Skiing is a thrilling winter sport that combines the joy of speed, the beauty of snowy landscapes, and the challenge of navigating slopes. However, the cold weather and unique demands of skiing necessitate the right gear, especially when it comes to protecting your hands.
Ski gloves play a crucial role in not only keeping your hands warm but also ensuring a good grip, flexibility, and protection against the elements. As we head into 2024, advancements in materials and technology have brought a variety of options to the market. In this guide, we'll dive into how to choose the best ski gloves, highlight some of the top picks of the year, and address common questions about heated gloves for skiing.
How to Choose Gloves for Skiing?
Selecting the right pair of ski gloves involves considering several key features that are specific to the needs of skiers:
Warmth and Insulation: The primary function of ski gloves is to keep your hands warm. Look for gloves with high-quality insulation like Thinsulate or Primaloft. The amount of insulation you need depends on the conditions you plan to ski in and how easily your hands get cold.
Waterproof:Waterproof gloves are essential for skiing to prevent snow and moisture from seeping in. Materials like Gore-Tex offer excellent waterproofabilitywhile maintaining breathability.
Fit and Comfort: Gloves should fit snugly but not too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow and reduce warmth. Look for gloves with adjustable straps and cuffs to ensure a secure fit and to keep snow out.
Dexterity: Skiing requires you to handle gear, adjust bindings, and sometimes use your phone. Gloves that offer a good balance between warmth and dexterity are ideal. Look for gloves with articulated fingers and less bulky designs.
Durability: Ski gloves should withstand the wear and tear of the sport. Reinforced palms and fingers are important for durability, especially if you use poles or carry equipment.
Other Features: Additional features such as touchscreen compatibility, wrist leashes, and pockets can enhance the convenience and functionality of your gloves.
Best Picks
Venustas Unisex Heated Gloves7.4V 2.0（$169.99）
Features:
- Heating Mode (Temperature): High:131F, Medium:113F, Low:100°F
- Working Hours: High: 3H, Medium: 5H, Low: 8H
- Battery Information:2*7.4V 2000mAh Batteries
- Fabric: 35% Lambskin Leather, 65% Polyester
- Water Reistatnt & Windproof
- Care Instruction: Wipe with a Wet Cloth Gently
- Sport Types: Snow Skiing, Running, Motorcycling, Cycling, Hiking, Skating, Walking, Hunting or so
What We Like | What We Do Not Like |
Solid battery life | A little heavy due to the dual batteries |
Performance fit and build | |
3 heating settings | |
Touchscreen compatible |
For skiers battling the frustration of cold hands that prematurely end their time on the slopes, Venustas heated gloves offer a transformative solution.
These heated gloves aren't the bulky, cumbersome type one might associate with keeping elderly spectators warm at the tubing hill. Our testers were particularly impressed with the gloves' sleek battery system. It powers the heating elements efficiently without becoming an obstacle, ensuring the gloves remain easy to slip on and off.
Our evaluation found the rechargeable battery's lifespan to be on par with other heated gloves on the market. On the low setting, the battery reliably lasted through a leisurely ski day, inclusive of a lunch break. The gloves feature three heat settings—low, medium, and high. While the high setting may deplete the battery in about 2 hours, the low setting can stretch the battery life to 8 hours on a full charge, accommodating a full day of skiing from the first lift to the last.
（Source: Venustasofficial.com）
Hestra Heli Ski Gloves($160)
Features:
- Backs of hands are made of windproof, waterproof, breathable fabric
- Removable liners with polyester insulation
- Cuff cinches, elastic and straps with hook-and-loop closures keep heat in and snow out
- Pre-curved finger design for a natural fit
- Carabiners at cuffs
What We Like | What We Do Not Like |
Super-warm glove for most days | Not Breathable enough |
Longer cuffs to keep out snow | |
Extremely durable leather |
After extensive use, our tester have found the Hestra Heli Ski Gloves to be indispensable for snow sports enthusiasts. From first wear, their quality is evident, with goat skin and polyamide construction providing both durability and warmth. The gloves' windproof, waterproof, and breathable fabric keeps hands dry in all conditions, while the removable liners offer both extra warmth and the convenience of overnight drying.
The fit is exceptional, thanks to the pre-curved finger design, ensuring comfort and ease of use. Although I had to size up for a perfect fit, the adjustment was well worth it for the snug, yet flexible feel. Additionally, the carabiners on the cuffs are a smart feature, keeping the gloves secure and easily accessible.
