BEST FOR:  FOG-FREE VENTILATION 

Need an upgrade over your super budget-y and always foggy ski goggles? Then look no further than the I/O MAG ChromaPop ski goggles from industry leading manufacturer Smith. Sporting their specially designed AirEvac technology, they integrate perfectly with Smith head gear, allowing warm air to escape through the vents in your helmet. 

Lens changes are also quick and easy with the I/O MAG (cool kid lingo for “on/off magnetic”) technology that uses 8 points of contact and 16 super strong magnets to attach the lenses to the frames. 

These ski goggles also come in a variety of lens colors that are designed for specific conditions, whether you need low-light lenses for the most extreme conditions or bright light lenses for sunny days.

BEST FOR: SKIERS ON A BUDGET

If you’re looking for a comfortable performance goggle that won’t break the bank, check out the Ranges — they cost under $100.

“Smith designed the Range as the optimum budget goggle that offers a good balance of performance and comfort. The goggle’s large frame provides for complete visibility that eliminates the dreaded tunnel vision effect. It cushions the face with a multi-layer foam material and has been treated with an anti-fog coating.

What I like most about the Smith Range goggles is the way they look on your face thanks to the full frame and cylindrical lens.

BEST FOR: AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING TO CHANGING LIGHT CONDITIONS

Avid skiers that are shredding fresh powder no matter what the weather looks like will absolutely love the Smith 4D MAG ChromaPop Photochromic ski goggles. I know that title is a mouthful, so let’s unpack that! 

First of all, the 4D refers to BirdsEye Vision tech that offers 25% more peripheral visibility compared to their I/O MAG ski goggles. By reducing the size of the frames near your cheekbones and curving the lenses downward even more, you regain a larger field of view especially when looking down. 

ChromaPop is their proprietary color technology that relays true tones of your surroundings, meaning everything will look how its supposed to instead having a yellow (or red, or whatever color) tint to it. The MAG system is Smith’s easy on/off magnetic locking system that makes swapping out lenses super quick and super secure. 

Lastly, and the best reason for buying these goggles, is the Photochromic technology that darkens the lenses when it becomes brighter and lightens them when it becomes overcast. This means you’ll always have the right amount of tint even in ever-changing conditions.

BEST FOR: OPTICS

If you’re in search of the fastest lens change on the market, your search has come to an end — give these goggles a go.

The Anon M4 Toric MFI goggles are offered in both toric and cylindrical lens shape options. These feature upgraded magnets lens swapping technology from the previous M1, M2, and M3 iterations. The system makes it easy breezing to swap out a lens, even while you’re on the go. The M4 includes a magnetic clip-in facemask that serves as protection against the snow but won’t fog up your lens.

What I like most about the Toric MFI is how comfortable the triple layer foam makes them to wear as well as the variety of lens options to choose from.

BEST FOR: LARGE FACES

If you have a wider face than most and typically struggle with finding goggles that fit your face comfortably, give these a try.

Although these are top-notch performance goggles, the Giro Methods stand out in the sub-$200 category. The large frame is also low-profile to provide for excellent peripheral vision. The triple layered foam padding does an excellent job of conforming comfortably to your face. Two lenses are included with purchase of the goggles.

What I like most about the Giro Methods is that they’re suitable for skiers of all experience levels, whether you’re a beginner or you frequent the park.

BEST FOR: FINGERPRINT-FREE LENS CHANGES

Possibly one of the most annoying things when skiing is finding that there’s a grimy fingerprint smudge smack dab in the middle of your lenses. Fortunately, with the Sweet Protection Interstellar ski goggles, you won’t have to worry about such frivolous matters anymore with their smudge-free, fingerprint-free, probably-made-with-alien-technology, interchangeable lenses! 

Aside from smudges, these ski goggles are extremely durable and impact resistant. They also feature a technology that improves the contrast of your surroundings when visibility is low and light is scarce. That means you can keep skiing longer without having to worry about a lens change. 

Lastly, the double-layered lenses not only resist fogging but also have pressure equalizing vents that prevent deformation of the inner lens that can occur over time with some pairs of goggles.

BEST FOR: COMPETITION SKIING

Competition skiers looking for the most performance driven goggles will be delightfully surprised by the POC Fovea Mid Clarity Comp ski goggles. With enhanced contrast for distinguishing between perfect lines and potential obstacles, these ski goggles are high quality performers for elite competitors and serious recreational skiers. 

Starting with spherical lenses that curve across the face (horizontally) as well as top-to-bottom (vertically), these ski goggles deflect intense glare that would otherwise blind the competition. Another notable feature with these lenses are their “toric” shape. This means that the curvature is designed to match that of your eyes more closely so as to eliminate any possibility for distortion, giving you a true view of what you’re seeing (check out the Features Explained section below for more info).

BEST FOR: DISCERNING TERRAIN IN LOW VISIBILITY

Low light skiing increases the challenge by blurring the lines between snow and horizon line. But with the Airbrake XL ski goggles from the legendary lens makers Oakley, you’ll have no problem discerning nuances in the terrain. 

Featuring their in-house Prizm technology, these Oakley ski goggles are able to enhance the wavelengths of visible light to show distinctions in your surroundings that would be nearly impossible to see unassisted. The lenses are also extremely durable, sporting an impact resistant design crafted from injection-molded polycarbonate. 

Lastly, these ski goggles have a proprietary “Switchlock” technology that makes swapping out lenses quick and easy.

BEST FOR: WIDE FIELD OF VIEW

Sporting a rimless design for the frames, the Oakley Fall Line XM ski goggles offer a wider field of view than most other goggles on the market, giving you better peripheral vision to find the perfect line at high speeds and in transition. 

The Fall Line XM’s come with 2 sets of interchangeable frames, a Pink Iridium lens that allows 46% visible light transmission (VLT) for overcast days and a Black Iridium lens that has just 6% VLT for bright, sunny days. You can easily swap out the lenses with Oakley’s Ridgelock Lens Change system, giving you the freedom to ski in just about any condition imaginable. 

Lastly, these goggles include discrete notches that allow skiers to wear these over their prescription glasses making them accessible for all people.

BEST FOR: SKIERS WITH GLASSES

While many goggles on our list feature and over-the-glasses (OTG) design, the Anon Sync ski goggles are perhaps the best for those wearing glasses while skiing due to its full perimeter channel venting system. This ensures that neither your lenses or your glasses will fog up during an intense ski sesh!

These goggles also come with a variety of lenses to choose from but it’s worth noting that they don’t all have the same visible light transmission (VLT). Starting from lowest to highest VLT: Silver lens (6%), Smoke (7%), Red (14%), Bronze (19%), Blue (46%), and Infrared (57%). 

