Keeping your hands warm and protected from the harsh bitter cold is important to prevent hypothermia and frostbite from setting in. The good news is there are some really warm gloves and mittens available now.
So what are the warmest winter gloves?
The warmest winter gloves not only are generally well built and high quality, but they have an insulating material that is breathable and allows the moisture to escape, while still holding the heat of individual fingers in.
We will get into the specifics below.
At the end of this article I briefly give you a few quick glove buying tips, or things to really think about. But first, I will get into my list of the warmest winter gloves I have been able to find.
So let’s get into it!
- AERIS insulation keeps hands warm even when wet
- Windproof outer shell for extreme weather protection
- Comfortable for temperatures from -10°F to 60°F
- epguy15 for a 15% discount
- Waterproof, windproof GORE-TEX insert for protection
- Megaloft synthetic insulation for warmth
- Textured palm and fingers for enhanced grip
- 100% waterproof Dry insert with removable liner
- Lightweight, abrasion-resistant shell with 4-way stretch
- Insulated liner with 340 g PrimaLoft Gold and high-loft fleece
NOTE: If you are looking for the warmest survival winter clothing that will keep your whole body warm in sub-zero temperatures even if you get wet, see my review of Fortress Clothing.
13 Warmest Winter Gloves & Mittens for 2024
1. Fortress Glove Pro
- AERIS insulation keeps hands warm even when wet
- Windproof outer shell for extreme weather protection
- Comfortable for temperatures from -10°F to 60°F
- epguy15 for a 15% discount
The Fortress Glove Pro is designed to keep your hands and fingers warm in the most extreme weather.
PROS: Well made, AERIS insulation for added warmth, reinforced palm, comfortable, keeps you warm even if the gloves get wet.
CONS: May be too bulky for high intense activity. Only one-color combination available.
Fortress is a Utah based company using patented AERIS insulation to keep people warm, even when they get wet. The Glove Pro is made with windproof outer shell and reinforced stitching in the palm of the hand to prevent early wear and tear, making this #1 on my list.
You can be warm and comfortable in this glove from -10 degrees to 60 degrees- that’s the magic of AERIS insulation. The Glove Pro is truly an all-season glove!
Check them out here: Fortress GlovePro
2. Fortress Everest Mitten – Warmest Gloves in the World
- Rated for warmth in temperatures from -30°F to 50°F
- AERIS insulation keeps hands warm and dry
- Wind-resistant outer shell with durable water repellent
- epguy15 for a 15% discount
If you’re heading the North Pole or North Dakota in January, this is the pair of mittens you want to pack with you.
PROS: Really warm, rated for -30°F to 50°F, wind resistant outer shell, durable water repellent, comfortable and keeps your hands warm- even if you fall in an icy river.
CONS: Casual activities only.
First off, these Everest Mittens are rated to keep you warm in -30 degrees F weather. I certainly hope it never gets that cold where ever you are going, but if it does you don’t have to worry about frostbite or chilly fingers.
These mittens are designed with AERIS insulation- a foam loft patented Fortress innovation. A mesh lining wicks away sweat and other moisture to keep your hands warm no matter what you are doing.
Are these the warmest gloves on earth? I think so!
Check them out here: Fortress Everest Mittens
3. Gordini Gore-Tex Storm Glove
- Waterproof, windproof GORE-TEX insert for protection
- Megaloft synthetic insulation for warmth
- Textured palm and fingers for enhanced grip
Gordini has been making warm gloves since 1956. The Storm Glove is one of the warmer pairs of gloves in the Gordini line.
PROS: Well made, really warm, comfortable, zipper pocket for hand warmers
CONS: Bulky
The gloves are made with a 10k polyester shell and the Gore-Tex® insert is waterproof, breathable and windproof.
All these are important because they prevent your hands from getting too hot. The insulation is made with Megaloft® and the gloves have the all-important moisture-wicking lining.
If you are heading out into a winter storm, make sure you put your Storm Gloves on first!
Check them out here: Gordini Gore-Tex Storm Gloves
4. Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitten
- Durable HESTRA Triton fabric and Army Goat Leather
- 3-finger design balances warmth and dexterity
- Elastic strap and snow lock for convenience
Heli skiing anytime soon? I want to go. I’ll bring these mittens too!
PROS: Great for extreme winter sports, keeps snow and rain away, extra warm, great grip.
CONS: Expensive
This pair of Hestra mittens is designed to keep you warm and prevent cold air and wet weather from getting inside.
The palm has the brand standard leather reinforced palm to give you the grip you need when you jump out of that helicopter on top of mountain peak. Um, who thought that was a good idea?
