Check out our Best Ski Gloves list for the upcoming 2023! We have tested over 15 brands and made a selection of hot models for the approaching season. Take a look at each pair and find the ones you find the most suitable for your activities in the snow.
Ski gloves need to have a firm grip, so we looked for the high functionality features, but we also kept the style and overall design in mind. Listed below are our top choices. If you need more info or some buying advice, you can find it below our list. So, dig in and find that perfect pair!
- The 5-finger design for the highest dexterity
- Elastic strap with Velcro
- Eagle Grip design
- GORE-TEX insert with Plus Warm Technology
- Goat leather palm and palm patch
- Foam padding on knuckles for impact protection
Top 11 Ski Gloves For Winter 2022/2023:
The Army Leather Heli Ski was designed for free-riders, professional mountain guides, ski instructors, and others who place high demands on function fit and durability
There is a windproof, water-resistant, and breathable HESTRA Triton fabric on the backhand.
Its soft and cozy lining is removable and can be combined with other liners for greater adaptability in varying conditions.
This glove features an elastic strap with Velcro closure for easy accessibility, a snow lock to keep the cold out and heat in, and an Eagle Grip design that follows your hand’s natural curve to give a closer, more comfortable grip.
These classic Hestra gloves were primarily made for Canadian weather conditions and their ski guides. In very cold and snowy circumstances, gloves need to be reliable to ensure warmth. Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski, therefore, is waterproof and has an amazing grip. The backhand consists of 3-layer polyamide material which makes it ideal for snow or icy rain. The leather is made of durable goat skin, and you can easily change the liners to adjust to different temperatures.
- waterproof and breathable
- durable goat leather
- holds warmth in wet conditions
- practical construction
- a bit pricey
What we liked the most about these gloves is the feel. They grip snuggly, but at the same time, allow lots of fine motor tasks, so we can say dexterity is their another great feature. A wrist strap is super helpful and the long collar with the snow lock makes sure the cold air does not get inside the gloves. We think that these gloves are super durable and if you prefer to rely on just one pair to wear every ski day, you can be sure these gloves will be the perfect choice for you.
100% waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX insert with Plus Warm Technology makes these gloves well insulated.
They offer an abrasion-resistant, woven nylon shell with a 4-way stretch. A removable liner features 170 g PrimaLoft Gold and boiled wool fleece palm lining.
Goat leather palm and palm patches are designed to keep your hands warm. Foam padding on knuckles are made for impact protection.
The first thing you should know about these gloves is that they preserve heat like hardly any other. They are created for some seriously cold weather conditions. If you feel like your hands are constantly cold, here is the perfect fit for you. The Black Diamond Gloves are super appropriate for artic lift rides. They are also strongly built and very durable. The stiffness of this model can be a bit too much for some skiers because it will take time to break them in.
- designed for cold weather (-29/-12 ºC)
- waterproof and windproof
- Gore-Tex insert
- removable liner
- durable
- no replacement liners are available
Although dexterity is not the top feature of these gloves, they make it up in the sense of being tough to tear. Gore-Tex insert used in Black Diamond Guide gloves makes them safe when it comes to water resistance. This water-resistant material scored pretty high on our lists and when we add removable liner and Velcro straps, it gives out a picture of pretty comfortable gloves (even though it might take a couple of days to get used to its robustness). One thing is for sure, they are bulky and robust. But after all, these gloves are intended for freezing mountain pursuits. Their innovative technology, design, and materials make them superior when it comes to really low temperatures (between -29ºCand -12ºC). Guide Gloves do not have Velcro fasteners, but their prolonged wrist cuff makes it even easier to pull them on and off.
Waterproof and windproof Gore-Tex offers protection against all the elements, while an exterior of durable stretch-woven fabric enhances breathability.
Goatskin reinforcements protect where you need them most, and textured palms ensure you don’t lose your grip on ski poles or snowmobile handlebars.
Megaloft synthetic insulation keeps you warm even when wet, while pockets on the back let you store hand warmers for extra warmth. Gore-Tex technology keeps water out of Gordini's gloves, while allowing moisture from the inside (perspiration) to easily escape, so your hands stay warm and dry.