These lens colors are offered in specific combinations. For example, the Bronze and Blue lenses are mutually exclusive so if you wanted the Blue lens, you would either get the Red or Silver lens as the accompanying bright lens with low VLT.

TOP OVERALL SKI GLOVE

When you don’t want to settle for less than the best, trust in the hybrid leather and synthetic Helis.

The respected Swedish manufacturer designed the Helis to be stylish and functional. They feature quality gauntlet-style cuffs and a combination polyamide/goat leather shell, combining best of both worlds of synthetic and leather materials. The leather assists the glove in flexing easily as well as lending it a good amount of durability. Synthetic Fiberfill insulation integrated in all the right places ensures your hands stay warm even on the coldest of winter days.

What I like most about the Hestra Helis is how durably they’re constructed, making for a glove that will last you many seasons.

BEST BUDGET PICK

If you’re a recreational skier looking for a durable, well-constructed ski glove on a tight budget, these $70 Gordinis are worth some serious consideration.

Gordini designed the GTX Storm Troopers IIs from a combination of leather and synthetic materials, resulting in an affordable glove that doesn’t match the quality of premium models but does a solid job at what’s important — keeping your hands warm and dy. The MegaLoft synthetic insulation is of quality build and provides for ample warmth, even when wet. The breathable, stretch-woven shell sports a GORE-TEX insert. There’s a zippered hand warmer pocket, as well.

What I like most about the Storm Trooper II glove is how generously they loft despite the affordable price.

BEST SKI MITTENS

On the coldest adventures when the elements are so extreme that gloves just won’t do the trick, the Black Diamond Mercury Mitts are sure to suffice.

The warmth of these mittens come from the intentionally built liner with 340 grams of PrimaLoft insulation, fleece coating, and coverage with Black Diamond’s proprietary BDry waterproof fabric. These gloves come with an insulated liner and a hanging loop, which would make them a conducive choice for use on cold, alpine climbs.

What I like most about the Black Diamond Mercury Mitts is that they come with an internal index finger slot that provides for an added degree of dexterity when needed.

BEST HEATED CHOICE

For those skiers who greatly benefit from a boost of heat when riding that first chair up the mountain — but don’t want to sacrifice weight and dexterity for the heavy systems of warmer, battery-heated gloves — consider the perfectly balanced Hestra Power Heater.

These gloves provide for adequate weather resistance, dexterity through the fingers, and ample durability. Although not as powerful as gloves with larger heating systems, the Hestra boasts a more streamlined profile, and the heating element is virtually unnoticeable when not in use and a control button lets you adjust them to your optimal temperature.

What I like most about the Hestra Power Heater gloves is the Fiberfill insulation integrated into the construction. It does a superior job at sealing in the warmth.

BEST SKI GLOVES FOR BREATHABILITY

Arc’Teryx has really built its reputation over the years. Their coats are some of the best on the market, and these gloves help defend that reputation. What makes this pair of ski gloves stand out is their superior breathability. The wrist strap allows you to really adjust how the gloves fit around your wrist. Even though most of the glove is made with nylon, the fingers are made from leather. This will keep your fingers warm in extremely low temperatures.

BEST LEATHER GLOVES

With each and every ski season, Hestra gloves seem to get more and more popular. Spurring their growth is an all-leather construction, which molds to your hands over time. These gloves are very comfortable and also super warm. What they lack is waterproofing abilities. However, don’t let that dissuade you from buying a pair of these gloves. You’d have to soak the entire glove in water in order to feel the exterior moisture on your bare hand inside the glove. Due to their leather construction, they also last longer than polyester or nylon gloves. Scoop up this pair of high quality leather gloves if you’re planning on skiing in nice weather and want superior warmth on the slopes!

BEST GLOVES FOR BACKCOUNTRY SKIERS

Black Diamond’s reputation has been built with an expert market, and these gloves fit right into that category. These gloves are expensive but perform extremely well. They are made with goat leather which allows for superior grip. Your ski poles will never slide out of your glove. These gloves will serve you on every part of the mountain. If you are a backcountry skier or mountaineer, these gloves will never let you down!

BEST HANDWARMER COMPATIBLE GLOVES

Hand warmers can be your best friend on the mountain, or they can be an unnecessary nuisance. Swany has made using hand warmers simpler and more comfortable by creating a special pocket for sliding hand warmers into. These gloves also feature locking zippers. You won’t have a problem keeping snow out of these gloves. They may not be as waterproof as gloves with Gore-Tex, but they are extremely comfortable and they’re sure to keep your hands toasty all day long!

BEST SKI GLOVES FOR WARMTH

These gloves are the only ones on the list to feature a battery-powered heating insert. If you have notoriously cold hands and you’ve tried just about every glove out there with no success, it’s time to invest in this pair of gloves. They are heavier and bulkier than others, but for good reason. The gloves have leashes and clips, which will alleviate any concern that you may lose an expensive glove. These gloves may not be the most comfortable, but they certainly are the warmest.

BEST SKI GLOVE FOR SWEATY HANDS

The Marmot Randonee is a very affordable glove. It has removable Gore-Tex inserts which help keep your hands dry. On top of that, their patented DriClime lining on the inside of the glove has moisture-wicking abilities. Sweaty hands aren’t a good thing, especially on cold days. These gloves combat your natural perspiration better than any other gloves on the list. That being said, they do not provide as much warmth as other gloves on the list, so if you tend to run cold, look for another pair. But if you know you get sweaty palms before every descent, then these gloves are ideal for you!

TOP OVERALL DOWNHILL-SPECIFIC SKI POLE

If you’re looking for a high quality ski pole for all-mountain skiing, the sturdy aluminum Leki Detect S is sure worth consideration.

Leki constructed the Detect S poles from aluminum so that the poles would be more prone to pending than breaking and still be lightweight to carry, as opposed to carbon fiber alternatives. The S in the name indicates that the pole features the brand’s Trigger S system, which allows you to separate the strap from the pole itself. One final thing to note is that the slim race-style grips are super ergonomic and easy to hold on to.

What I like most about these poles is that there is a built-in spring release on the strap that will release it from the pole in the event of upward force, making for an added degree of safety.

BEST DOWNHILL SKIERS ON A BUDGET

If you’re primarily a weekend skier looking for a solid downhill ski pole on a budget, take a look at the $60 Phantasticks.

Volkl designed this quality budget pole with an 18mm diameter shaft. These poles are cut to order, available in sizes as short as 90 centimeters. One of this pole’s standout features is its availability in a wide variety of flashy colors, including bright red, aqua, and blue — and matching grips to go with each color.

What I like most about the Phantasticks is how tough and durable they are thanks to a solid alloy construction.

BEST FOR: BACKCOUNTRY SKIERS ON A BUDGET

This pole provides for unprecedented performance in an astoundingly affordable package.

