Finding the perfect pair of women's ski gloves can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This comprehensive review cuts through the noise, examining five top contenders for the best ski gloves of 2024. We've considered factors crucial to a comfortable and enjoyable skiing experience, including warmth, dexterity, durability, waterproofing, and, of course, price. From budget-friendly options perfect for milder conditions to high-performance mittens designed for extreme cold, we've tested and analyzed each pair to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.This review explores a range of styles and features, covering everything from Gore-Tex mittens offering a blend of warmth and dexterity to highly insulated mittens built for the most frigid temperatures. We'll delve into the pros and cons of each glove, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you pinpoint the ideal choice based on your individual skiing style, budget, and climate preferences. Read on to discover which pair will keep your hands warm and happy all season long.
Pros And Cons
- Good performance and warmth
- Cute style
- Versatile for backcountry and resort use
- Durable palm materials
- Many features
- Touchscreen compatible liners
- Surprisingly dexterous
- Affordable
- Lifetime warranty
- Not as warm as heavier or more insulated options
- Thinner construction may not match durability of higher-end mittens
- Inexpensive
- Good value
- Leather breathes well
- Sufficient warmth for aerobic days
- Can add a liner for extra warmth
- Good for budget-conscious skiers
- Not as warm as other options
- Leather and cloth exterior absorbs water
- Best for frigid conditions
- Lots of PrimaLoft Gold insulation (warmest tested)
- Extra-long gauntlet keeps out snow
- Breathable shell
- Removable shell and liner for versatility
- Useful only on the coldest days
- Large and bulky, lacks dexterity
- Should be sized down
- Excellent value
- Dexterous
- Insulation strategically placed
- Thin synthetic liner for extra warmth
- Breathable palm
- Functional for backcountry touring and resort use
- Good for warmer winter weather
- Not fully protective in very wet conditions
- Not very warm
- Fit with liner is a bit tight
Read more: Top 5 Ski Gloves for Unforgettable Adventures
Burton Gore-Tex Mittens: A Versatile Choice
The Burton Gore-Tex Mittens offer a compelling blend of warmth, performance, and style. Their durable palm materials and numerous features make them suitable for both resort skiing and backcountry adventures. The surprisingly dexterous design, thanks to thinner construction and glove liners, allows for a wide range of activities.
While the price point is attractive, and it includes a lifetime warranty, the warmth isn't as high as heavier insulated options. The separated fingers in the liner and thinner insulation contribute to this. Durability might also be slightly less compared to higher-end mittens, but overall it's a strong contender for most skiers.
The Burton Gore-Tex mittens are great for skiers who want a balance between functionality and affordability. The dexterity makes them suitable for a variety of tasks on and off the slopes. The lifetime warranty provides extra peace of mind.
Day Kind Camino Ski Gloves: Budget-Friendly Performance
The Day Kind Camino ski gloves offer excellent value for their price. The nylon shell and leather palm provide a good balance of dexterity and durability. Strategic insulation placement towards the back of the hand maximizes warmth.
A thin synthetic liner enhances warmth in colder conditions. The thinner construction at the palm ensures breathability, making them suitable for both resort and backcountry use. It's a good option for warmer winter days.
However, these gloves may not offer complete protection in very wet conditions and are not ideal for extremely cold temperatures. The fit with the liner can be tight, so sizing up is recommended. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Day Kind Camino gloves are a solid choice for budget-conscious skiers.
Outdoor Research Ultimate Women's Mittens: Maximum Warmth
The Outdoor Research Ultimate mittens are designed for extreme cold. Packed with PrimaLoft Gold insulation and featuring an extra-long gauntlet, they provide exceptional warmth and protection from snow. The breathable shell helps wick away moisture.
The removable shell and liner allow for adaptability to varying weather conditions. This makes them incredibly versatile, suitable for use in extremely cold temperatures. The design allows to only use the liner or the shell depending on the conditions.
While supremely warm, the Outdoor Research Ultimate mittens are bulky and lack dexterity. They are best suited for very cold days. They are an excellent choice for skiers in extremely frigid climates but may be overkill for milder conditions.
Kinko Pigskin Leather Gloves: An Affordable Option
The Kinko Pigskin Leather gloves are a popular choice for budget-conscious skiers. The leather provides adequate breathability and warmth for moderately cold days. Their larger fit allows for adding a liner for extra warmth.
Their affordability makes them a great entry-level option. They are a favourite for many for their price and functionality. They don't offer the same level of warmth or waterproofing as other options, however.
The leather and cloth exterior absorbs water readily. While not the top performers, these gloves are perfect for skiers on a tight budget and who don't need extreme warmth or waterproofing. They're a functional and affordable choice for many.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ski Glove
The best women's ski glove depends on individual needs and preferences. Burton Gore-Tex offers a balance of warmth, dexterity, and price. Day Kind Camino provides a budget-friendly option, while Outdoor Research Ultimate excels in extreme cold. Kinko Pigskin offers a highly affordable option.
Consider factors such as warmth requirements, desired level of dexterity, budget, and weather conditions when making your choice. For extreme cold, Outdoor Research is superior; for versatility and value, Burton is a strong choice. The Day Kind and Kinko gloves are best suited for those prioritizing affordability.
Ultimately, the ideal glove will provide comfortable warmth, sufficient dexterity for skiing and other winter activities, and adequate protection against the elements within your budget.