This Gordini model is an excellent choice for resort skiers. You will not regret buying them, because they offer great insulation and warmth. They are more on the water-resistant side than totally waterproof, but the technology of the shell makes them super durable. The best thing is that they are budget-friendly and even if you are in for some more expensive gloves, you should give these a try since they do not lack additional features.
- made for winter’s worst conditions
- durable fabric
- pockets for hand warmers
- textured palm for a firm grip
- somewhat restrictive
They are also a bit bulky and stiff, but then again, they were made for colder weather. You can expect them to break in in about two weeks, but the flexibility is still going to be a bit of a challenge. The dexterity, or the lack of it, could be a reason to shy away, but keep in mind that the main feature of these Gordinis is to keep your hands warm and toasty. And that is exactly what they will do.
Shell 1: 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex; Shell 2: 92% Polyester, 8% Elastane;
Lining 1: 100% Polyester; Lining 2: 100% Nylon;
Built for repelling wicked weather the versatile, warm and waterproof Illuminator Sensor gloves are under cuff-style alpine climbing/ski gloves equipped with touch-screen compatible sensor technology, so you can snap a summit shot without exposing your hands to sub-zero temps.
The main features of this set are awesome dexterity and added freedom in movement. This is super handy because it reduces the times when you need to take them off to do some basic tasks. Thumb and index finger have the touch screen function (Sensor) which is more than needed. When it comes to warmth, our testers found it is reliable but is more designed for milder winter temperatures.
- excellent for fine motor tasks
- warm and comfortable
- touch screen function
- super flexible
- more suitable for moderate temperatures
The stitching construction gives these gloves extra flexibility. They do not use Gore-Tex, but Ventia waterproof insert which proved to be more than capable to keep our hands dry. We recommend these gloves for really wet conditions because they are pretty solid when it comes to waterproof features. You will not regret investing in these Outdoor Research gloves, since they are durable and great for both resort and backcountry.
Etip functionality works with touchscreen devices.
GORE-TEX insert technology provides maximum dexterity and waterproof, breathable protection.
5 Dimensional Fit ensures consistent sizing.
Radiametric Articulation keeps hands in their natural relaxed position.
Water-resistant synthetic leather provides a soft yet extremely durable palm.
The North Face Montana Etip gloves offer a waterproof feature with the Gore-Tex insert. They are breathable and an excellent choice for downhill skiing. These gloves are full-finger and screen-touch compatible, which makes them super functional. With the polyester high-pile fleece used for the lining that ensures warmth and comfort, these gloves are also good for snowboarding. They are insulated with 200g Heatseeker synthetic fibers on the backs of hands.
- Gore-Tex insert
- touch-screen compatible
- great for downhill skiing
- 5-Dimensional Fit technology
- too robust for everyday
What our crew liked the most about this model is the Radiametric Articulation™ with a 5-Dimensional Fit™ . North Face models are known for their fit, but this glove offered a great deal of flexibility and an amazing feel. The adjustable gauntlet and wrist strap are other features that make these gloves super user-friendly. This North Face model offers great insulation and good dexterity and they are also pretty durable.
Gloves with integrated Trigger Loop for maximum safety and comfort. The perfect combination with Trigger S poles!
Softshell is made of 92% Polyester and 8% Elastane.
The palm material consists of Silicone Nash (60% Nylon, 40% Polyurethane) and Premium Goatskin (100% Leather).
Extra features include a double gauntlet, heat pocket, Leki leash, and loose eXtended fit.
What is specific about these Detect gloves is that you get soft and high-quality leather on the palm and tips of the fingers. On the other hand, there is a Softshell body of the glove to keep it light and breathable. These gloves will preserve heat and keep your hands dry. It is a very warm, durable, and soft glove that is comfortable to wear. These are ideal gloves for men. Check out them if you need reliable everyday gloves for the slopes.
