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!
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 Fortress Clothing review.
Fortress GlovePro
Rated for -10°F to 70°F
Maintains heat wet or dry
Wind/waterproof outer shell
Use Coupon Code: epguy15 for a 15% discount
Burton Gore-Tex Gloves
Touch-screen compatible
Pocket for handwarmers
Removable 4-way stretch fleece liner
Gordini Gore-Tex Storm Glove
Textured palm and fingers
Extended gauntlet cuffs
Wrist leash
28 Warmest Winter Gloves & Mittens for 2024
1. Fortress Glove Pro
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
Use Coupon Code: epguy15 for a 15% discount
2. Fortress Everest Mitten – Warmest Gloves in the World
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
Use Coupon Code: epguy15 for a 15% discount
3. Burton Gore-Tex Gloves
- DRYRIDE two-layer fabric with Gore warm technology offers a dry and breathable level of performance
- Screen Grab Toughgrip palm won’t fray or wear out and features built-in touchscreen-compatible technology
PROS: Great design, well made, trusted brand, Gore-Tex, vent pocket, and a pocket for hand warmers and you can take selfies without taking your gloves off -touchscreen capable!
CONS: Glove liner doesn’t last as long as the outer shell. Measure your hand before you buy!
The Burton Gore-Tex Gloves are equally stylish as they are warm. Made with a Gore-Tex shell, this glove will keep snow and rain from seeping into the insulation. The glove is insulated with a synthetic material- which will keep you warm in a variety of weather conditions. The removable, stretchy liner is a plus, ranking this pair of gloves to #3 on the list.
Check them out here: Burton Gore-Tex Gloves
4. Gordini Gore-Tex Storm Glove
- Shell is bluesign APPROVED; durable 10k polyester shell
- Waterproof, windproof, breathable GORE-TEX insert is bluesign APPROVED; Megaloft synthetic insulation; moisture-wicking lining
- Water-resistant CLUTCH recycled synthetic leather trim; 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
5. Canada Goose Arctic Down Gloves
- Fabric: Waterproof technical weave
- Fill: 80% white goose down/20% feathers
- Durable polyurethane grip at the palm, Ribbed knit cuffs with adjustable drawstring and Velcro straps
Canada Goose is famous for making some of the warmest gloves in the world – hands down. The company has mastered the art of making equally warm and fashionable winter gear for decades.
PROS: Down insulation, waterproof, windproof, breathable and long cuffs.
CONS: Expensive. May get overheated if you’re doing high intense activities. Sell out quickly.
Olympic athletes, Mount Everest climbers and explorers all wear Canada Down when the temperature drops down below zero. These gloves rank 3rd on the list because they are made with high quality plumage- the really warm and soft stuff underneath down feathers on a goose.
These gloves are warm, durable and can hold up to the most extreme weather. These are the kind of gloves you will wear for decades- they are that well-built and designed.
Check them out here: Canada Goose Arctic Down Mitt
6. Hestra Short Freeride 5-Finger Snow Gloves
- LEATHER: Cowhide
- INSULATED: Foam insulation and Bemberg polyester lining for warmth and quick dry
- FEATURES: Neoprene Cuff, Velcro Closure, Carabiner and Outseams
Hestra is the cream of the crop, when it comes to making warm winter gloves. This company has literally been making gloves since the 1930s. So, buying a pair of Hestra gloves is a safe bet. In fact, it’s really not a bet at all. When you buy a pair of Hestra gloves, you are guaranteed superior protection and warmth, bringing this pair of gloves to 4th on our list!
PROS: Well made, durable, leather, foam insulation, neoprene cuff.
CONS: Not touchscreen compatible, bulky and expensive.
The Hestra Short Freeride gloves are made with cowhide and synthetic materials and are insulated with a synthetic material – foam! A neoprene cuff (like the stuff wet suits are made out of) will keep your wrists covered, dry and prevent any wet snow from getting inside.
