8 Best Gloves for Cross Country Skiing This Winter (Winter 2024) (2024)

Navigating the snowy slopes or embracing winter adventures requires the perfect pair of gloves to keep your hands warm and agile. Drawing from personal experiences and meticulous testing, I’ve delved into some of the most notable gloves in the market, such as the Swix Shield XC and FRDM’s convertible gloves.

Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or just battling the cold, journey with me as we explore top-tier gloves that offer a balance of comfort, functionality, and affordability. Don’t let the cold hinder your outdoor pursuits!

1. Swix Shield XC Ski Mens Gloves

When we talk about the best men’s ski gloves, of course, the Swix Shield XC ski men’s gloves will always be included on the list. It is a top-notch product that is highly rated for its outstanding functionalities.

This is also one of the best budget gloves that you can go for. Although it can boast of its excellent flexibility, softness, and warmth still, it is offered at an affordable price.

Swix utilized 100% polyester in manufacturing this product. It doesn’t only make it wear-resistant but also highly dexterous. For that reason, this glove is definitely perfect for different outdoor activities like hiking, snowboarding, and of course skiing. But this glove is also suitable for casual daily wear. Please read here snowmobile gloves.

It is a guarantee that this glove can keep you warm because it features Primaloft insulation. For sure, this product can provide heat for the entire hands that is why I personally love wearing this one.

Furthermore, it has an elasticized cuff made of neoprene. This feature secures a snug fit on your wrist. It also prevents the snow from getting into your hands. Other than that, it also makes putting on and off easier. You can just simply pull it off or slide it in.

In addition to this, the best ski gloves also boast of its Terry wipe feature on the thumb. This makes it easier for you to wipe off the sweat running down your forehead.

However, if you are after a glove that comes with a removable liner then this might not be the one for you. More so, Swix shield XC ski gloves are also not suitable for very cold temperatures.

2. Swix Star XC 2.0 XC Ski Gloves Womens

The next product in this review is the best performance ski gloves for women. Cross country skiers will absolutely love this Swix star XC 2.0 gloves for they are lightweight. Aside from that, its insulation greatly balanced comfort and performance.

Swix Star utilized the glove stretch technology to provide you with a snug fit. According to buyers, it fits them like it is their second skin. This also delivers users with aerodynamic performance.

The brand also boasts of its Primaloft insulation feature which maximizes both the comfort and warmth that it can provide. Its membrane is made of synthetic material that has the ability to wick away moisture. More so, it has the capability to trap and secure the warm air in the woven fibers tightly.

To ensure that this glove will last longer, the manufacturer intentionally reinforced the palms and the cradle of the thumbs because these areas are the most prone to wearing. That particular design can prevent blowout as well as allow the glove to deliver a true performance. read more here caring gloves.

In addition to this, the fingers are pre-curved following its natural or resting position to ensure that it will provide maximum dexterity and added comfort. The palm area is also enhanced to deliver superior durability and excellent grip.

Another feature that this product brags about is its touch screen compatibility. The best women’s ski gloves will save you from the trouble of taking your glove off and putting it back again just to snap a photo or answer a call.

Although it is a decent cross country ski glove, it may not be suitable for very cold temperatures. It also lacks a waterproofing property but it is made to be resistant to wind.

If you are also seeking a glove with a removable liner and a glove leash, then you might want to consider other products in this review. Because Swix star XC 2.0 neither has those two features.

3. Tough Outdoors Ski Mittens

Now, let me introduce to you the best budget ski mittens offered by Tough Outdoors. It is a high-quality mitt that will accompany you while you stay fit and active even in wintertime.

This winter ski mitten is suitable both for men and women. It is specifically designed for outdoor enthusiasts like you. With its weatherproofing property, you will surely be protected against wind, sleet, and rain as you go skiing across the country.

The best budget ski mittens have a black shell that is made of nylon and a TPU membrane which are both weatherproof. The membrane serves as a barrier, responsible for blocking the moisture so it won’t get inside your hands. At the same time, it allows perspiration to escape due to its breathable fabric.

Tough Outdoors ensures that their product will last long. As for this model, they intentionally used the synthetic leather material on the palm because it is the most stressed part.

Aside from that, they also reinforced this area for added durability. More importantly, it will protect your hands against the possibilities of abrasion. And at the same time, it will improve your grip towards your ski poles. There’s no doubt why my friends are fond of buying products from this brand.

Mittens are recommended for people with cold hands because they can keep your hands warmer through its design. The fingers are not separated which is why it can produce more warmth. Much more, this mitt also has thermal insulation and soft fleece liner. Rest assured, your hands will be kept toasty and dry in winter.

Another feature that this product boasts of is its wrist leashes which allows you to secure your mittens when you take it off. With this awesome feature, you won’t need to worry anymore that you might lose your mitts because you can safely dangle them on your wrists.

