Insulated Gloves and Mittens
On This Page
Top Picks
How we choose: The best insulated gloves and mittens highlighted here were selected based on 97 reviews of 75 products. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers.
How we test: Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts just like you.
If you've used a insulated glove/mitten that you think should be listed here, please share your experience.
Disclosure: Trailspace never accepts payment for gear reviews, product placement, or editorial coverage. When you buy through affiliate links on our site, Trailspace may earn a small commission, which helps cover the costs of running the site.
Outdoor Research Alti Mitts
![user rating: 5 of 5 user rating: 5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/5.png)
I’ve used my Alti Mitts for years and have found them to be of the highest quality. They have outperformed every other mitt I have owned prior to them.
Reasons to Buy
- Light
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Tough
- Waterproof
Fit and Comfort: Although dexterity is somewhat limited in a thicker mitt, I am more than willing to trade a lack of digit wiggling for warmer hands. I live in MN where temps often fall below 0°F. From my 5 years of experience with the Alti mitt, they perform exceptionally well in temperatures down to -20°F (assuming little activity—e.g. sitting in camp. If moving and working, they perform well below -20°F). When slipping on this version of the Alti model, you’ll notice right away that the sleeve is longer than the insert.
Read more: Outdoor Research Alti Mitts reviews (6)
SealSkinz Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Gauntlet
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
The SealSkinz Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Gauntlet is a well-constructed, warm and waterproof glove for getting out and about in the cold. Ideal for downhill skiing and backcountry ski descents when temperature fall below -10˚C / teens F, and as a camp glove in somewhat higher temperatures.
Reasons to Buy
- Very comfortable and warm
- Sturdy construction
- Precurved fingers
- Waterproof over the wrist
- Grippy leather palm
Reasons to Avoid
- Can get a little humid inside
Preliminary Review Sealskinz has provided me with two pairs of gloves to put to the test, these and the All Weather Glove. Sealskinz specializes in waterproof/breathable socks, gloves, mittens, and hats, with nearly 50 options just in the gloves and mitten department. In most garments, waterproofness and breathability are a tradeoff, but Sealskinz claims its products offer “100% waterproof protection whilst being incredibly breathable and dexterous”. Depending on conditions and activity, these two characteristics may be more or less desirable—to have both in abundance could be a dream come true.
Read more: SealSkinz Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Gauntlet review (1)
Black Diamond Dirt Bag Mitts
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
Black Diamond's Dirt Bag Mitts are a very warm, durable product at a spectacular price-point ($44.95 USD). These highly water resistant mittens are made with a goat leather outer which is built to last. Ideal for temperatures well under freezing (30°F or less), the Dirt Bag Mitts are designed for snowsports, hiking/backpacking, or general outdoor activities and chores. Note: Black Diamond also offers a Dirt Bag Glove counterpart.
Reasons to Buy
- Extremely warm
- Durable
- Not bulky
- Very weather resistant
- Incredible price-point
Reasons to Avoid
- No pull loop/can be difficult to put on
- Questionable breathability
- One color (subjective)
When warmth is a necessity, quality hand-wear is absolutely indispensable. Black Diamond’s new Dirt Bag Mitt falls under the ‘WOW’ category, especially when considering the quality-to-price point ratio. Black Diamond has shown to be a frontrunner in apparel for quite some time, and their gear can be seen everywhere from the trail to the climbing gym since 1957. Although designed as a ski mitt, the Dirt Bag excels as a durable, general-use outdoor mitten. Specifications: Price: $44.95 USD Size: XS-XL Gender: Unisex Material: Goat leather shell; thermal foam & 100g fleece lining; acrylic knit cuff Color availability: Natural only Weight: 154g/5.5oz (pair) Temperature range: 20-35°F (Black Diamond’s spec) Note: The Dirt Bag...
Read more: Black Diamond Dirt Bag Mitts review (1)
Outdoor Research Inception Aerogel Gloves
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
The Outdoor Research Inception Aerogel Gloves are warm, flexible, and comfortable gloves. They have become go-to gloves that I use on my daily snowshoeing and winter hiking outings. I have used these gloves for more than 60 days, in temperatures ranging from minus 4 (f) to 33 degrees, and in both dry and wet and snowy conditions. As the winter has progressed, in addition to use during my daily snowshoeing and winter hiking outings, I have used them while kick-sledding and shoveling snow. They are not bulky, permit dexterity, and work well with poles. The Inception Aerogel Gloves are well made, and are comfortable for my winter activities.
Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable
- Warm within the range as designed
- Palms provide secure grip
- Water resistant
- Maintain pliability even at very cold temperatures
Reasons to Avoid
- Touchscreen option performs inconsistently
Introduction I began testing a pair of these Inception Aerogel Gloves in early November, in Northern Vermont, and have used them for more than 60 days of snowshoeing and winter hiking. While engaged in these activities, I actively use poles, so my hands are moving almost all the time. My needs for suitable gloves for my winter activities require that the gloves be comfortable, warm enough in a variety of conditions, large enough to permit use of a glove liner and to accommodate an arthritic thumb, yet not too bulky to easily use with poles. Sizing and Color Options The gloves are available in two colors options, all black, and a black and saddle (dark tan) combination.
Read more: Outdoor Research Inception Aerogel Gloves review (1)
Eddie Bauer First Ascent Guide Gloves
![user rating: 4 of 5 user rating: 4 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.png)
A very good winter glove for all but the coldest weather. A nice combination of warmth and freedom of movement. Very nice leather palms. Not waterproof, and leather needs to be treated periodically. Also, no gauntlet or leashes.
Reasons to Buy
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Reasonably good hand movement
- Sale pricing
Reasons to Avoid
- Not waterproof
- Not up to the coldest weather
For me, this is the glove that bridges between cold (30 degrees) and very cold (zero degrees) for most pursuits. The gloves are insulated with Primaloft, with twice as much insulation on the back of the hands as the palm. Regular price $129; purchased at one of their 40% off sales for just under 80 bucks. At that price, a great deal. Back of the hand. Note that leather covers backs of fingers, but the back of most of the glove is nylon. Note the loop on the second finger for hooking with a carabiner if needed.Palm—leather covers fingers and a double layer of leather at the palm. Another view of the palm, note how part of the palm is doubled up.
Read more: Eddie Bauer First Ascent Guide Gloves reviews (2)
Outdoor Research Alti Gloves
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
My new go-to gloves for cold weather!
Reasons to Buy
- Removable liners
- Waterproof and breathable
- Super warm
- Contoured build makes gripping poles/ax easy
- Easy to use gauntlet and wrist cinches
Reasons to Avoid
- Sizing seems to be a bit off
- Liners are not really touch screen compatible
Well these are now the gloves against which I compare all other gloves and mittens. They are extremely warm and have proven to be very durable so far (I've not had them very long, though). I've used them in -20°F windchill with gusts up to 30 mph and in warmer, wetter weather. They've been bullet proof so far. In fact, these are the first pair of gloves that I've owned that allow my fingers to warm up in sub-zero weather. What I mean is this: usually in sub-zero temperatures, if my bare fingers are exposed it's pretty much game over.
Read more: Outdoor Research Alti Gloves reviews (3)
Explore more top-rated insulated gloves and mittens from Outdoor Research:
Hestra Heli Ski 3-Finger Glove
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
These are my backup winter hiking mitt/gloves. I really like the heavy-duty feel of these, the lobster design, and some of the thoughtful features. On the downside, the inserts that arrived with these were average, I cut some of the excess straps off because their functionality was iffy, and the leather palms need a little more than usual care. A much better mitt with the replacement inserts. The basic functions—warmth, wind/water resistance, and in particular the deep winter replacement inserts, make these a nice and functional choice for winter.
Reasons to Buy
- Tough materials
- Great gauntlet adjustment
- Lobster design keeps the small fingers warm
- Outstanding Primaloft replacement insert
- Shell material blocks wind and water
- Nicely articulated palm and index finger
Reasons to Avoid
- Thick wrist straps were of limited value
- Original Quallofil inserts were just OK
- Stock elastic wrist straps unable to accommodate thick sleeves
- Leather palms need occasional dressing
- Thumb not articulated — meh
Edit: As of winter 2021/22, I still wear these Hestra hybrid mitt/gloves in cold weather, wore them today. They have proved to be very durable and warm with the replacement insert. Today’s version has a better-articulated thumb but still appears to be sold with a "fiberfil"l insert rather than Primaloft. 2022 photos, after a number of years of use Original Review: As you can see from the number of pros and cons, I have a complicated relationship with these mitt/gloves. In some ways brilliant, in others funky and a tad annoying.
Read more: Hestra Heli Ski 3-Finger Glove reviews (3)
Black Diamond Mercury Mitts
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
Very good mittens that fit well. They are pretty warm but YMMV.
Reasons to Buy
- Waterproof
- Windproof
- Warm to about 25F
- Durable goat leather palms and thumb
Reasons to Avoid
- Thumbs are a little snug
- No wrist leashes
- Could be warmer
Having a light case of Raynaud's Syndrome (some fingers get cold and won't warm up), I have often struggled to find ski/snowboard gloves and mittens that will work in colder temperatures (below 32F/0C). Now in the Pacific Northwest, temperatures at ski areas typically range from the high teens to the low 30s. After some research, I settled on the Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (Men's). I had very high hopes for them being warm at the colder temperatures. Black Diamond shows their comfort range from -25F to 10F (-31C to -12C).
