A good pair of gloves will help keep you comfortable so you can enjoy the outdoors, no matter the weather. We researched 60 pairs and tested a range of gloves, from lightweight liners to heavily insulated mitts for snow sports.
Over 100 sessions of hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing, we assessed them for warmth, comfort and dexterity, moisture control, weather resistance, and durability to bring you this list of the best winter gloves on the market.
And for more info, check out some of our other most popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Winter Gloves
Check out this quick list of our top-rated winter gloves, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews. Gloves are unisex unless specified.
Best Winter Gloves: Black Diamond Guide $180 (men’s / women’s)
Best Value Price Gloves: Dakine Titan GORE-TEX Gloves ($85)
Comfortable Mittens for Cold Temperatures: Hestra Heli Insulated Mittens ($160)
Versatile Leather Gloves: REI Guide ($55)
Best Waterproof Work Gloves: Showa Atlas 282 TemRes ($20)
Durable & Stylish Midweight Gloves for Snowsports: Hestra Fall Line ($165) (men’s / women’s)
Warm & Affordable Gloves: The North Face Montana Ski Glove ($65) (men’s / women’s)
Best Budget Gloves for Snowsports: Burton GORE-TEX ($85) (men’s / women’s)
Comfortable Fleece Gloves: REI Fleece Glove ($35) (men’s / women’s)
Stylish Wool Blend Glove: Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor ($45) (men’s / women’s)
Best Liner Glove: Smartwool Liner ($24)
What’s New
Every year, we research, test, and review our line-up of winter gloves. New options rose to the top and made it on our list of the best winter gloves. Here’s what is new this year:
- With its outstanding value, the Dakine Titan is a new addition that comes at a price under one hundred dollars.
- From renowned glove maker Hestra, the Heli Insulated Mitten is perfect for some of the year’s coldest days.
- Our lightest glove reviewed, the Smartwool Liner is great to layer underneath a shell for cold days or on its own on more mild outings.
Winter Gloves Overall Testing Scores
View full testing results in our product comparison table and analysis & results section.
Black Diamond Guide
Best Winter Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $180
Weight: 11 oz.
Material: Nylon, leather
Touch Screen Compatible: No
Niche: Wintersports
Pros
- Warm
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Removable & waterproof wool liners
- Padded knuckles
- Soft nose-wipe thumbs
Cons
- Expensive
- Low dexterity
- Not touchscreen compatible
The Black Diamond Guide Glove (men’s / women’s) is engineered for extreme cold-weather adventures, offering superior warmth, weather resistance, and durability. These gloves have a GORE-TEX insert and PrimaLoft Gold insulation and deliver unparalleled protection in sub-zero conditions. A removable wool-lined inner layer ensures moisture-wicking comfort, while the rugged goat leather and nylon shell provides exceptional durability.
Designed for demanding snowsports and alpine activities, the Guide leads the pack in warmth, thanks to its 170-gram PrimaLoft insulation, 200-gram fleece-lined liner, and robust leather shell. During rigorous testing in the cold of Alaska, it withstood frigid temperatures in the negative double digits without compromising performance. Its extended gauntlet design effectively seals out snow and cold, while padded knuckles and reinforced palms enhance durability for heavy and long-term use.
However, the glove’s heavy insulation and bulk reduce dexterity, making intricate tasks challenging. Its premium construction also comes at a higher price point. Best suited for low-output or extremely cold conditions, it may feel excessive for milder climates or aerobic activities. The Guide is most at home on the highest peaks and the coldest temperatures, making it a great option for mountaineering and those who live in very cold places. The Guide Gloves are also available in 3-Finger style.
Dakine Titan GORE-TEX
Best Value Price Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $85
Weight: 8.5 oz.
