Staying warm on the slopes isn’t a simple task. But the best ski gloves and mittens seamlessly blend insulation, waterproofing and durability to keep your hands warm during a long day on the slopes. As gear experts and avid skiers, we know that finding a pair that checks all your boxes can seem as daunting as a drop-in at Corbet’s. Fortunately, we’ve taken on the challenge of testing various styles to pinpoint the best ski gloves and mittens tailored to different needs. We recommend the Arc’teryx Fission SV Gloves as our top pick overall, but if mittens are your go-to for superior warmth, the Black Diamond Mission MX Mitts claim the throne for keeping your hands toasty.
The best ski gloves and mittens keep your hands toasty and warm.
And for those who want a pair to conquer the backcountry, tear down groomed slopes or spend as little money as possible, we got you covered too. Contributor Chris Haslam and gear editor Cam Vigliotta have tested winter clothing and ski equipment across multiple continents at premier resorts, from Stowe to Palisades and Jackson Hole. They’ve both spent time with the options on this list, and have personally tested many of the top ski googles and helmets as well. Without further ado, these are the best ski gloves and mittens.
- Best Ski Gloves Overall: Arc’teryx Fission SV Gloves
- Best Ski Mittens Overall: Black Diamond Mission MX Mittens
- Best Value Ski Gloves: Backcountry Gore-Tex All-Mountain Gloves
- Best Value Ski Mittens: Burton Gore-Tex Mittens
- Best Backcountry Ski Gloves: Rab Khroma Tour Gore-Tex Infinium Glove
- Best Backcountry Ski Mittens: Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mittens
- Best For Kids: Burton Vent Mittens Gloves
- Best Alternative Ski Mittens: Kinko Axeman 1930 Mittens
- Best Heated Ski Gloves: Hestra Power Heater Gauntlet Gloves
- Best Merino Wool Mittens: Icebreaker Merino Loft Mittens
MOST POPULAR
Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx Fission SV Gloves
Material: Leather, Fortius 1.0 | Waterproofing: Gore-Tex | Insulation: Octa Loft Synthetic, Primaloft
Hugely respected and for good reason, the Fission SV is a brilliant all-round winter sport glove. Few, if any, options have this level of waterproofing, while at the same time managing to be comfortable, dexterous and toasty warm.
Our old friend Gore-Tex has a lot to do with the performance here, but the waterproof and breathable membrane is ably assisted by water-resistant materials including the four-way-stretch Fortius 1.0, and plenty of goat leather in key abrasion zones.
As with much Arc’teryx gear, extraneous features are kept to a minimum, but the long elasticated gauntlet can be worn inside or over most jackets and the wrist straps can be removed if necessary. But don’t forget your tissues, as there’s no soft wipe zone on the back of the hand.
These gloves do come up quite large, so check your measurements carefully before buying, but once you get the fit right, you’ll be surprised by the level of dexterity afforded to your fingers. This is doubly impressive given the amount of insulation used and how warm your fingers will stay. If you’re having to fiddle with kit in serious sub-zero temperatures, you’ll be thankful you spent the extra money here.
Pros:
- Incredible warmth and dexterity
- Maximal waterproofing
- Hardwearing materials withstand wear and tear
Cons:
- Beyond expensive
- Design lacks soft material for wiping your nose
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Mission MX Mittens
Material: Reinforced goat leather, polyester | Waterproofing: Gore-Tex | Insulation: Primaloft Gold
Stylish, protective and blissfully warm, these mittens from Black Diamond have been tested to keep you comfortable down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. As we would expect, they come with a full, 100% waterproof Gore-Tex Plus Warm membrane topped off with masses of Primaloft Gold (340 grams on the back of the hand, 170 grams on palm). They’re also available in a women’s-specific fit, and have had their price cut this season too.
More insulating than their five-fingered equivalents, we simply can’t imagine anyone complaining of cold hands, and while more warmth with mitts often means having hands like pillows, these are actually quite flattering, even for our giant hands. Don’t expect to do your laces up wearing them, but we certainly appreciate the svelte aesthetic.