The Traverse is a high-performance two-section pole that boasts many of the same features as more expensive poles on this list. The comfortable upper grip is designed for skinning while the secondary lower grip features sticky rubber that comes in handy when you’re side-hilling.

What I like most about these ski poles is that they are very durably constructed and should last a long while.

BEST FOR: SPLIT BOARDERS

The nature of splitboarding demands a sport-specific pole — and the Carbon Compactor is one of the leading products on the market.

The Carbon Compactor features a collapsible z-pole design, which makes these easy to stash away when not in use. When you do pack them away, they break down smaller and slimmer than any other pole on this list. It comes with a solid powder basket and is designed to break down fast during transitions, which saves precious time. Because this pole is designed specifically for skinning uphill, it doesn’t offer the same performance on the downhill, which is something to keep in mind.

What I like most about the Black Diamond Carbon Compactors is how lightweight they are, weighing in at just eighteen ounces.

BEST FOR: ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS SKIERS

Though they may seem like a novelty, these bamboo Grass Sticks poles are here to stay. Instead of using materials like aluminum and carbon that are mined from the Earth to construct their poles, Grass Sticks has chosen bamboo, a regenerative material that absorbs more CO2 and produces more oxygen than any other plant. The straps are also made of 100% recycled polyester, making these poles one of the most environmentally conscious products on the market. In addition to the environmental benefits of purchasing these poles, they also feature an incredible weight to strength ratio, making them the perfect accompaniment to any terrain that you decide to ski.

BEST FOR: NO FUSS PERFORMANCE

The Rossignol Tactic All Mountain ski poles are all about no fuss performance. Without the bells and whistles of some of the poles in the same category, these poles may seem overly simplistic, but that judgment would miss the benefits of this kind of simplicity. A carbon fiber construction allows for lightweight performance without compromising on durability, and a specially designed ergonomic grip promises all day comfort on any terrain at the resort. Finally, it’s hard to beat the value that comes with these poles for the price. A low price tag gets you all the performance that you need to enjoy and maximize a ski day at your favorite resort.

BEST FOR: EXPLORING THE MOUNTAIN

K2’s Power Composite ski poles offer the best in ski pole construction design and materials without over-complicating the features of the pole. The 100% composite shaft offers the perfect balance of weight, durability, and strength, so these poles are designed to last and live up to whatever you send their way. From trees to groomed trails and beyond, these poles will get you there. The 60 millimeter baskets will keep your poles floating through powder and will also power through the icy crud in the springtime. Finally, the performance rubber grips and adjustable straps help you to customize your fit for long-lasting, all-day comfort at your favorite ski resort.

BEST FOR: BOLD AND BRIGHT STYLE

The most standout feature of the K2 Freeride 16 poles is their bright color choices. Your friends are sure to not lose you on the slopes with your choice of either hot pink or highlighter orange ski poles. In addition to their flashy style, these poles also feature lightweight, strong aluminum shaft construction that will hold up to any terrain on the resort, including the terrain park. Finally, these poles also include reduced grip circumference, making them perfect for young teenagers or those with smaller hands so that they can better hold on to the poles without worrying about dropping them or their hands getting too tired.

BEST FOR: LIGHTWEIGHT VENTILATION

While it technically doesn’t have the most air vents, it’s the strategic placement of them that gives the Smith Vantage MIPS the title of best ventilated helmet on the list. 

It’s also one of the lightest helmets on the list, giving it a multifaceted design that excels in many areas rather than just a few. And it’s compatible with your current audio system, whether you’re rocking tethered or wireless earbuds. 

The Vantage also rocks a hybrid construction that combines the benefits of two different styles of constructing a helmet – the result is an extremely strong yet lightweight design. Within the outer shell, the Vantage features Koroyd, a lab-engineered material that rates high in impact absorption and displacement of blunt forces that would otherwise cause more damage to your brain upon impact.

BEST FOR: SKIERS ON A BUDGET

For under $100, you’d be hard pressed to find a helmet that’s better made or better looking.

The Holt provides for plenty of warmth and comfort for those long, cold winter days. The ABS construction is high quality but not as technically advanced as many of the other helmets on this list. Its fixed ventilation system includes 10 different vents that aren’t adjustable but provide for plenty of airflow on their own. One of the best things about the Smith Holt is that compared to other budget offerings, this helmet does not have that misshapen mushroom look.

What I like most about the Smith Holt — other than the affordable cost — is the adjustment system which features an elasticized band at the back of the helmet that stretches to accommodate noggins of various sizes.

BEST FOR: BOTH RESORT AND BACKCOUNTRY USE

When you enjoy long days at the resort but also find yourself venturing into the backcountry, reach for a helmet that will serve both purposes.

Smith designed the Mission MIPS with the perfect blend of resort and backcountry specific safety features. This helmet features adjustable vents, a warm interior linter, and both MIPS and Koroyd technology. The brand successfully blended features and performance to make for a quality all-around noggin saver — wherever you find yourself on the mountain.

What I like most about the Mission MIPS is how lightweight it is for the price. This helmet weighs in at just over 1.8 pounds.

BEST FOR: DEDICATED BACKCOUNTRY SKIERS

This hybrid mountaineering and ski helmet is perfectly suited for backcountry adventures — not to mention the lightest we’ve tested to date.

Salomon’s Mountain Lab ski helmet is extremely well vented and features a removable liner that can be washed as needed. It weights in at just 12.7 ounces but still provides for plenty of protection from falling debris and impacts. This helmet is compatible with attachment points for both ski goggles and mountaineering headlamps. There are ample fixed vents situated throughout the helmet, making for a high degree of breathability compared to many other helmets on this list.

What I like most about the Salomon Mountain Lab is how reasonably it’s priced for such a high-end niche product.

BEST FOR: PREMIUM COMFORT

Your helmet doesn’t need to feel like an encumbrance, which is why the Smith Quantum MIPS springs for premium comfort while retaining top-of-the-line safety tech. 

Featuring Koroyd in the lining of the exterior shell, this helmet doubles down safety and comfort all at the same time. Koroyd is a lab-engineered “squishy” tubing that is not only comfortable, but also spreads out an impact over the entire surface area of the helmet. This redirects the forces acting upon the helmet to spread them thin and weaken them. 

The Quantum MIPS helmet also features the Boa FS360 system, which is a single-dial knob that allows you to make slight, incremental adjustments to the fit of your helmet while on the go. No need to remove your helmet to get the perfect fit!

BEST FOR: GROUPS OR PARENTS

Featuring an integrated communication headset that can pair with your smartphone via Bluetooth, the POC Obex SPIN Communication ski helmet is a premium choice for those needing to stay in communication with others.  

Parents with children on the slopes would benefit greatly from this helmet, especially when skill levels vary. Now, each parent can split up and take different routes with their kids all while staying in close communication. 

