Choosing the right gloves for ski touring means balancing warmth, dexterity, moisture control, and durability. The five gloves featured here are among the best-rated options for cold, windy days on backcountry trails, lift-assisted runs, or deep powder. Each model offers a distinct blend of insulation, waterproofing, and grip to help you perform at your best while staying comfortable from first chair to last descent.
Summary of chosen products:
- Hestra Comfort Tracker 5-Finger Glove — Cross-Country Windproof Insulated, warm and versatile
- BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Guide Ski/Snow Glove — Premium leather with Gore-Tex, rugged and trusted
- Hikenture Ski Gloves — 3M Thinsulate, 100% waterproof with touchscreen support
- krosa 5-Layer Winter Gloves — 3M Insulation, fully touchscreen compatible
- UMEWARM Winter Gloves — 3M Thinsulate, GEANI-TEX waterproof technology
Hestra Comfort Tracker 5-Finger Glove
The Hestra Comfort Tracker 5-Finger Glove is designed for cross-country skiing but translates well to ski touring thanks to its warmth and windproof construction. It uses fleece lining and G-Loft insulation to provide substantial warmth on frosty days. The 3-layer interlock polyester outer fabric is wind and water repellent while remaining breathable, keeping hands comfortable during long ascents and steep descents. A durable palm with stretch polyester helps maintain a secure grip on poles. This glove targets warmth without sacrificing dexterity, making it a strong choice for cold-weather tours where grip and feel matter.
Key features include windproof performance, quick-drying G-Loft insulation, and a breathable yet protective outer shell. The glove’s insulation is lightweight but highly effective in wet conditions, helping to maintain warmth during exertion. Wearers should expect good dexterity for handling poles, ropes, and gear, while the fleece lining adds a soft, comfortable inner layer.
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Guide Ski/Snow Glove
The BLACK DIAMOND Guide glove combines premium leather with a rugged shell and a Gore-Tex insert for truly all-weather performance. The goat leather palm and fingers provide refined grip and durability, while a 4-way stretch nylon shell offers mobility and resilience under heavy use. The Gore-Tex Plus Warm system ensures waterproof protection with breathability to manage sweat on cold ascents. Built for extreme conditions, this glove is suited for serious backcountry days and harsh alpine environments, where reliable waterproofing and warmth are essential.
Expect high durability from reinforced wear zones and a warm interior that balances insulation with mobility. The glove’s design prioritizes protection from wind-driven snow, with a seal against moisture that remains breathable enough for continuous movement during long tours. The exterior materials are chosen to handle rough terrain and heavy gear once you’re navigating rocky ridges or deep powder.
Hikenture Ski Gloves
Hikenture’s Ski Gloves emphasize waterproof protection and warmth with a five-layer construction that includes a windproof outer shell, a thick 3M Thinsulate layer, and a soft fleece lining. The gloves are advertised as 100% waterproof, making them a solid option for wet snow and slushy days on the mountain. They also feature two touchscreen-friendly fingertips, enabling you to use devices without exposing your hands to cold air. This model is well-suited for riders and hikers who frequently face damp, windy conditions and require reliable insulation with modern tech compatibility.
The combination of waterproofing, warmth, and modern touchscreen usability makes these gloves versatile for skiers and snowboarders who value staying connected without removing gloves. The interior insulation provides warmth for extended cold periods while maintaining dexterity for grip and handling gear. Durable seams and protective cuff design help to seal out wind and moisture during long ascents and descents.
krosa 5-Layer Winter Gloves
The krosa gloves feature a five-layer thermal softshell construction with 3M insulation designed to withstand very cold conditions. High-quality polar fleece sits inside for comfort, while the cuffs are stretchy to seal out cold air. Conductive PU leather on all ten fingertips enables touchscreen use without removing the gloves. Large non-slip silicone prints on fingertips and palms improve grip on poles or other gear. A dual waterproof layer (nylon and breathable TPU) blocks moisture and reduces sweat buildup, making these gloves suitable for wet snow and variable backcountry conditions.
The design emphasizes warmth without bulk, enabling precise grip and control on steep ascents. Elastic wrist straps help trap warmth and prevent wind intrusion, while the palm reinforcement supports long-term durability when carrying heavy equipment. For skiers who anticipate mixed snow, wind, and rain, these gloves offer a practical balance of warmth, dexterity, and protection.
UMEWARM Winter Gloves
UMEWARM’s Winter Gloves are built around 3M Thinsulate insulation (C100) and GEANI-TEX waterproof technology. The five-layer construction provides substantial warmth even in extreme cold, with up to 80g of thermal cotton to boost heat retention. The waterproof PU-coated shell keeps moisture at bay, while a high-density build blocks wind. All ten fingertips are touchscreen-capable with conductive PU leather, allowing device use without exposing hands to chill. An elasticated cuff seals out cold air for all-day warmth during long hikes, climbs, and descents in harsh winter conditions.
The glove’s triple-layer weatherproof system aims to deliver reliable protection across snow, rain, and wind. The palm area is reinforced for grip, supporting control over ski poles and other gear. Overall, UMEWARM offers a robust option for backcountry enthusiasts who want proven warmth, weatherproofing, and modern touchscreen compatibility in a single glove.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Ski Touring Gloves
- Warmth vs. dexterity: Insulation should match your typical touring tempo. Heavier insulation adds warmth but reduces finger sensitivity; choose a model with breathable materials if you move fast.
- Waterproofing and breathability: Backcountry days can be wet or slushy. Look for a waterproof membrane (Gore-Tex, GEANI-TEX, or similar) paired with good breathability to manage sweat.
- Wind protection: A windproof outer fabric reduces heat loss on exposed ridges and during long ascents into cold gusts.
- Dexterity and grip: For pole handling and rope work, prioritize gloves with grippy palms and flexible shells. Leather or reinforced palms help durability on rough terrain.
- Touchscreen compatibility: If you need to answer calls or use devices on the go, ensure fingertips or the entire glove supports responsive touch inputs without removing protection.
- Fit and sizing: A snug fit improves warmth and control but should allow comfortable movement of fingers. Check size charts and consider going a size up if layering.
- Durability for backcountry use: Reinforced wear zones, durable stitching, and protective cuffs extend glove life when exposed to rocks, zips, and scrapes.
- Layering strategy: Some gloves pair with a liner for added warmth; consider a model that accommodates liners if you frequently tour in extremely cold environments.
In choosing between these options, consider your typical conditions (temperature ranges, wind exposure, and moisture). For rugged alpine touring with exposure to wind-driven snow, the BLACK DIAMOND Guide and Hikenture offerings provide strong waterproof protection and warmth. For cross-country-style warmth with dexterity, Hestra’s Comfort Tracker offers reliable insulation and grip. If touchscreen usability and warmth in very cold climates are priorities, krosa and UMEWARM provide robust five-layer systems with modern conveniences.