- pull on closure
- Soft-Tex waterproof membrane
- Primaloft insulation
- premium goatskin palm
- on the larger side
Leki Detect glove offers a Fiberfill (a variety of high-loft polyester fiberfill batting layers) and Polar Fleece Insulation which is improved with more volume compared to previous models. This is a soft insulating synthetic material that represents an amazing combo of durability and protection. Classic lines add to their trendy look and design. Skiers who look for high-quality gloves that will keep them warm in the mountains should put this model on their shopping list.
3M insulated thermal cotton and skin-friendly Thinsulate fleece lining will guarantee warmth when you stay outside skiing or snowboarding.
A waterproof TPU membrane is inserted in snowboarding gloves, which keeps your hands dry under snowy, sweaty, damp, or rainy conditions.
Designed for snowboarders of every level. Cevapro ski gloves are really flexible, meaning every movement feels natural and they have good thermal insulation, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, shoveling, outside working in cold weather.
Cevapro -40℉ Waterproof ski gloves are marketed for keeping your hands warm in extreme conditions when it is super cold. From our experience, these are best to use in moderate temperatures but overall they are pretty solid when it comes to their price range. One thing we would recommend is to use the wrist straps with more care, so they do not get damaged. They come at an affordable price and with great dexterity.
- firm grip
- touch-screen sensitive
- 3D curved fingers
- anti slip
- not the most durable model
The PU (polyurethane resin) leather enhances grip and the 3D curved fingers add flexibility and enable moves that feel more natural, which is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. This model is also touch screen sensitive with the fingertips coated with conductive fabric for easy texting, taking photos, and operating GPS, which comes in handy when up in the cold mountains. Multilayer fabric construction offers comfort and consists of a water-repellent composite outer shell, thermal cotton, breathable waterproof TPU membrane, 3M Thinsulate Insulation, and Thermal Fleece Lining.
Columbia proprietary technology provides air-permeable protection that's waterproof and breathable, keeping mother nature's elements out, at the same time allowing the inside to breathe, keeping you dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.
Inside the waterproof shell, these gloves are designed to provide maximum warmth with great dexterity. Enveloped in a multi-layered system of insulation, your hands will be toasty and dry.
Created to be comfortable, these winter gloves feature ultra-soft chamois touch tricot lining for great all-day wear.
This model is also touch-screen compatible which is one of the most desired features since it reduces the number of times when you need to take your gloves off. Next to this, there is a one-hand shock cord hem adjustment and the webbing strap adjustment on an elastic wrist. What came in handy was the nose wipe on the thumb (as funny as it sounds, this feature is super useful).
- well insulated
- Omni-Tech waterproof bladder
- 3-Point pre-curve design
- webbing strap adjustment
- smaller than expected
Keep your fingers toasty and dry throughout your ski day with these insulated waterproof ski gloves. The breathable layer of insulation makes these gloves comfortable, but they give the needed protection at the same time. With the Omni-Tech seam-sealed waterproof technology Columbia Las Track gloves are designed for winter sports. You should know that this model does not have a removable liner and the lining is made of Chamois touch tricot 100% polyester.
Made from cowhide leather.
Foam insulation and Bemberg polyester lining are created for warmth and quick drying.
This model features neoprene cuff, Velcro closure, carabiner, and Outseams.
These women's gloves are reliable for most ski days and keep the warmth in pretty decently. Protection from water is really high, but do not forget that they are made out of leather. If you take proper care of these gloves they will last longer and serve their purpose well. We have used leather conditioner 3 times per ski season and they completely kept their weather resistance. Maybe this extra maintenance seems like a lot of work, but it is really easy and not time consuming.
- superior pole grip
- durable
- great dexterity
- impregnated cowhide aniline
- leather maintenance
These gloves are well-constructed and are an ideal choice for skiers who want to wear only one pair of gloves through the winter. Hestra Leather Fall Line gloves are stylish and offer great comfort. From our experience, Hestra gloves are durable and can last for a couple of seasons (under the assumption you are an average skier). Our verdict is that these are the perfect choice for some moderate cold temperatures but overall, this model offers a good amount of cold protection and is comfortable to wear.
The well-known performance of Fortius™ 1.0 is mixed with Gore-Tex insert for full protection from wind and water.
The superior PrimaLoft® Silver and Gold Insulation combined with extra Octa® Loft insulation lining maximizes the feel and experience with these gloves.
