When braving the frigid wilderness, having a dependable lighter can mean the difference between life and death.
You need a lighter that won’t fail you when the stakes are high and the conditions are unforgiving. It’s all about staying warm during the coldest of nights.
However, finding the best lighter for cold weather can be challenging, as few can truly perform as needed when temperatures drop below freezing.
However, after years of field-testing lighters in the harshest environments, I’ve found the best lighter for cold weather you can trust.
Keep reading to find out what the best lighter for cold weather is. I’ve compiled a list of the top contenders so you can make an informed purchasing decision.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- In extreme cold weather conditions, having a dependable lighter can be crucial for survival, providing warmth, the ability to cook, and signaling for help when needed.
- Plasma arc lighters use electric arcs to ignite materials, making them windproof and unaffected by cold temperatures, offering reliable performance when traditional lighters fail.
- Butane torch lighters produce a powerful jet flame capable of igniting damp materials in windy conditions, though they may struggle in extremely cold temperatures due to gas vaporization issues.
- A cold weather lighter should be windproof, waterproof, and ideally have additional survival features such as a rechargeable battery, built-in flashlight, or emergency whistle.
- The Survival Frog Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 stands out for its durability, windproof and waterproof design, and USB rechargeable battery, making it the best choice for harsh conditions.
The Best Lighters for Cold Weather: Reviews
Here is a list of the best lighters for cold weather and what makes them ideal, starting with the Survival Frog Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0.
Survival Frog Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0
As someone who lives in a cold weather climate for half the year, I’ve relied on the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 during extreme cold weather conditions. This lighter has never disappointed me, even in the most challenging situations. It’s an excellent choice for $35.
The completely waterproof and windproof design ensures it works flawlessly in harsh environments when you need it most. Plus, the built-in flashlight and emergency whistle add versatility, making it an indispensable tool for survival situations.
Let’s find out why the Survival Frog Tesla 2.0 is the number one pick.
Features
Here are the main features of the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0:
Dual Arc Plasma Technology
The Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 features cutting-edge dual arc plasma technology, which generates a reliable and powerful flame. This top-facing arc design ensures you can ignite flammable materials quickly, regardless of the wind speed or weather conditions.
Windproof and Waterproof Design
This lighter is fully windproof, making it capable of lighting up in the strongest gusts. It’s also completely waterproof, thanks to its zinc alloy casing covered with rubberized plastic and a wire safety latch that keeps out moisture. Tested to work even after being submerged 30 meters underwater, it’s a survivalist’s best friend in wet environments.
Rechargeable Battery
Equipped with a rechargeable battery, the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 eliminates the need for traditional fuel. It charges fully in just two hours and can be used up to 300 times on a single charge. This feature ensures you’re never without a fire-starting tool when needed most.
Built-In Flashlight
This versatile tool includes a built-in flashlight with three modes: bright, ultra-bright, and flashing. Whether you need to find tinder in low light or signal for help, this feature adds a layer of utility to the lighter.
Lanyard with Paratinder Cordage and Rescue Whistle
The included lanyard serves multiple purposes. It’s made of 17 inches of ultra-strong cordage with a core of flammable paratinder, which can be used to start fires quickly. The lanyard also features a 120-decibel rescue whistle, loud enough to be heard from miles away.
Long-Lasting and Durable Construction
Built with military-grade materials, the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 is designed to withstand heavy use. Its rugged construction and rubberized exterior make it nearly indestructible and capable of enduring extreme conditions without compromising performance.
Compact and Lightweight
Despite its robust features, the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 is compact and lightweight, measuring just 2.8 x 1.9 x 0.75 inches and weighing less than 2.1 ounces. This makes it easy to carry without adding bulk to your gear.
Simple Operation
Ease of use is crucial in survival situations. With the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0, you can ignite a fire with a simple button, making it both user-friendly and efficient.
Smoke and Flame-Free Ignition
For situations where stealth is important, this lighter offers smoke and flame-free ignition, reducing the chances of detection and providing a safer, non-toxic alternative to traditional lighters.