The palm comes with reinforced goat leather, which offers plenty of grip, the back of the hand is padded and made from a durable ripstop, and the cuff, while quite short, is insulated to help minimize any possible cold spots.
Pros:
- Extreme warmth without bulk
- Great value given the materials and quality
- Insulated cuff
Cons:
- Not as dexterous as gloves
- Cord wrist leash not as comfortable as a flat design
Backcountry
Backcountry Gore-Tex All-Mountain Gloves
Material: Goatskin leather, recycled polyester | Waterproofing: Gore-Tex | Insulation: 100% recycled polyester
While we appreciate that $124 isn’t ‘cheap’ for a pair of gloves, if you want premium features, you will need to invest. And with Backcountry’s exclusive All-Mountain glove, you get the works; supple goatskin leather, Gore-Tex waterproofing, long, easily adjustable gauntlets to keep powder out and bags of recycled polyester insulation.
No, they don’t have the same ‘I know what I’m doing on the mountain’ aesthetic as a pair of Hestra gloves, but they perform admirably in all departments. The stretch-woven sections across the knuckles give some flex (although don’t expect to solve a Rubik’s Cube on the lifts in them), and the long leash helps ensure you’ll still wind up with a pair at the end of the day. There’s attention to detail too, with elastic loops and flaps, to keep straps and buckles tidy.
They’re not gloves designed for the very coldest days, and while true-to-size in general, we would suggest sizing up if you want to boost insulation with a liner. And finally, if you prefer a shorter glove, Backcountry has you covered with the equally impressive, and even cheaper, leather Gore-Tex Snow Glove.
Pros:
- Superb gauntlet
- Ample insulation
- Fully waterproof
Cons:
- Size up if you use liners
Burton
Burton Gore-Tex Mittens
Material: Dryride, faux-leather, microfiber | Waterproofing: Gore-Tex | Insulation: Synthetic
A favorite among value-focussed powder hounds and for good reason, the Burton Gore-Tex Mittens are warm, comfortable, good looking and a great option for those in need of a mitt that doesn’t break the bank. Available in a host of cool colorways, there’s far more to this humble design than meets the eye.
Warmth comes courtesy of reliable Thermacore insulation while a removable liner features four-way stretch and touchscreen-compatible fabric for ultimate dexterity as you snap a few chairlift pics. There’s also more heat to be had from the brushed microfiber lining that pulls moisture away from your hands. These components make this design an incredibly warm option for the price, and while we wouldn’t recommend them for multi-day hut trips, we can all but guarantee they’ll keep you warm on- or off-piste.
Waterproofing comes via a Gore-Tex membrane located underneath the outer shell and Burton’s Dryride two-layer fabric that’s breathable, waterproof and quick-drying. This level of protection makes it easy to carve through (or dig out of) powder without a worry in the world, but if your hands start to heat up, simply unzip the vent pocket to dump unwanted warmth (or toss in a hand warmer to make things extra toasty).
These mitts also come with essential extras such as a leash, smartphone-compatible fabric about the palm and soft nose wipe patches, and the fabric feels robust for the modest price point. Just don’t expect to be doing anything dexterous in them.
Pros:
- Loads of insulation for superior warmth
- Great choice of colors
- Incredible value for money
Cons:
- Cumbersome
RAB
Rab Khroma Tour Gore-Tex Infinium Gloves
Material: Pittards Armortan leather, stretch nylon | Waterproofing: Gore-Tex Infinium | Insulation: Synthetic
Ski gloves are typically either warm and bulky, or dexterous and cold, but with the Khroma Tour, Rab might have managed the perfect balance of both. Designed specifically for ski mountaineering and touring, they’re low-profile yet warm, sensationally comfortable, impressively breathable and you can actually use your fingers while wearing them.
They’re brilliant for high output activities like ski touring, when you need protection from the elements—your fingers shouldn’t overheat as you skin up the mountain, and will remain warm as you enjoy the ski down. What’s more, the slim profile and stretch elements means you should even be able to remove skins and adjust bindings in them, which is a rare treat and welcome change to a super-thin liner, although you do sacrifice touchscreen compatibility. The reinforced construction should be good for multiple seasons, too.
