Every glove and mitten featured here has been field-tested across the entire range of weather conditions, from mild spring days to the brutally cold days of deep winter. In addition, we put each pair through rigorous, standardized lab tests to evaluate them side by side on a level playing field.
We rated each pair of ski gloves and mittens relative to one another across five metrics:
- Warmth (25% of the overall score)
- Water resistance (25%)
- Dexterity (25%)
- Construction quality (15%)
- Features (10%)
Warmth
When choosing a ski glove or mitten, warmth is the top priority. However, what feels warm can vary greatly from person to person, influenced by factors like individual body temperature and sensitivity to cold. The ideal glove or mitten strikes a balance, providing enough loft and insulation to keep your fingers cozy without sacrificing movement and dexterity. Additionally, good breathability, or the glove's ability to manage moisture, plays a crucial role in keeping your hands comfortable and warm.
To compare warmth, we wore each pair of gloves and mittens on days ranging from above freezing to well below zero. On sub-freezing days, we also carried an infrared thermometer to regularly record the internal temperature. In the lab, each pair spent five minutes in the freezer, where we measured temperature loss using a small Thermodrop thermometer placed in the palm to assess their insulation value (R-value).
Water Resistance
When testing water resistance, we get super hands-on — pun intended. We build snowmen, dig pits, and put our hands into the snow as much as possible. After applying the manufacturer-recommended water-repellent treatment, we track how well each model sheds moisture throughout the season.
We also run a controlled dunk test: each glove is weighed dry, fully submerged in water for two minutes, and then re-weighed. This objective test reveals how effectively a glove or mitten resists saturation – ones that absorb more water are typically less water-resistant. We note if and where water sneaks through (it usually occurs around the seams). We also consider how long each pair takes to dry after becoming fully saturated, which is a consideration for anyone skiing multiple days in a row.
Dexterity
Dexterity holds varying levels of importance for different wearers, but no matter who you are, being able to use your hands makes life a little bit easier. We wear each glove while ski touring and at the resort and test dexterity by performing common tasks with gloved hands. We zip jackets, buckle boots, turn BOA knobs, unlock our car, and perform a series of tasks that require precise finger movements. Models that can perform the tasks in less time do better on this metric. In addition, we evaluate the craftsmanship of each glove, noting material flexibility, relative thickness, fit, finger shape, and seams — all of which can improve or reduce dexterity.
Construction Quality
To evaluate this metric, we examine all of the materials used in a pair of gloves or mittens and assess how they hold up throughout our testing period and beyond. We take a close look at the stitching, palm material, and other weak points where the gloves might wear out and combine our observations into an overall quality score.
Features
Lastly, we meticulously tally up the features of each glove and mitten and assess their actual real-world utility. We pay close attention to touchscreen compatibility, integrated liner gloves, wrist leashes, hand warmer pockets, nose wipes, and more. Gloves and mittens that included more features, and specifically features that added to our overall experience with that pair, scored higher here.
