The Best Ski Gloves 2022 [Review and Buying Guide]

Updated May 4, 2023
Photo by Steve Johnston

Ski gloves have recently gotten techier, have improved quality, warmth, comfort, durability, and dexterity. Our goal when selecting our favorite pair was to find the best ski gloves that would not only satisfy a hardcore skier but last a beginner or casual rider many years into the future. That being said, we weren’t looking for a glove that maximized one attribute better than others, but rather maximized all of the following attributes as much as possible.

The Best Ski Gloves 2022 – Factors considered

Warmth

Warmth primarily comes from a few things: the type of insulation, the amount of insulation, the number of layers, and breathable membranes (these are pores that are small enough to not let water enter, but large enough to let your sweat escape and your hand breath).

Flexibility/Dexterity

The optimal glove should be easy to play with your jacket, goggles, text your mom, grip your poles, feel no resistance when grabbing, etc. without completely sacrificing warmth.

Construction

-Cuff: Under the Cuff vs. Over the Cuff, more of a personal preference although the advantages of under the cuff are easy wrist movements, while over the cuff is less chance of snow coming in.
-Materials: Leather vs. Synthetic, leather is traditionally a “better” choice, although new high-end synthetic materials are giving it a run for its money.
-Seamlessness: Who likes a bunch of crap flying everywhere and a glove that just plain looks bad?
-Strap: hopefully not annoying.

Water Proofs

This is obvious and has to do with the materials and construction.

Durability

They should last you for a couple of years without too much tear and wear.

Cool Features

Wipers, looks, tech (like heated gloves), or any other cool feature.

Price

As in anything, price is a factor. Our goal was to stick under the $250 price point, although there are some awesome gloves above that.

Conclusion

It was really hard to narrow down a selection of the best ski gloves out of the hundreds if not thousands of contenders. First, since this is the best gloves list picks, we pretty much ruled out pipe gloves, mittens, $200+ gloves, and incredibly bulky gloves.

After initially screening user reviews on retailers as well as other credible review websites such as Outdoor Research Lab, we came up with a list of ten contenders from brands including Outdoor Research, Burton, Dakine, Haestra, Arc’teryx, and Black Diamond. Upon doing so we analyzed all of the attributes above, weighing the costs and benefits of each, which eventually led us to our best ski gloves list:

1. Hestra Heli Glove

For decades, ski pros all across the world have trusted Swedish company Hestra, and the Heli is our favorite. The hybrid leather and synthetic structure of this comfortable and highly effective ski glove have been around for years, yet it remains the best in class. The Heli’s excellent build quality, warmth, and comfort all stand out at a price that’s less than half of what other high-end ski gloves cost. As a result, we believe the Heli is the ideal companion for staying warm on the mountain.

The Heli, like practically all Hestra goods, uses a lot of leather in its manufacture. The glove bends well and is extremely durable, but you’ll need to reapply a leather conditioner to the palm and fingers every now and then to keep moisture at bay (a tiny sample of Hestra’s Leather Balm is supplied). Some people prefer a glove with a nylon shell for improved waterproofing, but we think the effort is well worth it—even for skiing in the wet snow of the Pacific Northwest. This iconic glove has spawned several versions, including a mitten for extra warmth and a three-finger glove that bridges the gap.

Cuff style: Gauntlet
Shell: Polyamide/goat leather
Insulation: Polyester fill

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

2. BURTON Gore-Tex Gloves Men’s

The Burton Gore-Tex is an excellent option for resort skiers who don’t want to spend a lot of money on gloves. This ski glove offers everything you need to be dry and comfortable: it’s warm (with a zipped pocket for slipping in a hand warmer), it’s sturdy, and it features a strap around the back of the hand for altering the fit. Burton also includes removable thin liners that can be used as a hiking or jogging glove during the shoulder seasons.

What do you give up by opting for a less expensive glove? For one thing, many of the other alternatives are warmer, and the Burton Gore-Tex can’t compete in terms of mobility. While the inclusion of a liner glove is a nice touch, it doesn’t fit as well into the shell as expensive options.

The downsides are that the gauntlet closure is prone to loosening, and the palm material feels cheap and doesn’t grip as well as leather.

Cuff style: Gauntlet
Shell: Nylon/leather
Insulation: Thermacore synthetic

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

3. Outdoor Research Capstone Heated Sensor

The Outdoor Research Capstone Heated Sensor ski glove has the best weather resistance and internal heating of any sensor on the market. These gloves are big and hefty to the point of being obnoxious. Each glove is a genuine oven with two hefty batteries per hand.

