Outer Material
Most ski gloves are made using thick polyester treated with a waterproof DWR coating. These offer durable protection against the weather, although it is almost always worth spending a little more for Gore-Tex, or the equivalent waterproof membrane, to guarantee waterproof performance even in the wettest spring slush.
Leather is a premium option for the very best ski gloves and mittens. It is soft, durable, and incredibly comfortable. But, unlike a polyester glove, leather requires a little more care, and you will need to use a specific leather cream to maintain softness, and also avoid drying them on the radiator, as it will dry out and potentially crack the leather. But, if looked after, a pair of premium leather gloves with a Gore-Tex liner will last for years. Check carefully as some leather gloves won’t be fully waterproof. Leather is naturally water resistant, which is great if you’re not planning on skiing in extreme conditions, but as always, look for a Gore-Tex membrane to ensure proper waterproofing.
Skis and snowboards should be sharp, and as such, can scuff and damage gloves over the course of a season. Polyester gloves with leather palms offer a balance of value and durability.
Warmth
How warm a glove will be is extremely subjective, and in truth, if you ski regularly, it is worth buying two pairs of gloves: one for spring conditions, and one for the worst mother nature can throw at you. Most quality brands will give a temperature rating on their gloves showing the range of conditions they are suitable for, such as –31/–12 degrees Celsius (–25/10 degrees Fahrenheit) and they might also include details of the amount of insulation used. The Black Diamond Mission MX Mittens has 340 grams of Primaloft Gold insulation on the back of hand and 170 grams on the palm. As a rule, the bigger the number, the warmer the glove.
But the secret to warm fingers isn’t just the job of your gloves. Layering is essential; if your body isn’t warm, your fingers (and toes) will suffer as heat is pulled away from them. Before you invest in Everest-ready mittens, try putting another base layer on first.
Glove Length
Longer over-the-cuff gloves have generous gauntlets with elasticated draw-pulls designed to be worn over your jacket cuff. They’re generally warmer and great at keeping out water and snow, even if you do take a tumble in the powder. Longer gloves are ideal for kids and those who get cold easily, as they eliminate any cold spots.
Gloves and mittens with shorter, more traditional cuffs can be worn under your jacket sleeves. They aren’t as warm as longer designs, but are popular with ski tourers or spring skiers who prefer warmer conditions, plus they’re easier to take off and put back on.
The style of your ski jacket can also determine the length of the glove. Many designs now feature stretchy inner sleeves with thumb loops that you wear inside your gloves, which also help keep out any cold air, while some have oversize cuffs that make it easy to pull over your gloves and secure using Velcro tabs.