The material for the palm is leather and these gloves get amazing results when it comes to waterproof features.
In our opinion, this is the warmest model from the Arc'teryx family. These are certainly one of the best gloves out there when it comes to capturing the warmth and keeping your hands dry and warm. To our surprise, insulation did not compromise the ability of Fission SV gloves to keep fingers moving and flexible. It is amazing how the heat was kept inside the glove on some really cold ski days with temperatures going below 25F.
- lightweight and breathable
- super warm
- waterproof and windproof
- incredibly comfortable and flexible
- expensive
These Fission SV Gloves are created and are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and alpine climbing. Our testers were impressed by the double layer of premium goat leather and the overall design of this super durable and waterproof model. They also allow lots of movement and fine motor tasks even though they are heavily insulated. You get both features with this glove, superior dexterity and excellent warmth. If you are preparing for some severe weather and cold resort skiing consider getting yourself a pair of Fission SV gloves.
Wicking lining and Gore-Tex insert will protect you from weather elements.
They are waterproof and windproof.
Features like wrist straps and gauntlet drawcord to keep the snow out are really handy when on the mountain.
Primaloft Gold insulation is incorporated to secure the warmth and durability of these gloves.
Marmot did not surprise us with this model. It is super warm for moderate winter conditions and ideal for almost all resort ski days. The dexterity of this glove is more than amazing, we had no trouble when unzipping the jackets or readjusting our goggles. It is super flexible and comfortable to wear and offers a natural grip to the ski pole. If you are looking for an everyday ski resort ski glove, look no further.
- high dexterity
- excellent construction ensures durability
- great for milder climates
- lightweight
- not the warmest model in their price range
The combination of keeping your hands warm and being able to move your fingers like you are wearing a glove without any liners makes wearing these gloves a breeze. They showed good results when we tested the waterproof protection, and the cuffs are large enough to prevent the snow getting inside your jacket. Reinforcements on the palm and the overall construction makes these gloves pretty durable even though their dexterity is set up high.
Buyers Guide: How To Choose Ski Gloves?
Let`s cut to the chase: Gloves matter! When preparing to spend a good amount of day in the mountains skiing, do not get distracted only by picking out good quality boots and jacket. Gloves are just as important. When your hands start freezing and feeling numb, you can call off your ski day. So take some time to explore your options and pick the pair that will keep your fingers toasty and dry. Do not let inappropriate ski gloves ruin your skiing adventure. We have created this guide to help you find the best gloves on the market. Here you can find info about the terms that are mentioned in the manufacturers description as well as some basic characteristics of a ski glove. These couple of paragraphs can really help you out especially if you are a novice when it comes to winter sports. So, come on, let us explore the world of the best ski gloves!
Ski Glove Features
Dexterity of Ski Gloves
You have probably read that some gloves are more dexterous than others. But what does it really mean? How important is this detail to you? You will find out that in some situations this could be of crucial matter. Dexterity per se represents a skill of using your hands to do something.
When talking about ski gloves this means the ability to perform tasks with your fingers like getting your goggles, taking the cell phone out of your jacket or adjusting your boots without having to take the gloves off. It is about how flexible and free you can be with your fingers while wearing gloves. This all sounds super convenient, but there is a catch. The more dexterous the glove is the chances are they will perform poorer when it comes to trapping the heat. Warmer gloves usually mean more insulation and robustness which can make them too hard to operate. You might feel your fingers are stiff and that it gets hard to do some simple tasks like zipping up your jacket. Important thing is to try to find the balance, and think about the conditions you are going to be skiing in. If the temperatures are going to be extremely low, then maybe you can lower your expectation when it comes to dexterity and go with gloves that will keep you warm. On the other hand, if you are going to ski in a milder climate, you can opt for a more dexterous model.
Insulation
When talking about the best ski glove when it comes to warmth, insulation is something that you cannot skip. In simple terms, you can describe ski gloves insulation as a material that keeps the heat locked in. Consider it thermal protection of your hands. There are different types of insulation and we will look at the most important ones:
- Wool and cotton - these are the natural fabrics that can be used as insulation layers. Wool is a solid insulator, but is not as breathable as some new synthetic options. Cotton is best to avoid, since when it gets wet it stays like that and quickly turns cold.
