10 Best Winter Gloves of 2024

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Closeup of a bearded man wearing the Hestra Fall Line gloves on a snowshoeing trail
Hestra Fall Line – Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)

A good pair of gloves will help keep you comfortable, so you can enjoy the outdoors no matter the weather. We researched 50 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, durability, and dexterity to bring you this list of the best winter gloves on the market.

Once you have your fingers covered, don’t forget your feet! We have recommendations for socks for all types of adventures. There’s also no harm in checking out our guides to the best winter coats for women and men.

Quick Picks for Winter Gloves

Check out this quick list of the top performers, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best winter gloves overall: Black Diamond Mercury Mitts $120 (men’s / women’s)

Best durable snowsports glove: Black Diamond Guide ($180)

Best glove liner: Outdoor Research Versaliner Sensor ($59)

Best budget glove for snowsports: Burton GORE-TEX ($85)

Comfortable & affordable fleece glove: REI Fleece ($30)

Durable leather glove for outdoor work & everyday wear: Smartwool Ridgeway ($90)

Best ultralight liner glove for layering: Patagonia Capilene Midweight Liner ($49)

Premium mountain sports glove for severe conditions: Arc’teryx Fission SV ($200)

Durable & stylish midweight glove for snowsports: Hestra Fall Line ($165)

Sleek, wind-resistant glove: Arc’teryx Venta ($70)

What’s new

Our team of testers were hard at work this winter getting at it with the top performers and trying out some new pairs to see which ones were worthy of being called the best:

  • Our all-around favorites are the Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (men’s / women’s) which have an unbeatable combination of warmth, waterproofness, and durability.

  • For those who want gloves (not mittens), the Black Diamond Guide is a bomber-proof pair that come with wool liners and padding.

  • For everyday wear, the REI Fleece are basic, warm fleece gloves that are great for a brisk walk around the neighborhood and shoveling the driveway.
stock image of Black Diamond Mercury mitts

Black Diamond Mercury Mitts

Best winter gloves overall

Price: $120

Best Use: Snowsports

Weight (Pair): 11 oz.(Men’s L)

Sizing: Unisex & Women’s

Pros

  • Very warm
  • Waterproof
  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Leashes
  • Removable waterproof insulation liner with split-finger (great for winter camping)
  • Great value

Cons

  • Low dexterity
  • Not touchscreen compatible

If your hands get cold easily, the Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (men’s / women’s) are a real game changer. The mitten style allows your blood to flow freely and promotes warmth through finger-to-finger contact. The high-loft synthetic insulation traps heat like a champ, and the lightweight shell is entirely waterproof. One of the features of the Mercury Mitts we like most is that the insulated liners are removable, waterproof, and have a split finger design for times when you need more dexterity. The Mercury Mitts are solid performers and an excellent value for winter sports or daily wear in very cold climates.

The CleverHiker Editor's Pick Badge Logo with a goves picture in the middle

Black Diamond Guide

Best Winter Gloves

CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5

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.

The CleverHiker Editor's Pick Badge Logo with a goves picture in the middle
Stock image of Outdoor Research Versaliner Sensor

Outdoor Research Versaliner Sensor

Best glove liner

Price: $59

Best Use: Multisport, hiking, cross-country, everyday wear

Weight (Pair): 2.8 oz.(Men’s L)

Sizing: Unisex – check size chart

Pros

  • Water/Windproof
  • Warm for liners
  • Lightweight
  • Packable
  • Works well with touchscreen
  • Pull-loops for easy on/off
  • Versitile
  • Good value

Cons

  • Feels a bit thicker/less dexterous than other liners
  • Runs slightly large
  • No connector

We’re stoked on the Outdoor Research Versaliner Sensor (men’s / women’s) because they have a great balance of weather protection and dexterity. It’s rare to find gloves that are both low-profile and fully waterproof, so when we discovered these babies, we knew we had to have them. They deliver the perfect amount of warmth and protection for active days in the rain or snow. During testing, these gloves were our favorite to wear for everyday tasks in wet weather, like scraping ice off our windshields. The OR Versaliner Sensors are a glove we think just about everyone will appreciate, and they’re our top liner glove pick for winter based on protection, value, and versatility.

Burton GORE-TEX Gloves

Best Budget Glove for Snowsports

CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5

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

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.