Check them out here: Hestra Short Freeride Gloves
7. Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Mitten
- DESIGNED FOR: The Army Leather Heli Ski was designed for freeriders, professional mountain guides and patrollers, ski instructors and others who place high demands on function, fit and durability.
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
8. Hestra Army Leather – Gore-Tex
- DESIGNED FOR: The Army Leather GORE-TEX Glove was designed for freeriders, professional mountain guides, ski instructors and others who place high demands on function, fit and durability.
- DURABLE FABRIC: Windproof, waterproof, and breathable HESTRA Triton fabric on backhand with our most durable Army Goat Leather on palm and fingers.
- GORE-TEX TECHNOLOGY: GORE-TEX is a thin membrane that behaves in the same way as human skin. It releases excess heat and body moisture, while preventing the penetration of any moisture from the…
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
9. Hestra Army Leather Patrol Gauntlet
- DESIGNED FOR: The Army Leather Patrol Gauntlet was designed for freeriders, professional mountain guides, ski instructors and others who place high demands on function, fit and durability.
- DURABLE FABRIC (outer material/type of leather): Windproof, waterproof, and breathable HESTRA Triton fabric on backhand with our most durable Army Goat Leather on palm and fingers.
- RETAIN WARMTH (insulation): Holding heat even in wet conditions, this glove’s G-loft insulation is made from a very thin polyester fiber with exceptionally high insulating capacity.
PROS: Durable, cozy, made for extreme weather, removable liner, outside seems for more comfort, well-made, trusted brand.
CONS: Expensive
If you are heading on an expedition, this is the pair of gloves you want to have on.
This pair of Hestra gloves are made with special proprietary fabric designed to give you extra protection from the wind, rain, sleet and ice. These gloves seriously pack a punch! The leather palm will allow you to grip your poles or other gear with confidence.
Check them out here: Hestra Army Leather Patrol Gauntlet
10. Hestra Heli Ski OutDry
- WINDPROOF WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE: Hestra Triton polyamide fabric. Palm made of impregnated Army Lather goat leather
- OUTDRY WATERPROOF: Insert inside glove to make waterproof
PROS: Waterproof, blocks wind high-quality leather and synthetic materials, really warm, great dexterity and removable liner.
CONS: Sell out quickly and the most expensive pair of Hestra gloves.
Hestra makes durable and warm winter gloves for whatever you plan to do: from heli-skiing to shopping in an alpine village.
This pair of gloves is a waterproof version of the company’s classic and legendary Army Leather Heli Ski glove. This glove has reinforced fingers and palm area for group and a wool/fleece liner for added warmth and comfort.
Check them out here: Hestra Heli Ski OutDry Gloves
11. Spyder Legend Conduct Glove
- Designed with conductive material for handheld touch screen devices
- Elasticized wrist
- Body- Polyester Mid-Weight Sweater Knit Bonded to Anit-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
12. Gordini Elias Gauntlet
- Gauntlet cinch closure, pre-curved construction,
PROS: Well made, trusted brand, waterproof and down insulation.
CONS: Runs big, liner may shift, bulky.
This pair of gloves means business. Slip on a pair of Gordini’s and you can climb the tallest mountains and ski all the black diamond runs. Okay, these gloves won’t give you super powers, but you’ll be warm- and that’s pretty cool too.
The gloves are made with a synthetic blend of water wicking insulation. A moisture wicking liner and waterproof/breathable fleece insert means these gloves can hold up in a blizzard. The outer shell is made with nylon and goatskin. The fingers/palms and thumbs also reinforced with bison leather!
Check them out here: Gordini Elias Gauntlet
13. Gordini ERGOknit
- Outdoor Apparel Item
PROS: Great dexterity, really warm, innovative construction, water-resistant, blocks wind.
CONS: Will not hold up to heavy snow, runs small.
If you need a warm pair of glove for running, biking, building a playhouse outside in October, this is an excellent pair to have on hand.
