While skiing, hands, and fingers are the first points of contact to feel the cold. Having ski gloves is a game-changer in cold conditions. Ski gloves should withstand all conditions, be it icy mountains or cascades. Getting the right pair of ski gloves based on your style gives you the required dexterity to grip poles and handle objects. The best ski gloves ever are good at managing moisture and have a waterproof exterior to keep your hands dry. Ski gloves also have sweat-wicking interiors for added comfort after long ski adventures.
What are the best ski gloves ever?
After finding a perfect pair of ski gloves you should be able to find the size and cut that suits you. Having the proper size is important, a tight glove can restrict proper blood circulation, and a loose one will be bulky and not provide the necessary warmth. You can assess ski gloves based on – design, comfort, warmth, weatherproofing, and value. Based on these factors, I have prepared a list of ski gloves to match your preferences.
Best ski gloves ever overall – Black Diamond Renegade Gloves
Product Dimensions: 13.78 x 1.97 x 1.97 inches; 6.53 Ounces
The Black Diamond Renegade Gloves are designed for skiing. This is a warm and waterproof ski glove designed for heavy-duty use. Built with GORE-TEX, this waterproof and breathable glove is abrasion resistant, and it also has a stretch-woven nylon shell that protects you from cold conditions in the mountains. It features a fixed fleece lining which provides soft, moisture-wicking warmth.
What I liked
- Made with a combination of PrimaLoft Gold insulation and a waterproof breathable Gore-Tex insert keeps your hands warm in cold conditions.
- The durable leather palm and fingers offer a great grip and protect your hand from abrasions.
- The soft fleece lining is comfortable against the skin, and it has a pre-curved shape that offers a natural hand position.
What I disliked
- Relatively pricier than other gloves on the market.
- Sizing is not precise, it is advised to order a size up.
- Some users have reported their hands getting sweaty after strenuous activity.
- Being on the thicker side, these gloves are not high on dexterity to tackle intricate situations like operating smartphones or wearing ski boots.
Best ski gloves ever affordable – MOREOK Waterproof & Windproof -30°F Winter Gloves
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H – 12.49 x 6.82 x 2.48 inches
Founded in 2017, MOREOK has a team of professional and outstanding designers, who are committed to drawing inspiration from stylish design and ergonomics to achieve the best protection and appearance. Insulated with 200g of 3M Thinsulate insulation, and a TPU waterproof membrane, these winter gloves are ideal for skiing. These gloves trap body heat effectively and provide twice the warmth in comparison to other gloves. It uses highly breathable and moisture-wicking fabric and is well-suited for cold conditions. It provides weather resistance up to -30 degrees Fahrenheit, and it has an ergonomic palm that comes coated with wear-resistant anti-slip nitrile rubber. There is good friction and decent grip on offer to hold on to nearby surfaces and tools.
It also gets a sensitive touch screen function on the middle and forefinger, and you can use these gloves to wipe the snow accumulated on ski glasses. The outer fabric comes laminated with a TPU membrane layer which is waterproof and breathable. The velvet lining inside the gloves keeps your hands dry and keeps the sweat out. This ski glove also features an adjustable buckle wrist strap with a drawstring closure that can adjust to the size of your wrist, and it has extended glove cuffs to prevent snow or cold air to get in.
What I liked
- These gloves are designed to keep your hands warm and dry even in extreme weather. Built with high-quality materials, it is waterproof and windproof, and it can be used in any weather.
- These gloves are capable of keeping your hands warm in extreme cold. As it comes lined with soft and comfortable materials, it will help insulate your hands and retain the heat.
- Built with high-quality materials, these gloves are designed to last for a long time.
- It is designed to be touch-screen compatible and you can operate gadgets without the need of removing them.
What I disliked
- Although compatible with a touch screen, the thick and warm gloves can limit your dexterity, and ability to perform motor tasks.
- Finding the right size can be an issue.
- It is bulky making it difficult to store and carry around.
Best ski gloves ever Mittens – Black Diamond Mercury Mitts
Product Dimensions : 31.89 x 12.99 x 24.41 inches; 10.23 Ounces
Black Diamond is a popular choice amongst outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for durable, warm, and water-resistant hand protection. Their gloves provide protection in cold and wet weather conditions. This is a popular ski mitten designed for use throughout the year. Featuring BD dry waterproof insert along with Empel DWR on the shell. It has a removable insulated liner which comes filled with Prima loft Gold Cross core, and it dries quickly resulting in providing insulation even when it is wet.
It has got a four-way stretch fabric shell and a long gauntlet cuff which keeps spindrift and moisture at bay. The palm of the glove uses goat leather and an additional reinforcement layer to use on rocky terrain and to cope with the wear and tear for rugged use in the mountains.
What I liked
- On account of its high-loft fleece lining and PrimaLoft insulation the Mercury Black Diamond provides excellent insulation and warmth.
- Made of waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane, it keeps your hands dry even in wet conditions.