Smartwool Ridgeway

Durable leather glove for outdoor work & everyday wear

Price: $90

Best Use: Outdoor chores, everyday wear, spring snow sports

Weight (Pair): 6.2 oz.(Men’s L)

Sizing: Unisex – check size chart

Pros

  • Durable
  • Comfortable
  • Good dexterity for a leather glove
  • Wool back panel for stretch and soft nose wipe
  • Connecter to keep gloves together

Cons

  • Requires wax treatment to maintain water resistance
  • Not touchscreen compatible
  • Not as warm as some
  • Slow drying

With soft, yet durable leather and a warm merino wool lining, the Smartwool Ridgeway Gloves can pull double duty for outdoor chores, everyday wear, and even snowsports in mild conditions. They fit snug and stretch in all the right places for top-notch comfort and plenty of dexterity for the task at hand. The Ridgeways are warm as long as you’re active, though they might not be insulated enough for leisurely winter activities or really chilly conditions. That said, they’re some of our faves for driving, collecting firewood, or hitching up a trailer. Just keep in mind that they need a wax treatment to be water resistant. Overall, we’re very impressed with the high quality of the Ridgeway gloves and consider them a great buy for hardworking people who need maximum durability and comfort. The Smartwool Ridgeway is also available in Mitten style.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Liner

Best ultralight liner glove for layering

Price: $49

Best Use: Multisport, hiking, cross-country, everyday wear

Weight (Pair): 0.9 oz.(Men’s L)

Sizing: Unisex – check size chart

Pros

  • Thin and layer-able
  • Breathable
  • Very quick-drying
  • Great dexterity
  • Ultralight
  • Packable
  • Pull loop for easy on/off

Cons

  • Not wind/waterproof
  • Not very warm when worn alone
  • Limited touchscreen capatability
  • No connector

If we had to pick just one liner glove to use year-round, it’d be the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Liners. They have a phenomenal fit and they’re incredibly thin so they feel like they’re barely there. The Capilene fabric wicks sweat and evaporates moisture in a flash, so our hands stay dry and comfortable whether we’re wearing them alone or using them as a base layer under heavier gloves. We wish the touchscreen sensors worked better, but we’re willing to look past that since these gloves are so perfectly form-fitting and versatile. If you’re looking for a new go-to glove that you can use year-round as part of a layering system, look no further than the Capilene Midweight Liners.

arc'teryx fission sv gloves stock image in light sage green

Arc’teryx Fission SV

Premium mountain sports glove for severe conditions

Price: $200

Best Use: Snowsports, mountaineering

Weight (Pair): 7.1 oz.(Men’s L)

Sizing: Unisex – check size chart

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Warm
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Good dexterity
  • Easy on/off
  • Leashes

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Insulation isn't removable (for drying/camp)
  • Not as warm as some

If you’re looking for a pair of winter gloves that can handle the harsh conditions of mountaineering and snow sports without the bulk, check out the Arc’teryx Fission SV. They’re Arc’teryx’s warmest glove offering, and they’re fully waterproof for ultimate protection in severe conditions. The fuzzy lining does an excellent job of managing moisture and efficiently traps heat to keep your hands dry and comfortable. A double layer of flexible goat leather reinforces these gloves for long-lasting durability in all the most vulnerable places.The Fission SV Gloves are expensive, but these are well worth the cost if you want a long-lasting glove with a premium look and feel. Fission SV Mittens are also available.

Hestra Fall Line

Durable & Stylish Midweight Gloves for Snowsports

CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5

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.

Arc’teryx Venta

Sleek, wind-resistant glove

Price: $70

Best Use: Multisport, hiking, cross-country, everyday wear

Weight (Pair): 2.2 oz.(Men’s L)

Sizing: Unisex – check size chart

Pros

  • Water/Wind resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Packalbe
  • Quick-drying
  • Good dexterity
  • Works with touchscreen
  • Loops to attach carabiner

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not fully waterproof
  • Not as breathable as some

If you’re looking for a pair of flattering, low-profile gloves that are as at home in the city as they are in the backcountry, you’ll love the Arc’teryx Venta. Their tailored fit and seamless fingertips offer great dexterity for things like taking photos and navigating jacket pockets. We also love the Venta’s balance of low weight and weather protection. They’re warm and resistant to wind and light rain without feeling cumbersome. The Venta Gloves are on the expensive side for lightweight gloves, but since they’re comfortable and practical, we wear them a ton and consider them a good value.

