Description
Reiff · Merino Wool Gloves
Warm Gloves for Men and Women, Organic Merino Wool
Fine merino wool gloves made in Germany with natural moisture-absorption and odor-resistance. Designed for cold weather handwear, hiking, skiing, and everyday outdoor activities.
About Reiff
Reiff is a third-generation German textile manufacturer specializing in organic wool apparel and accessories. Founded in 1939, Reiff shifted to exclusive production of organic textiles in 2003 under new ownership. The company holds both GOTS and kbT certifications and manufactures on-site in Gömmingen, Germany, using Patagonian merino wool that is sourced according to strict organic livestock farming standards and is fully mulesing-free. Every piece is engineered for longevity and performance, reflecting Reiff's philosophy that quality natural-fiber clothing should last for years of active use.
When to Wear These Gloves
Cold Weather Handwear for Active Use
These gloves are designed as standalone cold-weather handwear for temperatures between 32°F and 50°F (0°C to 10°C), or as layered liners under heavier gloves in colder conditions. The fine merino construction provides dexterity and sensitivity while maintaining warmth, making them ideal for activities where hand mobility matters: hiking, trail running, skiing, fishing, and outdoor work. They breathe well enough for everyday wear in cool seasons and perform equally well for active winter sports. Merino's natural odor-resistance means you can wear them multiple days between washes—a practical advantage for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fiber & Construction
Materials & Craftsmanship
Fiber Composition
96% organic merino wool / 4% elastane. Fine merino at approximately 17–19 microns, soft enough for sensitive skin and suitable for most people who have not had severe wool reactions in the past.
Knit Structure
Densely knitted merino for durability and hand-mobility. The tight construction traps warmth while remaining breathable and flexible during active movement.
Certifications
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and kbT (kontrolliert biologische Tierhaltung). kbT ensures the wool comes from certified organic livestock farming with strict animal welfare and environmental standards.
Manufacturing
Made in Germany. Manufactured on-site at Reiff's facility in Gömmingen using Patagonian merino wool. Mulesing-free sourcing. No synthetic dyes or chemical treatments.
Why These Gloves Work
Key Features
Temperature Regulation
Merino wool absorbs moisture up to 30% of its weight without feeling damp, actively wicking perspiration away from skin. This keeps hands warm in cold conditions and prevents overheating during active movement.
Odor Resistance
Wool naturally resists bacterial growth that causes odor. You can wear these gloves on consecutive days or multiple outings between washes, making them practical for regular outdoor use.
Softness & Comfort
Fine 17–19 micron merino is significantly softer than coarse wool. Minimal itch for most wearers; any initial scratchiness fades after a few wears as fibers soften with wash and wear.
Durability & Longevity
Dense merino knit resists pilling and maintains shape through years of use. Proper care (cold wash, air dry) ensures these gloves last as long as your outdoor lifestyle demands.
Fit & Sizing
How to Choose Your Size
Glove size is determined by hand circumference measured around the widest part of your palm. Use a soft measuring tape or a piece of string marked against a ruler. European sizing runs slightly snug compared to some North American brands, so if you're between sizes or prefer a looser fit for layering, size up.
| Size | Palm Circumference | Fit Note |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 7 – 7.5 inches (17.8 – 19 cm) | Women and youth; petite hands |
| Medium | 8 – 8.5 inches (20.3 – 21.6 cm) | Average women and men; most versatile size |
| Large | 9 – 9.5 inches (22.9 – 24.1 cm) | Large hands; men; for layering as glove liner |
Measuring Tip
Measure around the widest part of your hand, just below the knuckles, with your hand open and relaxed. Do not stretch the tape or wrap too tightly. A snug fit prevents hand movement inside the glove; a loose fit compromises warmth and dexterity.
Real Expectations
Honest Assessment
Best For
Anyone seeking lightweight cold-weather handwear for active use — hiking, running, skiing, outdoor work, or casual winter wear. Ideal for people with sensitive skin or those who've had good experiences with fine merino apparel. Also works well as a liner glove for heavier mittens in extreme cold. Parents seeking natural-fiber gloves for kids or adults who prefer chemical-free textiles.
Trade-Offs to Know
Fine merino wool requires proper care — hand washing or machine wool cycle with cold water only, and air drying flat. Hot water or dryer heat will permanently felt and shrink the gloves. A small percentage of people remain sensitive to wool fiber regardless of fineness; if you've had strong reactions to wool in the past, these may not be for you. Initial wears may feel slightly scratchy for some; this almost always resolves within two to three uses as fibers relax. Unlike synthetic insulated gloves, merino relies on its natural insulating properties rather than added loft, so they're mid-weight rather than heavy-duty winter.
