10 Best Winter Gloves of 2026

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. dexterity, moisture control, weather resistance, and durability to bring you this list of the best winter gloves on the market.

Gloves are just part of the winter kit to keep you toasty while out hiking and camping in the winter. Here are more of our top winter gear recommendations:

• Best Winter Jackets for Men / Best Winter Jackets for Women
• Best Winter Boots for Men / Best Winter Boots for Women
• Best Snowshoes
• Best Ice Cleats
• Best 4-Season Tents

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 Overall: Black Diamond Guide Gloves ($190)

Best Gloves for Snowsports: Rab Khroma Freeride GORE-TEX ($180)

Best Value Gloves: Dakine Titan GORE-TEX Gloves ($94)

Comfortable Mittens for Cold Temperatures: Hestra Heli Insulated Mittens ($185)

Best Waterproof Work Gloves: Showa Atlas 282-02 ($28)

Durable & Stylish Midweight Gloves for Snowsports: Hestra Fall Line ($190) (Men’s / Women’s)

Best Leather Gloves for Work and Play: Kinco Lined Heavy-Duty Premium Ski Glove ($54)

Warm & Affordable Gloves: The North Face Montana Ski Glove ($65) (Men’s /Women’s)

Best Liner Gloves: REI Flash Power Wool Gloves ($50)

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)

Great Casual Liner Glove: Smartwool Liner ($28)

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 performing various common tasks, such as 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

Maybe worse than having to take off your gloves to use your hands is keeping them on and still getting the screaming barfies because they aren’t doing a good job of keeping your digits warm and dry.

Cold hands are neither fun nor functional. Gloves are a key part of keeping winter outings safe and comfortable, and each of our top glove picks performs best in slightly different temperature ranges. We use each pair of gloves in a variety of temperatures, from below zero to above freezing.

We also use them at different activity levels to judge how excess body heat impacts their performance. We evaluate how well each glove insulates our hands and determine the optimal temperature range for each.

MOISTURE CONTROL

Moisture control refers to how well the gloves manage sweat and allow moisture to escape from 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 test each glove in multiple weather conditions to assess its protection against 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 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 mean 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 in our lineup is the Showa Atlas 282-02. At $28, 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.

The Kinco Lined Heavy-Duty Premium Ski Glove is another high value option if you are looking for the durability of high-quality leather without the high price tag.

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 282-02 and the Rab Khroma Freeride 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 Rab Khroma Freeride is a supple leather-palmed glove with a softshell back that balances impressive warmth with high dexterity. For a deep cold-weather glove that is still capable of handling fine objects, the Khroma Freeride is a top choice.

No glove is more dextrous than a liner. The  Smartwool Liner and REI Flash Power Wool 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.

The warmest gloves we tested are the Black Diamond Guide, the Rab Khroma Freeride, and the Hestra Heli Mitten. The Black Diamond 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. 

Similarly, the Rab Khroma Freeride is another excellent cold-weather glove. Slightly lighter and more slender than the Black Diamond Guide, it still packs impressive warmth and features an insulated gauntlet for improved heat retention.

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 Flash Power Wool is another 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 Rab Khroma Freeride 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, Rab Khroma Freeride or 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. The Khroma Freeride features a three-layer GORE-TEX insert and absorbed hardly any water during our at home hunk test. 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 282-02 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 andHeli 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. 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 some cheaper options, both the Showa Atlas 282-02 and Kinco Lined Heavy-Duty Premium Ski Glove are more budget-friendly choices. The Atlas 282-02 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.

While Kinco may bring to mind images of gardening or yard work, their highly durable leather is long loved by outdoor enthusiasts. The thick pig skin leather with reinforced palms is a top option whether it’s for backcountry hikes or splitting firewood.

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 for which they work best.

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, allowing you to accomplish basic tasks like unzipping a jacket while remaining 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 snow sports often feature 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 reviews 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.