Despite their hefty size and form, the fingers are surprisingly nimble, with touchscreen-compatible leather on the thumbs for manipulating larger buttons. They’re fairly sturdy, however, their long-term battery life isn’t particularly spectacular.

These are special gloves for the coldest climates on the planet, and they’ll be overkill for most ski days. You might be able to afford the hefty price if you live and shred in the harshest areas or wish to utilize these for additional cold-weather purposes.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

4. Gordini GTX Storm Trooper II

Ski gloves come and go, but the Gordini GTX Storm Trooper II has lasted a long time, and we hope it continues to do so. Our testers are consistently impressed by how effectively this glove can keep up with the big dogs while costing a fraction of the price.

The average resort skier will find this glove to be more than adequate. It features a lot of leather for the price, ensuring that it will last for several ski seasons. It’s also quite water-resistant; we never had chilly or damp hands when wearing these gloves.

While these gloves are adequate for most days at the ski resort, they pale in comparison to other types that are well insulated or heated. They wrap insulation around the fingertips, reducing dexterity for general jobs and eliminating fine motor abilities like opening small zippers or checking pockets for goods.

For skiers who want more refined dexterity, such as on-snow professionals or parents, we propose a more dexterous glove. Nonetheless, these flaws are small in comparison to the price, and we would suggest these gloves to anyone looking for high-performance gloves at a low price.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

5. : Dakine Women’s Excursion Gore-Tex Short

With this new Gore-Tex glove for women, Dakine turns up the heat. The warm Excursion has PrimaLoft Gold insulation, a wool blend lining, and Gore Active technology for increased breathability, making it ideal for hard-charging ladies who still struggle to keep their fingers warm. A mitten version is also available.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

6. Dakine Titan Gore-Tex Snow Gloves

In these waterproof gloves from Dakine, you can play in the slush. They’re waterproof and come with a pair of liner gloves to use with your touchscreen device. A compartment for a warming pack, nose-wipe thumb panels, and a retractable elastic wrist leash are among the additional features.

Key Specs
• Shell Material: Recycled polyester and polyester melange
• Insulation: High-loft synthetic
• Cuff Style: Over the cuff

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

7. Black Diamond Guide

The Guide glove from Black Diamond is renowned among extreme skiers for its exceptional warmth and durability. It’s near the top of this list in terms of hand protection, and unlike the Hestra Helis, it’s entirely waterproof thanks to a Gore-Tex lining. Black Diamond employs both PrimaLoft synthetic and thick boiled wool in the removable lining for insulation inside its extremely robust outer. The Guide is difficult to beat if your hands are always cold or if you ski in sub-zero temperatures.

The only downside is that even after a few years of steady use, they still lack the flexibility that the Hestra Helis, which are comparably warm, provide right out of the box (one downside of the Gore-Tex liner). But it’s a trade-off that many people are ready to make, and the Guide is one of the most popular ski gloves on the market.

Specs
Cuff style: Gauntlet
Shell: Nylon/leather
Insulation: PrimaLoft One synthetic, wool

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

8. ORORO Heated Gloves

The Ororo Heated Gloves is another top choice of the best ski gloves. Easy to put on and take off, with a comfortable fit. In harsh conditions, these gloves can be tightened to provide maximum insulation. Both inner liners and outer shells are touchscreen compatible. You can use your smartphone without taking your gloves off.

Water-resistant exterior offers all-around protection when working in wet conditions while the reinforced non-slip palm provides the best durability and a better grip.

They also have a mini battery pocket to enjoy unrestricted comfort and free movement while the heating level can be adjusted by simply pressing the power button. They heat quickly in seconds with 7.4V lithium-ion batteries that last up to 8 hours.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

9. Dr.Warm Heated Gloves

Another top choice of the best ski gloves is the Dr.Warm Heated Gloves. Warm and lightweight 3M Thinsulate is used to insulate these rechargeable heated gloves. “Warmth without the bulk,” as it was first described. Insulation made of Thinsulate retains and holds body heat and does not absorb water. When skiing, snowboarding, winter riding, trekking, and other snowsports they make sure to keep your hands warm.

These heated gloves include a pair of 7.4V 2600MAH rechargeable lithium polymer batteries. Heating lasts up to 2-7 hours and a full charge needs around 3-4 hours. It has 3 heat setting controllers to adjust the temperature easily.

Dr.warm G22+ heated glove has a larger heating surface with far infrared fiber heating elements that cover the entire back of the hand and fingers all the way to the fingertips. It can help persons with Raynaud’s, Arthritis, Poor Circulation, and Stiff Joints by stimulating their hand blood circulation.