Apart from that, the best budget ski mittens also have a wrist buckle that you can adjust to ensure that your mitt will nor slip off your hands. This Tough Outdoors also ensures a snug fit along with the one pull and elastic closure. As such, it is a guarantee that no snow can enter your hands.

Perhaps, the major drawback that users usually complained of is its poor stitching. Don’t worry though, it is offset by all of its great features.

4. FRDM Waterproof Leather Convertible Ski Gloves

Here are the best convertible ski gloves offered by FRDM which features a lot of outstanding features including waterproofing, windproofing, and excellent breathability. This is the most ideal glove for heavy-duty snow activities such as cross country skiing.

FRDM waterproof leather convertible ski gloves are made of premium quality materials. The palm area is made of goat leather which is very flexible. Aside from that, it also has a TPU advanced zipper that secures waterproof seals.

The zipper is situated at the back of the hand for ease of accessibility. Through this feature, you won’t need to remove your ski glove whenever you have to adjust your gear, snap a photo or just check your phone.

In addition to this, it is constructed with a three-layer Hipora membrane which is highly breathable. That is possible because its material has a microporous structure which prevents water from getting in. But it will also allow the moisture inside to escape. As such, your hands will be kept toasty as well as sweat-free.

Furthermore, the Hipora membrane along with the zipper and the shell makes this glove waterproof and windproof as well. It is capable of protecting your hands from frosty wind chills.However, other people would complain that this product is not ideal for extremely low temperatures.

Anyway, it is still equipped with exceptional inclusions such as a pairing clip, undercuff, loop closure tab, and leather-backed hook. Much more, the back of the thumb facilitates ease of wiping your nose or the sweat running down your eyebrows.

The FRDM waterproof leather convertible ski gloves are great for both men and women. It is highly comfortable to wear because it is designed with fleece insulation. Such fabric material is soft and smooth textured.

Thus it is guaranteed that your hands will not only benefit from its warmth but also from the comfort that it can provide. Given all of these outstanding features, it is undeniably preferred by most buyers.

5. FRDM Convertible Ski Mittens

No one would really want to miss the best convertible ski mittens that are also offered by FRDM. This too is a good option for cross country skiers who are seeking a product that can protect them against the weather as well as keep them cozy and warm.

The best convertible ski mittens have a three-layer Hipora membrane which delivers outstanding weather resistance. Its shell is made of waterproof material along with its Hipora insert. It also features a TPU zipper that is also water-resistant.

You can access your hands and fingers instantly through this zipper located at the back of the hand. Now you can adjust your gear, snap a photo or use your phone without taking off your mitts.

More so, FRDM intentionally utilized breathable fabric in its membrane to let the moisture and sweat away from your hands. That is made possible through the premium fabric which has microscopic holes and polyurethane coating. Thus, it allows moisture to pass through while preventing water to penetrate its surface.

For its insulation, the manufacturer used a high pile silky fleece lining which weighs eight ounces on the back of the hand and three ounces on the palm. This can provide enough warmth in the coldest weather conditions and at the same time, it is comfortable for your hands because the lining is extremely soft.

In addition to this, FRDM convertible ski mittens are designed with a long gauntlet cuff and a cinch which is one-handed. Thus, the best convertible ski mittens will not only protect your hands but also your wrists.

Apart from that, it also features a nose wipe at the back of the hand and a pairing clip for ease of storage. With all of these features, there’s no doubt as to why it is included in the list of the best. Perhaps, its major drawback is that it cannot be used in extremely cold temperatures just like the gloves from the same brands.

6. Snow Deer Heated Mittens

Most cross country skiers prefer to get the best heated ski mittens just like this one which is offered by Snow Deer – a professional manufacturer of electric heating technologies.

The heating elements of these mittens can cover the entire fingers and back of the hand. It is meticulously designed for skiers. If you wear this mitt, it will be guaranteed that your hands will be kept warm as you do different outdoor activities such as cross country skiing.

The materials that Snow Deer utilized in constructing this mitten are all of the high quality to ensure comfort and breathability. The palm is made out of sheep leather which is very soft and flexible. Then, the backhand is constructed out of polyester which is resistant to water.

For its inner layer, the manufacturer used fleece fabric and cotton insulation. All of which are tender for the skin and can provide sufficient warmth along with the heating elements of the gloves. Moreover, this mitt dries out rapidly due to its quick-drying fabric.

The best heated mitt has three temperature settings which can be easily adjusted through its controller. This is powered by a 7.4V 22000MAH lithium polymer battery that is already included in your purchase. After recharging it for around three hours you can already keep your hands warm for up to six hours.

Your purchase also includes a black colored bag and a user manual along with a dual battery charger.

