When it comes to hitting the slopes, ski gloves are one of the best investments you can make. A good pair keeps your hands warm when downhill skiing and dry if you are skiing in slush or snow. Alongside your base layers and outerwear, they’re a key part of your ski essentials, helping you stay comfortable and focused all day long. We have rounded up the best gloves and mittens from budget picks to more premium choices to suit your kind of skiing day out.
Ski gloves work in tandem with your jacket, pants, and ski goggles to create a barrier against cold winds and blowing snow. Downhill skiing particularly demands reliable hand protection, as exposure to speed, moisture, and fluctuating temperatures can quickly lead to numb fingers or loss of grip.
From sleek leather designs to fully insulated gauntlets, there’s a pair for every skier and condition. Women’s ski gloves tend to offer a slimmer, contoured fit, while men’s versions allow a little extra room for layering as well. In this guide, you will find gloves, waterproof gloves, mittens, and merino wool glove liners. You’ll also find innovative options like heated ski gloves for sub-zero days and waterproof winter gloves for reliable protection in slushy or stormy weather. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best ski gloves and mittens for every type of skier, from casual resort skiing to backcountry outings.
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At a Glance
- Best Overall Ski Gloves: Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove, 5-Finger Snow Glove for Skiing & Snowboarding for Men & Women
- Editor’s Choice: Rab Khroma Freeride GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Leather Gloves
- Best Waterproof Performance Gloves: Gordini Men’s Gore-Tex Storm Glove
- Best Women’s Ski Gloves: Gordini Women’s Gore-Tex Storm Glove
- Best for Grip and Precision: LEKI Xplore S Primaloft Gold Insulated Waterproof Gloves
- Best for Extreme Cold: Black Diamond Guide Ski/Snow Gloves
- Best Ski Mittens: Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitt
- Best Heated Mittens: Outdoor Research Prevail Heated Gore-TEX Mitts
- Best Kids’ Ski Mittens: Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Junior Mitt
- Best Kids’ Ski Gloves: Burton Kids’ Gore-TEX Gloves
The Best Ski Gloves 2025
A true classic among skiers, the Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove is built for demanding alpine conditions. Combining windproof, water-resistant Triton fabric with durable Army Goat Leather, it offers a perfect balance of protection and flexibility. The removable liner provides adaptable insulation, while the Eagle Grip design follows your hand’s natural shape for enhanced dexterity and comfort on the slopes.
Key specs
Material windproof Triton fabric with Army Goat Leather palm
Lining removable polyester liner
Fit ergonomic with Eagle Grip design
Features snow lock cuff, Velcro wrist strap, adaptable for extra liners
If you are looking for a super reliable ski glove that is comfortable and functional then we love this one from Rab. Engineered for deep powder and big-mountain terrain, the Rab Khroma Freeride GTX Gloves deliver dependable protection and warmth. They combine Pittards Armortan leather palms with a GORE-TEX Plus Warm membrane and PrimaLoft Gold insulation for reliable thermal performance. A long gauntlet cuff seals out snow, while the pre-curved design and wrist leash add both dexterity and security.
Key specs
Material Pittards Armortan leather with GORE-TEX Plus Warm
Insulation PrimaLoft Gold synthetic
Design pre-curved fingers for dexterity
Features removable wrist leash, long cuff for full coverage
The Gordini Storm Glove delivers reliable protection in challenging weather with its Gore-Tex waterproof insert and Megaloft insulation. A bluesign-approved shell ensures durability, while a textured synthetic leather palm enhances grip. Designed for performance and practicality, these gloves also feature a handwarmer pocket, moisture-wicking lining, and an adjustable gauntlet cuff to keep snow out and warmth in.
Key specs
Material polyester shell with synthetic leather trim
Insulation Megaloft synthetic insulation
Waterproofing Gore-Tex insert
Features zippered handwarmer pocket, leash, adjustable wrist strap
Built for women who ski in all conditions, the Gordini Women’s Storm Glove combines breathable Gore-Tex waterproofing with Megaloft insulation for lasting warmth. The textured synthetic palm enhances grip, while a bluesign-approved shell supports sustainability. A soft, moisture-wicking lining keeps hands dry, and the extended cuff with drawcord closure ensures a snug, snow-proof fit all day long.