Material: Polyester
Touch Screen Compatible: Yes (liner only)
Niche: Wintersports
Pros
- Affordable
- Liner can be used as a standalone glove
Cons
- Not as durable as some
- Not as warm as some
The Dakine Titan Gore-Tex Gloves combine reliable warmth, waterproofing, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for winter sports at a reasonable price. Featuring a Gore-Tex insert, synthetic insulation, and a removable touchscreen-compatible liner, these gloves are designed to keep you comfortable in cold and wet conditions.
The Titan excels in moderate winter temperatures, performing best between 10-30° F. Its removable liner adds extra warmth, allowing for flexible layering, and can be used as a standalone glove for aerobic activities. A water-resistant zippered pocket on the back of the hand accommodates a hand warmer for additional heat on colder days. Despite its insulation, the glove offers surprising dexterity, allowing for tasks like adjusting zippers and buckles with ease.
Constructed with a durable polyester shell and Rubbertec palms, the Titan is built to withstand seasons of use. While its weather resistance is impressive, prolonged exposure to water saturates the shell making it heavy. However, moisture does not penetrate the Gore-Tex layer. We love using these gloves all winter. Plus they deliver some of the best bang for your buck out of all the gloves we tested.
Hestra Heli Insulated Mittens
Comfortable Mittens for Cold Temperatures
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $160
Weight: 9 oz.
Material: Polyester
Touch Screen Compatible: No
Niche: Wintersports
Pros
- Warm
- Durable
- Comfortable leashes
- Soft Liner
Cons
- Low deterity
- Expensive
The Hestra Heli Mittens are an excellent choice for staying warm during some of the coldest days of the year. Designed by renowned Swedish glove maker Hestra, these mittens feature a durable polyamide shell and supple leather palms that provide windproof, water-resistant protection. The removable synthetic liner ensures excellent warmth and quick drying.
With a roomy design, the Heli Mittens allow for dead air space to retain heat, and the liners can accommodate an additional liner for extra insulation on frigid days. The wide gauntlet design cinches securely to keep snow and cold out, while comfortable elastic wrist leashes ensure you won’t lose them on the go.
Though the mittens perform well in dry cold, they are less effective in wet conditions. During both testing in the field and our submersion test, water seeped through the seams at the wrists and fingertips after prolonged exposure, making them less ideal for damp weather. Additionally, their bulk sacrifices dexterity, limiting their use for tasks requiring fine motor skills.
Best suited for low-density powder and temperatures between -10 and 20° F, the Hestra Heli Mittens are too warm for high-output activities but are perfect for some of the coldest days of the year when protection is the highest priority.
REI Guide Gloves
Versatile Leather Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $55
Weight: 4.8 oz.
Material: Leather, polyester
Touch Screen Compatible: No
Niche: Multisport
Pros
- Attainably priced
- Durable
- Good features
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Not as warm as some
The REI Co-op Guide Glove is a well-rounded option for anyone seeking a warm, durable, and affordable glove. Most comfortable at moderate winter temperatures, this glove features a supple leather palm and fingers combined with a breathable synthetic softshell back, offering a balance of durability and warmth.
The glove’s soft fleece lining ensures comfort, while lightweight synthetic insulation adds warmth without bulk. The Guide has enough dexterity for tasks like gripping poles or adjusting zippers but lacks touchscreen capability.
The pre-broken-in leather feels immediately comfortable, requiring no break-in period, and a durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment helps repel snow and light rain. However, these gloves are not fully waterproof and are better suited for dry winter outings.
Ideal for temperatures around 15° F and higher, the REI Guide performs best during moderate-output activities like hiking, skiing, or backcountry skating. Its breathability is a standout feature, reducing moisture buildup during vigorous use.
However, it lacks the insulation needed for extremely cold conditions or long periods of inactivity. We love the REI Guide Glove for its versatility and affordability. After testing, it quickly became one of our favorite winter gloves.
Showa Atlas 282 TemRes
Best Waterproof Work Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $24
Weight: 3 oz.
