Skiers have strong opinions about what belongs on their hands for a day on the slopes, but a recent discussion among our Facebook followers suggests that the answer often depends on temperatures, personal preference, and the type of skiing.
We just asked what’s better for a day on the slopes, gloves or mittens? Well over 100 people offered their advice, including experienced skiers, former ski patrollers, and many more, with mittens earning plenty of support when temperatures drop.
Mittens Win Over Many Skiers in Cold Weather
Warmth was the biggest argument in favor of mittens. By keeping fingers together rather than separating them into individual compartments, mittens help retain heat and are a popular choice for skiers who struggle with cold hands.
One reader with 60 years of skiing experience said they had never found a glove as warm as a good pair of mittens. Another former ski patroller also recommended down-filled mittens after spending years on the mountain.
Several commenters said mittens become their preferred option when temperatures approach freezing or fall below zero. Heated mittens also received multiple recommendations from skiers who said they would not return to traditional handwear after making the switch.
Gloves Offer More Dexterity on the Mountain
Gloves had their own dedicated following, particularly among those who prioritize grip and dexterity. Individual fingers make it easier to handle ski poles, adjust equipment, operate zippers, and manage other tasks without removing handwear. One person with 37 years of experience as a professional ski patroller said they had always preferred gloves.
Others said modern insulated gloves provide sufficient warmth without sacrificing mobility. Several skiers also recommended thinner gloves during spring skiing, when warmer temperatures make heavy insulation unnecessary.
Three-Finger Mittens Offer a Middle Ground
For skiers unwilling to choose between warmth and flexibility, three-finger mittens and trigger mitts emerged as popular compromises. These designs separate the thumb and index finger from the remaining fingers, providing more dexterity than traditional mittens while keeping most fingers together for warmth.
Some readers also recommended carrying multiple pairs of gloves and mittens to accommodate changing conditions throughout the season.