Its FAN-TEX waterproof layer effectively protects your palms from cold wind and water, keeping them dry during outdoor activities like cycling, running, climbing, and camping in the rain and snow. The outside can’t get in, and the inside can’t get out, ensuring true windproof, waterproof, heat absorption, and warmth.

Dr.Warm heated gloves with silicone palm printing improve friction and abrasion resistance, prevent items from slipping, and provide a better user experience. The thumb and index finger are made of conductive material, allowing you to operate any touch screen device, such as a phone or tablet without removing your gloves.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

10. Outdoor Research Magnate Gloves

These gloves have the perfect blend of everything you need and do so in a seamless and great-looking moto-style inspired fashion. They are single-layer glove that usually sacrifices warmth to an extent, but in the case of the Magnate Gloves, there isn’t too much of a sacrifice.

The PrimaLoft insulation combined with the full Gore-tex membrane insert that goes beyond what many other gloves do maintains weatherproof warmth and gives your hands all the breathability they need.

The interior has an awesome grip with reinforced and tactical leather, and the dexterity of the gloves is good enough to feel in complete control of your hands. Getting them on and off is super easy with the pull loop, and the velcro cuff around the under-the-cuff base holds tight blocking out the snow.

In terms of price, we would consider these right in the middle of the upper-quality gloves at about $130 retail value, and they hold their own even when compared to the two hundred plus range.

If you’re a skier looking that isn’t planning on going to the arctic, but rather in ‘normal’ cold mountain conditions, and don’t want to sacrifice warmth or durability or comfort or looks or dexterity, look no further.

Best Ski Gloves Buying Guide

How to choose the right type of Ski Gloves

The best glove for you depends on how chilly it will be outside and what you’ll be doing with it. There are three different types of gloves to consider when searching for ski gloves.

Mittens

Four of your fingers can share heat within the main pocket of mittens. Although the ability to retain heat is beneficial, picking up objects or unzipping garments mid-adventure while wearing mittens can be difficult. If you’re a snowboarder (it’s still easy to strap on bindings) or do other activities that require less dexterity, this style will suffice.

Finger Gloves

Standard gloves are known for increasing flexibility and dexterity by separating your fingers. This glove is ideal for skiers who need to grip their poles or for other sports that need the use of their fingertips. If you get cold easily, keep in mind that these gloves don’t retain heat as well as mittens.

Trigger Mittens

These hybrid gloves, sometimes known as lobster claw mittens, combine the warmth of a mitten with the dexterity of a finger glove. This glove is suitable for a wide range of activities, but it is less common and sometimes more expensive due to its recent return in popularity.

Glove Materials: Leather vs. Synthetic

Synthetic and leather are the two most common materials used to make ski gloves and mittens. Many gloves, as you can see from the best ski gloves list above, use both materials to play to their respective strengths, so it isn’t necessarily a question of exclusivity. Knowing what each material is excellent for might help you pick the perfect glove.

Leather

Leather ski gloves are long-lasting, incredibly comfortable, and sometimes less expensive than synthetics. They have a considerably more natural feel and are usually more flexible and dexterous than a comparable synthetic, from premium Hestra’s to affordable options like the Flylow Gear Ridge. The most significant disadvantage is the lack of moisture protection. Water-resistant leather, specially treated leather, can survive light to moderate moisture. However, in damp situations, they will eventually soak through. Try Sno-Seal or a similar wax waterproofing solution to keep dry and extend the life of your leather ski gloves.

Synthetic (Nylon or Polyester)

Although synthetic leather (Nylon and Polyester) has made a comeback, the majority of ski gloves still have a synthetic shell. Tough but pliable nylon shells protect against snow, wind, and cold in the mid-range. Cheaper synthetic gloves often have a stiffer polyester shell that is less resistant to moisture and can feel bulky. A watertight insert is frequently used between the outer and the insulation in both types of shells. Although leather has its merits, synthetic gloves provide the best waterproofing. Many synthetic gloves have leather or synthetic leather on the palm and fingers for grip and dexterity, giving them the best of both worlds.

Warmth

If you have cold fingers, or if you live in a cold climate like the Northeast, you’ve found ski glove purchasing to be a challenge. When the temperature drops below roughly 20°F, most ski gloves under $100 aren’t warm enough to keep you comfortable on the chairlift. Finally, I’ve discovered that more expensive gloves, provide the warmth I require. If you run warm or ski in mild bluebird conditions, a less insulated glove can save you money.