- Goose down - another natural fiber that is really good in preserving heat. The problem is that this type of insulation usually means less flexibility, so if you need to use your fingers a lot, choosing synthetic insulation might be the best deal.
- Lofty synthetic materials (Primaloft® for example). These fibers are as the name says - "lofty" and are similar to goose down insulation. The difference is that these are warm even when wet and are more breathable which makes them more comfortable. The dexterity is also an issue here, but they are slightly better than goose down.
- "Thin" synthetic fibers (to mention Breathefil™ or Thinsulate™). These insulators are great options for most of ski days because they offer flexibility and firm grip, but are still warm enough for regular winter days.
Liners
Ski glove liners are the material that gets directly into contact with your skin. This is the main factor when rating the comfort and overall feel of the glove. Liners can be sewn into the shell or they can be removable, so you can take them out if the temperatures rise. The first version is more present in the gloves on the low-end but there are plenty of pros for the sewn-in liners. To name a few, the liner cannot get lost, it is always in the same position as the first day, if your hands are clammy it is much easier to take ski gloves off, etc. Removable liners can increase warmth because of the "layer effect" and breathability. You can take them out of the shell, so the whole glove can dry faster and this liner can always be replaced. Potential issues with removable liners are the setting of the liner inside of a ski glove so it fits correctly and they can decrease dexterity.
Cuffs
Ski glove cuffs come in two variations- a long ski glove cuff and a short (regular) one.
Long cuff gloves extend past the wrist, providing extra coverage and protection from the elements.
Short cuff gloves stop at the wrist, allowing for greater dexterity and range of motion. The long cuff goes completely over your jacket's sleeve and is ideal for deep snow. The short cuff goes under your jacket sleeve and offers greater wrist mobility. Glove with a longer cuff is usually easier to put on and off, because the short cuff gets tucked in the jacket sleeve which can make it harder to take the gloves off if your hands get sweaty. The long cuff glove is also another name for gauntlet - style glove.
Gore-Tex and Ski Gloves
Gore-Tex is becoming more and more recognized as the important best glove feature. Gore-Tex is not an insulator, but a membrane that keeps the water and wind away from your hands. Although these are desired features, sometimes the membrane can make it worse. It is excellent in protecting the skin from the weather elements, but since it is a moisture barrier it means that ski gloves are less breathable compared to ski gloves that do not have this membrane. This can be an issue if your hands get sweaty and the temperatures hit hard below zero.
Are Heated Ski Gloves The Warmest?
Maybe you have heard it from a friend or learned from experience, but the odds are that you already know that the cold winter conditions affect the dexterity of the fingers more than the hands` dexterity. Because hands lose heat pretty quickly, it is important to protect them by wearing gloves. This way, you can reduce the chance of frostbites and potential injuries. The warmest ski gloves are usually too rigid for everyday use. This is when heated gloves come to the scene. Heated gloves are less robust than traditional gloves, but they provide an extra level of warmth on cold days. Heated ski gloves have built-in heating elements that use battery power to generate heat, so you can stay comfortable even when the temperature drops. Heated ski gloves are a great option for skiers who want to extend their season into the colder months, or for anyone who wants a little extra warmth on the slopes. Heated gloves also feature a water-resistant and windproof exterior to keep your hands dry and protected from the elements. With a comfortable fit and a variety of sizes to choose from, heated gloves are a great choice for any skier or snowboarder.
How About Leather Ski Gloves?
Leather is one of the most wanted and preferred materials, especially when we talk about the palm of the glove. Deerskin, goatskin, pigskin and cowhide are the most used for leather ski gloves. Leather ski gloves can be a solid option to protect your hands from cold, but we must warn you to be careful when choosing this type of gloves. Leather as it is, can be highly water-proof but then these gloves will be super stiff and not a good option. If they are soft and dexterity is satisfying, then the water-proof abilities are decreasing. It is important to find a balance between these too, which is not easy.