(Source: hestragloves.com)
Black Diamond Guide Gloves($175.95)
Features:
- 100% waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX insert with Plus Warm Technology stays with removable liner
- Abrasion-resistant, woven nylon shell with 4-way stretch
- Removable liner feature 170 g PrimaLoft® Gold insulation, boiled wool blend (50% wool, 50% polyester) backhand lining, and 200 g fleece palm lining
- Goat-leather palm and palm patch
- Foam padding on knuckles for impact protection
What We Like | What We Do Not Like |
Very warm | Limited dexterity |
Durable | |
Long, comfortable cuffs |
Having tested the Black Diamond Guide Gloves in some demanding winter conditions, I can confidently say they stand out for their exceptional warmth and durability. The combination of a waterproof GORE-TEX insert, PrimaLoft® Gold insulation, and a boiled wool blend lining ensures hands stay warm and dry, even in the coldest temperatures. The gloves' construction, featuring a woven nylon shell and goat-leather palm, is robust, ready to handle the wear and tear of mountain sports with ease.
While their warmth is unparalleled, the gloves do compromise on dexterity, making finer tasks a bit challenging without removing them. The long cuffs provide excellent protection against snow but may require some adjustment when layering with jacket sleeves. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Black Diamond Guide Gloves are a top choice for those prioritizing warmth and durability in severe winter conditions.
(Source: blackdiamondequipment.com)
Outdoor Research Men's Alti II GORE-TEX Mitts($209)
Features:
- Outer Material: bluesign® approved GORE-TEX 2L, 70D, 100% Nylon
- Palm: Pittards® Armortan® Leather
- Lining: Tricot microbemberg, 100% Polyester & low cling stretch woven, 100% Polyester
- Insulation: Primaloft® Gold Insulation 170G
- Liner Mitt: Ripstop 100% Nylon Shell, Primaloft® Gold Insulation 340G
- Updated Design, Dexterity and Fit
- Insulated Seam-Taped Shell
- Kevlar Stitching
- Removable Insulated Mitt Liner
- Removable Leash
- Glove Clip
- Carabiner Loop
- Elasticized Wrist
- Cinchable Gauntlet
What We Like | What We Do Not Like |
Warm, tough | Expensive |
| Water-Proof and Durable |
The Outdoor Research Men's Alti II GORE-TEX Mitts have solidified their place as essential gear in my cold-weather adventures. Their waterproof and windproof GORE-TEX shell, combined with the robust Pittards® Armortan® Leather palm, offers unbeatable durability and protection against the elements.
What sets these mitts apart are the thoughtful additions: removable liners for adjustable warmth, Kevlar stitching for enhanced durability, and practical design elements like the removable leash, glove clip, and carabiner loop for easy attachment to gear. The elasticized wrist and cinchable gauntlet ensure a snug fit, sealing out cold air and snow.
(Source: outdoorresearch.com)
Men's Burton GORE-TEX Gloves($84.98)
Features:
- Stormproof and Insulated
- Turn Up The Heat
- Phone Friendly
- Removable Liner Glove
- Low Environmental Impact
- Adjustable wrist cinch
- Brushed Microfiber Fixed Lining
- D Ring and Hook
- Ergonomic Pre-Curved Fit
- Extended Guantlet Cuff
Gore Warm Technology - DRYRIDE 2-Layer Shell Fabric
What We Like | What We Do Not Like |
Extremely durable | Too warm for those sunny 40-degree spring mogul days |
Super warm | |
100% waterproof | |
Friendly price for the excellent value |
The Men's Burton GORE-TEX Gloves excel in providing stormproof protection and warmth, thanks to their GORE Warm technology and DRYRIDE 2-Layer Shell Fabric. Their removable liner glove enhances adaptability to various temperatures, while the ergonomic pre-curved fit and extended gauntlet cuff ensure comfort and effective snow blocking. The gloves are phone-friendly, allowing for easy touchscreen use without exposure to cold.
Additionally, Burton's commitment to low environmental impact is notable, aligning with the preferences of eco-conscious consumers. Practical features like the adjustable wrist cinch, D ring, and hook enhance usability and security. Overall, these gloves stand out for their functionality, comfort, and sustainability, offering great value for winter sports enthusiasts.
(Source: burton.com)
FAQs about Heated Gloves for Skiing
Q: Are heated gloves worth it for skiing?
A: For skiers with circulation issues or those who frequently experience cold hands, heated gloves can be a valuable investment. They offer adjustable warmth to keep your hands comfortable throughout the day.
Q: How long do heated gloves typically last?
A: Battery life varies by model and setting, ranging from 2 to 8 hours. Consider your skiing duration and whether you can recharge them overnight.
Q: Can heated gloves be too warm?
A: Most heated gloves come with adjustable settings, allowing you to find the perfect temperature. It's rare for these gloves to become uncomfortably warm if used correctly.
Q: Are they durable enough for skiing?
A: Yes, many heated gloves are specifically designed for winter sports and come with reinforced areas to withstand the demands of skiing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ski gloves for 2024 involves considering your specific needs. Whether you opt for traditional ski gloves or explore the benefits of heated options, the right pair can significantly enhance your skiing experience.
Remember to consider the conditions you'll be skiing in and prioritize features that will offer you the most comfort and protection on the slopes. With the right gloves, you can focus on enjoying the thrill of skiing while keeping your hands warm and protected against the elements.