The trademarked snow lock- keeps snow from inching into your glove, even when you’re skiing in three feet of fresh pow pow.
Check them out here: Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitten
5. Hestra Army Leather – Gore-Tex
- GORE-TEX technology ensures waterproof and breathable protection
- Durable HESTRA Triton fabric with Army Goat Leather
- 100% polyester insulation retains warmth in wet conditions
PROS: Velcro closure, soft synthetic material, well made, keep you warm on really cold days, leather palm for grip, great for high activity skiers or outdoor enthusiasts.
CONS: Expensive and not touchscreen compatible.
Another great glove in the Hestra line.
This pair of gloves is made with a special HESTRA three layer fabric. This special proprietary blend of fabric makes the gloves breathable, waterproof and durable. Foam insulation makes these extra warm.
I also really like the long cuff and added wrist protection. The long cuff is ideal for powder hounds. Also, it’s breathable, water-resistant and windproof!
Check them out here: Hestra Army Leather – Gore-Tex Glove
6. Spyder Legend Conduct Glove
- Conductive material for touchscreen compatibility
- Elasticized wrist for a secure fit
- Mid-weight polyester knit bonded to anti-pill fleece
PROS: Great dexterity, fleece lines, trusted brand, well made, smart screen compatible, blocks winds.
CONS: Great for spring skiing or other light activities. Not for extreme weather conditions.
This is a great glove to wear spring skiing- where its warm, but you still need a nice layer to protect your hands.
Spyder is the official gear sponsor of the U.S. Ski Team, so this brand knows how to keep skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts warm and comfortable.
This pair of gloves is made with mid-weight knit outer shell and a micro-fleece lining. The glove is designed to be breathable and keep moisture away from your hands.
Check them out here: Spyder Legend Conduct Glove
7. Dakine Titan Gloves
- GORE-TEX technology for waterproof and breathable performance
- Hi Loft insulation for exceptional warmth in cold conditions
- Durable goat leather palm for grip and water resistance
PROS: Wrist cinch and extra-long fleece lined cuff, wrist leash, synthetic insulation, waterproof.
CONS: No touchscreen capabilities.
The high loft synthetic insulation makes this pair of gloves warm and cozy for whatever you have planned for the day.
The palm is made with a rubber like product that will keep your grip from slipping and prevent early wear and tear. The outer shell is a polyester blend that is both waterproof and breathable!
Check them out here: Dakine Titan Gloves
8. Dakine Maverick Insulated Gloves
- High Loft synthetic insulation for warmth
- Gore-Tex for waterproof and breathable protection
- Soft 200g fleece and 400g pile liner
PROS: Trusted brand, stylish, warm and waterproof, touch screen compatible, really warm.
CONS: Doesn’t cover wrists adequately.
The leather and polyester combo on these gloves make you feel like you’re in a Warren Miller movie, circa 1989. This pair of gloves makes a fashion statement and keep your hands warm all at the same time.
The synthetic material is Gore-Tex, so you know they will hold up to snow, ice and rain. The high loft insulation is what keeps your hands warm on the coldest of days.
Check them out here: Dakine Maverick Insulated Gloves
9. Black Diamond Mercury Mitt
- 100% waterproof Dry insert with removable liner
- Lightweight, abrasion-resistant shell with 4-way stretch
- Insulated liner with 340 g PrimaLoft Gold and high-loft fleece
The Black Diamond Mercury Mitt makes the list because of its versatility, waterproof insert and warm insulation.
PROS: 1005 waterproof liner, removable liner, Primaloft insulation, goat leather and Kevlar stitching, touchscreen compatible. Rated for -20 to 10 degrees F.
CONS: Fits small.
This is one of the warmest winter gloves you can buy. It’s made with a shell designed to move with your hand. It also has goat leather on the palm and Kevlar stitching so it can hold up to whatever the day brings.
Kevlar is the same material used to make bullet proof vests. These gloves won’t save your life, but they will keep your hands warm and they most certainly will not fall apart!
Check them out here: Black Diamond Mercury Mitt
10. Marmot XT Glove
- Pittards Oil Tac leather for superior grip
- Water-resistant stretch fabric for comfort
- DriClime lining wicks moisture for dryness
PROS: Warm, stretchy, water-resistant, breathable, comfortable, excellent for activities where dexterity is important.
CONS: Run small.
The Marmot XT Glove is designed to keep you warm on the move. This glove ranks on the list for it’s versatility, warm and weather-resistant capabilities. The glove is lightweight, made with water resistant and breathable fabric.
The glove is stretchy- making it easy to wear! Special attention to the cuff, keep wet weather or cold air from getting to your precious body heat.