Material: Acrylic, nylon
Touch Screen Compatible: No
Niche: Work
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Long cuff
Cons
- Not breathable
- Lack of style
The Showa Atlas 282 TemRes gloves are a standout option for wet and cold environments, offering full waterproof protection at an affordable price. Its durable polyurethane shell and soft acrylic lining provide excellent weather resistance, warmth, and surprising dexterity for their rugged construction.
These gloves are meant to be used, not just worn. They’re ideal for activities where you’re grabbing, holding, or wrenching, like wet winter work, fishing, and chores. The Showa Atlas excels in damp and freezing conditions.
The textured rubberized palm and shorter finger design enhance grip and make tasks like handling tools or tightening buckles easy. The acrylic lining offers moderate warmth, making the gloves suitable for temperatures above 20° F. They quickly lost effective warmth below 20, especially if we weren’t actively using our hands. Their snug fit improves dexterity but limits the ability to layer with an additional liner.
While the gloves are fully sealed against external moisture, their polyurethane shell sacrifices breathability, leading to a buildup of sweat during high-exertion activities. For low-output tasks or wet-weather use, they perform exceptionally well. Their durable construction withstands heavy use, though the acrylic lining has started to pile and lost some loft with use.
The Showa Atlas 282 TemRes delivers exceptional value, combining durability, weather resistance, and dexterity. While you won’t win any style awards with these gloves, they are a top choice for work and recreation in wet, cold environments.
Hestra Fall Line
Durable & Stylish Midweight Gloves for Snowsports
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $165
Weight: 8 oz.
Material: Leather
Touch Screen Compatible: No
Niche: Wintersports
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Good dexterity
- Wrist leashes
- Comfortable cuffs
- Stylish
- Grommets & carabiner to connect gloves
Cons
- Expensive
- Leather needs upkeep to be water resistant
- Not as warm as some
The Hestra Fall Line Glove (men’s / women’s) is a premium quality leather glove designed for anyone seeking durability and performance. Made with high-quality cowhide leather and G-Loft polyester for insulation, these gloves provide excellent warmth for moderate temperatures without sacrificing flexibility or comfort.
The Fall Line’s supple leather is durable and wind resistant. Its anatomically shaped fit ensures all-day comfort. A soft fleece liner enhances warmth and wicks moisture and padding on the knuckles and back of the hand adds durability. The neoprene cuff, secured with a hook-and-loop closure, ensures a secure fit, though the shorter cuff provides less coverage compared to gauntlet-style gloves.
Best suited for temperatures around 20° F and higher, the Fall Lines are handy for downhill skiing and other moderate-output activities. It isn’t ideal for extremely cold conditions or aerobic pursuits due to limited insulation and reduced breathability. While the gloves come with a leather conditioning product for maintenance, reconditioning is essential to retain weather resistance and prevent cracking over time.
Though not fully waterproof, the Fall Lines are great for most winter outings that don’t include heavy rain and long bouts of moisture. They are sleek and stylish and offer great durability with proper care.
The Fall Line Gloves are also available in Mitten (men’s / women’s) and 3-Finger Mitten styles.
The North Face Montana Ski Gloves
Warm & Affordable Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $65
Weight: 8.5 oz.
Material: Polyester
Touch Screen Compatible: Yes
Niche: Wintersports
Pros
- Warm
- Touch screen compatible
Cons
- Low dexterity
- Cuff does not cinch as tightly as others
The North Face Montana Ski Gloves (men’s / women’s) a versatile and affordable choice for newcomers to winter sports and veterans alike. Designed with a waterproof, breathable DryVent shell and 250g of Heatseeker Eco insulation, these gloves deliver reliable warmth and protection in wet and snowy conditions. Their durable construction and budget-friendly price make them a solid option for anyone looking to get the most out of their dollar.
