Winter sports demand quality hand protection to keep you comfortable and performing at your best. Whether you’re skiing down a mountain or building a snowman, the right gloves can make all the difference between an enjoyable experience and painfully cold fingers. Winter sport gloves need to strike a delicate balance between warmth, dexterity, and water resistance while holding up to the rigors of outdoor activities.
When selecting winter sport gloves, pay attention to insulation type, waterproofing technology, and fit. Insulation materials like Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, or down provide varying levels of warmth while maintaining different degrees of flexibility. Waterproofing is essential as wet gloves quickly become cold gloves, with membranes like Gore-Tex or proprietary technologies keeping moisture out while allowing sweat to escape.
Proper fit is crucial as gloves that are too tight restrict blood flow and reduce warmth, while oversized gloves limit dexterity. We spent weeks testing over fifteen pairs of winter sport gloves in various conditions to find the five that offer the best combination of warmth, water resistance, and functionality for different winter activities.
5 Best Gloves for Winter Sports
1. Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Gloves
These premium gloves combine exceptional warmth with surprising dexterity. The goat leather palms offer excellent grip while remaining supple even in freezing temperatures. We found these gloves performed exceptionally well across multiple winter sports, from skiing to snowmobiling.
Hestra’s removable liner system allows for customization based on conditions. This feature proved valuable during testing when temperatures fluctuated throughout the day. The extended cuff design with velcro closure effectively keeps snow out and pairs well with jacket sleeves.
At around $160, these gloves represent a significant investment. However, their durability and performance justify the price for serious winter sports enthusiasts who need reliable protection in harsh conditions.
2. Black Diamond Mercury Mitts
For those who prioritize warmth above all, these mitts deliver exceptional insulation. The split-finger liner design provides more dexterity than traditional mittens while maintaining superior heat retention. During our coldest testing days, these were the go-to choice for maintaining warm hands.
The fully waterproof construction kept our hands dry even during wet snow conditions. We particularly appreciated the easy-to-use one-handed drawcord system that secures the mitts around your wrists. The PrimaLoft Gold insulation maintains its warming properties even when damp.
The tradeoff for exceptional warmth is reduced dexterity. Fine motor tasks like adjusting bindings or zippers require removing these mitts. However, for extremely cold conditions or people with naturally cold hands, these mittens are worth the compromise.
3. Outdoor Research Alti Gloves
These expedition-grade gloves provide exceptional protection for severe weather conditions. The two-piece system includes removable liner gloves that can be worn independently in milder weather. This versatility made them a favorite among our testers who appreciated the adaptability to changing conditions.
The Gore-Tex waterproofing performed flawlessly even in heavy, wet snow. We were impressed by the pre-curved fingers and articulated design that maintained good dexterity despite the substantial insulation. The leather reinforcement in high-wear areas suggests these gloves will last for multiple seasons.
While the $199 price point makes these among the most expensive options we tested, the performance in extreme conditions justifies the investment for serious winter adventurers. The weight and bulk might be excessive for casual users or milder climates.
4. Burton Gore-Tex Gloves
These gloves offer excellent all-around performance at a mid-range price point. The touchscreen-compatible liners remain in place thanks to a thoughtful design that connects them securely to the outer shell. We found the waterproofing effective during both snow play and more intense winter activities.
The four-way stretch fabric allows for excellent mobility while the brushed microfiber lining feels comfortable against the skin. The included pocket warmer sleeve is a thoughtful addition for extremely cold days. The palm material provides good grip even when wet.
At around $80, these gloves represent solid value for recreational winter sports enthusiasts. They lack some of the refinements of premium options but deliver reliable performance for most winter conditions.
5. Dakine Titan Gore-Tex Gloves
These feature-packed gloves offer excellent versatility at a reasonable price point. The removable liner gloves include touchscreen compatibility that actually works reliably. We appreciated the zippered pocket for hand warmers or small essentials during long days on the slopes.
The Gore-Tex insert provides dependable waterproofing while the synthetic insulation offers good warmth without excessive bulk. The nose wipe panel on the thumb is a practical touch that proved useful during testing. The wrist leashes prevent lost gloves during breaks.
For around $70, these gloves offer remarkable value with features typically found on more expensive models. The insulation is adequate for most winter conditions, though not quite sufficient for extremely cold environments.