Check them out here: Marmot XT Glove
11. Outdoor Research Arete Gloves
- Removable merino wool liner for adaptability
- GORE-TEX waterproof insert for protection
- Leather palm and touchscreen compatibility
PROS: Great dexterity, excellent for mountaineering or day hikes, warm, can be worn several ways.
CONS: Not touchscreen compatible. No selfies until you’re off the mountain, bro.
Outdoor Research is a Seattle based company making warm winter gear for adventure seekers for decades.
This pair of gloves is made with a durable nylon shell and fleece liner inside for added warmth and comfort. Plus, you can wear the liners alone for a warm day or add the shell when the snow starts to fly!
The extra-long cuff with a cinch keeps your wrists covered and protected all day long.
Check them out here: Outdoor Research Arete Gloves
12. Smartwool Ridgeway Glove
- Multi-purpose design with reinforced thumb and index finger
- Terry loop knit interior lining for warmth
- Comfortable fit for various activities
PROS: High quality wool lining, soft leather shell, comfortable, really warm, great dexterity, 100% satisfaction guarantee.
CONS: Hand wash only, who has time for that?
Smartwool is a trusted brand with a long track record for making really warm socks, gloves and other layers for outdoor fun!
These gloves rank on the list for their unique blend of leather and wool. The shell of these gloves are made with a nice soft and weatherproof leather. The lining is made with 70% wool.
All that wool will keep you warm and you will not have to be worried about sweaty palms. Wool naturally wicks away moisture, keeping your hands dry at all times.
The gloves are best suited for snow days around town, shoveling snow and hitting the slopes. Reinforcement in the palm and fingers will make sure your gloves last as long at your winter adventures.
Check them out here: Smartwool Ridgeway Glove
13. Fox River Four Layer Glove
- Thick insulation provides toasty warmth
- Wool offers thermoregulation and moisture absorption
- Soft fleece lining for comfort and durability
PROS: Wool, fleece lined, leather grip, fit to form your left and right hand.
CONS: Runs small.
Like the Ragg Wool Glove, this pair is made with 85% wool and other synthetic materials.
This pair however also has leather lined fingers and palms, giving this glove the grip you need when shoveling a driveway or driving to the store.
The inside of this wool glove is lined with fleece as well. Wool is a great choice to keep your hands warm because it keeps you dry at all times.
The key to staying warm is staying dry. These gloves fit the bill. While Fox River makes excellent gloves, this pair ranks at the end of this list because you need a waterproof liner in extreme conditions.
Check them out here: Fox River Four Layer Glove
9 of the Best Winter Glove Brands
1. Fortress Clothing
The gloves they sell at Fortress All Weather Gear are my pick for the warmest gloves on the market. The reason I chose their gloves is because they are insulated with the patented Aeris insulation that keeps your body warm even if your gloves are soaking wet.
In my article “Fortress Clothing Review” I show a video where the owners of Fortress go to a water reservoir in sub zero weather and cut a hole in the ice and they all jump in.
Then instead of changing their clothes immediately like they would normally need to, they all just sit around calmly in chairs talking.
According to their watches after getting out of the water they are all warm and comfortable in sub zero weather within about 60 seconds, even though they are still soaking wet.
Check them out here: Fortress Clothing
Use Coupon Code: epguy15 for a 15% discount
2. Hestra
- Durable HESTRA Triton fabric and Army Goat Leather
- 3-finger design balances warmth and dexterity
- Elastic strap and snow lock for convenience
If you’re lucky to own a pair of Hestra gloves, you know you never have to worry about cold hands ever. Unlike other outdoor companies, Hestra only makes gloves. The Sweden based company has been mastering the art of making warm gloves for more than 80 years.
Hestra basically means glove in some outdoor guru circles. Seriously, Hestra makes the warmest gloves you can buy. A pair of Hestra gloves will last you years, perhaps decades.
So, what makes Hestra so special? The company makes all its gloves based on the layer system: base layer wicks away moisture, middle layer insulates and the outer shell protects against wind and wet weather.
Hestra uses this layering model in every pair of gloves it creates. You can basically mix and match the layers of the glove, depending on the weather conditions. So, if your summiting a mountain, you may need just the outer shell and a liner.
You can literally adapt your gloves based on the weather conditions and your level of activity. How cool is that?
The gloves also cinch mid-way between the wrist and the cuff, to block heat from escaping and cold air from creeping on in! A pair of Hestra gloves is an investment. You’ll have to get on a waiting list too.
Okay, not really. But, Hestra gloves tend to sell out really fast. So, keep checking back to see what they have in stock!
