Ski Handwear

The outer face fabric of the handwear, affecting durability, weather resistance, dexterity, and feel.

Leather offers the best grip and dexterity but needs care. Nylon is the most durable synthetic. Softshell is ideal for touring and active use. Polyester is fine for casual resort skiing.

The material on the palm and fingers that contacts ski poles and surfaces, affecting grip, durability, and feel.

Leather provides the best overall grip and feel but needs waterproofing treatment. Synthetic suede is a low-maintenance alternative. Rubberized grips are best for wet conditions. Textured nylon is adequate for casual use.

The specific waterproof-breathable membrane technology used in the handwear construction.

Gore-Tex is the gold standard for reliable waterproofing. Proprietary membranes can offer good value. No membrane is fine for dry, cold climates or high-output activities where breathability matters more.

Additional material layers in high-wear areas to improve durability where gloves typically wear out first.

Palm and thumb crotch reinforcements are the most valuable for extending glove life. Fingertip reinforcement helps racers and heavy users. Knuckle protection is for racers and freestyle riders. More reinforcements generally mean longer-lasting gloves.

The fundamental construction style of the handwear, determining finger separation and overall warmth-to-dexterity ratio.

Choose gloves for dexterity and pole grip in moderate conditions; mittens for maximum warmth in extreme cold; 3-finger or trigger mittens for a balance. If your hands run cold, lean toward mittens or hybrids.

The primary insulating material used inside the handwear, affecting warmth, packability, moisture resistance, and weight.

Synthetic is the safest all-around choice. Down is best for dry, extreme cold. Heated gloves are ideal for chronically cold hands but require charging discipline. Uninsulated shells offer the most versatility with layering.

The thickness or gram weight of insulation, directly correlating with warmth level. Often described as lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight.

Match insulation weight to your typical riding conditions and cold tolerance. Midweight covers most scenarios. If you ride in varied conditions, consider a layering system with a lighter glove and separate liner.

Whether the handwear includes battery-powered heating elements for active warmth generation.

Heated gloves are a game-changer for riders with chronically cold hands or those skiing in extreme cold. They add significant cost and require battery discipline. Most riders do not need heated gloves if they choose proper insulation and fit.

The inner lining or removable liner of the handwear, affecting comfort, moisture management, warmth, and drying capability.

Removable liners are best for multi-day trips and quick drying. Fixed liners are simpler and fine for day trips. No liner (shell only) offers maximum versatility for layering. Wool liners excel for extended backcountry use.

The water column rating (mm) of the waterproof membrane or treatment, indicating resistance to water penetration under pressure.

For most skiers, 10,000mm is sufficient. Go higher for coastal/wet climates, deep powder, or professional use. Water-resistant only is fine for dry, cold interior climates.

The design of the glove opening and how it interfaces with jacket sleeves, affecting snow seal, warmth, and ease of use.

Gauntlet cuffs are best for powder and cold conditions. Under-cuff is preferred for a clean look and mild conditions. Hybrid offers versatility. Match your cuff style to your typical snow conditions and jacket design.

The mechanism used to secure the glove at the wrist, affecting fit adjustment, ease of use, and snow seal.

Velcro straps are the most common and versatile. Drawcords are essential for gauntlet gloves in powder. Elastic is fine for casual or spring use. Zips add convenience but a potential failure point.

The sizing and overall fit profile of the handwear, critical for warmth, dexterity, and comfort. Proper fit ensures insulation works effectively.

Measure hand circumference around the widest part of the palm (excluding thumb). When in doubt, size up slightly — gloves that are too tight restrict blood flow and cause cold hands. There should be a small air gap at the fingertips for optimal insulation. Try on with any liner you plan to wear.

The intended gender fit of the handwear, affecting palm width, finger length, and overall proportions.

Choose gender-specific fit for best performance. Women's gloves account for narrower palms and different finger proportions. Unisex is fine but may not fit as precisely. Youth gloves prioritize ease of use and growth room.

Whether the glove includes conductive material on fingertips allowing smartphone and touchscreen use without removing gloves.

Increasingly important for riders who use phones for navigation, photos, or resort apps. Not essential for purists or those who keep devices in pockets while riding. Check which fingertips are enabled — index and thumb are most useful.

A loop or cord attached to the glove that goes around the wrist, preventing gloves from falling off or being lost when removed.

Wrist leashes are highly recommended for resort skiing where gloves are frequently removed on chairlifts. They prevent costly losses. Some riders find them annoying; they can be tucked inside if not wanted.

A soft fabric panel on the thumb or back of hand designed for wiping the nose and face without irritating skin.

A small but surprisingly valued feature for cold-weather skiers. If you ride in cold conditions regularly, this feature significantly improves comfort. Not critical for warm weather or occasional skiers.