The Montanas are comfortable for extended wear, thanks to their soft Raschel fleece lining and ergonomic fit. Adjustable wrist straps and gauntlet cuffs effectively seal out snow and cold, though the cuffs don’t cinch as tightly as some competitors. While the gloves are warm enough for temperatures down to ten degrees, the insulation is thinner at the fingertips, which can feel cooler in extreme conditions.
Dexterity is a trade-off with the Montanas. Their bulk and slightly oversized fit is warm, but fine motor tasks like handling zippers or using touchscreen devices are more challenging. While testing these gloves in snowy, wet environments, the DryVent technology kept hands completely dry, and the gloves held up well to regular use without signs of wear. We were pleasantly surprised with the Montana’s performance and it quickly entered our lineup as an affordable and dependable glove.
Burton GORE-TEX Gloves
Best Budget Glove for Snowsports
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $85
Weight: 8 oz.
Material: Nylon
Touch Screen Compatible: No
Niche: Wintersports
Pros
- Affordable
- Waterproof
- Works well with touchscreen
- Leashes
- Soft nose-wipe thumbs
Cons
- Low dexterity
- Not as durable as some
The Burton Gore-Tex gloves (men’s / women’s) deliver reliable warmth, waterproofing, and versatility for winter activities. Built with a GORE-TEX insert and DRYRIDE 2-layer shell, these gloves provide exceptional weather resistance, keeping your hands dry during wet and snowy adventures. Thermacore insulation, made with ninety-five percent recycled materials, ensures lightweight warmth without adding bulk. The removable touchscreen-compatible liner offers added versatility and can be used on its own in more mild temperatures.
Ideal for temperatures down to 20° F, the Burton gloves perform well in moderate winter conditions. The removable liners and a hand-warmer pocket on the back of the glove provide extra insulation for colder days. However, we quickly felt our hands becoming cold in these below fifteen degrees.
While comfortable, the gloves lack refined dexterity. Short finger lengths and a slight disconnect between the shell and liner can make small tasks like opening zippers challenging. The touchscreen compatibility is functional for basic phone operations but not precise enough for detailed use. Still, for under one hundred dollars, the Burtons provide great performance and weather resistance, making them perfect for someone new to winter sports.
REI Fleece Gloves
Comfortable Fleece Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $35
Weight: 2.5 oz.
Material: Polartec recycled fleece
Touch Screen Compatible: Yes
Niche: Lightweight
Pros
- Affordable
- Warm for liner
- Breathable
- Good dexterity
- Lightweight
- Packable
Cons
- Not wind/waterproof
- Not as durable as some
The REI Fleece Gloves (men’s / women’s) are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile and affordable midweight glove. Crafted from Polartec recycled fleece, these gloves offer dependable warmth and breathability, making them ideal for aerobic activities like running, hiking, and cross-country skiing in cooler weather.
The soft fleece material is comfortable against the skin, and the ergonomic fit ensures dexterity for tasks like tightening snowshoe bindings or using zippers. Touchscreen-compatible fingertips allow for basic phone operations without removing the gloves, adding to their convenience. Reinforced palm patches enhance durability and provide a secure grip, while stretchy cuffs seal out drafts and make the gloves easy to put on and take off.
Best suited for dry conditions, these gloves repel light snow and frost but are not waterproof, quickly absorbing moisture in heavy rain or wet snow. They excel in temperatures down to twenty degrees and are during active pursuits. They can also double as liners under more robust gloves for harsher conditions. The REI Fleece Gloves are a practical and lightweight option for casual winter outings or as a backup layer. Their balance of warmth, comfort, and breathability makes them a reliable option for three-season use or as part of a winter layering system.
Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor
Stylish Wool Blend Gloves
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $40
Weight: 2.6 oz.
