Skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports are great ways to get outdoors in Winter. But to make the most of the experience, you need to be dressed for potentially cold or harsh weather conditions. Winter gloves or mittens will keep your hands warm and protected against the cold. With so many options, it can be challenging to know which pair of gloves or mittens suits your needs the best. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 best gloves and mittens for skiing, snowboarding, and spending time in cold weather. We also provide buying advice and tips to help you choose the best gloves and mittens that will keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable while the temps are low. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best Winter gloves or Winter mittens for your outdoor adventures.

Best Gloves and Mittens for Skiing, Snowboarding, and Winter Sports

To help you find the perfect winter gloves for your outdoor adventures, we’ve curated our top 10 best gloves and mittens for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports. From lightweight and dexterous gloves for mild weather to heavily insulated options for the coldest temperatures, waterproof gloves to ultra-insulated mittens, you’ll find the perfect pair of gloves for your needs. This list has the best gloves or mittens for every Winter sport or outdoor experience. All the gloves and mittens on this list have been carefully selected based on their performance, comfort, and durability. For more tips on how to buy Winter gloves, make sure to read our buyer’s advice.

1. Black Diamond Mercury Mitts

The Black Diamond Mercury Mitts are an ideal choice for winter sports enthusiasts. With a gauntlet-style cuff and nylon/leather shell, the mittens offer superior insulation thanks to the PrimaLoft Gold (133 & 170g) insulation. The four-way stretch in the shell, plus removable split-finger liners, make them user-friendly and comfortable to wear. With superior protection and warmth, the mittens are a great option for those who want to keep their hands warm in cold temperatures. Additionally, the gloves are reasonably priced and highly durable, so they’ll last through many seasons of winter sports.

The Black Diamond Mercury Mitts provide unbeatable warmth, thanks to their insulated liners, fleece lining, and roomy hand cavity, while their waterproof membrane and large gauntlets keep moisture out. They are also highly durable and offer convenient features like a hanging loop and nose wipe patch. However, the lack of dexterity due to the mitten design and the absence of a wrist leash may make them difficult to use for certain tasks. Nevertheless, these mittens are a great option for users who prioritize warmth over dexterity.

2. Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitts

From trusted Swedish manufacturer Hestra, The Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitts are a high-quality and reliable choice for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. They boast a blend of leather and synthetic materials to provide superior protection against the elements and added dexterity when gripping ski poles. Also included is G-Loft insulation to keep hands warm at all times and a waterproof gauntlet cuff to keep out any snow and moisture.

Users of the Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitts appreciate its premium build quality, warmth and comfort. Its hybrid leather and synthetic construction allow for excellent flexibility and durability. The mitts are stuffed full of G-Loft insulation and come with removable fleece liners for superior protection against cold weather. These mitts are suitable for extreme mountain weather, making them a must-have for any big mountain expedition.

3. Burton Gore-Tex Mitts

The Burton Gore-Tex Mittens are an excellent choice for winter sports enthusiasts, as they feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, reliable Thermacore insulation, brushed microfiber lining, and touchscreen-compatible synthetic leather for ultimate dexterity. In addition, these mitts provide added warmth and convenience with a removable fleece liner, vent pocket, and leashes. With so many desirable features, the Burton Gore-Tex Mittens are the perfect companion for all your winter adventures.

Burton Gore-Tex Mittens provide great warmth and comfort for a great price if dexterity isn’t a priority. They’re also handwarmer compatible. With features like Thermacore insulation, touchscreen-compatible fabric, and a Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing, these mitts are a great value for powder hounds. They also come in a variety of colors so you can match your style.

4. The North Face Montana Gloves

The North Face Montana Gloves are an excellent option for cold winter days on the slopes, offering waterproof Gore-Tex fabric and durable faux leather palm overlays, with a DryVent™ insert. They also come with additional features such as Etip™ functionality, built-in nose wipe, and a curved design that make them perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The full gauntlet cuff helps keep slush and snow out. The ergonomic shape helps your fingers rest more naturally inside the gloves.

The North Face Montana Mitts provide an excellent combination of warmth and versatility for an affordable price. While some users found them a little bulky for tasks requiring more dexterity, the insulation along with the other glove features still make these gloves a great option for cold days on the slopes.

