7 Best Snowboard Gloves & Mittens That Keep Your Hands Warm and Dry
Want the dexterity of five-finger gloves but the cozy warmth of mittens? Outdoor Research’s Highcamp Three-Finger Gloves give the best of both worlds. All while offering breathable, waterproof protection you can count on.
Whether you’re out on an epic bluebird day or charging through whiteout conditions, the O.R. Highcamps provide quality warmth and protection without sacrificing mobility. The VerticalX Eco insulation, combined with the separate thumb and index finger design, makes all the difference. I love that it’s possible to keep the outer shell on to adjust bindings, tighten laces or transition your splitboard for the downhill.
That’s not all, though. Premium woven 2L nylon & leather outer shell for utmost durability? Check. Specialized VerticalX insulation and a quality pair of fleece liner gloves? Yep. A waterproof, breathable insert to stave off moisture and soggy gloves? You bet. The value for money is also one of the best out there.
Take note, that you will want to pay attention to sizing. A pair of gloves that’s too tight or too loose might not warm hands as they should, especially with a 3-finger design. If you get it right though, these will be your trusty, powder-chasing sidekicks for years to come.
The conditions are all-time, and you are fully in your groove. You’re carving like you’ve never carved before, nailing every kicker on the mountain, and spraying that white stuff like an artist with a vision. You are one with the snow and minutes are morphing into hours. Know the feeling?
There’s nothing like being in that flow state. Rest assured, though, the wrong snowboard gloves can put a damper on the magic real quick. Frozen fingers are no joke. If your gloves aren’t built to handle cold moisture and long days on the mountain, you’ll soon be sitting out runs to let your mittens or gloves dry up and recoup. Or worse yet, calling it an early day.
So, my fellow snow surfers: Don’t let poor-quality gloves sidetrack your riding. In this guide, you’ll find the best snowboard gloves & mittens for keeping your hands toasty and stoke high.
My Review Process
From the first time I tried snowboarding as a teen, I was hooked. Nearly two decades later, I’m still just as giddy to hit the slopes when winter shows her face.
It’s only natural that over the years, I’ve had my share of lessons when it comes to snowboarding gear. With snowboarding gloves and mittens, I’ve learned that it’s worth investing in well-made, durable pieces that hold their own no matter what weather the mountain throws at you.
So what features matter most when choosing the best pair of snowboard gloves? Water-repellent qualities reign supreme, but dexterity, comfort, and warmth are equally vital for keeping fingers happy. I’ve outlined other important attributes in the Buying Guide below, so be sure to have a look.
Best Overall Snowboard Gloves
Want the dexterity of five-finger gloves but the cozy warmth of mittens? Outdoor Research’s Highcamp Three-Finger Gloves give the best of both worlds. All while offering breathable, waterproof protection you can count on.
Whether you’re out on an epic bluebird day or charging through whiteout conditions, the O.R. Highcamps provide quality warmth and protection without sacrificing mobility. The VerticalX Eco insulation, combined with the separate thumb and index finger design, makes all the difference. I love that it’s possible to keep the outer shell on to adjust bindings, tighten laces or transition your splitboard for the downhill.
That’s not all, though. Premium woven 2L nylon & leather outer shell for utmost durability? Check. Specialized VerticalX insulation and a quality pair of fleece liner gloves? Yep. A waterproof, breathable insert to stave off moisture and soggy gloves? You bet. The value for money is also one of the best out there.
Take note, that you will want to pay attention to sizing. A pair of gloves that’s too tight or too loose might not warm hands as they should, especially with a 3-finger design. If you get it right though, these will be your trusty, powder-chasing sidekicks for years to come.
Best Men’s Snowboard Gloves
Looking for a heavy-duty pair of snowboard gloves for long, heavy-hitting days on the mountain? The Black Diamond Guide Gloves have the reputation and the performance to back it up.
Everyone from heli-skiers to dawn-til-dusk resort diehards has penned the BD Guides as one of the warmest gloves on the market. A hearty glove liner features PrimaLoft insulation coupled with boiled wool; a reliable, unmatched duo that also aids in moisture management when you start breaking a sweat.
The shell, on the other hand, is designed as the epitome of a waterproof snowboard glove. A mix of durable nylon, 2-layer leather on the palms, and a GORE-TEX insert does its job of keeping water out, even in the wettest conditions. Another nice touch is the foam-padded knuckle area. It offers more than adequate impact protection for days when you’re pushing yourself a bit further.
For a five-finger glove, they do lack a touch of dexterity for those first few sessions. But that’s because the Black Diamond Guide Gloves are burly, made-to-last snow-beasts! They’ll break in fast enough, trust me. And once they do, you’ll understand that the hype is worth it.
Best Women’s Snowboard Gloves
Specialized gear adds up quickly, which is why versatility is key in any snowboard quiver. But lo and behold, Dakine’s Women’s Sequoia GORE-TEX Mittens have the superpower of adaptation! They’re a dependable, truly water-resistant, one-stop-glove-shop for whatever weather you encounter on the mountain.