Pros
- Reliable in all weather conditions
- No need for fuel
- Easy to carry anywhere
- Added survival tools
- Military-grade, nearly indestructible
Cons
- Needs recharging after 300 uses
- May not be ideal for all types of fire-starting tasks because it has no flame
- May be easy to misplace if not careful
If a Tesla lighter doesn’t seem right for you, a butane torch lighter might be a better option.
Survival Frog Butane Torch Lighter
When you’re facing extreme cold and windy conditions, a torch lighter like the Survival Frog Butane Torch Lighter can be your best friend, especially considering that it costs just $25.
Its powerful jet flame cuts through the wind, allowing you to start a fire quickly and efficiently. The refillable butane fuel system ensures you’ll have a long-lasting, reliable flame whenever you need it.
Let’s discuss what makes it a great lighter for cold weather.
Features
Here are the main features of the Survival Frog Butane Torch Lighter:
Nearly Windproof Jet Flame
The Survival Frog Butane Torch Lighter is equipped with a powerful, nearly windproof jet flame designed to withstand strong winds. This feature ensures that you can easily start a fire in virtually any weather condition, making it an essential tool for outdoor survival situations where traditional lighters may fail.
High-Temperature Flame
The torch lighter produces a concentrated, high-temperature flame capable of quickly igniting tinder and kindling, even slightly damp from snow or rain. This high-temperature flame provides a significant advantage in cold weather, helping you start a fire more efficiently and conserving energy.
Adjustable Flame
This torch lighter features an adjustable flame, allowing you to control the intensity and size of the flame with ease. The adjustment valve at the bottom of the lighter can be modified using a flathead screwdriver. This adjustability enables you to conserve fuel or create a larger flame for more challenging conditions.
Refillable Design
The Survival Frog Butane Torch Lighter is refillable, which means you can easily replenish its fuel using a butane gas canister (not included). This refillable design ensures you always have a reliable flame source without purchasing a new lighter.
Compact and Lightweight
This torch lighter is incredibly portable, weighing just 2.4 ounces and measuring 3.25 inches tall. Its compact size allows you to carry it easily in your pocket or attach it to your gear with the included lanyard, ensuring you have it on hand whenever needed.
Safe Storage
The lighter features a spring-activated button and a flame safety cover, preventing accidental ignition during storage. This safety mechanism ensures the lighter remains securely stored until you are ready to use it, reducing the risk of unintentional fires.
Durable Construction
Built to last, the Survival Frog Butane Torch Lighter is made from high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its durability makes it a dependable tool for any survival situation.
100% Money-Back Guarantee and Warranty
Survival Frog stands behind its products with a 6-month “Any Reason” Refund Guarantee and a 3-year product warranty against defects. This level of customer support provides peace of mind, knowing that a reliable company backs you.
Pros
- Works in virtually all weather conditions
- Ignites tinder quickly, even when damp
- Customizable flame for fuel efficiency or stronger flames
- Easy to maintain with butane gas refills
- Portable and easy to carry
- Prevents accidental ignition
Cons
- Butane must be purchased separately
- Flathead screwdriver needed for flame adjustment
If the torch I just reviewed doesn’t excite you, maybe the adjustable-neck waterproof lighter below will.
Laffizz Waterproof Lighter
When you’re in the field, you don’t want to worry about your lighter running out of fuel or failing due to moisture. The Laffizz Waterproof Lighter solves these problems with its innovative rechargeable design. Let’s find out why it’s a top option, aside from the cost of just over $10.
Features
Here are the main features of the Laffizz Waterproof Lighter:
Dual Arc Plasma Technology
The Laffizz Waterproof Lighter uses advanced dual arc plasma technology, producing a powerful, windproof, exceptionally reliable flame even in cold and windy conditions. Unlike traditional lighters, this plasma arc is virtually unaffected by weather, ensuring you can ignite a fire or light a stove regardless of the weather.
Rugged, Shockproof Casing
Built to endure the toughest environments, the Laffizz Waterproof Lighter features a rugged, shockproof casing. This durable construction allows the lighter to withstand drops, impacts, and harsh outdoor conditions, giving you the confidence that it will function properly when you need it most.