Key specs
Material polyester shell with recycled synthetic leather trim
Insulation Megaloft synthetic insulation
Waterproofing Gore-Tex insert
Features handwarmer pocket, leash, adjustable wrist strap
LEKI’s Xplore S gloves combine luxury leather craftsmanship with high-performance insulation. The premium goatskin exterior is backed by a waterproof Soft-Tex membrane, while Primaloft Gold insulation ensures warmth even in damp conditions. The Trigger System integrates directly with LEKI ski poles for a seamless connection, improving comfort and control during aggressive downhill runs.
Key specs
Material goatskin leather with Soft-Tex membrane
Insulation Primaloft Gold synthetic fill
Lining micro Bemberg polyester
Features Trigger System compatibility, waterproof, reflective detailing
For skiers who want warmth without sacrificing breathability, SHOWA’s 282-02 gloves are a smart, budget-friendly choice. Using TEMRES technology, they’re both waterproof and breathable, keeping your hands dry and comfortable during long days in cold, wet conditions. The gloves feature thermal insulation for warmth and a durable PU coating that stands up to snow, slush, and ice.
With their 13-inch extended cuff and drawcord closure, these gloves provide excellent wrist coverage and protection from snow. Lightweight yet insulated, they’re ideal for skiing, ice climbing, or even cold-weather hiking.
Key Specs
Material 50% PU, 50% acrylic
Length 13 inches
Technology TEMRES waterproof and breathable system
Care do not wash
Use skiing, ice climbing, winter sports
Designed for extreme alpine missions, the Black Diamond Guide Gloves provide the highest level of warmth and durability. A goat leather shell and GORE-TEX Plus Warm insert offer waterproof breathability, while dual layers of PrimaLoft insulation and a wool lining trap heat even in subzero conditions. The removable liner and articulated construction give you versatile protection and dexterity when handling gear.
Key specs
Material goat leather and nylon shell
Insulation PrimaLoft Gold and wool lining
Waterproofing GORE-TEX Plus Warm insert
Features removable liner, high gauntlet cuff, reinforced palm
For those looking for dependable warmth and flexibility, the Swany X-Cell 2.1 gloves deliver top-tier performance. Crafted from smooth grain and nubuck leather with a reinforced palm, they’re built to handle demanding winter conditions. The Dryfinger II insert ensures waterproof breathability, while the Tri-Plex Alpha insulation provides outstanding warmth without bulk.
These gloves include a utility heat pocket and a quick-adjust cuff for easy use on the go. Durable, moisture-wicking, and exceptionally warm, they’re designed to perform across everything from downhill skiing to alpine touring.
Key Specs
Material leather and nubuck blend
Insulation Tri-Plex Alpha with PrimaLoft Gold
Lining moisture-wicking Dunatherm
Features Dryfinger II waterproof insert, utility heat pocket
Care hand wash only
For added warmth without sacrificing dexterity, the Icebreaker 200 Oasis Glove Liners are the perfect inner layer. Crafted from a Merino wool and elastane blend, they’re soft, stretchy, and thermoregulating. Wear them under ski gloves for added insulation, or on their own for milder winter days.
The snug fit keeps fingers nimble while preventing overheating, making them a dependable essential for any ski trip.
Key specs
Material 96% Merino wool, 4% elastane
Fit slim and flexible
Performance moisture-wicking, thermoregulating, odor-resistant
Sizes XS–L
Best Ski Mittens
These Hestra Heli Mitts are built for ultimate warmth in freezing conditions. Combining the brand’s signature Triton fabric with Army Goat Leather palms, they’re windproof, breathable, and exceptionally durable. The removable liner and snow lock cuff keep warmth in and snow out, while the ergonomic Eagle Grip ensures a natural fit and excellent comfort for long days in deep powder.
Key specs
Material Triton fabric and Army Goat Leather palm
Lining removable polyester liner
Design mitt style with Eagle Grip shape
Features snow lock cuff, Velcro strap, windproof and waterproof
For skiers who refuse to let freezing temperatures cut the day short, the Outdoor Research Prevail Heated Mitts combine ALTIHeat battery-powered warmth with GORE-TEX waterproofing. Made with goat leather palms and a soft insulated lining, they deliver powerful heat on demand across three temperature settings. Built for storm days and cold lifts, these mittens are the ultimate comfort upgrade.
Key specs
Material goat leather and polyester shell
Heating system ALTIHeat lithium-ion battery
Waterproofing GORE-TEX membrane
Features three heat levels, touchscreen-compatible design, rechargeable batteries
These women’s mittens from Swany are built for warmth, durability, and long-lasting comfort. The leather shell is both soft and tough, while the Tri-Plex Alpha insulation and Dryfinger II waterproof insert keep your hands warm and dry no matter the conditions. The unique stem finger construction helps reduce insulation compression, meaning your fingers retain more heat.