Read more: Black Diamond Mercury Mitts reviews (3)
Black Diamond Guide Gloves
![user rating: 4 of 5 user rating: 4 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.png)
These made me a believer in gloves for very cold weather. I have not worn a warmer or more durable glove. The gauntlet is easy to open and close, and having a removable liner is a plus. I grade them below five stars for shipping without an idiot leash.
Reasons to Buy
- Warm
- Highly durable
- Good gauntlet solution
- Removable liner
Reasons to Avoid
- Require some break-in
- Shipped without leashes
- Expensive
I carry two pair of hand protection for winter hiking. After my very old REI mitts plus shells were past their usable life, and a cold day convinced me that Dachstein mitts plus shells weren't enough, I chose Black Diamond's Guide Glove. They're expensive; try to find them on sale, off-season. The outer shell is a combination of goatskin leather and rough-textured nylon. It's a gauntlet-style glove, so it extends well past your cuff to help seal out cold and weather. They say they have Gore-tex; I suspect that membrane surrounds the liner, because the back and palm are leather, and when you remove the liner, the inside surface is also leather.
Read more: Black Diamond Guide Gloves reviews (2)
Explore more top-rated insulated gloves and mittens from Black Diamond:
DaKine Leather Titan Gore-tex Mitt
![user rating: 4.5 of 5 user rating: 4.5 of 5](/images/stars/140x26/4.5.png)
Three glove sets in one. Amazingly well-designed, durable, waterproof, breathable, modular active-wear hand protection system for year-round use for cool to bitter cold, with wind, rain or snow. Obvious careful selection of materials for functionality, agility and durability. Trim functional cut for action, and well stitched. Near perfection for my uses. A complete steal at the list price! Agree with the praise by others on source site, where I got them. I've spent far more in the past, for far less functionality
Reasons to Buy
- Well insulated Gore-Tex overmitt w/wrist and gauntlet arm cinch straps, with great grip surface
- Sufficient overmitt insulation loft, not overstuffed, very warm, very flexible
- Overmitt non-bulky, trim cut for action, liner stitched to stay in when pulling out inner gloves
- Warm snug form-fitting inner liner gloves, great not-slip grip surface, fleece repels water
- Liner gloves have an effective eTip smartphone forefinger and thumb tips
- Neat goggle squeegee on left thumb back, nose/sweat wipe on right
- Hand warmer (accessory) pockets on back of palms with weather proof zipper
- Excellent choices of strong durable water-resistant materials, w/excellent stitching
Reasons to Avoid
- When new a bit too tight when inner glove liners are combined w/outer mitt (but loosens with time)
- Optimum length used seperately, but when combined could benefit from slightly deeper web depth between thumb and forefinger (1/2”?, will report if it fits less tight over time)*
- Inner glove liners could benefit from having clips so that you can hook them together when stowed away or add a wrist strap when using them alone (could use the straps from the overmitts)
Titan is one high-quality glove set! The more I use them, the more I understand their name. This modular system is two sets of excellently designed gloves that can be used separately or combined to make a third 'Titan' glove to conquer bad weather. There must have been extraordinary attention to design, material selection, and testing to create the set. The Gore-Tex lined overmitt, gifts durable wind and moisture protection, while keeping adequate breathability. Each piece works great alone and well when needed together (together they are tight now, but I expect then to improve over time). The overmitt features a wrist strap to help ensure that the glove stays on with activity.
Read more: DaKine Leather Titan Gore-tex Mitt review (1)
More Reviews of Insulated Gloves and Mittens
Trailspace reviewers have shared 97 reviews of 75 different insulated gloves and mittens.
or add yours
Other Types of Gloves and Mittens
Find more gloves and mittens reviewed in these related categories:
![](https://assets.trailspace.com/assets/d/b/9/10653113/a4v79ebXJhmrn0trvW_kgX8n-NchKJx6hQ5ESlIxCqNZb3TV.jpg)
Glove Liners
![](https://assets.trailspace.com/assets/0/2/5/8818725/1293017_030_main.jpg)
Soft Shell Gloves and Mittens
![](https://assets.trailspace.com/assets/f/2/1/12996385/7327.jpg)
Fleece Gloves and Mittens
![](/images/gear/2014/gloves-300x300.jpg)
+2 more types
Review Your Outdoor Gear
If you've found this site helpful — or if we've missed something important — please consider paying it forward by some of your favorite outdoor gear.
Why? From professional gearheads to outdoor novices, everyone has an important point of view to contribute. will support the outdoor community and help others find the best gear.
Trailspace reviewers are outdoor enthusiasts like you: hikers, climbers, paddlers, backcountry skiers, and trail runners who share our experiences with the gear and clothing we rely on to get outside. Learn more about Trailspace