A good pair of winter gloves can make all the difference for all-season running, cycling, hiking, and snowplay. When cold weather gets serious, your hands often feel it first. The best winter gloves keep you warm, dry, and capable-whether you’re running, hiking, cycling, or digging out a truck in a snowstorm. A good pair is lightweight, weather-ready, and still gives you the dexterity to keep moving.
Finding the right ski gloves can significantly enhance your experience on the slopes. Whether you're carving down a mountain or enjoying a leisurely snowshoeing trip, having reliable handwear is essential. We've tested some of the top models on the market to help you make an informed decision.
To find the best ski gloves and mitts available, we dug deep into the market. After extensive research into high-quality, popular gloves, we selected the most intriguing models and sent them to our expert testers. We thoroughly used and evaluated each pair and scored them against key performance metrics. We tested warmth by riding chairlifts and skiing in the Cascades, Alps, Wasatch, British Columbia, Jackson Hole, and the Northeast US, as well as working in the field with avalanche forecasting teams. We tested dexterity by buckling our boots, writing notes, tying our boot laces, and unlocking car doors while wearing gloves. We tested water resistance by dunking the gloves in a bucket of water for two minutes and comparing the results.
Our evaluation focused on key performance factors: weather resistance (windproof, waterproof, or wind-blocking), insulation without bulk, dexterity and touchscreen compatibility, and overall fit and durability. We also judged value-how much glove you get for your money-and separated specialty gloves (for running or cycling) from all-purpose models.
Key Features to Consider
As consumers, we have high expectations of our gloves, and there is a lot to consider before buying. First off, know that all of the gloves featured in this review are great products that already stand above the vast majority of the market offerings. A low score in our review doesn't mean that the glove is unworthy of your attention. We had to be picky to find the best of the best. Every skier has a budget, and although...
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- Warmth: Essential for cold days on the slopes. Look for gloves with ample insulation.
- Dexterity: The ability to perform tasks like adjusting gear without removing the gloves.
- Water Resistance: Crucial for keeping hands dry in wet conditions.
- Construction Quality: Determines how well the gloves will hold up over time.
- Features: Additional elements like wrist leashes and touchscreen compatibility can enhance usability.
Top Picks for Unisex Ski Gloves
Arc'teryx Fission SV Glove
If we could only have one glove for hitting the slopes, the Arc'teryx Fission SV would be it. This is the all-around highest-performing glove we tested. Other gloves might be better for specific tasks, but nothing performs as well overall. This glove particularly excels in weather resistance, dexterity, and durability. We found it to be the most stormproof glove on the market, thanks to its Gore-Tex membrane and water-resistant materials. The fingers are packed with toasty insulation, yet they remain the most dexterous gloves that offer this level of warmth.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 8.0 |
| Dexterity | 8.0 |
| Water Resistance | 9.0 |
| Construction Quality | 8.0 |
| Features | 5.0 |
Pros:
- Fantastic weather resistance
- Excellent dexterity and comfort
- Can take a beating
Cons:
- Expensive
- No wrist cinch
Our lead tester used this glove for about 150 days before the leather on the fingers and palm started to wear out, which is excellent compared to other models on the market that tend to fall apart more quickly. It lacks an adjustable wrist cinch strap and offers only an internal elastic wrist strap to keep the glove tight on the hand. Our testers also found that this glove runs a bit large, so unless you plan to wear a thin liner underneath, we recommend sizing down from your regular glove size.
These gloves are an excellent choice for most skiers and riders demanding the utmost weather resistance and dexterity. They are also perfect for snowshoeing and cold urban travel. They weren't the absolute warmest gloves we tested, though, so if that's your main priority, check out the Outdoor Research Prevail Heated Gore-Tex Gloves. We tested the dexterity of the Fission SV in cold temps while getting ready and then took them to the resorts and backcountry.
Black Diamond Mercury Mitt
The Black Diamond Mercury Mitt is the best overall mitten in our test group. Users who prefer mittens generally do so for their improved warmth compared to ski gloves, and these are the warmest mittens on the market thanks to their insulated liners, fleece lining, and roomy hand cavity where fingers can share warmth. They are also effective at sealing out liquid water, thanks to a waterproof membrane and large gauntlets. The construction is solid as well, promising a long life. We also like the additional features, like the hanging loop for quicker drying and the comfortable nose wipe patch on the thumb.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 9.0 |
| Dexterity | 2.0 |
| Water Resistance | 8.5 |
| Construction Quality | 8.0 |
| Features | 7.0 |
Pros:
- Extremely warm
- Bomber durability
- High weather resistance
- Relatively affordable
- Includes an insulated liner
Cons:
- Low dexterity
- No included wrist leash
Like all mittens, the Mercury Mitts don't let you use your individual fingers. Not only that, but our tests found they have the worst dexterity out of all our contenders (even other mittens). Dexterity may take a back seat when warmth is the primary concern, but these mitts are hard to use even for the most basic tasks, like zipping up a jacket or buckling boots. One tester said, “I have to take these mittens off to do literally anything with my fingers.” They lack a wrist leash, increasing the odds of losing them when removed.
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The Black Diamond Guide is a thick glove that is almost as warm as this mitten but offers a touch more dexterity. With all that in mind, most people seek mittens because gloves are too cold.