Be aware, however, that while exceptionally breathable and windproof, Gore-Tex Infinium Windstopper is not 100% waterproof. They are water resistant though, and the gloves have a DWR coating, but we’d swap styles in very wet conditions.
And while we’d happily reach for them on warmer days, if the temperature drops and you’re lapping the resort (instead of earning your turns) your fingers will notice the lack of insulation on the lifts. If warmth is more important than breathability, we highly recommend the Primaloft Gold-stuffed, fully waterproof, Rab Khroma Freeride GTX.
Pros:
- Warmth with dexterity
- All-day comfort
- Impressive temperature regulation
Cons:
- Chilly fingers if you’re sat on a chairlift
- Not 100% waterproof
Hestra
Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mittens
Material: Goatskin Leather, polyamide | Waterproofing: DWR | Insulation: S G-Loft insulation, removable liner
Arguably too much mitten for casual laps around the resort—it’s nigh on impossible to safely hold a cup of hot Gluhwein wearing them—but if you’re a skier who loves to be out for long days in all conditions, you won’t find better than Hestra’s Army Leather Heli Ski Mittens.
Originally created for ski guides in western Canada, they’re made from goatskin leather with a three-layer synthetic fabric for impressive waterproofing. Hestra also has Heli Ski Gloves and Lobster Claw styles, but the Mitten wins for ultimate warmth.
The inside has a 100% polyester fleece lining that wicks moisture away from the hand quickly, but the mitten is also supplied with a removable liner that’s available separately ($45) and helps extend the life of the gloves. There’s a wider choice of liners too, for varying degrees of temperature, including a battery powered heated liner that costs a whopping $320 extra.
And while it might seem trivial to some, the relatively large metal carabiner and eye loop fastening used on these gloves means that, unlike the puny little plastic clips found on almost all other gloves, you can actually clip them on your bag or jacket securely.
Pros:
- Superb warmth and durability
- Practical features
- Removable liners
Cons:
- Too much mitt for most
Burton
Burton Kids Vent Mittens
Material: Blue Sign Polyester | Waterproofing: Dryride | Insulation: Synthetic
Burton boasts an impressively comprehensive range of kid- and toddler-specific skiing gloves and mittens and while you can spend more and opt for Gore-Tex designs, we think the combination of two-layer Dryride waterproofing and neat, child-friendly features make the Vent mittens and gloves ideal for most youngsters.
We’ve focussed on the mittens here simply because they’re warmer, which should mean the kids can stay out skiing for longer periods of time. Both designs have a small zipped pocket that can be used to vent excess heat in the spring, but there’s also space for a hand warmer which can make all the difference on bitter days.
Add in a soft microfiber liner, a pre-curved, natural fit, inclusive sizing, a wrist leash, plenty of insulation and a host of very cool colorways, and you’ve got all bases covered.
As is often the case, the new season brings a host of cool design, but if you look around, you might be able to pick up 2022 season styles for as little as $24.
Pros:
- Stylish, feature packed mitts for the kids
- Warm and waterproof to protect their little hands
- Boost heat with the handwarmer pocket
Cons:
- Design lacks any Gore-Tex material
Backcountry
Kinco Axeman 1930 Lined Grain Cowhide Mittens
Material: Cowhide leather | Waterproofing: None | Insulation: HeatKeep Lining
Strictly speaking, these gloves aren’t designed for skiing or snowboarding, but they have found a devoted following among tour guides, mountain patrol workers and instructors who love their warmth, comfort and durability, not to mention, bargain price.
This heavy-duty work glove is made using cowhide leather that moulds wonderfully to your hands for a superb fit, and has a super fleecy five-finger HeatKeep thermal liner that does a remarkably good job of keeping your fingers warm.
They’re generously sized and the leather offers a certain degree of waterproofing, but they are not waterproof, so you will need to treat them regularly (Nikwax Glove Proof or a simple waterproofing cream will do).