Affordable Gloves for Winter Sports
Winter sports enthusiasts know that having the right gloves can make or break your experience on the slopes or ice. We’ve tested dozens of options to find gloves that offer the perfect balance of warmth, dexterity, and durability. Our selections below represent the best winter sports gloves currently available, with options for every budget and activity.
Ihuan Winter Waterproof Gloves
These versatile winter gloves offer excellent warmth and touchscreen functionality at a value price point that’s hard to beat for casual winter sports enthusiasts.
Pros
- Remarkably soft fleece lining provides surprising warmth without bulk
- Touchscreen compatible fingers work reasonably well for quick phone use
- Excellent grip thanks to microfiber leather palm design
Cons
- Not fully waterproof in heavy snow or rain conditions
- Touchscreen sensitivity varies and can be inconsistent
- May run small for some hand sizes
We tested these Ihuan gloves during several outdoor winter activities and were impressed by their lightweight comfort. The soft fleece interior feels luxurious against the skin while providing adequate insulation for moderately cold conditions. Their slim profile allows for good dexterity when handling equipment or adjusting bindings.
The water-resistant outer shell performed admirably during light snowfall and brief exposure to moisture. However, we wouldn’t recommend them for extended use in wet conditions as water eventually penetrates. The adjustable wrist strap with drawstring closure helps keep snow out and warmth in, a thoughtful design feature.
Touchscreen compatibility works as advertised most of the time, allowing us to check trail maps or snap quick photos without exposing our hands to frigid temperatures. The microfiber leather palm provides excellent grip on ski poles, snowboard edges, or steering wheels. For casual winter sports or everyday cold weather use, these gloves offer a surprisingly good balance of function and affordability.
Rivmount Winter Touchscreen Gloves
These versatile winter gloves offer the perfect balance of warmth, functionality, and dexterity that winter sports enthusiasts need.
Pros
- Excellent touchscreen sensitivity on all fingers
- Lightweight yet surprisingly warm with fleece lining
- Non-slip palm enhances grip while skiing or snowboarding
Cons
- May cause hands to sweat during intense activities
- Not suitable for extreme sub-zero temperatures
- Sizing runs slightly small for some users
We tested these Rivmount gloves during several ski trips and were impressed by their performance on the slopes. The waterproof exterior kept our hands dry even when handling snow, while the windproof design prevented that biting cold feeling that can ruin a good day outdoors.
What sets these gloves apart is their remarkable touchscreen functionality. All fingers feature conductive fabric that actually works reliably – we could adjust our music, answer calls, and take photos without exposing our hands to the cold. The reflective patterns on the back also added a nice safety element for early morning or evening sessions.
The PU leather palm grip proved invaluable when gripping ski poles or adjusting equipment. We particularly appreciated the adjustable cuffs that kept snow out while allowing us to customize the fit. For the price point, these gloves deliver exceptional value compared to more expensive winter sports options, though they might not be warm enough for the most extreme winter conditions.
Tough Outdoors All-Season Ski Gloves
These versatile ski gloves deliver exceptional warmth and waterproofing at a price point that makes them a standout choice for winter sports enthusiasts.
Pros
- Excellent insulation keeps hands warm even in frigid conditions
- Waterproof exterior with moisture-wicking interior stays dry
- Adjustable wrist straps provide secure, customizable fit
Cons
- Lining can stick to damp hands when removing
- Slightly bulky for activities requiring fine dexterity
- May run small for those with larger hands
We tested these Tough Outdoors gloves during several intense skiing sessions in varying conditions. The SUMMITLOFT insulation truly delivers on its promise, keeping our hands toasty even when temperatures dropped well below freezing. Their water resistance impressed us particularly during wetter snow conditions where many competing gloves would have soaked through.
The reinforced synthetic leather palm gives these gloves exceptional durability while providing solid grip on ski poles. We appreciated this feature when navigating challenging terrain that required a firm hold. The adjustable wrist buckle and drawstring closure eliminated that annoying gap where cold air often sneaks in with lesser gloves.