Versatile LED Flashlight
The lighter has a built-in LED flashlight that offers three modes: strong light, low light, and strobe. The strobe function is particularly useful for emergency signaling, making the Laffizz lighter a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts. The flashlight comes in handy if you need some light or a way to signal for help.
Waterproof and Weatherproof
The Laffizz Waterproof Lighter boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes without losing functionality. This waterproof capability and its windproof plasma arc ensure a dependable flame even in the wettest and most challenging weather conditions.
Retractable Arc Hose
The lighter includes a 2.13-inch retractable arc hose, which can be extended when extra reach or a specific angle is needed. This flexible hose makes it easier to light hard-to-reach areas, making the Laffizz lighter a versatile tool for various situations.
USB-C Rechargeable with Power Indicator
The Laffizz Waterproof Lighter is rechargeable via USB-C, ensuring fast and convenient charging. It features a power indicator that alerts you when the battery is low so you can recharge it quickly and avoid being caught off guard by a drained battery. With its long-lasting battery life, you can rely on the Laffizz lighter for up to 300 uses per charge.
Pros
- Functions well in cold and windy conditions
- Built to withstand impacts
- Versatile LED flashlight
- Easy to carry without adding bulk to your gear
- Waterproof with IPX7 rating
- Retractable arc hose
- Quick charging with a power indicator to prevent unexpected battery drain
Cons
- Must be charged periodically, unlike traditional fuel-based lighters
- Keeping it waterproof requires the safety clasp to be locked
If the cost of any of the above lighters is too high for you, consider the following model, which is the most affordable on the list.
Extremus Waterproof Lighter
The Extremus Waterproof Lighter is a reliable option for cold-weather adventures. Its carabiner design lets you easily attach it to your gear, ensuring quick access when needed. Every second counts in emergencies, and having your lighter within reach can make all the difference.
Let’s find out more about the Extremus Waterproof Lighter:
Features
Here are the main features of the Extremus Waterproof Lighter:
USB Rechargeable Battery
The Extremus Waterproof Lighter has a USB rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for traditional fuel. This feature ensures you always have a dependable flame at your fingertips, easily rechargeable through any standard USB power source.
Dual Arc Plasma Technology
The lighter utilizes advanced dual arc plasma technology, providing a highly reliable, windproof flame in even the most challenging weather conditions. Whether confronted with strong winds, heavy snow, or freezing rain, this lighter consistently performs, making it ideal for starting fires, lighting stoves, or signaling for help.
Rugged, Shockproof Casing
Designed for durability, the Extremus Waterproof Lighter features a rugged, shockproof casing that can withstand drops, impacts, and extreme temperatures. This construction ensures the lighter remains operational in demanding environments, making it a reliable tool for outdoor adventures.
Rubberized Grip
The lighter’s rubberized grip offers a secure hold, even when wearing gloves. This design is particularly beneficial in cold weather conditions, reducing the risk of the lighter slipping from your grasp and ensuring ease of use in adverse environments.
Versatile Lighting and Survival Features
In addition to its primary function, the Extremus Waterproof Lighter includes a powerful LED flashlight with multiple modes, including a strobe function for emergencies. It also features an integrated emergency whistle, providing essential tools for signaling and safety during outdoor excursions.
Waterproof and Windproof Design
The Extremus Waterproof Lighter is fully waterproof and can function even after submersion. Its windproof plasma arcs ensure reliable ignition in high winds, making it a dependable choice for use in harsh weather conditions.
Pros
- USB rechargeable battery
- Reliable performance in harsh weather conditions
- Built to withstand drops and impacts
- Rubberized grip
- Integrated flashlight and emergency whistle
- Waterproof design
- Under $10
Cons
- Requires recharging
- Slightly bulkier due to its durable construction and additional features
- Limited arc reach
If you’d rather have two compact torch lighters for one low price, then the Zoocura reviewed below is a fine choice.
Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter
The Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter offers a powerful, adjustable flame that you can customize to suit your specific needs in cold weather conditions. For under $15, you get a two-pack of these lighters.