Black Diamond Mercury Mitts Review
Gordini GTX Storm Trooper II
In the outdoor industry, products tend to come and go as materials improve and designs evolve, but the Gordini GTX Storm has been around for a long time, and we hope it stays that way. Our testers are continually impressed by how well this glove can hang with the high-end competition while costing significantly less. Our field tests proved the Storm Trooper is more than capable of meeting the needs of the average resort skier. It's warm enough for the average cold day on the slopes and does a decent job of keeping moisture out. It has reasonable dexterity and enough leather on the hand to provide good durability.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 5.0 |
| Dexterity | 5.0 |
| Water Resistance | 6.0 |
| Construction Quality | 7.0 |
| Features | 6.0 |
Pros:
- Warm enough
- Versatile
- Bomber construction
- Inexpensive
- Good weather resistance
Cons:
- Tight fit around the knuckles
- Lackluster dexterity
We found these gloves warm enough for most days at the ski resort during our testing, but they can't compare to other well-insulated or heated models like the Outdoor Research Prevail. The Gordini GTX Storm features insulation around the fingertips, which impairs dexterity and rules out general tasks that require fine motor skills, such as opening small zippers or searching pockets.
Still, given its affordable price, we can forgive these minor drawbacks and recommend the Storm Trooper II to anyone needing high-performance gloves at a bargain price.
The North Face Montana Ski Mitts
If you're looking for a toasty, comfortable pair of mitts that fits into a tighter budget, The North Face Montana Ski Mitts is an affordable option worth considering. They score only slightly lower than the Black Diamond Mercury Mitt, but are half the price. The lofty synthetic insulation and fleece lining combine to deliver impressive comfort and plenty of warmth on uber-cold days.
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| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 8.0 |
| Dexterity | 2.0 |
| Water Resistance | 7.0 |
| Construction Quality | 7.0 |
| Features | 8.0 |
Pros:
- Very warm
- Affordable
- Super comfortable
The nylon shell fabric is coated with a durable water-repellent (DWR), and these mitts feature a DryVent waterproof membrane that keeps moisture out. The last physical barrier against the elements is a gauntlet cuff that can be cinched closed around your jacket. They also come loaded with convenient, user-friendly features, including a soft nose wipe, elastic wrist leashes, a wrist cinch strap, and a touchscreen-compatible thumb material.
Users will likely have to remove them for practically any task requiring fine motor skills due to their design and relative bulk. However, most people who want the warmth and comfort of a mitten are aware of this issue and willing to accept the trade-off in dexterity for happy hands. If the lack of dexterity is a dealbreaker, but you like the looks and specs of this mitten, The North Face also has the Montana Ski Gloves we recommend.
Outdoor Research Prevail Heated Gore-Tex Gloves
The Outdoor Research Prevail Heated Gore-Tex delivers performance across every metric we test, except dexterity. It has three battery-powered warmth settings to keep you warm all day on the slopes and plenty of insulation to keep you toasty if the batteries die. It has excellent construction that protects your investment, and the gloves effectively seal out unwanted water and snow from the outside. We saw the tightly sewn seams and the Gore-Tex lining do their jobs, keeping almost all moisture out during our dunk test.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 10.0 |
| Dexterity | 3.0 |
| Water Resistance | 8.0 |
| Construction Quality | 8.0 |
| Features | 9.0 |
Pros:
- Battery-powered warmth
- Durable and well-built
- Great weather resistance
- Surprisingly Dexterous
Due to the amount of insulation, the Prevail Heated Gore-Tex isn't very dexterous or sensitive in the fingers. As one might expect, adding batteries and heating elements to a pair of gloves comes with a cost, and these gloves will put a dent in your wallet. Check out the Black Diamond Guide for the warmest option that doesn't require recharging and won't break the bank. On the other hand, when looking at the big picture, the OR Prevail gloves are less expensive than some others we have tested, and we feel they perform better.
Savior Heat Rechargeable Gloves
The Savior Heat Rechargeable is one of the most affordable heated gloves on the market, and it performs decently well in other regards, making it a good choice for users with cold hands and tight budgets. The heating element works well, providing gentle warmth on the lowest setting and scorching heat on the highest. As with most electrically heated gloves, the impressive warming ability is the main draw, but the Savior's collection of useful features sets it apart from other budget models.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 9.0 |
| Dexterity | 5.0 |
| Water Resistance | 2.0 |
| Construction Quality | 6.0 |
| Features | 8.0 |
Pros:
- Great Value
- Three warm heat settings
- Good battery life
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Not waterproof at all
- Poor dexterity
- Unknown materials
During testing, the main issue we encountered with the Savior Heat Rechargeable was the lack of weather resistance. In our submersion test, these gloves were waterlogged in less than 2 minutes, indicating they aren't waterproof at all. The fingers didn't have enough dexterity to get our keys out of our pockets, but we were at least able to zip our jackets and buckle our ski boots.
Black Diamond Tour Gloves
The Black Diamond Tour is a backcountry-specific glove with minimal insulation and a light feature set. It's perfect for skinning, bootpacking, and ski descents in warmer conditions, but it doesn't pack enough punch for most resort skiing. It has a soft fleece lining and a proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane, both of which our testers found effective enough for staving off backcountry cold, where your body heat is enough to keep your hands warm and dry.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Warmth | 3.0 |
| Dexterity | 10.0 |
| Water Resistance | 5.0 |
| Construction Quality | 7.0 |
| Features | 4.0 |
Pros:
- Excellent dexterity
- Soft, comfortable leather
- Surprisingly durable
- Good warmth for active use
Cons:
- Not super waterproof
- Light on features
Compared to other options we tested that offer extensive feature sets, these gloves are pretty minimal, with only a nose wipe and a keeper clip. That might not seem like much, but to be honest, we found these are the only features we really need in the backcountry, and we appreciate saving on weight.