Battling an arctic spell at the resort? Fret not. Chasing Spring corn on a backcountry tour? Easy peasy. The Dakine Sequoia Mitts handle it all like seasoned pros. I love that you can easily remove a layer (shell or fleece liner!) when temps rise or you’re breaking a sweat skinning uphill. The rubbery grip on the palms adds a touch of dexterity, too, making straps-in transitions a breeze.
The sizing does run a bit small —not all us gals have petite hands!—but that’s an easy fix. Just size up! Final verdict is: the Dakine Women’s Sequoia Mittens are an awesomely warm, reliable and versatile glove at an awesome price. They’ll gain your trust not only in a range of conditions but for seasons to come.
Best Kids Snowboard Gloves
Snowboarding with tykes usually means lots of breathers to recoup body heat and warm up cold fingers and toes. Not with the Kids Burton GORE-TEX Mittens! Excessive long breaks and cries of chilly hands will be a thing of the past with these awesome gloves for budding riders.
A DRYRIDE 2-layer outer shell combines with a trusty GORE-TEX membrane to ensure moisture management is at the forefront. Even in wet, super snowy conditions, you can count on the Burton GORE-TEX mittens to provide that ideal combination of warmth and dryness. The longer, cinchable gauntlet cuff keeps snow out during tumbles and impromptu snowball fights, too.
Do I question how well they’d perform in mid-teen temperatures or lower? A bit, yes. But pairing them with a glove liner is an easy way to offset that worry, especially for little ones who are sensitive to really cold conditions. Overall, though, the Kids Burton GORE-TEX Mittens will impress. They’re the safeguard you’ve been waiting for to keep kids smiling while riding.
Best Extreme-Cold Waterproof Gloves
For below-zero laps on the mountain or full-day snowboarding adventures, preparedness is paramount. And there’s no pair of gloves I trust more in unpredictable, extreme elements as Outdoor Research’s Mt. Baker II GORE-TEX Mitts.
Whether a system rolls in or you’re getting an alpine start for some backcountry skiing, the Mt. Bakers are known for holding their own in prolonged cold and wet conditions. Built with high-elevation mountaineering in mind, you can count on them to keep chilly hands at bay thanks to their PrimaLoft Gold insulation and insulated glove liners. A premium 3-layer GORE-TEX membrane further sweetens the pot by giving the best there is in waterproofing and breathability.
Be forewarned: the price of the O.R. Mt. Baker II GORE-TEX Mitts is a bit steep. But the peace of mind you get knowing they can be trusted in all conditions is worth every penny. Plus, the modular design with removable liners allows you to remove a layer without the expense of warmth. All in all, a piece of riding gear that’s in a class of its own.
Best Snowboard Gloves With Built-In Wrist Guards
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider projecting a complex new trick, having that extra protection in common problem areas makes all the difference with confidence and progress. If wrists are your kryptonite, it’s simple. I wouldn’t hit the slopes with the Dakine Wristguard Gloves in tow.
As opposed to many wrist guards on the market, Dakine’s thought-out design features rigid nylon plates in both the backhand and the palm. This two-sided construction really gives you ample wrist protection, even when a really bad spill takes the wind out of you. The type of insulation used —300g fleece— also provides an impressive quality of warmth, tackling cold hands before they start.
Being that gloves with wrist guards focus on protection, bonuses like removable liners and versatile sizing aren’t exactly prime concerns. But if safeguarding your wrists is a priority, you can count on the Dakine Wristguard Gloves to offer utmost protection.
Best Budget Snowboard Gloves
While it’s typically true that super-budget snowboard gloves can’t always be trusted for the long haul, Kinco 1927KW’s are the exception that will turn your snowy world around.
These humble winter workhorses, lined with Heatkeep insulation, have been a go-to for ski patrollers and backcountry guides for decades. That speaks volumes in itself! Premium pigskin leather makes them the epitome of a pliable but durable glove, while the cotton-blend canvas allows hands to breathe when you’re touring uphill or the air temperature ramps up.
There is a caveat. In order for the Kinco 1927KW’s to reach their full potential, a wax waterproofing sealant is highly recommended. I assure you that the extra step is well worth it. Sure, they’ll never be fully waterproof gloves because of the canvas component. But if you’re not heading out for a multi-day expedition or into freezing rain, these trusted everyday gloves will become a favorite staple in your quiver.
Snowboard Mittens vs Gloves: Which Are Better?
It’s a tough decision, I know. Snowboarding mittens keep all your fingers warm by keeping them snug. Traditional five-finger gloves, on the other hand, give you more range of motion and dexterity.
Luckily these days, you have options that give you the best of both worlds! For one, most mittens have removable liners with individual fingers for dexterity. That means you can remove the outer shell when lacing up boots, adjusting bindings or checking your phone, all while curbing cold hands.
There’s also the popular three-finger glove, which is essentially half-mitten. Your middle finger, ring finger and pinky finger are all grouped together, while your thumb and pointer hang solo. They’re an excellent choice for those who want that extra touch of dexterity.
How To Wash Snowboard Gloves
Snowboard gloves that are being used consistently throughout the season are bound to show signs (and smells!) of use. If you’re at the point where a wash is needed, heed with caution and carefully read their care tag.