As mittens, they offer a good level of dexterity—they’re thinner than most ski-specific mitts which helps—so you won’t feel like a toddler incapable of basic motor tasks, and the short cuff makes them easy to pull on or off as needed.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Robust materials
- Dexterous in spite of mitten design
Cons:
- Require waterproofing
Backcountry
Hestra Power Heater Gauntlet Gloves
Materials: Flextron, goat leather, Czone laminate| Waterproofing: Yes | Insulation: G-Loft synthetic
Veteran skiers and snowboarders are probably familiar with Hestra, the Scandinavian glove expert with almost a century of experience. Hestra’s gloves have demonstrated their effectiveness in extreme temperatures, from the Arctic to Everest and beyond, and this impressive history is one of the factors that led us to choose the Power Gauntlet as our top recommendation among heated options.
The Gauntlet’s heating system features a rechargeable battery stored in a wrist pocket, heating elements in the backhand and each finger and a logo button just above the wrist. Our tester appreciated the slim batteries, roughly the size of a floss container, and the user-friendly button, even in the midst of a snowstorm. With three power settings, the Gauntlet aids in preserving battery life during extended ski trips.
Pros:
- A trusted name in ski gloves
- Premium build quality
- Effective heating system
Cons:
- Very pricey
- Heat settings and battery life may not be enough on very cold days
Icebreaker
Icebreaker Merino Loft Mittens
Material: Merino wool, polyactide | Waterproofing: Shell+ | Insulation: MerinoLoft
These big ski mittens are made from 88% merino wool (12% polylactide polyester). There’s no Gore-Tex shell, leather palms or fleece liners, just lots of sheep, and despite feeling oddly lacking in (traditional) insulation, they’re super warm. The insulation is in fact something called MerinoLoft, which is a natural, cruelty-free choice with excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and they’re machine washable. Like a merino base layer, they also manage to maintain their warmth even if they get wet. And while these aren’t gloves for slushy wet days, the woven outer is coated with a DWR that doesn’t mind a little moisture. They’re breathable too, the long cuff is great for sealing you in, and they’re good in windy conditions. It’s worth flagging the sizing however, as this reviewer’s typical XL size had almost an inch spare around the fingers, but was slightly short on the thumb. In temperatures of around 26°F (-3°C) there was no issue, but any colder and it might become a problem, so measure carefully.
Pros:
- Made of all-natural materials
- Soft, warm and breathable
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Sizing is slightly off
- Not entirely waterproof; not recommended for wet weather
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
We understand the important of sufficient ski apparel, from gloves and mittens to jackets and base layers. While ski socks and comfortable boots cover your lower extremities, your hands need an equally adequate degree of coverage, waterproofing and insulation to stay warm and dry. We’ve tested winter-ready clothing and gear at multiple continents and ski resorts in an effort to identify what works, what doesn’t and how a product stands to improve. Author Chris Haslam has covered ski helmets and snowboard boots on behalf of Forbes for years, and his recommendations are bolstered by expert insights. Both Haslam and Vetted’s gear editor, Cam Vigliotta, have personally tried multiple gloves and mitts on this list, including the styles from Hestra and Burton. And because staying warm is easier said than done, we consulted co-founder and COO of the Natural Selection snowboard competition Liam Griffin about what features keep him the most warm.
Gloves and mittens have a habit of evolving with each passing year, so we test new models as they surface to ensure each style we recommend is worth your hard-earned money. It was last updated January 2024 to add the Icebreaker Merino Loft Mittens to our list.
How We Chose The Best Ski Gloves And Mittens
We relied on testing, expert advice and independent reviews when selecting the best ski gloves and mittens for a winter on the mountain. We own some of these gloves and mittens ourselves, others we borrowed from friends and some we’ve even tested in conjunction with outdoor brands. We then cross-referenced our personal experience with various industry experts and performed exhaustive research on available options, taking into account specs, features and particularities that set one glove or mitt apart from the rest to ensure this list encompasses the best of the best.
What To Consider When Shopping For The Best Ski Gloves
With decades of personal experience and on-snow testing, Liam Griffin, co-founder and COO of the Natural Selection snowboard competition, knows a thing or two about keeping your hands warm on the mountain. We asked him for his essential tips when the time comes to invest in the best ski gloves and mittens.