5. Marmot Expedition Mitt

Marmot Expedition Mitts are the perfect winter sports companion, offering superior warmth, waterproof protection, and durability. Their combination of PrimaLoft insulation, Marmot Membrain breathable inserts, and DriClime moisture-wicking lining, provide excellent cold-weather protection and breathability without sacrificing comfort. Reinforced palms and an absorbent nose wipe add to the convenience and make these mitts perfect for winter adventures.

Marmot Expedition Mitt is a great choice for those seeking extreme weather protection and warmth. It offers waterproof Marmot MemBrain® inserts, PrimaLoft® Gold synthetic insulation for added warmth, and a DriClime® Bi-component lining for moisture-wicking. The reinforced palm gives more durability and the gauntlet drawcord ensures snow won’t get in. With a good price and features like touchscreen fingertips and absorbent nose wipe, it has earned good reviews from users and reviewers.

6. Outdoor Research Alti II GORE-TEX Mitten

Outdoor Research’s Alti II GORE-TEX Mittens offer superior mobility, warmth, and comfort during winter sports. Crafted from GORE-TEX fabric and premium insulation, they provide great protection against cold temperatures, wind, and moisture while allowing excellent dexterity and movement. Perfect for skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities, the Alti II GORE-TEX Mittens are an optimal choice for those who want to stay comfortable in cold weather.

If you’re spending time in cold weather – whether skiing, camping, or snowboarding – you can’t go wrong choosing Outdoor Research Alti II GORE-TEX Mittens. Its combined shell insulation and fleece lining for warmth, waterproofing, and great price for the quality. Users report that the mitten has a comfortable fit, however, sizes tend to run small and can feel bulky.

7. Dakine Excursion Gloves

The best-selling Dakine Excursion Gloves are the perfect choice for all winter sports. Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX insert that provides maximum breathability and temperature regulation, while the Primaloft insulation and wool liner ensure your hands stay warm all day. The durable leather palm and stretch soft-shell build give you a natural feel and dexterity. These gloves keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable across all conditions.

The Dakine Excursion Gloves are a great choice for a versatile winter glove, offering good dexterity and warmth. The 4-way stretch soft shell & leather offer added toughness and waterproofing. While not as warm as some other gloves, the Excursion Gloves provide excellent value for money and are suitable for general mountaineering, Winter sports, and more.

8. Hestra Heli Insulated Gloves

One of Hestra’s best-selling ski gloves, these Heli Insulated Gloves deliver superior versatility and dexterity for any cold weather activity. With a waterproof polyamide fabric backhand, durable goat leather shell, and G-Loft insulation, Hestra Heli Insulated Gloves keep your hands warm all day. The long collar with snowlock, along with Velcro straps on the wrist, keep the snow out and the warmth in.

The Hestra Gloves Heli Insulated Gloves impressed reviewers and users with their unbeatable combination of warmth and weather protection. They also deliver excellent dexterity and durability. With its removable fleece (Bemberg) liner and water-resistant shell, these gloves keep your hands toasty even in the coldest temperatures. The longer wrist gauntlet ensures that no snow or powder can find its way in, and the ergonomic design with curved hand shape and velcro strap ensures a comfortable and secure fit. With incredible features such as these, it’s no wonder why Hestra is a favorite among ski pros.

9. Mountain Hardwear High Exposure GORE-TEX Gloves

Another option for any ski, snowboard, or winter sport enthusiast is Mountain Hardwear’ High Exposure GORE-TEX Gloves. With durable goat leather palms for enhanced grip, adjustable features for a perfect fit, and waterproof GORE-TEX protection, these gloves will keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable all season long. Plus, fiberfill insulation and midweight fleece lining will keep the chill of the mountain out, making them a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

Mountain Hardwear High Exposure GORE-TEX Gloves offer a great balance of dexterity and protection from the elements. With a synthetic outer shell, touchscreen access, and adjustable wrist and palm straps, they are a versatile and affordable performance glove option. However, their bulkiness may mean that they are best suited for snow sports rather than casual use and some users have noted that these gloves can run small in size, so keep that in mind when ordering your gloves.

10. Gordini GTX Storm Trooper Gloves

Gordini GTX Storm Trooper Gloves are perfect for the skier or snowboarder who needs high performance at a bargain price. The bomber construction offers superior durability and weather resistance, while the waterproof Gore-Tex material keeps your hands warm and dry. The fit is snug and dexterous, allowing easy movement and dexterity in cold temperatures.