Material: Wool, polyester
Touch Screen Compatible: Yes
Niche: Multisport
Pros
- Lightweight
- Touch screen compatible
- Stylish
- Pull loops
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Runs large
- Moderate durability
The Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor Gloves (men’s / women’s) combine warmth, breathability, and style, making them ideal for casual outings and moderate winter activities. Its wool and polyester blend makes for a soft, comfortable wear, perfect for temperatures between 25- 45°. Their clean, woolen design transitions seamlessly between outdoor adventures and in-town outings.
The Flurry Sensor Gloves feature touchscreen-compatible pads on the thumb and index finger, allowing for basic phone use without removing them. The gloves are dexterous enough for simple tasks like opening pockets and zippers, though they run large, leaving excess room in the fingertips. Sizing down is recommended for a better fit.
These gloves excel in high-output activities thanks to their excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping hands dry during aerobic pursuits like hiking or cross-country skiing. However, they lack a weather-resistant shell, making them unsuitable for prolonged exposure to wet conditions or heavy snow. During tests, snow and ice clung to the exterior, and the gloves quickly absorbed water. Even still, the Flurry Sensors are a versatile and stylish option for mild winter temperatures, providing breathable warmth for short outings or athletic activities.
Smartwool Liner
Best Liner Glove
CleverHiker Rating: 4.0/5.0
Price: $24
Weight: 1.5 oz.
Material: Wool, polyester
Touch Screen Compatible: Yes
Niche: Lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight
- Touch screen compatible
- Comfortable
- Fit under gloves
- Affordable
Cons
- Not wind/waterproof
- Low grip
The Smartwool Liners are a lightweight, but warm option that doesn’t compromise dexterity, making it a versatile choice for active winter outings. Soft merino wool and polyester provide moderate insulation but remain breathable. Our hands were dry and comfortable while wearing these during high-output activities. Their slim fit ensures a snug, comfortable feel, perfect for tasks that require fine motor skills, such as texting or tying laces. The touchscreen-compatible thumb and index finger add convenience without exposing your hands to the cold.
While they excel in breathability and moisture-wicking, the Smartwool Liners lack weather resistance, offering no protection against rain or snow. They are best used as a standalone layer on cool days without exposure to moisture or as liners beneath heavier gloves in colder conditions. On their own they do not offer much grip, making it challenging to hold items like ski poles or car keys.
These gloves are not built for rough, heavy-duty use but perform excellently for casual activities like hiking, running, or skiing in moderate temperatures. Their thin weight makes them a great three-season option. With their balance of warmth, comfort, and flexibility, the Smartwool Liners are a reliable choice for those seeking a lightweight, breathable option for everyday winter wear.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Material | Touch Screen Compatible | Niche | Comfort & Dexterity | Warmth | Moisture Control | Weather Resistance | Durability | 0 |
Black Diamond Guide View Men's View Women's 
|
$180 | 11 oz. | Nylon, leather | No | Wintersports | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 1 |
Dakine Titan GORE-TEX View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$85 | 8.5 oz. | Polyester | Yes (liner only) | Wintersports | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 2 |
Hestra Heli Insulated Mittens View at REI View at Amazon
|
$160 | 9 oz. | Polyester | No | Wintersports | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 3 |
REI Guide Gloves View at REI
|
$55 | 4.8 oz. | Leather, polyester | No | Multisport | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4 |
Showa Atlas 282 TemRes View at Amazon |
$24 | 3 oz. | Acrylic, nylon | No | Work | 4.4 | 4.4 | 3.6 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 5 |
Hestra Fall Line View Men's View Women's |
$165 | 8 oz. | Leather | No | Wintersports | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 6 |
The North Face Montana Ski Gloves View Men's View Women's |
$65 | 8.5 oz. | Polyester | Yes | Wintersports | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 7 |
Burton GORE-TEX Gloves View Men's View Women's |
$85 | 8 oz. | Nylon | No | Wintersports | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 8 |
REI Fleece Gloves View Men's View Women's |
$35 | 2.5 oz. | Polartec recycled fleece | Yes | Lightweight | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 9 |
Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor View Men's View Women's |
$40 | 2.6 oz. | Wool, polyester | Yes | Multisport | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 3.7 | 4.3 | 10 |
Smartwool Liner View at REI View at Amazon |
$24 | 1.5 oz. | Wool, polyester | Yes | Lightweight | 4.6 | 3.9 | 4.7 | 3.7 | 3.9 |
|---|
How We Test
COMFORT & DEXTERITY
There’s nothing worse on a cold winter’s day than having to remove your glove to be able to use your hands.