Snow Deer also boasts of its wrist design which you can adjust to ensure a snug fit. At the same time, it tightly locks your cuffs to prevent snow from getting in your hands. What makes this feature even more exceptional is its wind resistance functionality.

Snow Deer heated mitt is indeed the best heated mitten because it can relieve stiff joints and bad circulation. It is also recommended for people who suffer from arthritis and Raynaud’s that why it is usually preferred by our elders.

7. Morvat Heated Ski Gloves

You can only enjoy being outdoors if and only if your hands are protected by the best heated ski gloves just like this Morvat heated electric gloves. This is perfect for all winter activities because it can provide heat for up to 16 hours.

If you are after the best ski gloves in 2020 that will last season after season, then you will probably like this model. Considering that it is made of premium quality materials, its durability is guaranteed. For instance, the manufacturer used tough nylon for the construction of the entire shell.

Such material is not only lost lasting but also water-resistant. Much more, this best heated ski gloves feature a soft inner lining and a breathable membrane. Thus, you can ski all you want while enjoying a cushioned and comfortable inside. Not only that, but it will also let the sweat to escape.

Despite its excellent insulation, this product does not compromise its dexterity. They are neither too bulky nor too heavy. Rather, it is very flexible and provides a great gripping ability. This glove is also good for people who have arthritis.

You will absolutely get the warmth that you need because you can control the temperature of these heated ski gloves. All you have to do is to adjust the warmth through its three heat setting controllers. Then, your entire hands and fingers will be covered with heating elements.

In addition, it is also designed with a cuff that serves as a barrier against snow, rain, and air. You can also secure the fit of your gloves around your wrist through its pull toggles and wrist strap. With all its great features it is even regarded as thebest heated mittens in Canada

Apart from that, you can also stay connected to your friends and loved ones through its touch screen sensitive fingers. You can now call, text, or snap a photo without removing your gloves. This feature makes me love wearing this product.

Yes, it may be quite expensive. But then, this Morvat heated gloves are certainly worth your money. In fact, your purchase even includes the pair of gloves, rechargeable batteries, dual charger, carry bag, and a user guide.

8. Hestra Women’s Heated Gloves

You can turn your ordinary gloves into an electrically heated one if you get this Hestra liner. This is apremium heated women’s ski glovewhich features three heat settings.

If your existing gloves cannot keep you warm in the freezing winter, then it is highly recommended that you wear this liner underneath them. It features an integrated heat loop that can keep you warm all day long.

Depending on your particular needs, you can adjust the temperature of this heated liner. There are three levels of heat setting that you can choose from. You may turn it on its highest level in extremely cold conditions. Or you may also lower the heat as you desire.

The fabric that Hestra used in manufacturing this heated glove liner is brush polyester. Such material is extremely soft for the skin. Thus, it is a guarantee that you will not only benefit from its warmth but also for the superior comfort that it can provide. please read here what are the benifits of heated gloves liners.

In addition to this, the fabric is also durable and long lasting. Apart from that, it can also contain more heated air. As such, it is a guarantee that this inner liner can give better insulation than your ordinary gloves.

These women’s ski gloves come with a USB charger and replaceable batteries. But you have to take note that these premium quality heated liners need to be worn with an external shell for increased protection against snow, water, sleet, wind, and other elements you might encounter as you ski across the country.

More so, the Hestra women’s heated gloves come in black color. Much more, there is a variety of sizes that you can choose from.

What To Look For Before Buying

Depending on your needs, you may or may or may not consider the following features. Ideally, it is best to have all of these but then there is no such product that exhibits such perfection. So as much as possible try to seek something that balances these features well.

Furthermore, you also have to consider whether its functionalities justify its price. Some features might have to be sacrificed in order to get a product that will fit a certain budget. But then, there are also some products that are of high quality but are offered at an affordable price.

Also, take note of the temperature of the place where you desire to ski, for it will also influence your purchase decision. In the end, as long as you know your personal needs choosing the best cross country skiing gloves will be easy.

Anyway here are some of the most important aspects that should be looked for.

Insulation

People wear gloves for one obvious reason – to keep their hands warm and toasty. Hence, the very first thing that you have to consider when buying gloves is its insulation. It is essential to check the material used for it as well as its weight.

Generally, the greater the weight the better the insulation that it can provide. One of the warmest ski glove designs is the combination of wool in its inner liner and insulation made of synthetic material.

You can also opt for ski mittens which can keep your hands really warm. They are designed to press the fingers together in order to provide more thermal warmth.

Waterproofing and Breathability

Similarly, it is also vital to have your hands dry. Some might keep your hands warm but fail to keep them dry as you ski thus it will still result in an unpleasant experience. Because when your hands get cold your whole body will eventually freeze as well. please read here how to dry ski gloves and mittens

Therefore, the waterproofing and the breathability of the glove is as important as its insulation. You should bear in mind that the best glove for cross country skiing can prevent the water and snow from entering into your hands and at the same time can let your sweat out.