Gordini GTX Storm Trooper Gloves are a great value ski glove that offers high performance with good dexterity and weather resistance. They have a decent balance of warmth and breathability and come with useful features like touchscreen fingertips, glove liners, and waterproof gauntlets. They are priced affordably and are comfortable to wear for long use, although the sizing can be finicky.

Regardless of what type of activity you’re planning on doing in the Winter, we have the best Winter gloves for you. All of these gloves and mittens help keep your hands warm in cold weather. If you still need help choosing the best gloves or mittens for you, keep reading for some buying tips for Winter gloves and mittens.

Buying Advice for Winter Gloves and Winter Mittens

Should I Buy Gloves or Mittens?

Overall, for activities that require good dexterity, such as backcountry skiing or snowboarding, gloves are likely the better option. However, mittens keep your fingers warmer as they share one larger space, making them ideal for activities in colder temps and for longer periods of time. Consider your needs before making a purchase and look for products with specifications that best match your requirements.

When it comes to choosing between gloves and mittens for winter sports, it really depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the individual. It is also important to consider your activity, the usual range of weather conditions and temperatures you will be exposed to, as well as how easily your fingers get cold.

Gloves provide more dexterity and a better range of motion for activities that require more finesse, such as fastening buckles or adjusting bindings. They also allow for greater ventilation, making them a good choice for individuals who may get too hot in mittens.

Mittens provide more warmth as the fingers are in close proximity to each other, allowing for better heat retention. They are also a better choice for individuals who suffer from cold hands as they provide more insulation. Heavier, warmer mittens with more insulation and a long, usually adjustable gauntlet are typically best for activities that don’t require good dexterity and that last for several hours in cold to frigid temps, especially when your hands are repeatedly in snow (such as when backcountry skiing or snowshoeing).

Three-finger gloves or lobster mittens offer a balance of warmth and dexterity, as the thumb and index finger are separated for greater control and the other three fingers stay together for warmth. Additionally, many mittens come with glove liners so you can remove the mitten shell and still have some insulation.

Warmth

When shopping for the best cold weather gloves, warmth is an essential criteria to consider. Without adequate warmth, the hands can become cold and uncomfortable, leading to a decrease in performance and safety. To ensure the best protection from the cold, it is important to choose a pair of gloves with the right level of insulation and waterproofing. The level of insulation can be determined by the amount of insulation used – e.g., 170g palm, 100g fingers. The bigger the number, the warmer the glove.

To keep your hands warm in Winter, you can choose between mittens or gloves with fingers. Mittens provide extra warmth due to the fingers being together, but they lack the dexterity of gloves. Gloves, provide better manual dexterity but lack the extra warmth.

Keep in mind that gloves or mittens are just one piece of critical winter gear. Your body helps keep your hands and feet warm, so if they’re feeling cold, put on another layer of clothing.

Dexterity

Another factor to consider if you’re looking at winter gloves is the level of dexterity you’ll need from them. Dexterity matters because gloves with more insulation, and therefore more warmth, are also stiffer and bulkier. Having a pair of gloves that are too bulky or cumbersome will make it more difficult to perform these activities and can also lead to accidents. For example, the best ski gloves will combine warmth while still providing enough dexterity to easily grab poles and adjust boot bindings.

While gloves are generally the best option when it comes to dexterity, many users like the split-finger mitten design which offers increased dexterity with the additional insulation of a mitten. On the other hand, if you’re just looking for warmth, a thick, bulky mitten will do that best.

Therefore, it is important to look for a pair of gloves or mittens that offer a good balance between warmth and dexterity in order to ensure that you can perform your activities with ease and safety.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing is a key feature to consider when shopping for winter gloves. Waterproof and water-resistant materials prevent cold and wet fingers while being outside. For outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding, it is important to choose a thick, waterproof glove with temperature-regulating insulation to ensure your hands stay warm and dry. Waterproofing can also be crucial for other activities such as winter hiking and sledding, since wet gloves can become a huge hassle when putting them on and taking them off indoors. Additionally, waterproof gloves provide insulation and reduce the risk of frostbite.

Overall, waterproofing is an essential feature to consider when shopping for winter gloves and winter mittens so that you can stay warm and dry all winter long.