Generally speaking, if you have leather gloves —whether they just have leather palms or feature an all-leather outer shell— definitely don’t machine wash. Leather gloves should only be spot-cleaned and air-dried.
If your gloves are made with synthetic materials, you may be able to toss them (or the liners) in a machine, but I’d recommend hand-washing if possible. I repeat: be sure to read their care instructions. If they have a GORE-TEX membrane or a water-resistant coating, you may need to take certain precautions.
Snowboard Gloves Buying Guide
Snowboarding gloves that don’t repel moisture and prevent cold, simply put, shouldn’t be used for snowboarding. Here are the most important features that keep your hands warm and dry.
Intention & Riding Style
Are you looking for an everyday snowboard glove for the resort, a modular system for uphill touring, or a beefy design for a cat-skiing trip? How you ride and where you ride make a difference in the gear you choose.
If you’re in a region that has famously wet winters, prioritize waterproofing in your search for gloves. If backcountry skiing and splitboarding are your passion, a modular style with a quality liner that stands on its own would be a sound choice. You’ll be shedding that outer shell as soon as you get sweaty on the uphill.
Simply put: the best pair of gloves for you will be the pair that aligns most with your riding style.
Material
Gloves for skiing or snowboarding are typically made from synthetic materials, leather, or a combination of both. There are some key differences.
Leather gloves (especially if they have an all-leather outer shell) are usually more expensive, heavier in weight, and generally speaking, need to be waxed and maintained regularly. They are, however, more durable and longer-lasting, especially if they’re made with high-quality leather.
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, tend to be more lightweight, packable, and cheaper. They usually come treated with water-repellent properties (like a DWR finish) and are also easier to wash and dry. Another perk: they require no break-in period, like leather, which is stiff for the first few wears.
Insulation
The type of insulation inside your snowboarding gloves matters. Why? Similar to base layers, a poor-quality insulating material usually means it won’t wick sweat or allow your hands to breathe very well. If it’s too thin, it also won’t trap heat when you need it. That becomes problematic for long days of riding.
Most top glove brands will prioritize premium insulating materials or blends known for both their warmth and moisture-wicking qualities. Prima Loft or Prima Gold insulation is a common choice, but there is also a motley of other super-innovative synthetic insulations available, like VerticalX, Heatkeep, or ThermaCore.
Insulation is usually measured in grams per square meter. The higher the number, the warmer the glove. Various types of insulation can range anywhere from 40 grams to over 500 grams for a specialized mountaineering glove. If you’re going to be riding in a very cold climate, pay attention to this number.
Finger Style & Dexterity
The style of your glove is a personal matter. Some riders swear by mittens, and love having their fingers in close proximity at all times, generating extra warmth. Others prefer a five-finger glove that provides more dexterity and range of motion. For those torn between both styles, there are three-finger glove designs that strike the balance between both designs.
My recommendation is this: if you’re going for mittens, make sure they come with quality liners. This is especially important for snowboarders since you’ll be strapping into your bindings or adjusting your snowboarding boots pretty often. (And you don’t want to remove your entire glove system in order to do it, exposing your fingers to the cold.) If you end up with a mitten or glove that doesn’t have a removable inner glove, do yourself a favorite and buy a good-quality glove liner.
Waterproofing
Soggy gloves can put an end to an awesome day of riding. Make sure, then, that your snowboarding gloves or mittens come equipped with properties that can reliably repel water.
Whether that means a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish on a sturdy synthetic glove or a GORE-TEX waterproof membrane in an all-leather outer shell, do your research and know your terrain. If you’re going to be encountering wet snow often, the warmest gloves won’t do a thing if they’re not properly designed to keep moisture at bay.
Pro tip: If you have any leather component on your glove, it’s always recommended to use a waterproof wax sealant on it, like SnoSeal.
Cost
In your search for snowboard and ski gloves, you’re bound to find prices ranging anywhere from a budget-friendly $30 to upwards of $200 for a specialized (or merely name-brand) pair of gloves with extra features.
Now, while price usually speaks volumes of quality, the above list is a testament that this doesn’t always ring true with snowboarding gloves. Our budget choice, after all, is a somewhat legendary warm glove and one of the most trusted pieces of winter gear around! Instead of focusing on price, then, I’d focus on style, intention, and the features most important in your riding style.
Summary
Torn between a dexterous glove and a super-warm mitten? Outdoor Research’s Highcamp 3-Finger Gloves give you the perks of both styles in a high-performing package. The modular design makes them super versatile, too.
For a traditional five-finger design that holds its own in the toughest conditions, I’d go with the Black Diamond Guide Gloves.
If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly option that will seriously impress, though, I can’t recommend the legendary Kinco 1927KW Lined Premium Grain Gloves enough. They’re a simple but sturdy winter glove powerhouse.
Common questions
Sylvia fell in love with snowboarding in her teens. She has since spent every season on the slopes and now works as a snowboard instructor.
*The information on this site is based on research and first-hand experience but should not be treated as medical advice. Before beginning any new activity, we recommend consulting with a physician, nutritionist or other relevant professional healthcare provider.