The An affordable option for winter walks and everyday outdoor wear

What’s Most Important to You in a Winter Glove?

PRICE

You don’t have to spend a boatload of money to get a great pair of winter gloves, but we find that spending a little more for a pair of high-quality gloves is often well worth the cost for the increase in comfort, weather performance, and durability. We recommend gloves at a variety of price points below to make it easy to find a great option that fits your budget.

Best value gloves

Best affordable gloves

Best high-end gloves

INSULATION

The warmest snow sports gloves have a shell to block out wind and water and a thick layer of wool, down, or synthetic fill to keep body heat in. More insulation means less dexterity and less breathability though, so it’s best not to go with gloves that are overkill if conditions don’t call for it. Consider your typical local conditions, how warm your body runs, and your activity level.

Warmest gloves for really cold conditions

Best midweight gloves

Warmest liner gloves

VERSATILITY

If you dabble in lots of different outdoor sports throughout the year, you know how quickly gear adds up – in your garage and your bank account. The best solution we’ve found is to choose versatile products that can be used for various seasons and activities. The most versatile gloves can be worn in layers so you can beef up or whittle down your clothing system to suit the occasion.

Most versatile gloves

QUICK-DRYING / BREATHABILITY

Sweat happens when you’re active, even in the winter. Unfortunately, damp hands are far more susceptible to getting chilled than dry ones. Thankfully, simple wool or synthetic liner gloves are super effective at wicking moisture away from the skin and evaporating it quickly to keep heat loss to a minimum. Liner gloves can be worn alone or layered with heavier gloves to increase warmth and manage moisture.

Fastest drying liner gloves

WATERPROOFING

Some gloves have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on the outer shell, but DWR alone is best for mildly wet conditions. Gloves with a waterproof membrane, like GORE-TEX are best for more severe conditions. Leather gloves are stylish and durable, but they will need to be regularly waxed to maintain their water-resistance.

Best waterproof gloves

DEXTERITY

Fleece and knit liner gloves offer the most dexterity when you need the accuracy of a bare hand. They fit closely and are usually stretchy to allow unencumbered movement. If you need more warmth, pair liner gloves with warm, insulated overmitts with a leash so you can drop your mitt and pull out your hand when you need more dexterity.

Best liner gloves

Most dexterous snow glove

DURABILITY

Durability is important, especially when it comes to winter gloves for work or snowsports. Many heavy-duty gloves are entirely leather or are reinforced with leather in the places that tend to take the most beating. If you work and play hard outside, consider spending more on high-quality winter gloves that will hold up to years of wear and tear.

Most durable gloves

Most durable liner gloves

Critical Winter Glove Considerations

MITTENS VS. GLOVES

In extreme cold, mittens are usually warmer since they allow finger-to-finger contact, and your blood can circulate more freely without constriction around each finger. Gloves offer better dexterity though, and are more convenient for tasks like using tools, adjusting bindings, or taking photos with a cell phone.

The Outdoor Research Waterproof Liners & Smartwool Liner Gloves are great for everyday winter use
The Arc’teryx Venta glove is highly weather resistant, which keeps your hands warmer for much longer in cold, wet conditions

GAUNTLET VS. SHORT CUFFS

The choice between gauntlet (over the sleeve) or short (under the sleeve) cuffs comes down to personal preference. Gauntlet gloves provide more protection and are usually best for intense, cold-weather conditions. Short cuffs are generally more comfortable, versatile, and less expensive.

Minimalist Shell Mittens are an ultralight waterproof Option that can be layered for a variety of activities
Waterproof Liners are adventure-ready options if you want full dexterity. – photo credit: heather eldridge (cleverhiker.com)

Not all gloves that say they are touchscreen compatible work well, so be sure to check the pros & cons above

Honorable Mentions

The following winter gloves are also some of our favorites:

Smartwool Liner Gloves – Affordable merino wool liner gloves

Hestra Heli Mitt – Good value wind/waterproof snowsports mitts with removable liners

Outdoor Research Alti II Mittens (men’s / women’s) – Expensive, but high-quality and warm mitts for mountaineering and expedition-level adventures

Kinco 901 Heavy-Duty Pigskin Driver Glove – Affordable insulated leather gloves for working or snowsports

Carhartt WB Glove – A popular budget-friendly winter glove for working and everyday wear in cold environments

The Smartwool Ridgeway golves are tough, stylish & versatile