Ski patrollers or those overseeing a group of skiers can also take advantage of the communication aspect. More simply, the Bluetooth speakers can be used to listen to some tunes as you carve your way down the mountain. 

Safety-wise, this helmet is of the highest quality. It features SPIN technology (Shearing Pad INside) which functions in exactly the same way as MIPS (see the Things To Consider section below for more information), the most cutting edge helmet technology that drastically reduces the risk of head and neck injury.

BEST FOR: VARIETY OF CONDITIONS

No matter if the weather is warm and sunny or bone chillingly cold, the Sweet Protection Switcher MIPS ski helmet will keep you at a comfortable temperature all day and across the whole mountain. With a whopping 24 air vents (tied for most on our list) that can be adjusted with a single hand, this ski helmet will help you vent warm air to stay cool or trap it to stay warm!

Safety-wise, this ski helmet has a variable elasticity hybrid shell which means that it blends the best of the two most common materials (ABS plastic and polycarbonate) used to craft helmets. By reinforcing the super lightweight and highly impact resistant polycarbonate with a super hard ABS shell, the Switcher MIPS becomes even more efficient at redirecting localized impacts across the entire helmet to weaken the forces acting upon your head to keep your noggin in-tact. 

The Switcher MIPS also sports a single-dial adjustment system that can tighten or loosen the fit and allows you to make micro-adjustments with a single hand while on the go.

BEST FOR: CUSTOMIZED FIT

Dialing in just the right fit can be a pain in the you-know-what for many helmets out there. Thankfully, Oakley takes comfort and custom fit to the next level with their MOD3 MIPS ski helmet. 

Sporting a Modular Brim System (MBS) that can be customized to fit larger or smaller framed goggles, you’ll be able to seamlessly match your existing pair. It also has a Boa tightening system for creating a perfect fit and allows for micro adjustments while on the move. 

The magnetic clasp for the chin strap also makes this helmet easy to remove even with a gloved hand.

BEST FOR: AMPLE AMOUNT OF FEATURES

Want to stay level headed on the mountain? Keep your head in the game with the Smith Level MIPS ski helmet. It’s got a little bit of everything to offer. 

This ski helmet has a brim to keep the sun out of your eyes, a strap to hang onto your goggles, and a single slider to control the opening/closure of all 20 vents just to name a few features. The AirEvac 2 system helps pull warm, moist air from your goggles and vents it through the top of your helmet and the strap system features removable ear pads that keep you warm on extra cold outings. 

The liner of the exterior shell has Koroyd, a lab-engineered material featuring an open-cell framework that is both breathable and shock-absorbent.

BEST FOR: TERRAIN PARK SKIERS

High flying stunt junkies and rail grinding daredevils will be sufficiently protected wearing the Sweet Protection Igniter II MIPS ski helmet. It uses the highest quality materials to keep your noggin safe all while looking, well…sweet! 

The Igniter II is a perfect fit for skiers who may be more prone to head injuries than the casual rider. Featuring MIPS technology (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), this helmet uses biomimicry to mimic what the body would do during a head or neck injury. MIPS uses a slip-plane system where the outer shell of the helmet is able to “slip” against the inner shell, allowing the rotational forces to be redirected and have less impact on your skull (see the Things To Consider section below for more info).

BEST LOW BUDGET GOGGLE

This goggle isn’t going to bring you polarization or a flashy lens, but if you’re looking to hit the slopes quick and you don’t care about all the glitz and glam, this is your best low budget option (even if your budget is like, really low). The Smith Cascades perform the basic job of ski goggles — to protect your eyes from wind and weather — and they perform it well. 

These goggles provide one hundred percent UV protection and medium coverage for maximum comfort. If you plan to be a life-long skier, these goggles may not make it all the way through with you, but at a price that can’t be beat, they’re perfect if you’re just getting going or you need a quick fix for a ski trip.

BEST BASIC GOGGLE

From Smith comes the Project: a high-quality, reasonably priced ski goggle. The Project is perfect for you if you’re looking for something that is built to last and perform, but you don’t want to spend a fortune. 

This goggle is a step up from our low-budget pick, the Smith Cascade Classic, but the Project is only slightly more expensive. The upgrade is worth the extra cash if you want a goggle that will last for at least a few seasons. It features a medium frame fit for facial comfort and an adjustable strap that expands to fit your helmet perfectly. It also comes in an array of sweet colors. There’s not a whole lot else to these goggles, but while they’re not super fancy, they’ll definitely get the job done.

BEST RIMLESS-STYLE GOGGLES

There’s a reason these sweet goggles won Outside Magazine’s “Gear of the Year” award for best goggles a few year’s back, and why that award still rings true in the 2020 season! The Oakley Fall Line goggles feature an anti-fog coating to keep your line of sight clear. They have an easy release and pop system so you can switch out lenses in different light (just beware, you’ll have to buy additional lenses separately). 

Their lenses are also super strong and impact-resistant, so even if you have a few minor falls each season, you can count on these goggles to last through ‘em. The Oakley goggles are moderately priced, and the price tag is totally worth it if you’re looking for a super-sleek, durable goggle.

BEST LENS SWAP GOGGLE

Swappable lenses can be a blessing and a curse because they help us see in varied light conditions, but are sometimes a hassle to change. Not with the Anon WM1’s! Switching these lenses is a breeze with trademarked Magna-tech swappable technology. These goggles come with two interchangeable lenses: one for bright, sunny conditions and one for darker, cloudy conditions. 

They also feature a unique fog-fighting fleece blend that is super soft against skin, and the strong, flexible plastic frames ensure a great fit for every face shape. These goggles aren’t cheap, but they are super valuable and worth the cost, especially if easy lens-swaps and overall high quality are important to you.

BEST FEEL GOOD GOGGLES

Wait, what? Did you read that right? Yes, you did! The Spy Legacy signature Happy Lens tints your world and is proven to actually boost your mood! If that’s not the coolest thing ever, then we don’t know what is! 

Not only do these goggles have the ability to lift your mood, they also enhance visual color, contrast, and clarity. Their lenses are both anti-scratch and anti-fogging, and they have a unique curvature that mimics the shape of the eye to bring optics to an even higher level. Their frame is large for full coverage and maximum peripheral range. These goggles don’t come cheap, but their superior vision quality and sci-fi-like ability to boost your mood are worth the price.

BEST LARGE AND IN CHARGE GOGGLES

If the Anon WM1’s caught your attention for their sweet magnetic lens-switching capabilities, superior optics, and flashy mirror-style finish, then you’ll definitely want to check out Anon’s sister product, the M2’s. At exactly the same price as the WM1’s and packing in all of the WM1’s best features, the M2’s feature a larger frame size for full coverage and protection from the elements, plus a wider range of vision. 