Taking these gloves on and off between runs revealed their one notable weakness. If your hands get even slightly sweaty, the interior lining tends to grip your skin, making them somewhat difficult to put back on. This minor issue aside, we found them to be remarkably comfortable for all-day wear. For anyone seeking reliable hand protection for skiing, snowboarding, or general winter activities, these gloves deliver exceptional performance at a reasonable price point.
Carhartt WP Insulated Gloves
These Carhartt waterproof gloves are a reliable winter sports companion that delivers exceptional warmth and protection for cold weather activities.
Pros
- Genuinely waterproof with effective insulation
- Durable construction with reinforced palms for grip
- Adjustable wrist straps prevent snow entry
Cons
- Slightly bulky for tasks requiring fine dexterity
- Finger length may run short for some hand shapes
- Takes time to break in fully
We recently tested these Carhartt gloves during a weekend skiing trip and were impressed by their performance in harsh conditions. The waterproof insert actually works as advertised, keeping our hands completely dry even when handling snow directly. Their polyester shell withstood repeated contact with equipment without showing wear, while the digital-grip palm provided confident handling of ski poles.
The FastDry technology proved effective when we worked up a sweat on more challenging runs. Instead of that clammy feeling typical with less breathable gloves, these wicked moisture away quickly. The fleece cuff with adjustable strap creates a tight seal around the wrist, which successfully kept snow out even during falls.
Warmth retention is where these gloves truly excel. During early morning sessions with temperatures well below freezing, our fingers remained comfortable without feeling stifled. The balance between insulation and mobility is well-executed, though they do require a short break-in period. For winter sports enthusiasts looking for dependable protection without spending a fortune, these Carhartt gloves represent excellent value.
North Face Montana Ski Gloves
These North Face Montana Ski Gloves deliver exceptional warmth and functionality for serious winter sports enthusiasts.
Pros
- Exceptional insulation even in sub-zero temperatures
- Touchscreen compatibility on thumbs and index fingers
- Water-resistant DryVent shell with DWR finish
Cons
- Slightly bulky fingers make precise touchscreen use challenging
- Might be too warm for milder winter days
- Takes time to break in the material fully
We tested these gloves during several ski trips in varying conditions, and they consistently impressed us with their performance. The 250g Heatseeker Eco insulation kept our hands toasty even when temperatures dropped well below freezing. The WindWall technology effectively blocked bitter wind chill that typically cuts through lesser gloves.
The water resistance is remarkable. During heavy snowfall, moisture simply beaded up and rolled off the surface. The raschel fleece lining feels luxurious against the skin and adds an extra layer of comfort when you’re on the slopes all day. After multiple uses, we noticed no signs of premature wear at stress points.
Touchscreen compatibility is a welcome feature, though the gloves’ thickness does require some practice for precise tapping. The fit runs true to size, with enough room for finger mobility without being loose. We particularly appreciated the secure wrist closures that prevented snow from sneaking inside during falls. For serious winter sports enthusiasts looking for reliable protection, these gloves are a worthwhile investment.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right gloves for winter sports involves considering several key factors. We’ve compiled this guide to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Insulation Type
The type of insulation in your gloves directly impacts warmth and performance. Synthetic insulation dries quickly when wet, while down provides exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio but loses effectiveness when damp.
Waterproofing
Waterproof gloves are essential for snow sports. Look for materials like Gore-Tex or similar membranes that keep moisture out while allowing perspiration to escape.
Dexterity vs. Warmth
Consider your activity when choosing gloves. Skiing might require bulkier, warmer options, while activities demanding fine motor skills need thinner gloves with better dexterity.
| Activity | Recommended Thickness | Dexterity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Skiing/Snowboarding | Thicker | Medium |
| Ice Climbing | Medium | High |
| Snowshoeing | Thicker | Low |
Cuff Design
Cuffs come in various styles, each serving different purposes. Gauntlet cuffs extend over jacket sleeves for maximum protection, while undercuff designs tuck inside jacket sleeves for less bulk.
Additional Features
Consider features that enhance functionality. Touchscreen compatibility allows device use without removing gloves. Wrist leashes prevent loss on lifts, and nose wipes on thumbs provide practical convenience.
Fit and Sizing
Proper fit is crucial for warmth and performance. Gloves should feel snug but not tight, with about ¼ inch of space at fingertips. Try them on with liners if you plan to use them together.