Another thing to think about is the maintenance of the leather ski gloves. It is not a deal-breaker, but prepare to take proper care of them and use wax or leather conditioners a couple of times in a season. Best ski gloves are usually made of a mixture of different materials while only parts of them are made of leather (commonly the palm section).
Style And Design Of a Ski Glove
How important is the design when determining the best ski gloves qualities? In our professional opinion, the design is very important when we talk about the construction of the glove, the materials used and the way they are designed to fit and ensure a secure grip. When it comes to style, you can usually choose between a short and long cuff glove. Another thing when it comes to style is choosing whether you prefer wearing mitts or gloves.
Taking Care Of Your Gloves
Taking care of your ski gloves is important because in this way you prolong their life and keep them in good condition. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your ski gloves:
- Store gloves in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Avoid exposing ski gloves to direct sunlight or heat sources.
- If they get wet, let them air dry completely before storing them again.
- Periodically check for signs of wear and tear, and repair or replace gloves as needed.
- Follow the safety instructions for leather parts.
Conclusion
We hope we have answered all of your questions when it comes to choosing the best ski gloves. This guide was made with one thought in mind - Making it easier for you to make a decision, but to also be aware of the basic features and terms so you can pick the best glove that will satisfy your needs. There are so many models out there, so please refer to our list of best ski gloves for 2023 if you are uncertain about where to start. We are sure you will like the models we have picked!
FAQs
Insulation is commonly measured in grams. For your gloves on a typical winter day a 100grams would be ideal. If you go to some severe winter temperatures, then consider finding ski gloves that have a bit more than 100 grams.
Gloves are probably one of the most important parts of ski gear for a few reasons. First, they keep your hands warm in cold weather. Second, they provide a layer of protection from the elements, including wind and snow. Third, they help you grip your ski poles. Fourth, they can add a bit of style to your outfit. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing gloves. First, make sure they are waterproof. Second, choose gloves that are sized correctly. Third, consider gloves with insulation for extra warmth. Fourth, look for gloves with a good grip. When it comes to ski gear, gloves are an important piece of the puzzle.
Ski gloves are designed to keep your hands warm and dry while you're out on the slopes. They're usually made from waterproof and breathable materials, with insulation to keep your hands from getting too cold. Not only do they keep your hands warm, but they also provide much-needed grip and dexterity. When choosing a pair of gloves, make sure they fit snugly and are comfortable.
There are many different types of gloves available on the market, but not all of them are well-suited for winter activities. If you're looking for gloves that will keep your hands warm during winter activities, you'll want to look for gloves made of materials like wool or cashmere. Another important consideration is the fit of the gloves. Look for gloves that are made of insulated materials, such as wool or down. You'll also want to make sure the gloves are waterproof, as this will help keep your hands dry and warm.
The Best Ski Gloves Are…
Our editors tried and tested numerous gloves and gathered their experience to decide which ski glove is the best. Though all the gloves listed above are trending and have their super features and designs we have all agreed that the Hestra Army Leather Heli gloves should win the first prize. First of all, the style and look of these gloves is something you cannot miss. They are modern and manly, look stylish and are highly functional. The main reason you need your gloves for is to keep your hands warm and dry while skiing in the cold winter weather. These gloves will satisfy this most important need, but with their additional features they just grab the attention and superiority when compared to other ski gloves.
The Army Leather Heli Ski was designed for free-riders, professional mountain guides and patrollers, ski instructors, and others who place high demands on function fit and durability
Its soft and cozy lining is removable and can be combined with other liners for greater adaptability in varying conditions
This glove features an elastic strap with Velcro closure for easy accessibility, a snow lock to keep the cold out and heat in, and an Eagle Grip design that follows your hand’s natural curve to give a closer, more comfortable grip
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Anna Kos
Snow Gear Product Guru
Anna has been shredding the pow globally from Whistler to Niseko, even hitting the southern Alps in New Zealand. She has been a snowboarder for over 10 years and writes about it from 2017. She is a gear enthusiast, always on a look out for the new equipment to test and try, whether it is a snowboard or ski gear. Anna shares her knowledge as one of our top gear guru's.