The M2’s also feature a unique strap design that disperses pressure for superior comfort across your face, and a comprehensive airflow system that keeps air moving and prevents fog. If you were enticed by the WM1’s, but you’re looking for something bigger (and in our opinion just a little better for the same price), you gotta check these out.

BEST MULTISPORT GOGGLE 

Ski goggles are most often designed specifically to fit ski helmets. But what if your winter activities aren’t limited to just skiing? What if you want to get some snow-shoeing action in, too? What if you want to go snowmobiling? Do you need to find a new pair of goggles for every winter activity? Nope! At least not if you’ve got a pair of the Portal goggles from Zeal. These goggles are designed to fit a wide range of winter headwear, from hats to helmets and everything in between, so you don’t have to think about which goggles you need for which activity. One size fits all. 

Plus, many lens options are fully polarized. These are a great pick if you want a high-quality pair of goggles that can be used for a range of activities! Just beware, the polarized lenses are quite a bit more expensive than the non-polarized options, so you’ll need to decide how important that next-level eye protection is before you break out your wallet.

BEST SUPERIOR OPTICS GOGGLE

This goggle features the signature and superior ChromaPop lenses by Smith, and they’re also Smith’s cheapest ChromaPop option. What is ChromaPop, you ask? Well my friend, let me tell you. It’s something you’re going to want to hear about! ChromaPop technology filters two specific light wavelengths in order to optimize all aspects of vision, from color to definition to clarity, creating the ultimate mountain view. Smith uses ChromaPop in all its top-of-the-line lens products. If you’re looking for a superior optic experience from your goggles, this is a great pair to try, especially because the price is right!

BEST OVERALL VALUE

For their price, these goggles pack a powerful punch. The Ace from Spy features HD vision and anti-fog, anti-scratch lenses. They’re also 100% UV protected. These goggles come with the Spy trademarked Happy Lens that is designed not only for superior vision but also to boost your mood through color enhancement technology!

The Quick Draw lens change system is one of the easiest to use of any on the market, making it easy for you to swap out lenses when light conditions change unexpectedly. Plus, a premium airflow system keeps air moving through and offers extra protection against fogging. To top it all off, a triple-layer face foam provides ultimate comfort. With all these premium features, you’re sure to “Ace” your ski lesson.

BEST FOR: GRIPPING TOW ROPES AND SKI POLES

Half the battle of finding a good pair of ski gloves is finding a pair that has a good grip. The full-length synthetic rubber palms on this pair of gloves provides a secure grip for things like ski poles and tow ropes. Meanwhile, the weather-resistant, breathable construction keeps your kids playing outside for as long as they like.  

Another cool feature is the long wrists on these gloves. Not only do they keep the fingertips toasty, but they extend to cover some of the forearm. They also have detachable leashes to keep your kids from constantly losing their gloves. #parentwin

BEST FOR: WET SNOW

Once your gloves get wet, your ski day is over. Thankfully, the Aquabloc technology on these gloves prevents that from ever happening. These gloves have the best rating for their waterproof, hand warming qualities. If you’re heading out into sloppy slush, you need gloves like this to be able to last out there.

The only drawback is that these gloves are not machine washable. The manufacturer recommends surface and spot-cleaning to preserve the integrity of the gloves. While they’re also on the bulky side, the fingers are made to be flexible, and the warmth factor is what really matters anyway.

BEST FOR: LOOSE, FLYING SNOW AND HIGH-POWERED YOUNGSTERS

Regular gloves are okay in most situations, except when your tireless kids are shredding through loose powder. Then, you might want gloves that cover more of their arms and keep the snow from flying up their sleeves. These gloves provide extended coverage partway up the forearm.

They also have both an adjustable cinch cord and an adjustable wrist strap to double up on protection. They can overlap their jacket sleeves either under or over the top of the gloves too. Not only great for the ski hills, these gloves are also perfect for snowmobiling and ATVing, where wind and snow are always in the forecast.

BEST FOR: PICKY PEANUTS

Are your kids either too hot or freezing, with no in between? Or maybe the weather changes so often, you don’t know how to dress them. If so, then these gloves are your answer. When your kids get too hot, they can open the top vent and let their hands breathe. If it’s frigid, they can add a handwarmer to the pocket to boost their body heat.

The gloves also have extended wrists for extra coverage up their sleeves. And with the touchscreen fingertips, your kids don’t have to remove their gloves to document their ski trip on social media either. The Burton name is highly revered in the snowboard community, and these gloves are no exception.

BEST FOR: CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING AND EVERYDAY WEAR

Unlike the other hardcore ski gloves on this list, these gloves are more appropriate for milder sports and everyday wear. They’re not waterproof and they’re less bulky, so they’re perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. They also have a fashionable, gifty quality to them, which makes them the perfect stocking stuffers.

Kids are not only drawn to the cozy, extra-soft fleece but also to the touchscreen-friendly fingertips. They can scroll with any of their 10 fingers without removing their gloves. Parents like them because of all the everyday use their kids can get out of them. Plus, if your kids are still young enough to hold your hands, who could resist these softies?

BEST FOR: MILD TEMPERATURES

You know those days on the ski hills when you get warm enough to ski without your jacket? That’s the type of weather these gloves come in handy for. They keep your kids’ digits just warm enough to keep going without overheating. They also have a good enough grip for tow ropes and ski poles. 

Five-finger touchscreen ability ensure your youngsters never lose touch with their beloved phones. For a pair of gloves named after a mountain in Alaska, these gloves are just warm enough for mild days at the beginning of the ski season. But for kids who need full finger articulation to snowboard or who run warm, these are perfect.

BEST FOR: ALL-DAY OUTDOOR PLAY

Your kiddos won’t last long out in the snow without a good pair of waterproof, insulated gloves. The Core helps prevent the type of frozen red fingers that cut your ski day short with warm insulation and a waterproof layer. As your kids warm up, the breathable fabric quality keeps them from getting sweaty too. 

The elastic wrists on these gloves come with an adjustable tab, so you can get a close fit. The best way to wear the gloves is to tuck them under your child’s jacket sleeve. That way, when the snow is flying, it won’t be flying right up their sleeves. Go ahead, send ‘em outside!

BEST FOR: WINTERS UP NORTH

Winters in the northern hemisphere can only be tolerated with proper insulated outerwear. And anyone who lives there is likely familiar with the merits of Thinsulate. Thinsulate provides a warm layer of insulation without the extra bulk. That way, your kids can bundle up without feeling like a marshmallow–and still be able to move their fingers.

Not only are the gloves nice and insulated, but they’re also grippy for outdoor sports. If you want your kids to play outside in the winter, they need grippy gloves like this to handle the horseplay, whether they’re popping ollies on the snowboard hill or packing snow for snowballs.