3. Canada Goose
If you looking for a high-quality pair of down gloves, look no further than Canada Goose. The Toronto based company has been making down gloves and other gear since the 1950s. Since then, Canada Goose has become a leader in the glove industry.
The company literally makes some of the warmest and most comfortable gloves you can buy. They’re luxurious and functional all at the same time! When down gets wet, it loses its insulating value.
However, Canada Goose have developed an outer shell woven fabric to prevent the down from ever seeing any moisture.
It’s called “Artic Tech” and it’s a proprietary fabric blend making every pair of gloves it sells water resistant, wind resistant, durable and really, really warm. Like the Hestra brand, Canada Goose is an investment in your hands.
Yep, on the pricier side, but you get what you pay for. Personally, I’d rather buy a high- quality pair of gloves once a decade, then replace an inexpensive pair every other year.
4. Helly Hansen
- Micro smooth weave shell for comfort
- Helly Tech insert for waterproof breathability
- 6 oz fiber fill insulation for warmth
Helly Hansen is another trusted brand in the outdoor gear community. This company first got its start making gear to keep people warm in 1887 in Norway. According to the company, it’s the most trusted ski gear brand in the country.
How’s that for a claim to fame? Helly Hansen knows how to keep skiers, snowboarders and really anyone spending a long time outside, warm and toasty. How does Helly Hansen do it? It’s all in the construction and high-quality materials.
Helly Hansen uses a combination of polyester and leather for the outer shell of the glove to provide maximum protection from the weather.
Its gloves utilize micro-fleece insulation that is both breathable and keep your hands really warm all at the same time. A pair of Helly Hansen gloves will keep your hands warm on the coldest of days.
Plus, if the gloves don’t hold up like the company says they will, it will give you your money back if purchased within 90 days. A pair of Helly Hansen gloves will cost you around $100.
5. Carhartt
- Durable polytex shell for long-lasting use
- FastDry technology lining wicks away sweat
- Waterproof insert for added protection
Carhartt is best known for making incredibly durable, warm and high-quality gear for people working outside all day long. This company has been making outdoor gear since 1889. Wowzah. That’s a really long time.
What I really like about Carhartt brand is that the company makes gloves for every activity and most industrial applications. The brand prides itself on making waterproof, windproof breathable gloves, that will give you the dexterity you need for your planned activities.
The brand is known for its FastDry technology which works wonders when it comes at wicking sweat and moisture away from your body. A pair of Carhartt gloves works well whether you are snowmobiling or shoveling snow in the driveway.
Carhartt is also easy on the budget. A pair of Carhartt winter gloves ring in at about $25. So, you can buy two pair and keep one in your pack in case of an emergency. Plus, it’s always a good idea to carry an extra pair of gloves when your exploring the great outdoors.
6. Marmot
- Pittards Oil Tac leather for superior grip
- Water-resistant stretch fabric for comfort
- DriClime lining wicks moisture for dryness
Marmot masters the art of a warm glove. The California based company has been making warm, durable and comfortable outdoor gear since the 70s. Marmot makes a glove for every weather condition and outdoor activity.
It uses a down and synthetic insulation to keep your hands warm no matter where you are. Spring skiing? There’s a glove for that?
Heading up to Denali? There’s an 800 fill down glove for that too. Marmot is a one stop shop for gloves. It’s the company’s dedication to quality, that really sets it apart.
It uses the best material and pay close attention to detail- and where your hands need the most protection. Marmot makes sure your wrists are covered in every pair of gloves it sells.
Marmot has also figured out how to keep costs low, but not compromise in quality. You can get a warm pair of gloves for around $60.
Phew. Lot’s of gloves to choose from. Whatever brand you choose to go with, just remember your gloves should match your activity!
A mitten isn’t going to cut it when your ice climbing along the Seward Highway in Alaska. What are your favorite outdoor gear brands?
7. Flylow Gear
- Leather pretreated with DWR for durability
- 10K/10K waterproof lining for protection
- Rib knit cuff for secure fit
Flylow Gear is one of the most trusted outdoor gear brands around. The Colorado based company started making gear for skiers and the outdoor crowd 2005.
While relatively new to the outdoor gear scene, the company is making waves with its innovative and often, retro throw back styles.
Flylow uses a combination of leather and synthetic materials to send the cold weather packing. There’s no way your hands are getting cold in a pair of Flylow gloves.
The brand sells just a hand full of styles, including the “Unicorn Mitt.” Love the name!
These gloves are designed specifically for people who suffer from chronically cold hands. They’re magical-like unicorns.
