Best Gloves & Balaclavas for Trekking in India 2026

Best Gloves & Balaclavas for Trekking in India 2026

Protect your extremities on Himalayan treks — gloves and head warmth for Indian conditions

Hands and head lose heat faster than any other body part. Above 3500m, even summer nights can drop below 5°C and wind chill makes it feel much colder. A good pair of gloves and a balaclava or warm cap weigh almost nothing and make a dramatic difference to comfort.

#1

Quechua SH100 Trekking Gloves by Quechua (Decathlon)

₹499

★★★★☆ 4.1

Best for: 3-season trekking, budget, light insulation

Pros
  • Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
  • Lightweight fleece lining
  • Very affordable
Cons
  • Not waterproof
  • Too thin for high altitude winters

💬 Best budget glove for 3-season Himalayan trekking. Adequate for Kedarkantha and Chopta in pre-winter conditions.

#2

Forclaz Trek 500 Waterproof Gloves by Forclaz (Decathlon)

₹1,999

★★★★☆ 4.4

Best for: winter trekking, high altitude, waterproof protection

Pros
  • Waterproof membrane — hands stay dry in snow
  • Warm insulation for -10°C conditions
  • Adjustable wrist strap
Cons
  • Bulky — harder to use trekking pole clips
  • Not touchscreen compatible

💬 Best winter gloves for Indian Himalayan conditions. Essential for Roopkund, Chadar and any winter high-altitude trek.

#3

Quechua Trekking Balaclava by Quechua (Decathlon)

₹399

★★★★☆ 4.3

Best for: head and neck warmth, wind protection

Pros
  • Covers neck, ears and lower face
  • Fits under a helmet or hat
  • Weighs almost nothing — 60g
Cons
  • Single layer — not for extreme cold
  • Can feel claustrophobic for some

💬 Mandatory kit above 4000m. At 60g and ₹399 there is no reason not to have one in your pack on any Himalayan trek.

#4

Wildcraft Fleece Beanie + Gloves Set by Wildcraft

₹799

★★★★☆ 4.0

Best for: budget warmth, beginners, lower altitude camping

Pros
  • Beanie + gloves in one purchase
  • Warm fleece construction
  • Indian brand — wide availability
Cons
  • Not waterproof
  • Not suitable above 4000m in winter

💬 Good starter set for beginners doing their first Himalayan camp below 3500m. Upgrade to Forclaz gloves for serious winter use.