Mittens vs. Gloves: Which Is Better for Skiing?
Feb 23rd 2026
If you’ve ever stood in a ski shop staring at rows of women’s ski gloves and ski mittens, you’ve probably asked the question:
Which is better—mittens or gloves?
The honest answer?
It depends on how you ski, how cold you run, and what matters most to you: warmth or dexterity.
Let’s break it down so you can choose the best handwear for your next ski day.
The Biggest Difference: Warmth vs. Dexterity
At the most basic level:
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Mittens are warmer
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Gloves offer more dexterity
Because mittens keep your fingers together, they trap heat more effectively. Gloves separate each finger, which makes it easier to grip poles, adjust boots, zip jackets, and use your phone.
Neither is “better” for everyone—it’s about choosing what works for your skiing style and comfort.
Why Mittens Are So Warm
If your hands are always cold, mittens can be a game changer.
Why You’ll Love Mittens
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Fingers share warmth and stay warmer longer
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Less heat loss in cold conditions
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Excellent for lift rides and powder days
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Ideal for skiers who run cold
Many of our customers who struggled with cold hands for years switch to mittens and suddenly ski comfortably all day. That’s a big win.
Brands like Swany and Gordini are especially popular for warm, comfortable mittens that hold up well in cold, snowy conditions. For skiers who want warmth with a distinctive look, Astis mittens combine incredibly warm insulation with beautiful hand-sewn leather and beadwork that stands out on the mountain.
Why Gloves Still Have a Big Following
Warmth isn’t everything. Sometimes control matters more.
Why You’ll Love Gloves
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Easier to grip poles and adjust buckles
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Better dexterity for zippers, helmets, and phones
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Great for spring skiing or milder days
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More natural feel for many skiers
Brands like Outdoor Research are known for technical materials and durable construction designed for serious outdoor use, while Gordini gloves are popular with skiers who want excellent grip and integration with poles and straps.
If you’re teaching kids, adjusting gear often, or skiing variable conditions, gloves can be incredibly convenient.
The Middle Ground: Lobster Mitts
There’s also a hybrid option many skiers love:
Lobster mitts (three-finger gloves)
They combine:
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Extra warmth
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Better grip than traditional mittens
These are a great choice for skiers who want a little bit of both.
What Matters Even More Than Mittens vs. Gloves
Here’s something we see every day in the shop:
Fit, insulation, and waterproofing matter just as much as mitten vs. glove design.
Cold hands are often caused by:
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Gloves that are too tight (reducing circulation)
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Wet liners or poor waterproofing
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Insufficient insulation
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Incorrect layering
Even the warmest mitten won’t help if it doesn’t fit correctly.
How to Choose: A Quick Guide
If this sounds like you…
Choose Mittens If:
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Your hands get cold easily
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You ski mid-winter or storm days
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Warmth matters more than convenience
Choose Gloves If:
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You adjust gear frequently
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You like using your phone on the lift
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You ski in milder temperatures
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Dexterity matters to you
A Divas Pro Tip
One of the best setups for Colorado skiing?
Two pairs.
Many experienced skiers keep:
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A warm mitten for cold days
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A lighter glove for spring or sunny days
It’s the easiest way to stay comfortable all season long.
The Bottom Line
There isn’t a single “best” choice between ski mittens and ski gloves—only the best choice for you.
Mittens:
Warmer, simple, incredibly comfortable on cold days.
Gloves:
More control, more dexterity, great everyday versatility.
Either way, the right handwear makes a huge difference in how comfortable you feel on the mountain—and comfortable skiers ski longer.
And longer ski days? That’s what we’re here for. Not sure which is right for you?
Stop by outdoor DIVAS and try both. We carry women’s ski gloves and mittens from brands like Outdoor Research, Swany, and Gordini, and we’ll help you find the warmest, most comfortable option for how you ski. Because cold hands should never be the reason you head inside early.