- It is made of abrasion-resistant material, and it can withstand outdoor conditions for a long time.
- It has a trigger finger slot, and the design allows you to have some control over your fingers.
What I disliked
- These gloves aren’t cheap, so they are not affordable for everyone.
- These mitts are bulky and might not fit in small spaces.
- After prolonged usage, users may experience sweaty palms and fingers.
- It is not properly compatible with the touchscreen.
Best ski gloves ever heated – SLNFXC Electric Heated Gloves
SLNFXC Electric Heated Gloves are a type of gloves designed to keep your hands warm in cold weather. It gets a built-in heating element that is powered by rechargeable batteries. These heated gloves come with a pair of 7.4 V 2800MAH rechargeable batteries. These gloves work for about 6.5 hours at the lowest setting, and they feature a safe and efficient lithium battery which ensures long-term operation for stable heating of the gloves. These gloves work well to keep your hands warm on cold days and winters. These electric gloves have an infrared fiber heating element and cover the back of the hand including all your fingers.
This helps in stimulating blood circulation and provides warmth in winter. These gloves have 3-way heating and you can adjust them based on the appropriate temperature. Once you press the power button, you can reach any level of temperature you like, and it has a built-in soft flannel and insulating cotton. The index fingers of these gloves get touch sensors so that you can use your gloves for better interaction with your smartphone.
What I liked
- The heating element in the gloves provides warmth in cold weather.
- The gloves have adjustable temperature settings and you can choose the level of warmth.
- These gloves have long battery life and can be worn for an extended period.
- It is water-resistant and can be worn in wet conditions.
What I disliked
- It is pricier compared to regular gloves.
- It is also bulkier than regular gloves and lacks dexterity.
- The battery is placed on the back which can be uncomfortable for certain people.
- The gloves provide heat only when it is charged.
Best heated mittens – Hestra Heated Mitten Liner
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H – 13.66 x 6.14 x 3.19 inches
Founded in 1936, HESTRA is committed to quality, function, and design. Hestra is a leader in offering high-quality gloves made with the best materials. These electric mittens keep you warm as it uses integrated heating elements that come embedded in the backhand. Featuring replaceable or rechargeable batteries to work as per your needs, it comes in three different settings and keeps your hands at the perfect temperature. It is made with 100% ripstop polyamide making it windproof and water resistant. It is advised to use a shell glove as a cover to stay protected from electric components.
What I liked
- These mittens offer generous warmth in cold conditions.
- The mitten liners are made with soft and comfortable materials.
- The liner is compatible with any outer mitten.
- These mittens are rechargeable which means they can be used without the batteries draining out.
- These mittens are built to last and are durable.
What I disliked
- This is pricey and might not fit everyone’s budget.
- The limited battery life of the mittens will require you to recharge the battery every 2-3 hours.
- It is bulky and might not be suitable for activities that require dexterity.
- The sizing is not precise.
- The liners aren’t waterproof, so they might not be suitable in wet conditions.
Best ski gloves ever 3-finger – Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove – Classic 3-Finger Snow Glove for Skiing
Product Dimensions : 15 x 4 x 2 inches; 8.8 Ounces
For over 80 years, Hestra has been developing gloves that provide warmth, protection, and dexterity. These 3-finger gloves use 70% leather and 30% synthetic materials. Designed for skiing, it offers the required function, fit, and durability. It is windproof and water resistant and it features breathable HESTRA Triton fabric on the backhand with durable Army Goat leather. These gloves can hold heat in wet conditions, and it is made from very thin polyester fabric.
Having an exceptionally high insulation capacity, and it has a soft and cozy lining that can be combined with other liners for improved adaptability. Featuring an elastic strap with a Velcro closure for improved accessibility, it gets a snow lock which keeps the cold out and the heat in. It has an Eagle Grip design which adapts to the natural curve of your hand, and it gives a closer and more comfortable grip.
What I liked
- It is designed to keep your hands warm in the coldest of conditions. The thick layer of insulation and a soft fleece lining traps heat inside the gloves.
- The 3-finger design offers more dexterity than traditional mittens.
- Made of high-quality leather, it is tough and durable and it can withstand wear and tear while skiing.
- The soft fleece lining and adjustable wrist strap gives a comfortable and secure fit.
What I disliked
- It is more expensive than other ski gloves.
- It is bulky making it difficult to perform certain tasks.
- It is available only in a few colors and might not appeal to all skiers.
Best for the backcountry – Dakine Phoenix Gore-tex Glove
Product Dimensions : 15 x 9 x 4 inches; 12.7 Ounces
Dakine is known to create trusted equipment for skiing. Founded in 1979, in Hawaii, they have products including – backpacks, travel bags, accessories, outerwear, and clothing. Designed for rugged usage, this glove is built for high performance and versatility. The palm is made of goat leather and the back of the hand is durable. Featuring a 4-way stretch shell that provides a lot of dexterity, it gets a waterproof-breathable GORE-TEX insert which features GORE active technology to regulate temperature and improve breathability. It has a removable performance liner which makes it usable for activities throughout the year.