Dexterity and comfortable gloves are vital. While wearing the gloves, we test them by doing various common tasks like buckling backpacks, unzipping jackets, and using touch screens. We assess each glove by how easy or cumbersome it is to perform small tasks while wearing the gloves.
WARMTH
There’s nothing worse on a cold winter’s day than having to remove your glove to be able to use your hands.
Dexterity and comfortable gloves are vital. While wearing the gloves, we test them by doing various common tasks like buckling backpacks, unzipping jackets, and using touch screens. We assess each glove by how easy or cumbersome it is to perform small tasks while wearing the gloves.
MOISTURE CONTROL
Moisture control refers to how well the gloves handle sweat and breathe moisture out of the glove. We take each glove through a variety of activities, both high and low output, to generate some sweat in the gloves. We then evaluate the gloves to see how quickly or easily they shed that internal moisture. Do they trap the moisture and feel clammy, or do they wick and breathe it out of the glove?
WEATHER RESISTANCE
We take each glove through multiple different weather types to gauge how well they protect our hands from the elements. From wind to snow and ice, to rain, we expose each pair of gloves to prolonged time in the elements. We judge each glove based on whether it kept our hands dry or if it absorbed any moisture. We then do a lab test of submerging each glove in water for four minutes and record how long it takes water to penetrate.
DURABILITY
Gloves need to withstand the rigors of being used day after day, and they need to hold up for multiple seasons. That’s why we test each glove for a minimum of three months to get an idea of how they hold up. We then update our reviews and gear guides each season to reevaluate their durability. We use our gloves for multiple outings and settings like skiing, sledding, and yard work. We evaluate each glove to look for signs of wear or material failure.
Why Trust CleverHiker?
At CleverHiker, field testing in rigorous conditions informs all our recommendations, analyses, and reviews. We own and use everything we recommend and are sure to take them out for testing, no matter the weather.
We started by compiling the sixty best-performing gloves on the market and whittled the list down to the top eleven. Our analytical approach and real-world expertise bring well-rounded research to each product.
As a self-proclaimed cold weather lover, Gear Analyst Miles Knotek, has worn and used every glove in this gear guide in a variety of conditions. A lifelong resident of Alaska, he’s no stranger to cold and wet. From cross-country skiing to ice climbing, hiking to backcountry ice skating, Miles has brought every glove through a variety of conditions and activities to find where they perform best. His keen eye for detail and love for being out in harsh weather means each glove is meticulously analyzed and rigorously tested.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
With so many different options on the market for winter gloves, there is a broad range of prices available, too. While you might be able to get by with the cheapest glove out there, we define value as the best combination of price and performance. So, while our top picks for value might not be the cheapest gloves you can find, they offer the best balance of price and performance to bring you a glove that will not only hold up well but is easy on your wallet too.
The Dakine Titan Gore-Tex is one of our top picks for a high-value glove. At under one hundred dollars, it has an attainable price point, but features of a more expensive glove like gore-tex waterproof material, removable liners, and great warmth.
The least expensive glove on our lineup is the Showa Atlas 282 TemRes. At $20, it’s hard to get much cheaper. What surprised us is that it is completely waterproof and surprisingly durable. This is a great value work glove and has long been a favorite among commercial fishermen and ice climbers.