Gloves vs. Mittens
Generally, mittens are warmer than gloves, as your fingers share one larger space, which generates more heat than individual fingers. The obvious drawback to mittens is the fact you can’t use your fingers while wearing them. Gloves offer a greater level of dexterity, and while we would still struggle to do anything intricate in a pair of big ski gloves, the best options can enable you to answer your phone or adjust your goggles without exposing your hands to the cold.
The hybrid solution is to try a lobster or ‘split’ mitt, which has a separate section for your index and/or ring finger, depending on the brand. These are a great alternative if you suffer from very cold fingers, but still need to be able to adjust boots, buckles, or blow your nose.
“I choose a leather glove with a Gore-Tex membrane, which gives me the warmth, waterproofing and breathability in all conditions,” explains Griffin. “This is especially needed when working in the backcountry in all weather, loading and unloading gear, dealing with helicopters, snowmobiles, snowcats & more.”
Outer Material
Most ski gloves are made using polyester treated with a waterproof DWR coating. Many also come with a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex, which Griffin rates highly. “I’m a big fan of the Gore membrane, as it is both waterproof and breathable, which makes all the difference if you’re working hard in the mountains.”
Leather is another popular choice of outer material, and Griffin swears by it. And while often more expensive, it is soft, durable and naturally water resistant. Leather gloves are beautifully comfortable, although you will need to treat them every season to ensure they remain in prime condition. Many premium gloves use a combination of synthetic stretch material and soft leather in key high-use areas such as the palm for a best-of-both-worlds performance.
Warmth
How warm your gloves need to be depends on your body and the conditions outside. This reviewer happily wears thin, waterproof gloves in the spring, but has a pair of highly insulated mittens for deep snow and freezing temperatures. Most good quality glove brands indicate the amount of insulation used—e.g., 140g palm, 100g fingers—and as a rule, the bigger the number, the warmer the glove.
But as Griffin points out, “The real key to keeping your hands (and feet) warm is proper core layering. If your body isn’t warm, your extremities will just get shut down! If you have cold fingers, toss on another layer.”
Glove Length
Gloves and mittens with shorter, closer fitting gauntlets are designed to be worn under your jacket cuff. They aren’t as warm as longer designs, but are popular with ski tourers, or spring skiers who prefer warmer conditions. Over-the-cuff gloves have longer gauntlets designed to be worn over your jacket cuff. They generally boast more insulation, better waterproofing and zero chance of snow ingress. If you’re addicted to deep powder, or buying for kids, this is an essential feature.
Recommended Extras
- Leash: We’ve all seen lonely gloves lying in wait underneath the chairlift, but a simple leash with an elasticated wrist strap can avoid expensive accidents. You can choose removable leashes for versatility, but we consider them an essential feature as they give you the confidence to take gloves off quickly without the risk of losing them.
- Nose wipe: It sounds trivial, but if you tend to have a drippy nose when the temperatures are low, a glove with a super soft material on the top of the thumb can be a godsend. They can also be used to clear goggles, but once you’ve done the former, we wouldn’t recommend trying the latter.
- Pockets: A small pocket on the back of each hand can be invaluable if you suffer from very cold fingers, as you can put a small handwarmer inside. Griffin also points out that if, “I use the sticky backed toe warmers inside the back of my gloves, they stay there all day and warm the blood going into my fingers.”
What Gloves Are Best For Skiing?
The best gloves for skiing are ones that keep your hands warm and dry but are also durable enough to survive sharp edges as you carry skis and snowboards around the resort. Ultimately though, the best choice for you comes down to your individual needs; if you only ski for a few days each season and can avoid poor weather, your choice of glove will be very different from those of a backcountry adventurer. A great all-encompassing choice, we like the Arc’teryx Fission SV Gloves and Black Diamond Mission MX Mittens best for their ability to keep your fingers warm and dry without too much bulk.
How Much Should You Spend On Ski Gloves Or Mittens?
There are countless styles and colorways of ski gloves and mittens available, and prices ranges anywhere from $30 to $300. Most of our recommendations sit in the middle of that range—between $40 and $200—and offer high-quality waterproof fabrics and insulation. Ski gloves for children, on the other hand, are typically much cheaper at around $50 per pair.