Let’s find out what else makes this an attractive option:
Features
Here’s what stands out about the Zoocura:
Adjustable Flame Control
The Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter offers precise flame control, allowing you to easily adjust the flame size to suit your specific needs.
Whether you need a small, focused flame to light a camp stove or a larger, more intense flame to ignite damp tinder, this lighter’s adjustable output ensures you have the right amount of heat for the task at hand.
This feature is essential for conserving fuel and extending the lighter’s lifespan in survival situations.
Windproof Design
Designed to perform in harsh environments, the Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter’s windproof construction ensures that the flame remains lit even in strong, icy winds. This reliability is particularly valuable in cold climates, where gusty winds quickly extinguish other flames. With this lighter, you can confidently start a fire or ignite your fuel, regardless of weather conditions.
Visible Fuel Window
The Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter has a convenient viewing window that allows you to monitor the fuel level at a glance.
This feature helps you avoid the frustration and potential danger of running out of fuel unexpectedly, especially in survival scenarios where a reliable flame is critical.
The visible gas window ensures you can refill the butane tank before it runs dry, giving you peace of mind during extended outdoor adventures.
High-Temperature Jet Flame
This lighter can produce a concentrated jet flame that reaches up to 2800°F, making it ideal for various tasks, from lighting a BBQ to starting a fire in challenging weather conditions. The high-temperature flame ensures quick and effective ignition of materials, even in cold and damp environments.
Safe & Simple Ignition
The Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter features a smooth single-action ignition trigger, making it easy to operate with one hand. You only need to press the trigger to ignite the flame and release it to turn it off. This design provides convenience and safety, allowing for quick, controlled ignition without the risk of accidental burns.
90° Curved Neck
The lighter’s 90° curved neck prevents finger burns during continuous use. Additionally, the nozzle has two holes on both sides, accelerating the entry of oxygen and ensuring full combustion and faster cooling of the lighter after use. This design enhances safety and usability, especially when dealing with prolonged flame exposure.
Portable and Durable Construction
Constructed from high-strength, heat-resistant ABS, the Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter is durable and lightweight, weighing only 0.14 lbs and measuring 3.1″ x 2.2″ x 0.8″. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your pocket or gear bag, ensuring it’s always accessible when needed. The robust construction ensures it can withstand the demands of outdoor use.
Refillable and Adjustable
The Zoocura Refillable Butane Lighter has a large flame adjustment wheel and a refilling port at the bottom. You can easily adjust the flame size without any tools and refill the lighter following the simple steps provided in the manual. This refillable design ensures long-term usability and cost-effectiveness, making it a sustainable, frequent-use option.
Pros
- Adjustable flame control
- Windproof design
- Visible fuel window
- High-temperature jet flame up to 2800°F
- 90° curved neck prevents burns during use
- Portable and durable, perfect for outdoor activities
- Refillable and cost-effective design
Cons
- Requires butane gas, which must be purchased separately
- Flame output may be too intense for delicate tasks
- Limited fuel capacity due to compact size
Choosing Between Plasma Arc and Butane Torch Lighters for Cold Weather
When selecting a lighter for cold weather, it’s crucial to consider how well it performs in low temperatures, wind, and other harsh conditions. The ideal lighter should provide a consistent and reliable flame regardless of the weather, ensuring you can fire for warmth, cooking, or signaling in an emergency.
Both plasma arc and torch lighters are ideal for cold weather conditions, although there are key differences between them that you need to be aware of, such as how windproof they are, their longevity, and more. Let’s compare plasma arc and torch lighters to see which type suits you and your cold-weather adventures.
Let’s start by looking at plasma arc lighters:
Plasma Arc Lighters
Plasma arc lighters are powered by electricity and use a high-voltage current to create a plasma arc, a concentrated spark between two or more electrodes.
This arc is hot enough to ignite various materials and is particularly effective in challenging weather conditions. Since it doesn’t rely on liquid or gas fuel, it performs consistently in cold temperatures where traditional lighters may fail.