What I liked
- Having a Gore-Tex membrane makes this glove resistant to water, and keeps you dry in wet and snowy conditions.
- It uses breathable fabric which allows moisture to escape, and prevents your hands from developing sweat.
- The leather palm and nylon shell make this glove incredibly durable.
- Featuring high-lof synthetic insulation provides warmth in cold temperatures.
- Pre-curved fingers and the soft fleece lining make the gloves comfortable to wear for long durations.
What I disliked
- It is a high-end glove that is pricier than regular gloves.
- The sizing isn’t precise.
- The glove is bulky which limits its dexterity.
- It is available in limited color options.
Best for Nordic skiing – Hestra Windstopper Tour Glove
Package Dimensions : 10.75 x 6.97 x 2.32 inches; 4.8 Ounces
This glove has a hook and loop closure and it is warm and stylish making it ideal for Nordic skiing. It is internally lined with GORE-TEX Infinium wind stopper micro check. Being windproof and breathable makes it ideal for winter sports, where you could sweat profusely.
The palms of this glove feature goat leather, and the backhand provides the required warmth without compromising on breathability. Since it has a micro check, it still protects your hand by providing warmth despite missing out on insulation. It also gets a pull strap with Velcro closure for easy access to the gloves.
What I liked
- It uses Windstopper fabric that keeps your hands warm and comfortable in windy conditions.
- The material used is breathable, and it prevents moisture build-up and regulates temperature.
- Constructed with high-quality materials like – leather makes these gloves are durable and long-lasting.
- These gloves offer decent grip making them suitable for skiing.
What I disliked
- The gloves don’t offer much protection from water or moisture.
- The gloves are not compatible with a touchscreen.
- It is on the bulkier side making it difficult to perform motor tasks.
- It is relatively pricier than other gloves on the market.
Factors determining best ski gloves ever –
Warmth –
The basic function of a ski glove is to keep your hands warm. While most brands promote their gloves to be warm, some may be warmer than others. A warm pair of ski gloves will keep away from the uncomfortable feeling of frozen fingers.
Gloves without insulation might not be able to provide warmth as much as those with insulation. Although gloves without insulation tend to be cheaper, at low temperatures, it is always better to opt for gloves with insulation. If gloves don’t fulfill your needed warmth and comfort levels, you can always try mittens or heated gloves as a warmer alternative.
Waterproof –
While skiing, wet hands tend to become cold. In conditions where there is snow having waterproof gloves is highly essential. Waterproof gloves come with a built-in membrane which is positioned between the shell and the liner. GORE-TEX is by far the most recognized in the context of waterproofness. It is wise to opt for gloves with GORE-TEX if your adventures are in wet conditions.
It is known that a high degree of waterproofness could compromise breathability. This is not necessarily an issue as our hands don’t overheat as much as other parts of the body. In case your hands tend to feel too warm and start sweating, having removable glove/mitten shells can provide improved breathability and dexterity.
Dexterity –
Having gloves which enable you to use your hands for using tools or operating your phone is helpful. Gloves with insulation or outer shells might not offer a high degree of dexterity. Those without insulation or removable outer shells tend to offer greater dexterity. Gloves with liners and touchscreen compatibility will not require you to remove your gloves to use necessary items.
Cuffs –
The style of the glove cuff also determines your overall experience while skiing. Those gloves with a long gauntlet cuff are bulky, but they are better for warmth in cold conditions. Shorter cuffs are not so bulky, but not as effective in colder climates.
Built –
Based on the construction and materials used, you can judge the durability of ski gloves. Gloves made of polyester or nylon and leather tend to last longer. Gloves made with materials like leather will require maintenance. Other materials like wool, fleece, and cotton also feature many ski gloves. It is best to use gloves that feature waterproof membranes and durable outer shells.
Skiing venue –
Depending on whether you are skiing at a resort, backcountry, or Nordic skiing, the type of gloves to be used will vary. In general, resort skiing requires warm and waterproof gloves. Nordic and backcountry skiing requires dedicated gloves which are mentioned in this blog post. For the backcountry, having gloves with removable outer shells is ideal as it helps prevent overheating and sweating. Longer cuffs are required in the backcountry to prevent the entry of snow into the gloves. As Nordic skiing tends to be at lower elevations, having nimble and lightweight gloves is sufficient.
Size –
There is no universal size in ski gloves. This means that the sizes will vary across different brands. Although sizing charts are available in different brands, there is no substitute to personally try ski gloves. It should not be tight or snug, there should be minimal space between your fingertips and the gloves, and there should not be a lot of resistance which can restrict hand movements.
In conclusion, the best ski gloves or mittens can help you from developing cold fingers while skiing. The gloves mentioned in this list cater to different requirements that you might face while skiing.
