Heated gloves are worn by many people who enjoy outdoor sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, sledding and riding motorcycles or bicycles. Most versions are operated by a small lithium battery, located on the back of each glove. The batteries are rechargeable, take approximately four to five hours to charge, and last between three to four hours. Some varieties use AA alkaline batteries. There is a debate, though, as to how well heated gloves work.
A heated glove reaches temperatures between 95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (35 to 40 degrees Celsius). This temperature ranges begins at lower than the standard body temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) and only reaches slightly higher. Many people claim not to feel the heat, as it is so low. A quality pair of winter gloves could reach these temperatures through body heat alone. For people who seem to get cold very easily, however, the couple extra degrees may make a big difference for them.
Electric motorcycle gloves are very expensive, around $250 US Dollars (USD) a pair. Battery powered snowboarding gloves are a little less expensive than the electric motorcycle gloves, around $200 USD a pair, as they are designed more for warmth, and less for finger protection. There are cheaper versions of battery powered gloves, though they aren't rechargeable, meaning you must buy new batteries for every use. Many people find that these gloves are more expensive than they are worth, as they only last, on average, for 500 uses. Avid outdoor enthusiasts, who find the heat enough for them, are willing to pay the price for the gloves.
Many people feel that heated gloves lack the hand protection that other gloves provide. Most types of heated motorcycle gloves, for example, lack the armor, knuckle protectors and other safety features that most motorcycle gloves have. In some cases, the battery packs, or heat controls, get in the way when skiing or snowboarding.
Heated gloves have received great reviews as well, especially from people who suffer from Raynaud's Syndrome. People who suffer from this disorder find that, during cold weather, their blood circulation reduces in their fingers and they become white. The heat produced from the gloves keeps their hands soft and supple.
High expectations may also be the cause for the numerous complaints made against heated gloves. Most people don't realize that battery-powered gloves are meant to keep their hands warm, not hot. High heat can cause burns on the skin, leading to a lawsuit. Most people will notice the heat produced from the gloves if they use them in extreme cold temperature.