Construction Matters: What to Look for in Winter Gloves and Mittens

The construction of the glove or mitten is another important criteria to consider. Here are some key aspects of construction to consider:

• Cuff: The cuff is the part of the glove or mitten that fits around your wrist. It’s important to choose a cuff that fits snugly to prevent snow and cold air from entering. Look for cuffs with one-hand closures, adjustable straps, or drawstrings to customize the fit. Longer, gauntlet cuffs help to keep snow and cold air out, and keep heat inside.
• Palm: The palm is the part of the glove or mitten that comes into contact with ski poles or other equipment. Look for gloves or mittens with durable, reinforced palms to prevent wear and tear. Some gloves or mittens also have added padding on the palm to provide extra cushioning and protection. Leather material in the thumb and palm area allows for a better grip and more durability than other materials.

Fit & Comfort: Why Choosing the Right Size and Fit is Important

You shouldn’t underestimate how much the fit of your gloves or mittens can affect your experience. A glove that is too tight can be uncomfortable and restrict movement, while a glove that’s too loose may not provide enough warmth or protection. An ill-fitting glove can also cause blisters and lead to discomfort, so it is essential to find the right size and fit. Additionally, having a small air pocket between your fingers and the tips of the glove can trap warmth, making the glove more effective.

To ensure a proper fit, measure your hands and compare the results to the size charts provided by the manufacturer. If you’re in between sizes, it’s generally recommended to size up for a better fit. When trying on gloves or mittens, make sure to move your fingers and grip objects to test the dexterity and fit. By choosing the right size and fit, you can ensure that your gloves or mittens provide both comfort and functionality for all your winter activities.

Fabric and Lining Material

The type of fabric or material used to make a glove or mitten will affect its warmth, breathability, and water-resistance. The most common fabrics used for gloves and mittens are leather, synthetic materials, and natural fibers such as wool. Leather gloves and mittens are durable, flexible, and provide excellent grip, but they are not as breathable as other materials. Synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and neoprene are often used to create gloves and mittens that are water-resistant, lightweight, and durable. Wool is a natural fiber that is soft, warm, and comfortable, but it is not as water-resistant as synthetic materials, and is therefore not an ideal option for Winter sports.

In addition to the fabric, the lining material is also important to consider. The lining helps to wick moisture away from the skin, keeping the hands dry and warm. Popular lining materials include wool, fleece, and synthetic materials such as Thinsulate.

Tips on how to choose the best gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm and comfortable while skiing or snowboarding

1. What Makes a Good Winter Glove?

The best Winter glove should keep your fingers warm and protected from the elements, without being too bulky or cumbersome for you to wear. The gloves should be able to perform in all weather conditions you’ll be in and suit the level of hand dexterity you’ll require. Gloves that are waterproof and breathable will help keep your hands dry and toasty, even if you’re falling in snow. Long cuffs that go under your coat sleeve help keep snow from falling into your glove. Finally, make sure the glove fits you properly, leaving enough room for a small air pocket in the tips of the fingers.

2. Choose Insulated Gloves or Mittens

Insulated gloves and insulated mittens are better for winter activities and cold weather because they are designed to provide warmth while still allowing dexterity. They are made with advanced insulation and materials, that allow them to create more warmth without the bulk, making them ideal for a range of activities. The best options can even enable you to answer your phone or adjust your goggles without exposing your hands to the cold.

3. Pair Gloves or Mittens With a Liner or Look for Gloves or Mittens With a Fleece Lining

Pairing gloves or mittens with a liner is an excellent way to keep your hands warm and comfortable in cold weather. Liners made of merino wool or fleece create insulation from the cold, wick away moisture, and add breathability. This ensures that your fingers and hands stay warm and dry. In addition, liners provide an extra layer of protection from the elements, allowing you to stay outside for longer periods of time. Gloves or mittens with a fleece liner are a good option for anyone looking to stay warm and dry in cold weather.

4. Consider the Closure of Your Gloves or Mittens

The closure on winter gloves or mittens is an important consideration for keeping your hands warm and protected in cold weather. A mitten with a pull loop allows for easy donning and removal with one hand, while a gauntlet offers more protection and better warmth. For skiing and snowboarding, a long gauntlet with an elasticized closure is best for keeping the snow out and trapping heat inside. For everyday activities, a short cuff with one-hand closure is often more comfortable and versatile. No matter the type of closure, gloves and mittens should provide adequate protection without being too bulky or cumbersome.