BEST FOR: SMALLER BUDGETS

For under $20, you can certainly get a good ski season or two out of these insulated gloves. The durable materials and reinforced palm hold up well through school recesses and weekend trips to the slopes. The Thinsulate layer reduces the amount of bulk without sacrificing winter warmth.

One of the coolest features of these gloves is the huge color and design selection. From solid colors to skeleton fingers and star patterns, you can find a set to match your both your kids’ outerwear and their personalities. In this case, your choices aren’t limited by your budget!

BEST FOR SUPERIOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Is your tyke a bit finicky when it comes to getting too hot or too cold? Dressing a little one for the outdoors isn’t always easy! You want them to be warm enough, but you definitely don’t want them to overheat, either. Well, we have a solution for you: the Zoom Jr. helmet from Smith. Most current adult helmets feature adjustability features when it comes to ventilation, but few kids’ helmets do.

This one does! It has six adjustable vents that you can open up when it gets a little too toasty inside, or keep them closed for those really cold days. The Zoom Jr. also has a super soft lining and lightweight design to maximize your child’s comfort. If you’re looking for something with superior comfort and great temperature control, look no further!

BEST FOR HASSLE-FREE FITTING

Is your least favorite part of skiing getting dressed for it? How about dressing your kids for it? If that’s the case, you need to keep reading because the getting-ready-to-ski process just got a little bit easier! Enter the Rime 3 helmet from Anon. This little guy has a self-adjusting fit system, so no matter what base layers you put on your child’s noggin, this helmet will slide on easily and auto-adjust for maximum safety and comfort — no hassle necessary!

Not only is the Rime 3 one of the easiest helmets to fit, it also features a magnetic snap buckle that is simple to use, even for children. If you’re tired of all those little dials and micro adjustments on straps and helmet skeletons, it’s time you make a change and swap what you’ve got for the Anon Rime 3.

BEST FOR MULTI-SEASON USE

It’s no secret, kids grow like vines these days! The Smith Prospect Jr. helmet may have a slightly higher price tag than some of the other helmets on this list, but it’s designed specifically to last for multiple seasons, which means you’ll get a lot more bang for your buck, even if your  child is the type of kid who looks taller every time you turn around!

Its special liner system actually adapts to a growing head, but that’s not even the best feature about this helmet. It is also equipped with MIPS technology, Aerocore construction, and Koroyd protective material. Those are fancy terms for elements that work together to create one of the safest and most trusted helmet designs on the market.

BEST FOR KIDS WITH GLASSES

With built-in goggles and an easy on-the-go adjustment system, the Anon Define helmet is a parent’s dream! Your little one will never lose their goggles, even if they fidget with them and take them on and off a lot. Most goggles detach from the helmet, which makes it easy for them to fall completely off or flop around and dangle off the goggles clip.

These will stay on! Plus, this helmet and goggle system is built to fit comfortably over a pair of glasses, which is a tough feature to find! If your kiddo sports specs, this is a great option to keep them protected (without taking away their sight or comfort). This helmet also comes with a super comfy chin strap guard to prevent scratches and chafing, and an exterior dial-fit system that makes on-the-go adjustments a breeze.

BEST FOR ALL-SEASON USE

This Holt Jr. helmet from Smith has everything you need for a swift changeover from season to season! The earpads can be removed, and its 14 vents are able to be opened and closed so you can tailor temperature control perfectly for the weather and time of year. This helmet has a super easy auto-adjust system, too, so whether you’re bundling your child’s head or they’re going layerless, the helmet will fit comfortably.

It comes in a bright blue color so your child will be easy to find on the slopes or on the trails. And with its modest price tag and high quality, you can’t really go wrong. Some reviewers do warn, the helmet is a little bit tricky to adjust for summer use. Don’t let that deter you, just be prepared to spend a little time in the changeover getting the helmet ready for the next season because it’s totally doable with a little grit and effort.

BEST FOR BACKCOUNTRY KIDS

If you plan to take your child on your extreme skiing adventures, this helmet is the answer. In fact, we wouldn’t go with any other helmet in that case. The POC POCito Auric Cut comes with several features designed specifically for backcountry safety, including a Recco reflector, which enhances radio signals from search and rescue crews, and an LED panel, which enhances visibility in low light and cloudy conditions.

This helmet is also impeccably made. Every aspect of the design, from the liner to the shell, is of extremely high quality and is built to hold up against multiple impacts. The POCito Auric cut also features cutting edge, patent pending SPIN technology, which allows the helmet to rotate in relation to the impact and protect your child’s brain in the rare event of a crash.

BEST FOR OVERALL VALUE

From one of skiing’s most trusted brands comes the kids’ Crue snow helmet. This thing is truly packed with value. Easy and on-the-go fit system? Check. High-performance ventilation? Check. Latest safety technology? Check. Tons of color options your kid will love? Check. Reasonable price tag? Check! We’re not sure what more you could want, but for us, this helmet has it all.

In addition to the aforementioned features, it also comes with a removable goggle clip and a lot of five star reviews. Can you say ready to shreddy? Your kids won’t be able to contain their excitement for the slopes once you outfit them with this thing!

BEST FOR THE BUDGET SKIER

It may not make sense to buy your kids the most expensive ski equipment when they’re growing so fast that it ends up seeing only one season of use. If you’re trying to get your kiddos geared up without breaking the bank, this may be the helmet for you!

The mission of the Retrospec Traverse H3 building team was to “design for comfort, engineer to protect,” and in doing so, they created a safe, high-caliber helmet that is also warm and affordable! The Traverse H3 features high-quality materials and construction so you can feel good about sending your little shredder down the hill. It also comes in eleven fun colors! There’s not much not to love here, and at this price, the budget skier need look no further.

BEST YEAR-ROUND GLOVE

Reacting to conditions for high quality performance in any weather, the Give’r four season gloves are truly one of a kind. They feature a three layer design to ensure they are waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Their outer layer is a tanned cow-hide leather that is not only weather resistant, but also super durable, so you know you can count on these gloves for seasons to come. To top it all off, they come in a bright yellow color so you’ll make a statement on the slopes. And oh yeah, did we mention? They were weather tested in the extreme conditions of the Grand Teton Mountains, which means you’re guaranteed to get a great quality glove for whatever conditions you’re enduring.

BEST VALUE GLOVE

The North Face Montana is a high-quality, mid-priced glove, and we think it brings the most consumer value of any other glove on this list. Featuring industry standard GORE-TEX inserts, soft and flexible safety cuffs, and adjustable wrist straps to keep snow from making its way inside, these gloves won’t let you down! They’re also wind- and waterproof. If you’re trying to get the most bang for your buck, look no further!