The gloves aren’t bulky, but they keep your hands really warm! According to Gordini, the company uses a 3D knitting process that eliminates a majority of seams in the gloves. Seams often left in weather and allow body heat to escape. With fewer seams, the gloves are really warm.
This pair is also made out of GORE WINDSTOPPER – a product designed to keep wind away from your hands. These gloves are also water-resistant.
Check them out here: Gordini ERGOknit Gloves
14. Gordini Leather Goose Mittens
- Outdoor Apparel Item
PROS: Very well made, leather and down, wrist cinch to keep weather away.
CONS: Not touch screen compatible.
Made with 600 fill Goose down and waterfowl feathers, the Leather Goose gloves get a spot on this list.
The feathers, down and synthetic insulation are positioned strategically in key zones of the glove, where your hands need the extra warmth. The down is focused on the back of the hand, while the synthetic material is around the palm.
This glove is made with goatskin, with extra material around the palms and fingers for reinforcement.
Check them out here: Gordini Leather Goose Mittens
15. Outdoor Research Transcendent Mitts
- Water-resistant
PROS: 650 fill down, elastic cuff, waterproof shell, grips on palm of hand.
CONS: Expensive. May need liner.
Have you ever wanted a pair of down sleeping bags for your hands? Well, here’s your chance. This transcendent mitten is like wearing a down sleeping bag.
These gloves are lightweight, water-resistant and will keep you really warm. Because they compress and pack well, this might be a great pair of gloves to wear around the campfire or while sleeping in a bigger sleeping bag!
Check them out here: Outdoor Research Transcendent Mitts
16. Dakine Titan Gloves
- WARM & WATERPROOF – The Dakine Leather Titan Gore-Tex Snow Gloves are equipped with GORE-TEX technology featuring Gore Warm, ensuring both waterproof and breathable performance. The insert is composed…
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
17. Dakine Maverick Insulated Gloves
- Type – Glove
- Insulation – High Loft Synthetic
- Cuff Type – Under
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
18. Dakine Alero Mitts
- INSERT: DK Dry Waterproof / breathable membrane (100% Polyurethane)|INSULATION: High loft fill (100% polyester)|[ Glove 110 / 280g ] [ Mitt 110 / 350g ]|PALM: 100% Polyurethane|SHELL: Hoxton (59%…
PROS: Fun fabric print, durable water repellent shell, waterproof, high synthetic loft insulation, faux fur around the cuff of the glove.
CONS: Runs small, wrist cinch doesn’t hold.
This glove is something you want to slip on for a long day on the slopes or running errands around town. With a polyester blend for the outer shell, it’s really warm and waterproof. The outer shell is treated with a durable water repellent to keep you dry all day long!
Check them out here: Dakine Alero Mitts
19. Black Diamond Mercury Mitt
- 100% waterproof Dry insert stays with removable liner
- Lightweight, abrasion-resistant, Pretext Shield shell with 4-way stretch
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
20. Black Diamond Legend Gloves
If you’re serious about staying warm, this is the pair of gloves you want to be wearing.
PROS: Leather, waterproof/breathable insert, pro-grade quality.
CONS: Hands may overheat.
The Black Diamond Legend Gloves are made with the highest quality material, making them durable and really, really warm. Did I mention these gloves are warm? The gloves are made with abrasion-resistant outer shell, a waterproof/breathable insert, leather on the fingers and palm, fleece lining. Rated for -10 to 10 degrees F.
Check them out here: Black Diamond Legend Gloves
21. FlyLow Blaster Glove
PROS: Comfortable, leather, waterproof, great insulation, really warm, excellent dexterity- not too bulky!
CONS: Short cuffs may allow weather and snow to get inside
FlyLow is a relatively new brand to the winter gear market. But, don’t let that keep you from buying a pair of FlyLow Blaster Gloves. This company is making a dent in the glove market with its innovative combination of Primaloft insulation and beeswax waterproof layer. The gloves are made out of cowhide. The leather is then tripled baked with bees wax, also known as Sno Seal to keep wet weather from penetrating your hands!
