Rubber cold-condition gloves offer excellent insulation properties due to their natural resistance to water and wind, making them ideal for wet and cold environments. They provide a good barrier against moisture, which is crucial for maintaining warmth. However, rubber alone can be less effective in extreme cold compared to other materials like Thinsulate or fleece, which are specifically designed for thermal insulation.
Compared to leather, rubber gloves are more flexible and provide better grip in wet conditions, but leather offers superior durability and breathability. Leather gloves often incorporate additional linings for insulation, which can enhance warmth but may reduce dexterity.
Synthetic materials like Thinsulate or Gore-Tex are often used in cold-weather gloves for their superior thermal insulation and breathability. Thinsulate, for example, provides excellent warmth without bulk, allowing for better dexterity than rubber. Gore-Tex offers waterproofing and breathability, which rubber lacks, making it more comfortable for prolonged wear.
Wool gloves provide natural insulation and breathability, but they are not waterproof, unlike rubber. Wool can retain warmth even when wet, but it lacks the windproof qualities of rubber.
In summary, while rubber gloves are effective for waterproofing and wind resistance, they may not provide the same level of thermal insulation as specialized synthetic materials or the durability and breathability of leather. For optimal insulation in cold conditions, rubber gloves are often used in combination with other insulating materials or linings to enhance warmth and comfort.