Gloves are insulated in a variety of ways, ranging from fleece to synthetic fill, making it difficult to predict how warm a glove would be without first trying it on. The weight of the synthetic (in grams), as well as the quality, are two indicators. PrimaLoft is the industry leader in lofty warmth, and it’s found on a lot of high-end gloves.

We turn to mittens for absolute warmth, which heats up more efficiently by squeezing your fingertips against one another. Some skiers may miss the control that comes from grasping the ski pole with each finger, but the tradeoff may be worthwhile.

Heated Gloves

Otherwise, you can use Heated Gloves that you can charge and can heat your fingers to 149℉ with rechargeable batteries. They are more expensive than traditional gloves thanks to their added technology and material used.

Waterproofness

Waterproofness is the second key part that may make or break your days on the slopes, after warmth. Not only must your glove keep snow out, but it must also allow perspiration to escape from the inside.

In a waterproof construction, a membrane or insert sits between the shell material and the insulation. On the market, Gore-Tex delivers the best combination of waterproofing and breathability. Non-Gore-Tex inserts with various names (BDry, C-Zone, Dryride, MemBrain, etc.) and degrees of efficacy are commonly used in less expensive gloves.

Keep in mind that if you go for a less expensive ski glove in the $50 range, you can expect decent waterproofing, but it won’t last as long or as well on extremely rainy days. For those who only ski at the resort on occasion, entry-level gloves may suffice, but serious skiers will need a serious glove to keep comfortable throughout the day.

Some gloves are only water-resistant and don’t have the Gore-Tex liner, which can be useful in dry locations like Colorado and Utah or if breathability is a requirement. The shell is usually coated with a DWR finish and a water-resistant coating to shed snow. For most weekend warriors, fully waterproof construction is the safest bet.

Dexterity

Warmth and dexterity go hand in hand in general. For chores like unbuckling a ski boot or grabbing your phone, a thickly insulated glove is heavier and more difficult to use. Furthermore, dexterity corresponds with style: gloves are much more dexterous than mittens, with 3-finger mitts bridging the gap. The level of R&D is a final consideration—high-end gloves and mitts are better fitted to fit a hand and have a pre-curved shape for a more natural feel.

Individual demands will differ, but for most resort skiers, dexterity should not be a high priority. Even a thick glove or mitten can be used to grip a ski pole for downhill skiing (unzipping a pocket and pulling out your phone without removing your gloves is a different story, however). We seek a decent balance of freedom of movement and warmth and protection.

Cuff Length

Gauntlet Style

Different skiers prefer different cuff lengths, but some general guidelines might help you make a more informed decision. Longer gauntlet-style gloves cover the cuff of your ski jacket and extend well beyond your wrist.

They are generally warmer because they feature additional insulation and a draw string that effectively seals out the cold. With additional material in the way, they also offer a somewhat reduced range of motion in your wrist. In particularly wet weather, shorter gauntlet-style gloves that barely cover the cuffs of a jacket allow a channel for moisture to enter (more on wrist cinches in our features section), but they are also the easiest to put on and take off.

Undercuff

Shorter undercuff gloves require more effort to tuck into your ski jacket than slipping on a gauntlet glove, and they don’t provide as much warmth. You can also reveal some skin if your sleeves ride up when reaching forward, say to plant a ski pole.

On the other side, they provide more agility by reducing the amount of mass that gets in the way of wrist movement and are easier to breathe. Many freeride gloves have undercuffs, which some backcountry skiers like because it gives them more freedom.

Ski Gloves FAQ

Is it better to ski with gloves or mittens?

It’s primarily a matter of personal taste, but a pair of well-fitting mittens made of the same materials as a pair of well-fitting gloves will be warmer in general. Mittens hold your fingers together, generating more warmth than gloves that divide your fingers. Gloves, on the other hand, allow better dexterity.

Are leather gloves better than other types of gloves?

Leather is a long-lasting material that has been treated to endure wear and tear as well as the elements. A pair of leather gloves or mittens will almost always outlast a pair of synthetic gloves or mittens.

What is the proper fit for a ski glove?

A ski glove should fit firmly around your entire hand, with just enough room at the ends of your fingers to prevent your fingertips from rubbing against the glove’s end. The glove’s cuff should also be long enough to cover your full wrist.

Is it necessary to have waterproof ski gloves?

Ski gloves should be waterproof because it is unavoidable to come into contact with the snow while skiing. The majority of snowsports gloves and mittens feature a waterproof, breathable membrane that keeps moisture out while allowing sweat to escape. Windproof gloves are also waterproof gloves.

Let us know what you think of this Buyer’s Guide on the best ski gloves on the market today. If you liked what you read, don’t forget to share it. It helps us a lot.

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