COMFORT & DEXTERITY
When designing winter gloves, there’s a constant game of tug of war being waged between warmth and dexterity. Thicker gloves, while warmer, lose dexterity. Thinner gloves have excellent dexterity but suffer in colder temperatures. There are few gloves that can do both well, but we’ve managed to find a few that allow you to use your hands effectively while still remaining warm.
The Showa Atlas 282 TemRes and the REI Guide are two options that lean more towards warmth while still being dexterous enough for most tasks. The Show Atlas has slightly shorter fingers that increase dexterity and a textured polyurethane coating for grip and flexibility. The REI Guide is a supple leather glove that is pre-broken in for great flexibility.
No glove is more dextrous than a liner. The Smartwool Liner and REI Fleece Gloves earned the highest marks. While not as warm or weather-resistant, they are the most comfortable and dexterous of any glove tested. These are great for layering under a thicker glove or for milder temperatures where you still need to use your hands for fine motor tasks.
WARMTH
We can all agree that having cold hands puts a serious damper on the fun of being in the snow. While there are many different styles and designs to increase warmth, the best gloves have a combination of high loft insulation and ample dead space within the glove. This dead space allows more air to insulate, or you can choose to add an additional liner for increased warmth. If you have a history of cold hands, always have a pair of mittens in your kit.
The top two warmest gloves we tested are the Black Diamond Guide and the Hestra Heli Mitten. The Black Diamon Guide, while a glove, earned top marks. We used it frequently in negative double-digit temperatures and never felt cold or needed another liner. Its lofty insulation and robust leather outer make it a great option for mountaineering, ice climbing, or getting outside on some of the coldest days of the year.
The Hestra Heli is the only mitten in our lineup and scores highly for warmth. The removable fleece liner adds excellent space, and the roomy hands are great for adding another layer. This mitten was best for moderate output activities like ice skating in below-zero temperatures.
MOISTURE CONTROL
Managing sweat and internal moisture can be tricky. On one hand (pun not intended) the glove needs to keep us warm, but on the other, it still needs to be breathable enough to wick sweat and be used for higher exertion activities.
Typically, the thinner the glove, the more breathable it is. This is certainly true with the Smartwool Liner, the thinnest and lightest glove we reviewed. The REI Fleece also is a great option for high-output activities like skiing and running as it quickly moves moisture away from the skin.
However, we were surprised by the breathability of thicker gloves like the REI Guide and the Dakine Titan Gore-Tex. While these are not our first choice to take out running, they offer increased breathability in colder temperatures not commonly seen in thicker gloves.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
We took each glove out in some of the worst weather winter could offer, from snowstorms to a freak December downpour. While some gloves are meant for brief exposure to moisture, some are rugged enough to spend all day in harsh weather and keep you warm and dry.
For the worst weather, we reach for the Black Diamond Guide and the Dakine Titan Gore-Tex to keep us safe and dry. The leather outer of the Guide is resilient and tough. The gore-tex insert keeps water from making it to the hands. While this may not be the glove to take out in a windstorm, it is great for ice and snow. The Dakine Gore-Tex has a synthetic outer that is permeable, but the Gore-Tex lining keeps moisture from making it to the hand.
Two budget-priced options that also offer excellent weather resistance are the Showa Atlas 282 TemRes and the Burton Gore-Tex Gloves. The Show Atlas has a polyurethane coating that is impervious to water. This is great for long exposure to wet weather but lacks the breathability of the Burton Gore-Tex. The Burton Gore-Tex combines the lightweight performance of synthetic and the weather resistance of Gore-Tex for an affordable and weather-resistant option.
DURABILITY
Hands are really…handy. We use them almost constantly, so gloves need to be ready for heavy use. We want ones that will stand up to use day after day. Buying outdoor gear is an investment, and winter gloves are an investment in keeping your hands warm and dry for many skis, hikes, and climbs to come.