Check them out here: FlyLow Blaster Gloves
22. Marmot XT Glove
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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
23. Outdoor Research Luminary Sensor Gloves
- Fabric Performance: Windproof, Water-Resistant, Breathable, Wicking, Quick Drying, Water-Resistant Leather Palm, Tricot Bonded Palm for Anti-Slip Grip
- Design Features: Touch-Screen Compatible, Removable Wool Blend Liner, Removable Leash, Pull-On Loop, Carabiner Loop
PROS: Well insulated, touch screen compatible, goat leather palm and index finger for texting, wool liner, breathable and water-resistant.
CONS: Runs small.
If you need a heavy-duty glove to hold up under extreme cold, this pair of gloves will do the trick. A wool liner keeps a thin layer of warm close to your skin. The liner also wicks away moisture to prevent your hands from getting too sweaty while outside in the cold. The shell of the glove is made with a soft, movable fabric that is designed to move with your hands and keep the wind from stealing your body heat.
This glove can be worn a number of ways- just the shell, with the liner, or the liner alone for warmer days on the mountain or around town.
Check them out here: Outdoor Research Luminary Sensor Gloves
24. Outdoor Research Arete Gloves
- Fabric Performance: Waterproof, Breathable, Windproof, Wicking, AlpenGrip Palm
- Heat Pack Pocket/Shell Pocket on Back of Liner
- Pre-Curved Construction
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
25. Outdoor Research Sensor Gloves
- Fabric Performance: Breathable, Lightweight, Wicking, Quick Drying, Water-Resistant Leather Palm
- Design Features: Touch-Screen Compatible, Glove Clip
- Functional Details: Contoured Wrist, Mirror Seam Double Layer Fleece Construction, Minimal Seam Construction
PROS: Keeps moisture away, breathable, touchscreen compatible, dries quick.
CONS: Limited use. Need to wear another glove when in extreme cold or wet conditions!
This is the perfect pair of gloves for rock climbing, running, biking and any other activities where you need excellent dexterity and warmth. These gloves can be worn alone or as liners. This unique blend of synthetic fibers allows the glove to stretch and fit to your hand perfectly.
Check them out here: Outdoor Research Sensor Gloves
26. Smartwool Ridgeway Glove
- Multi-purpose leather glove with double layer thumb and index finger for reinforcement
- Terry loop knit interior lining for warmth and comfort
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
27. Fox River Ragg Wool Glove
- TOASTY WARMTH BLOCKS THE COLD: Thick insultated knit handwear provides warmth through a dense layer of yarn and optional interior layers
PROS: Well made, high-quality wool, really warm, thick material, odor resistant, one-year warranty.
CONS: Not touchscreen compatible, one size fits all.
Fox River is a trusted brand with a great track record for making really high-quality wool gloves. This pair of gloves is made with several layers of wool yarn, to give you the warmth you need when the temperature drops. These gloves are durable, warm and naturally wick away moisture.
Check them out here: Fox River Ragg Wool Glove
28. Fox River Four Layer Glove
- TOASTY WARMTH BLOCKS THE COLD: Thick insultated knit handwear provides warmth through a dense layer of yarn and optional interior layers
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 made 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
- DESIGNED FOR: The Army Leather Heli Ski was designed for freeriders, professional mountain guides and patrollers, ski instructors and others who place high demands on function, fit and durability.
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
- Shell: Micro smooth weave
- Palm: Pu palm & insert: Helly tech performance waterproof & breathable insert
- Insulation: 6oz fiber fill & lining: anti pilling polyester micro fleece
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.
Check them out here: Helly Hansen
5. Carhartt
- Durable polytex shell
- FastDry technology lining wicks away sweat for comfort
- Waterproof insert
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
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
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
- Fabric Performance: Waterproof, Breathable, Windproof, Wicking, Fully Seam-Taped, Water-Resistant Leather Palm, Moonlight Pile Fleece Liner Palm
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 keeps hands dry
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!
