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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
- Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (men’s / women’s)
- Outdoor Research Versaliner Sensor
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
- Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (men’s / women’s)
- Black Diamond Guide
- Burton GORE-TEX Gloves
- Arc’teryx Fission SV
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
- Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (men’s / women’s)
- Black Diamond Guide
- Burton GORE-TEX Gloves
- Arc’teryx Fission SV
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.
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.
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