Finding the perfect pair of ski gloves can make or break your snow adventure. This year, we tested a range of men's ski gloves and mittens, from budget-friendly options to high-tech heated models, to pinpoint the best choices for every type of skier. Whether you're a seasoned pro tackling challenging slopes or a casual skier enjoying a weekend getaway, we've got you covered. Our rigorous testing considered key factors including warmth, dexterity, waterproofing, durability, and overall comfort, ensuring our recommendations stand up to even the harshest winter conditions.This comprehensive review highlights our top five picks for 2021, each catering to different needs and preferences. From the all-around excellence of the Black Diamond Mercury Mitt to the budget-friendly performance of the Gordini GTX Storm Trooper 2, and the luxurious warmth of the Hester Power Heater, we've analyzed the pros and cons to help you choose the perfect glove for your next ski trip. We also explore the exceptional warmth of the Black Diamond Guide Glove for extreme conditions. Read on to discover which pair will keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable all season long.
Read more: Top 5 Ski Gloves for Unforgettable Adventures
Black Diamond Mercury Mitt: Best Overall
The Black Diamond Mercury Mitt reigns supreme as the best overall mitten in our testing. Its exceptional weather resistance, coupled with surprisingly good dexterity, makes it a top contender. It consistently outperformed other mittens in real-world snowy conditions. Beyond its performance, the comfortable and warm construction makes long days on the slopes enjoyable.
Adding to its appeal are the thoughtful design features. The optional internal index finger slot boosts dexterity for precise tasks, while the hanging loop simplifies drying and storage. The insulated liner adds extra warmth and maneuverability compared to the outer shell.
The liner's impressive 340 grams of PrimaLoft insulation, fleece lining, and pre-waterproof fabric combine for exceptional warmth. However, its slightly faster pack-out rate compared to other models is a minor drawback.
Gordini GTX Storm Trooper 2: Best Value
The Gordini GTX Storm Trooper 2 consistently impresses, offering high performance at a significantly lower price point than many competitors. Its durable leather construction ensures longevity, weathering multiple ski seasons with ease. Testers consistently praised its waterproof capabilities, keeping hands dry and warm.
While warm enough for average resort skiing, it doesn't match the insulation of top-tier or heated models. The insulation around the fingertips, while providing warmth, compromises dexterity for more nuanced tasks.
Opening small zippers or handling delicate items becomes challenging. Therefore, it's not the ideal choice for professionals or those requiring precise finger movements; however, its value makes it perfect for casual skiers.
Hester Power Heater Glove: Best Heated Glove
Heated gloves are gaining popularity, and the Hester Power Heater stands out for its high overall performance. Even without the heating element activated, these gloves provide excellent warmth. The design and high-quality materials offer impressive weather resistance, durability, and surprisingly good dexterity.
The heating element effectively keeps hands toasty, ideal for those first chair rides on chilly mornings. When the heat is off, the element is virtually unnoticeable. While not the absolute warmest heated glove available (some offer more heat with larger batteries), it achieves optimal warmth without excessive bulk.
Its combination of warmth, dexterity and comfort makes it a practical and comfortable solution. Other heated gloves might boast more raw heating power but compromise on handling.
Black Diamond Guide Glove: Best Warmth (Non-Heated)
The Black Diamond Guide Glove takes the top spot for warmth among non-heated options. Its exceptional warmth makes it perfect for extreme cold-weather activities like snowboarding, skiing, and mountaineering. Testers even used these gloves on a Denali summit, a testament to their cold-weather capabilities.
Its removable liners simplify drying, while the molded EVA foam padding on the knuckles and fingers provides protection and extra warmth. The durability is outstanding, making them a long-lasting investment. While sturdy, dexterity is sacrificed in favor of warmth and protection—making fine motor tasks difficult.
The inner liner is relatively basic, though the overall performance in extreme cold outweighs this minor shortcoming. The gloves are excellent for extreme conditions but may not be ideal for tasks requiring precision.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ski Glove
The best ski glove for you depends heavily on your needs and priorities. The Black Diamond Mercury Mitt is the best all-around choice, offering a winning combination of warmth and dexterity. The Gordini GTX Storm Trooper 2 provides excellent value, ideal for casual resort skiing. For those seeking extra warmth, the Hester Power Heater Glove offers superb performance. Finally, for extreme cold and robust durability, the Black Diamond Guide Glove is unparalleled.
Consider the conditions you'll be facing and the level of dexterity you require. Do you need the extreme warmth of a heated glove, or will a highly insulated non-heated option suffice? Prioritize waterproofing, durability and comfort to make your choice.