Investment Case
These gloves are an investment in handwear that will last for years with proper care. Fine merino resists pilling and maintains elasticity through hundreds of wears. Unlike synthetic alternatives that degrade and lose function after a season or two, quality wool gloves improve with age — they soften, conform to your hand, and remain fully functional. Amortized across 5+ years of use, the per-season cost is extremely low. For anyone regularly outdoors in cool weather, German-made certified organic merino is a purchase that pays for itself through longevity alone.
Care & Washing
Keep Your Gloves Soft and Functional
Hand wash or wool cycle
Cold water only
Wool wash detergent
Lay flat to dry
No tumble dry
Air between wears
Washing: Hand wash in cold water with a wool-specific detergent (such as Eucalan or Sonett), or use the wool/delicate cycle on your washing machine with cold water only. Set spin speed to no more than 400 revolutions if machine-washing. Do not soak or agitate vigorously. Gently press out excess water — never wring or twist.
Drying: Lay flat on a clean towel away from direct heat or sunlight. You can gently reshape them while still damp. Do not hang, machine dry, or dry near a radiator or heat source. Flat drying typically takes 24–36 hours.
Between wears: Merino naturally resists odor and bacteria, so frequent washing is unnecessary. Air your gloves between uses — a few hours hanging indoors or exposed to fresh air refreshes them and extends the time between washes. Brush away any surface dust or lint once dry.
Why This Matters
Merino is damaged by heat and agitation. Hot water or machine drying causes the fibers to felt and permanently shrink the gloves. Cold water + wool wash + gentle drying preserves the fiber's structure, elasticity, and softness. With correct care, these gloves improve with age and can last a decade or more.
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked
Will these gloves be itchy?
Fine merino at 17–19 microns is significantly softer than coarser wool and is tolerable for most people with sensitive skin. Some wearers notice slight scratchiness on the first wear, which fades after two to three uses as fibers soften with handling and washing. If you have a history of strong wool sensitivity, start with a wool/silk blend glove (softer still) or test these with a few hours of indoor wear first. For most users, zero itch is the experience from the outset.
Can I use these as glove liners?
Yes. These gloves work well as liners under heavier mittens or insulated gloves, especially the Large size, which accommodates some bulk underneath without excessive looseness. Pairing fine merino liners with a heavier outer layer extends your temperature range into extreme cold while maintaining hand dexterity for tasks requiring fine motor control.
How often should I wash them?
Merino naturally resists odor and bacteria, so you can wear these gloves on multiple days or multiple outings between washes. If worn daily in active conditions (sweat, outdoor work, sports), wash every 5–7 days. For casual or occasional wear, washing once every 2–3 weeks is sufficient. Always air them between uses; a few hours of ventilation refreshes them substantially.
Are these waterproof or water-resistant?
No. Merino wool absorbs moisture (up to 30% of its weight) and does not repel water like synthetic-coated or treated fabrics. However, wet merino still insulates and dries reasonably quickly if you remove the gloves and hang them to dry. For sustained rain or snow, pair these with an outer waterproof shell or choose a heavier boiled-wool glove. For dry cold or light snow, merino's moisture-wicking keeps hands dry from sweat and light moisture.
What is kbT certification?
kbT (kontrolliert biologische Tierhaltung) certifies that wool comes from organically farmed livestock with strict animal welfare and environmental standards. Livestock must graze on organic pasture, are not treated with routine antibiotics, and are subject to independent inspection. The standard is applied across Reiff's entire supply chain, ensuring that every fiber meets these criteria. kbT is independent of GOTS and represents an additional commitment to ethical animal agriculture.
Can I machine wash these?
Yes, but only on a wool or delicate cycle with cold water (below 30°C / 86°F) and maximum spin speed of 400 rpm. Machine washing is convenient and acceptable if your washer has a dedicated wool program. However, hand washing with wool-specific detergent and gentle handling gives the longest lifespan. Never use hot water, never use regular detergent, and never tumble dry.
How do these compare to synthetic or cotton gloves?
Merino outperforms cotton in cold weather because it insulates even when damp (cotton loses insulation when wet). Compared to synthetic insulated gloves, merino is lighter, more packable, breathes better, and naturally resists odor — no synthetic coating or chemical finish needed. Synthetic gloves often provide greater loft for extreme cold, but for active use in moderate cold (32–50°F), merino's balance of warmth, dexterity, and breathability is superior. Merino also lasts longer: synthetic insulation degrades after a season or two; quality merino improves with age and lasts years.
Are these gloves suitable for children?
Yes. Children with Small hands can wear the Small size. Merino's softness and temperature-regulation make it ideal for kids' handwear. The same care rules apply: cold wash, lay flat to dry, no machine drying. Many parents prefer fine merino for children because it's chemical-free and naturally breathes, reducing the risk of overheating small hands. Always measure your child's hand circumference to ensure proper fit and comfort.