BEST OVERALL GLOVE

Here it is, ladies! Our pick for best overall ski glove for women. These gloves feature a patented synthetic insulation that keeps your hands warm in extremely cold conditions. That insulation is covered with not one, but two layers of leather to provide the ultimate weather protection. Plus, they’re super breathable, so your hands will stay dry, even when you break a sweat! One downside to these — the high quality comes with a high price tag. But, if you’re serious about sticking with the sport, we’re sure you’ll find these gloves well worth the initial investment.

BEST WARMTH GLOVE

Think you need to buy a super expensive name-brand glove to satisfy your warmth and comfort needs? Think again! The Gauntlet GTX glove from REI Co-Op does just the trick when it comes to keeping your hands warm. Their unique oversized design allows these gloves to actually slip over your jacket, holding the whole ensemble together from just below the elbow all the way down to the tips of the fingers. They also have an outer adjustable wrist strap, the tightening of which will ensure cold air and snow stay out. Plus, the thumb and index finger of the glove are touch-screen compatible, so you never have to take them off, even to answer a call from that one friend who always manages to take the wrong trail.

BEST PRE-BROKEN-IN-FEEL GLOVE

If you’re someone who lives for the feeling of a worn pair of sneakers, that timeless jacket you’ve had for 15 years, or your oldest (and by default comfiest) pair of jeans, then you’ll want to check these gloves out because they’re right up your alley. The Illuminator Sensor gloves from Outdoor Research come with a pre-curved design that fits comfortably to the natural curve of a relaxed hand (and also the hand of someone holding a ski-pole!). These gloves feature super high quality fabrics, from their exterior leather, nylon, and spandex combo, to their polyester liner. They’re also waterproof and quick drying. If you wanna feel like you’ve owned your gloves for years right out of the box, stop looking and hit “Add to Cart.”

BEST HEAVY DUTY GLOVE

Does your outerwear tend to take a beating? If you’re looking for a high-quality, super durable and long-lasting glove, you’ll want to keep reading. The Black Diamond Guide gloves are built for some serious action. Designed with the quality desired by a professional ski guide in mind, these gloves will stand up to the most extreme conditions season after season. They feature strong GORE-TEX inserts, foam knuckle padding to protect your knuckles and keep your fingers warm, plus four-way stretch fabric that is tough yet flexible. If heavy-duty performance is your priority, these gloves are well worth the investment.

BEST MULTI-LAYER GLOVE

Many gloves come with a removable liner, but those liners aren’t usually warm enough to be worn alone, and that’s where the Outdoor Research Arete’s are different from the rest! They are extremely warm and purposely oversized so you can pull them up over your jacket sleeves and lock in warmth. Their liners ensure your hands have an extremely warm winter weather experience, but when it’s a little warmer out, like during spring skiing, you can simply wear the liners by themselves to avoid overheating. These gloves come pre-curved for superior comfort, and they have a wrist cord to lock the shell down and keep snow out.

BEST BASIC GLOVE

This glove rocks it in the simplicity department. Not overly bulky and with no real bells or whistles, this glove is perfect for those looking for a high-quality basic glove. They feature super stretch fabric that is waterproof and warm, durable palm fabric that holds up well against weather and time, and a removable liner glove for advanced temperature control. If you’re looking to stay dry and warm and to avoid the trickiness of some of the high-priced gloves on the market, invest in these instead. You’ll avoid having to think about a new pair of gloves for seasons to come,  too.

BEST BUDGET GLOVE

The Dakine Tahoe’s are an all-around great performing glove, and they check out at a modest price. Named after a world-class ski region, they have a soft and comfy liner, plus a waterproof insert for wet days on the mountain. They also feature premium leather palms for durability and water resistance, as well as internal “heat-pack” pockets to keep hand warmers in place. On top of it all, Dakine offers a two year warranty on these gloves, so they’re guaranteed to last for at least two years (though they will almost definitely last longer), and even just two seasons in these gloves is well worth the low cost.

BEST COMFORT GLOVE

Is comfy cozy your MO on and off the hill? Then the Dakine Camino’s may be just the gloves for you! They utilize soft and plush fabrics for all aspects of the glove, and they have internal mini pockets to keep your hand warmers comfortably in place. A big convenience factor of this glove is their removable fleece liners that are touch screen compatible, meaning you can use your smartphone without completely exposing your hands to the elements. The soft thumb cloth on these gloves is designed with sensitive skin in mind, so you can wipe away drippiness without irritating that sensitive area under your nose. Note that these gloves do not have wrist leashes, but some people actually prefer this, as the leash kind of gets in the way if you don’t want to use it.

BEST FOR: ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS SKIERS

Known for classic skier style and performance, Helly Hansen’s Legendary ski pants are designed with the best in weather protection technology as well as durability. Helly Hansen also included bluesign materials in these pants, an effort that has sought to reduce the negative impacts from production on the environment, workers, and wearers of their products.

These pants also feature extra insulation in the seat and knees to keep you warmer when you’re riding the chair lifts around the resort. As an added safety feature, these pants also include a RECCO reflector embedded in the design. The RECCO technology enhances radio signals from search-and-rescue detectors in the event of an avalanche or other accident at the resort. These ski pants are sure to be your next favorite piece of ski gear.

BEST FOR: ULTIMATE COMFORT

These are the pants that are worth the dawn wake up and drive to the ski hill. Strafe has designed these ski pants to be the leader in comfort and performance. The soft, fleece lining through the pants as well as specifically targeted fleecing at the waistband and pockets makes for a super soft and cozy feel throughout the day. The external hook-and-loop waist adjustment system ensures a personalized fit every time, and four-way stretch powder cuffs also make it easy to slide the gaiters over your boots and then remove to adjust your boots throughout the day as needed. Skiers will also love the teal and raspberry color choices, making these pants a contender for the leading ski pants on the market.

BEST FOR: POWDER DAYS

These ski pants, awarded Apparel of the Year by Powder Magazine in 2018, are best-in-class when it comes to waterproofing technology and stretch. Outdoor Research made them for those hard-charging powder days when even though it seems contradictory to the chilly temperatures outside, you end up at the bottom of the hill breathing hard and sweating. The suspenders of the bib design ensure a customized fit that’ll stay in place through the day and keep your base layers in order under your pants and jacket. Finally, the GORE-TEX waterproofing material boasts an impressive suite of features, including waterproofing, windproofing, breathability, and sealing to keep out excess snow. If you’re skiing out west under those bluebird skies and with ample powder days, these pants might be the ones for you.

BEST FOR: VERSATILE PERFORMANCE

The North Face’s signature Freedom ski pant is made for every skier on the hill. The North Face has designed these pants in tall sizes, short sizes, and in a bib with suspenders so that they will work for almost every woman on the hill. With adjustable waist tabs and belt loops, you can further customize your fit as well as manually adjust your venting when the temperature drops or heats up. Finally, the insulation in these ski pants contain 50% post-consumer recycled materials, so not only will you feel warm and comfortable on the hill, you can feel good knowing that your purchase supports these kinds of sustainability efforts in outerwear and ski apparel.