We love the durability of leather gloves. The Hestra Fall Line and Heli Mitten stand out to us in this department. Hestra has long produced premium quality products and these two gloves continue that tradition. However, as with most leather products, upkeep is key to their longevity and we like to recondition our leather gloves with leather balm about once a year. Similarly, the Black Diamond Guide is another high-performing leather glove that we will keep using for many more seasons to come.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, the Showa Atlas 282 TemRes surprised us with its durability yet low price. Made to be cut-resistant to fillet knives used by fishermen, these gloves are great for workwear and for when you’ll be in frequent contact with rocks and other abrasive surfaces.
How to Choose Winter Gloves
Winter gloves are essential for keeping your hands warm and protected during outdoor adventures in the coldest months of the year. Choosing the right pair involves considering various factors such as materials, intended use, insulation, fit, and features. Here are some key points to consider when selecting your next pair of winter gloves:
CONSIDER YOUR ACTIVITIES
Start by identifying what activities you’ll be using the gloves for. As with many pieces of outdoor gear, gloves have an intended use that they work best for.
- Casual use: Opt for warm, comfortable gloves with basic insulation for everyday tasks like running errands or going to work. These gloves may sacrifice weather resistance for dexterity and style.
- Winter sports: Choose specialized gloves designed for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. These often have added durability and weather resistance for prolonged exposure to the elements. Just remember the warmest gloves often sacrifice dexterity.
- Work gloves: From snowmobiling, splitting firewood, or shoveling, work gloves are extremely durable and weather resistant. Look for rugged gloves with reinforced palms and enhanced grip.
OUTER SHELL MATERIAL
Material choice impacts warmth, waterproofing, and durability. Each material type has its advantages and drawbacks depending on its intended purpose.
- Leather: Durable and stylish, but often needs a waterproof treatment to maintain their weather resistance and durability. Leather gloves also tend to be more expensive than synthetic fabrics.
- Synthetic Fabrics (e.g., nylon, polyester): Synthetic fabrics are often lightweight, water-resistant, or waterproof, and are ideal for active pursuits. There are many different types of synthetics, and many companies have their own proprietary materials. Gore-Tex remains the industry leader for its weather resistance and breathability.
- Wool and Fleece: Wool and fleece gloves are stylish and warm but lack the weather resistance of gloves with leather or synthetic outers. They are lightweight and packable, making them great for liners, milder temperatures, or a versatile three-season option.
INSULATION
The level and type of insulation you need in a glove depends on your intended use and the conditions you will be using them. Some people run naturally cooler than others, so you may require a thicker glove for the same conditions.
- Down insulation: Extremely warm and lightweight but loses effectiveness when wet. Down insulation is less common in gloves than jackets but is most commonly seen in extreme cold or mountaineering gloves.
- Synthetic insulation: Retains warmth even in damp conditions, making it versatile for many uses. It is the most common type of insulation, and different gloves come in different weights. There are many different branded synthetic insulations like Primaloft, G-loft, and Microloft.
- Fleece or wool lining: Adds softness and comfort for casual wear. Many gloves have a fleece or wool liner with a synthetic outer. This combines the on-the-skin comfort of fleece with the performance of synthetic.
COMFORT & DEXTERITY
Thinner gloves offer more dexterity but lack the warmth of thicker options. The best gloves combine elements of both so that you can accomplish basic tasks like unzipping a jacket, but are still warm. Comfortable gloves fit your hand snuggly but still have a little airspace and are comfortable to flex your fingers and move with.
FEATURES
Many gloves come with features that help enhance your experience in a given activity. Gloves designed for snowsports often have wrist leashes, removable liners, and hand warmer pockets on the back of the hands. Work gloves are often very reinforced and have extra grip. Casual gloves will be sleek and stylish and have touch-screen-compatible fingertips.
Conclusion
At CleverHiker, we strongly believe in field testing every product to produce the highest quality review and analysis. We own and use everything we recommend and only recommend those products we trust ourselves. With so many options out there, we have sifted through the market to find you the best performers.