With a built-in utility pocket for a heat pack or small essentials, these mittens are as practical as they are warm. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or exploring snowy trails, the X-Cell 2.1 mittens deliver protection and performance that lasts.
Key Specs
Material 100% leather blend
Insulation Tri-Plex Alpha with Dryfinger II waterproof insert
Features utility heat pocket, SpeedDraw cuff system
Care hand wash only
Best Childrens Ski Gloves
The Hestra Heli Junior Mitt offers the same premium construction as the adult version in a smaller, youth-friendly design. Built from durable Triton fabric and Army Goat Leather, it’s windproof, waterproof, and highly insulated for long play sessions in the snow. The removable liner adds versatility, and the secure wrist strap ensures the mitts stay on through every ski run or snowball fight.
Key specs
Material Triton fabric and goat leather palm
Lining removable soft polyester liner
Fit youth sizes 4–13 years
Features snow lock cuff, Velcro closure, breathable and insulated
Burton’s Kids’ Gore-TEX Gloves combine top-tier waterproofing with playful practicality. The DRYRIDE two-layer shell keeps hands dry, while ThermacoreECO insulation offers cozy, breathable warmth. A soft nose wipe, touchscreen-compatible palm, and heater pocket add comfort and functionality. Finished with an extended cuff and adjustable wrist cinch, these gloves are perfect for young skiers ready to hit the slopes.
Key specs
Material DRYRIDE two-layer shell with synthetic palm
Insulation ThermacoreECO
Waterproofing GORE-TEX membrane
Features heater pocket, removable wrist leash, ergonomic fit
How to Choose the Right Ski Gloves or Mittens
When choosing between gloves and mittens, it comes down to warmth versus dexterity. Ski gloves provide better finger mobility, ideal for adjusting bindings or gripping poles, while ski gloves mitten styles trap more heat by keeping your fingers together. For most downhill skiers, gloves offer the perfect balance of control and insulation, but mittens can’t be beaten on frigid days.
Also, the materials matter, too. Premium ski gloves often combine leather palms for grip with durable shell fabrics that block out wind and water. Many also use synthetic insulation or down for efficient heat retention, while maintaining breathability to prevent sweaty hands. Features like wrist leashes, adjustable cuffs, and removable liners are good to look at, too.
If you ski in extremely cold conditions, consider heated ski gloves, which use battery-powered elements to provide adjustable warmth. Waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or Dryfinger keep moisture out while letting heat and sweat escape, ensuring long-lasting comfort. And for those prone to cold hands, layering a thin merino liner under your gloves adds extra warmth without bulk.
FAQs
Are mittens or gloves better for skiing?
It depends on your priorities. Mittens are generally warmer since your fingers share heat in one compartment, but they sacrifice dexterity. Gloves provide better grip and control, especially when adjusting ski bindings or holding poles. Some skiers alternate between the two depending on the conditions.
Do I need waterproof ski gloves?
Yes, waterproofing is essential, especially for downhill or all-day skiing. Even if the snow feels dry, moisture builds up over time. Waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX or Soft-Tex keep your hands dry while allowing sweat to escape, maintaining warmth and comfort.
Can I wash my ski gloves?
Most ski gloves can be gently cleaned by hand using mild soap and lukewarm water. Always check the care label first, and avoid machine washing unless stated as safe. Leather palms should be air-dried and treated occasionally with leather conditioner to maintain flexibility and durability.
What’s the difference between men’s and women’s ski gloves?
The main difference is fit. Women’s ski gloves typically have narrower palms and shorter fingers, designed for smaller hand proportions. Otherwise, the materials, insulation, and performance features are usually the same, so choose whichever style fits best.
Are heated ski gloves worth it?
Heated ski gloves are a great investment if you often ski in extreme cold or have poor circulation. They use rechargeable batteries and adjustable heat settings to provide consistent warmth. While more expensive, they can make long ski days far more comfortable.
Can children use adult ski gloves?
It’s best to choose properly sized children’s ski gloves. Kids’ hands are smaller and more sensitive to cold, so youth gloves are made with extra insulation and easy closures for a secure fit. This helps keep their hands warm and dry, so they can enjoy the snow longer.
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