A nice soft, and secure cuff also looks like it will keep warm body heat from escaping and ensure cold air from getting inside. If you’re into style and function, Flylow fits the bill. Plus, it won’t cost you and arm and leg to buy a pair.
8. Outdoor Research
- Removable merino wool liner for adaptability
- GORE-TEX waterproof insert for protection
- Leather palm and touchscreen compatibility
Outdoor Research is a Seattle based company dedicated to making high quality outdoor gear since 1981! Outdoor Research designs and manufacturers dozens of different styles of gloves and mittens to fit your activity.
If you’re ice climbing or walking in the park on a cold day, Outdoor Research has a pair of gloves for you! OR also makes glove liners too! The company is known for making gloves that are really, really warm.
You thank its special liners for that warmth. OR gloves are designed to wick away moisture and keep your hand dry from the inside out.
Like most glove brands, OR uses a polyester Gortex outer layer to keep water and wind away. OR also sells a nice pair of all down gloves, that basically look like slippers for your hands.
These would be awesome for a bluebird day or once your back at camp and winding down. Down is not waterproof, so you’ll want to be out of the weather if you wear the ‘sleeping bag’ gloves!
OR also understands the importance of keeping your wrists covered! Wrists release a lot of heat and OR is making sure that heat stays where its needed.
With a variety of cuff lengths and cinches, keeping your wrists warm has never been easier. Keeping your wrists covered will also result in warmer hands too! The price range varies with OR gloves from $25 to $300.
9. The North Face
- Breathable-waterproof FUTURELIGHT insert for dryness
- 5 Dimensional Fit for consistent sizing
- Full-coverage gauntlet prevents snow entry
This brand is basically synonymous with the great outdoors. The company is deeply committed to making the warmest winter gloves on the market today. Virtually all of this brand’s gear is waterproof and windproof.
This is important because you want a pair of gloves designed to keep wet weather from penetrating he glove and reaching your hands! The North Face uses a wind resistance fleece to make most of its gloves! The North Face also guarantees every single pair of gloves it sells.
This means if for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, take them back no questions asked!
And, if you’re like me and like to bring my phone while skiing or hiking, these gloves allow you to text and make phone calls with special brushed fabric fingertips! With other gloves, you may need to take them off to make a phone call.
With a pair of North Face gloves, you can be nice and toasty and text all at the same time! The North Face is also budget friendly. While most high-end gloves will cost well over a hundred dollars, a pair of North Face gloves ring in around $60- depending on the style and insulation!
Winter Glove Buying Tips
Activity Level: The first thing you should always take into consideration when shopping for gloves, is the kinds of activities you’ll be doing while wearing said gloves. A pair of ski gloves aren’t the same as a pair of mountaineering gloves. Hunting gloves and ice fishing gloves varying in design and warmth as well. Will you need great dexterity in the gloves or will mittens do the job?
Glove Size Matters: Always try on the gloves before you buy them. You don’t want the gloves to fit too snug or too big. If the gloves are too tight you may risk cutting off circulation. If your gloves are too big, all that warm body heat will be gone like an open window in a home. Bye, bye, body heat! If you plan on wearing a glove liner, try that on with the glove. Remember, you don’t want the layers to be too restrictive.
Insulation Material: Gloves are typically insulated with either down or synthetic material. Down tends to be more expensive, but it does a really good job of keeping your hands warm. Although, if down gets wet, it’s no longer effective and it can take a really long time to dry out. Synthetic keeps your hands dry and warm no matter the weather.
Unlike, down, synthetic material holds up when wet and keeps your hands protected. Both, down and synthetic insulated gloves are great choices. However, if you suffer from poor circulation you may find more comfort and warmth with a pair of down gloves. See our article “Keep Hands Warm In Winter With Poor Circulation“.
Pay Attention to Detail: Look for cinches around the wrist to keep weather from getting inside. Believe it or not, gloves typically get soaked from the inside out- this is why those cinches are so important. Also, look for gloves with long cuffs to protect your wrists. Keeping your wrists covered not only keeps your hands warmer, but it keeps snow and rain from seeping inside your glove.
If you like to take selfies at 10,000 feet on the top of a peak (I mean, who doesn’t?) look for a pair of gloves with smart screen capabilities. Pay attention to the fingertips- this is where you’ll notice special fabric that allows you to make calls and take selfies without taking your gloves off.
Final Thoughts
Okay well that is my take. It was hard with some of these brands to put them in a specific order. So please read each one in detail and make your own educated decision as to which will best suit your needs.
Thank you so much for reading this article all the way to the end and I hope you found the perfect pair of gloves for you and your family!
