Warmers

• Heat Source: There are two main types of hand warmers: disposable and reusable. Disposable options typically heat up when exposed to air. These are great for when you won’t have access to a charger, or as a backup in a pinch. Reusable hand warmers come in the form of handled devices or gloves and mittens and usually require a rechargeable battery. 
• Heat Duration: Hand warmers can hold heat for anywhere from 30 minutes to 15 hours. For shorter activities like walking, a warmer with a shorter battery life may be enough. However, if you’re headed out for a full day of downhill or cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking, you will want to choose a hand warmer that stays warm for several hours.
• Size and Weight: The size and weight of hand warmers can vary, and choosing the right one for you depends on your preferred activities. Larger, heavier warmers may provide more insulation, heat, and duration—making them a good choice for sports like skiing. Smaller, lighter-weight options, including disposable warmers, may be more practical for activities like running. 
• Maximum Temperature: Hand warmers can get as hot as 95 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the brand and type. Some also have settings that allow you to adjust the level of heat, so you can find one that feels comfortable and not too hot. Most electric hand warmers and gloves have three levels of heat, but some have up to six. Be mindful of how hot your hand warmer is getting over time to avoid burns.
• Additional Features: Many handheld electric hand warmers can also act as a device charger in a pinch. Some also come with a flashlight, which may be helpful in certain low-light situations. Choose a warmer that meets your needs, depending on the outdoor winter activities you enjoy doing the most.
• Charge Time:  Most battery-operated hand warmers take several hours to charge. The warmers that we tested took anywhere from four to six hours in total.

How We Tested and Selected the Hand Warmers 

To find the best hand warmers, we researched and tested dozens of options from top, trusted brands. For the pairs we select through research, we begin by speaking with experts on what features to look for and any particular products they recommend. Then, we compare dozens of best-selling, highly-rated products to find the best options on the market. When we test hand warmers, we use them indoors and outdoors in cold temperatures and winter conditions to see how they perform in the real world. As we continue to test and review more hand warmers, we keep these five key criteria in mind: 

• Ease of Use: Upon unboxing, we take note of how easy it is to understand the manufacturer's instructions and set up the hand warmers for the initial use. We also pay attention to how intuitive it is to turn the warmers on, adjust any heat settings, and use any additional features. Hand warmers receive high scores if there’s no confusion upon each use.    
• Effectiveness: Effectiveness is essential when it comes to hand warmers, so this is the most important category we test for. We evaluate several components of each warmer: How quickly does it heat up? Does the temperature range seem accurate? How long does the heat last? We prioritize warmers that reflect manufacturer claims and keep us warm in a variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors. 
• Battery Life: To test for battery life, we use each warmer for at least three hours at a time, evaluating if it lasted and how much battery was left. Hand warmers earn high scores if the battery life is accurate and consistent throughout the testing period. 
• Design: Each hand warmer has a unique design, so we assess each one independently. We look at the warmer’s functions related to design, including the number of heat settings, how the unit felt and fit in our hands, and any additional features like display screens, flashlights, carrying cases, and more. 
• Durability: Durability is essential when investing in any cold-weather accessory. To assess each warmer, we note whether or not it worked and maintained effectiveness through the testing period. In cases where the warmer is machine washable, we also evaluate how the unit worked after being washed. We prioritize warmers that we think will hold up well for many uses (unless they’re disposable). 

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting for this story. They helped us identify the different types of hand warmers and what key features to consider when shopping. They also helped inform our testing process. While we choose products independently, expert guidance helps us make the best recommendations.

• Kevin Huffman, DO, doctor of osteopathic medicine and licensed fitness and wellness specialist
• Alexandra Roberts, wilderness first responder and member of Androscoggin Valley Search & Rescue
• Sarah Jeffries, paramedic and emergency care specialist and managing director of First Aid Course Leicester 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are hand warmers safe to use?

Hand warmers are not only safe to use, but they can even help you avoid risks in emergency conditions. But you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions, Jeffries says. She also recommends putting a cloth or glove in between your skin and the warmer to avoid getting burned.

How long does a hand warmer last?

It depends on the hand warmer. Disposable hand warmers may stay warm for up to 10 hours, whereas battery-powered options can last up to 18 hours on a full charge and low heat.

What hand warmers last the longest?

How long a hand warmer lasts depends on the heat setting you use (if it’s a battery-powered option). Disposable options typically last quite long, says Roberts. 

Do hand warmers work in extreme cold?

Hand warmers are designed to work in very low temperatures, but their effectiveness may decrease in extreme cold, says Jeffries. Other factors such as wind and moisture can affect their performance. Jeffries recommends using hand warmers in combination with appropriate layers and insulated clothing to ensure you retain warmth throughout your whole body.  

Can you take hand warmers on an airplane?

In many cases, yes, but it depends on the heating source. Disposable hand warmers that use carbon, charcoal, and iron compounds—including HotHands Hand Warmers—are TSA-approved and can be carried in either a carry-on or a checked bag. The reusable Hotsnapz Reusable Hand and Pocket Warmers, which have a similar heart source to HotHands, are also TSA-approved. Rechargeable hand warmers that use lithium-ion batteries may go in a carry-on, but may be restricted from a checked bag.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RDN, LDN is a writer for Verywell Fit and a registered dietitian. As an avid downhill skier living just outside of Boston, she often uses hand warmers in the colder months. When she’s on the slopes, she prefers HotHands’ Hand Warmers for their convenience, size, and heat duration.