You can consider those ski gloves which feature a synthetic membrane such as the Gore-Tex for example because those are both breathable and waterproof at the same time. There are also some other names that deliver similar quality like the DryRide, BDry, and TPU.

Dexterity

When it comes to cross country skiing, of course, you wouldn’t want to compromise the dexterity of your glove. It is important to find a glove that balances its insulation and dexterity.

But if it is challenging to find such an excellent product, then at least try to reflect which of the two features will you prioritize. If your hands tend to run cold, then I think you will have no choice but to sacrifice great dexterity.

But then again, sometimes the ability to move easily and quickly is of more importance than absolute warmth.

Material

Ski gloves are usually made out of leather or synthetic materials. Or sometimes a combination of both. Each material has advantages and disadvantages. So more buyers would often go for the combination of both materials to build a good combination of their strengths.

Leather gloves are typically more flexible but cannot withstand extreme wetness. Moreover, the leather is soft and more dexterous. On the other hand, synthetic gloves deliver superior breathability and waterproofing. But it provides relatively lesser flexibility.

Wear Resistance and Durability

Well, who would want to purchase a product which is not durable? You will end up buying a new set of gloves every season if you will not make sure of its durability. But if you choose the right ones, you would certainly want to keep them forever.

It is advisable that you look for models which have palm leather because that is the most stressed area. You may also want to opt for a glove with reinforced fingers.

Removable Liners

When you are often skiing in different conditions, then it is highly suggested that you find something with removable liners. With this type of product, you will be able to choose how warm your gloves will be.

During mild weather conditions, you can just wear the synthetic shell alone. But when it becomes freezing cold, you can use the inner liners along with the shell for maximum warmth.

More so, it is significantly quicker and easier to dry your cross skiing gloves if it comes with removable liners.

Some Additional Features

You can also consider the following features to ensure that you will enjoy the activity to the fullest. They are not that important for some buyers but it matters to most.

Touch Screen Sensitivity

There are glove models that are specifically designed with special fibers at their fingertips to allow users to use their mobile devices such as smartphones.

This feature is not that important but it is nice to have. Especially when you want to post your photo on your Instagram story or even on Facebook. This will save you from the hassle of taking off your gloves when snapping the photo or texting a friend.

Cuff Length

Another factor that you should consider is the length of its cuff. Gloves with short cuffs are usually enclosed within the jacket to secure the warmth. But there are some gloves with longer cuff lengths which can prevent snow unlike gloves with shorter cuffs. That is why this kind of glove can provide and secure more warmth.

Glove Leash

This feature will allow you to keep your ski gloves cuffed on your wrists whenever you have to take them off. Of course, it will add up to its cost, but still, it is very useful because it will make it easier for you to keep track of your ski gloves without having to put it somewhere else.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more advisable ski gloves or mittens?

Mittens can be the best alternative in keeping your fingers warm. However, a high level of flexibility is needed in skiing. Not necessarily for holding the poles alone but also whenever you have to make changes on your skiing boots as well as when you have to move your goggles.

Therefore, I would highly suggest that you use gloves over those mittens when skiing. Although they can keep you warm they might not be that dexterous and flexible as compared to gloves.

What feature should be prioritized more in finding the best cross country ski gloves?

When it comes to cross country skiing, the insulation of the glove is not so important because you can keep your hands warm by constantly moving them. Rather it needs to be more breathable to release perspiration from the inside.

Why is it important to choose the best gloves for cross country skiing?

For anyone who is interested in skiing, choosing a glove that they can rely on is necessary. Under particular snow conditions, normal gloves may wear out. Hence, it is important that you seek the right glove that will suit your needs.

What are the best gloves for cross country skiing?

All cross-country skiers need a decent pair of gloves. Specifically, those that are sturdy yet lightweight gloves that can withstand the snow. Every product in this review is all excellent options that will fit your budget.

How important is the ventilation of the gloves?

Cross country skiing is a strenuous activity that requires a lot of work. Hence, no matter how frosty the weather is, you are still going to sweat.

Excess sweating is not an issue in warmer weather conditions, but on colder temperatures, there is a possibility that it might freeze to your skin. As such, it will also cause your body temperature to decrease.

For this reason, it is a must that you get a glove that has great ventilation capabilities. Make sure to get materials that will let the moisture and sweat escape.

Final Words

I am confident that you can choose the best gloves for cross country skiing that will suit your needs, now that you are already aware of the important aspects to consider. Much more, all the reviewed products are excellent options so whichever will you go for can provide you a wonderful experience.

Now, I will leave everything in your hands. Have a great cross country skiing experience!