Why Plasma Arc Lighters Are Ideal
Plasma arc lighters are particularly well-suited for cold weather because their electric ignition system is unaffected by low temperatures, ensuring reliable performance when needed.
The windproof nature of the plasma arc is a significant advantage in cold environments where traditional lighters often struggle.
Unlike a flame, which can be easily blown out, the plasma arc remains stable, allowing you to ignite tinder, kindling, or other materials even in gusty winds.
Drawbacks of Plasma Arc Lighters
While plasma arc lighters excel in cold and windy conditions, they do have some limitations. One of the main drawbacks is their reliance on battery power. The lighter becomes unusable if the battery is empty and you can’t access a charging source.
This makes it essential to carry a portable power bank or ensure the lighter is fully charged before heading out into the wilderness.
Additionally, plasma arc lighters typically produce a smaller ignition area than butane torch lighters, which may be less effective for lighting larger objects or materials requiring a broader flame.
Let’s move on and find out how a butane torch lighter works and if this is the better option for you.
Butane Torch Lighters
Butane torch lighters use pressurized butane gas, which is released and ignited to produce a powerful jet flame.
This jet flame is much hotter and more concentrated than a traditional lighter, reaching temperatures up to 2800°F. This intense heat ignites materials quickly, even in cold or damp conditions.
Why Butane Torch Lighters Are Ideal
Butane torch lighters are another excellent choice for cold weather due to their powerful jet flame. This flame can easily ignite damp materials, making them highly effective in snowy or wet conditions.
The nearly windproof design of a butane torch lighter ensures that the flame remains lit even in strong winds, a common issue with traditional lighters.
These lighters also offer adjustable flame control, allowing you to customize the flame size and intensity based on your specific needs, whether lighting a stove, starting a fire, or performing other tasks.
Drawbacks of Butane Torch Lighters
However, butane torch lighters do have some downsides. One primary concern is that butane canisters can become less effective in extremely cold temperatures, as the gas may not vaporize efficiently.
This can result in a weaker flame or difficulty in igniting the lighter. To mitigate this, it’s advisable to keep the lighter and fuel canisters close to your body to maintain warmth.
Butane lighters also require periodic refilling, so you must carry extra fuel canisters on extended trips. This can add weight to your pack and requires careful planning to ensure you don’t run out of fuel at a critical moment.
Furthermore, although butane torch lighters are highly wind resistant, they are not 100% windproof and may still be blown out in extreme winds. If you need a windproof design, then plasma arc lighters are your best bet.
Final Thoughts and Personal Favorite
When facing the harshest conditions that nature can throw at you, a reliable lighter can be a life-saving tool. Among the many excellent options, the Survival Frog Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 is the top choice for cold weather.
Its waterproof and windproof design ensures it remains functional even when exposed to snow, rain, or icy winds. This rugged construction guarantees a reliable flame, no matter how challenging the environment.
One of the standout features of the Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 is its USB rechargeable battery, which eliminates the common concern of running out of fuel in the field. With the ability to recharge using a portable charger, you can maintain a dependable flame at all times, not to mention the integrated flashlight and whistle.
Whether an outdoor enthusiast, a seasoned camper, or preparing your survival kit, the Survival Frog Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 offers unmatched durability and performance. However, all of the options we’ve reviewed today are great lighters for cold weather.
For all of your survival and emergency preparedness needs, visit Batten Safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is a Windproof Lighter Important in Cold Weather?
Windproof lighters are essential in cold weather because gusty winds can easily extinguish traditional flames. Windproof lighters ensure you can start a fire even in strong winds, which is critical for staying warm and cooking food.
How Does Cold Weather Affect Traditional Lighters?
Traditional lighters rely on liquid or gas fuel, which can struggle to ignite in freezing temperatures. The fuel may not vaporize properly, leading to weak flames or complete failure, making them unreliable in cold weather.
What Are the Benefits of Rechargeable Lighters for Outdoor Use?
Rechargeable lighters eliminate the need for fuel, which can be scarce or hard to store in the wilderness. They can be recharged using portable power sources, ensuring you always have a reliable ignition tool without worrying about running out of fuel.