BEST FOR: EXPLORING THE MOUNTAIN

The Arc’teryx Sentinel ski pants are designed for those who move. As a shell without insulation, you can be sure you’ll stay cool throughout your day on the resort or even in the backcountry. The exterior Gore-Tex material is windproof, waterproof, and breathable so that you can enjoy your turns in any weather and at any time during the season while the brushed liner on the interior of the pants promises a cozy feel throughout the day. Finally, these pants are compatible with many Arc’teryx ski jackets. When combined, the pants connect to the jacket to keep out the deep powder and wind-swept snow when you’re having fun exploring the resort. These pants will work as hard as you do on a ski day!

BEST FOR: STYLE & PERFORMANCE

These ski pants will take you from the lift to apres-ski without batting an eye. The Obermeyer Bliss ski pants have a more streamlined silhouette for those skiers looking for a less baggy, more refined look on the ski hill. That silhouette does not, however, compromise on comfort, warmth, and protection. Their fully-seamed stretch fabric provides waterproof, breathable protection against snow and wind, and the lightweight insulation protects against those cold winter temperatures both on the ski hill and off. They also have a contoured, fleece-lined high back for added comfort (you won’t have to worry about the wind sneaking down your back) and range of motion while exploring the mountain.

BEST FOR: TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The Flylow Foxy Bib ski pants are a cult favorite amongst skiers who are headed into the backcountry. These pants have all the technical features that you want in your ski pants – superior waterproofing, customizable fit, and venting to shed excess heat – while not compromising on style. Maybe you’re ready to take it to the next level with your skiing or maybe you’re heading out west where the snow is deeper and fluffier… Either way, these pants are technical enough to hold up to all weather conditions and stylish enough to enjoy during apres-ski.

BEST FOR: VALUE MEETS PERFORMANCE

The Columbia Women’s Bugaboo II ski pants are the epitome of value meeting performance. These ski pants incorporate all of the technology that Columbia is known for while retaining a reasonable price point. Zippered hand pockets and back flap pockets keep all of your valuables safe – phone, wallet, keys – while you’re out on the hill, and the multiple color options available will fulfill the style needs of any skier. The adjustable waist also allows for customization based on weather. If you need any extra layer underneath on an especially cold day, simply loosen the pants and then tighten them again come spring. These reliable ski pants will keep you warm, dry, and looking cool throughout the winter and for many winters to come.

BEST BACKCOUNTRY GLOVES FOR EXTREME COLD

Featuring PrimaLoft insulation to tackle even the nastiest weather, the Black Diamond Guide Gloves are the rugged choice for braving extremely cold conditions. 

Sporting full leather on the fingers, palms, and backs of the hands, the Guide Gloves have a long lasting, durable finish that is warm and dextrous. On the inside, the gloves are first layered with Gore-Tex, a windproof and waterproof fabric that is the best-in-class of its kind. 

The next layer features PrimaLoft insulation that relies on tightly woven synthetic fibers to resist moisture and trap warm air. Finally, the last layer is a sweat-wicking nylon glove liner that can be removed for easy drying and cleaning. The nylon wicks sweat away from your hands that would otherwise get trapped, cool, and make your hands cold. 

BEST WATERPROOF TOURING GLOVES

Long distance touring treks are best handled with a high-quality glove that resists moisture and dries quickly like the Hestra Gloves Army Leather Patrol Insulated Gloves. Constructed with real leather to stand the test of time, these gloves will keep your hands warm for years to come. 

Conditions can get wet at a moment’s notice, but your hands won’t succumb to the moisture in these gloves. Relying on a water-resistant polyester lining and a fully synthetic insulated mid-layer, the Army Leather Patrol Insulated Gloves resist wetness at every level. 

These gloves also have a glove leash, which is a nifty attachment that allows you to remove your gloves without the fear of losing one!

BEST EXTREME BACKCOUNTRY TOURING GLOVES

Cross-country skiing in the backcountry can throw a whole host of unforeseen weather and nasty conditions your way. Best keep your hands warm and dry with the Mountain Hardwear High Exposure Gloves! 

Warmth, protection, and durability are key staples of these gloves with an elevated focus on keeping your hands nimble. Any gloves that fail to hit all of these attributes will be sub par for your backcountry outings. Oh, and they keep your hands dry too. 

The High Exposure Gloves also prioritize comfort using a pre-curved finger design that follows that natural arc of your fingers. This eliminates the feeling of “stiff” gloves in favor of a highly dextrous design for all day comfort.

BEST CLASSIC TOURING GLOVES

Let’s be real, when you’re doing classic touring cross-country skiing you want to look good while doing it! No better way to flaunt your sense of style and keep your hands warm than with the Hestra Gloves Ergo Grip Active Gloves.

Starting with a proofed goat leather that provides high durability with a soft and supple finish, the Ergo Grip Active Gloves prioritize dexterity for a fully functional exterior. Moving to the midlayer, a Gore Windstopper fabric is utilized to prevent blistering winds from ripping warmth away from your hands. Finally, the heat that you do generate is trapped by the next layer down, a brushed polyester that insulates extremely well and are super soft.

BEST TOURING GLOVES FOR HIGH WIND AREAS

Windy days are no match for the Arc’teryx Venta Gloves. They’ll keep you warm and protected from potentially bone-chilling wind. 

Featuring full leather palms with nylon backing, the Arc’teryx Venta Gloves use the highest quality materials in the most strategic places. Slip your hands into soft, fuzzy, and warm fleece lined gloves for premium comfort and the first defense in fighting off cold winds. The next layer up is your best defense, as these gloves utilize Gore Windstopper fabric to lock down heat and create a perfect wind barrier. 

These gloves also feature special sensors in the fingertips, making them compatible with your smartphone! Now you don’t need to remove your gloves to use your phone.

BEST HEATED GLOVES 

What’s better than gloves insulating your hands? How about gloves insulating your hands with built in heaters! Thank goodness we live in the 21st century, right?? 

Designed for the most extreme conditions, or for posh people who just hate the cold, the Outdoor Research Stormtracker Heated Sensor Gloves are sure to keep your hands feeling toasty and warm no matter how cold the weather is. 

The best part about these gloves is that they aren’t gimmicky, but instead are high quality waterproof and windproof gloves that insulate as well as any other premium gloves. If you happen to run out of charge, you’ll be in good hands with PrimaLoft Gold insulation that resists moisture and never loses insulation value, even if they get totally wet.

BEST BUDGET INSULATED GLOVES

Looking for a high quality pair of insulated gloves without breaking the bank? DAKINE has you covered with their Titan Insulated Gloves. 

Relying on a 2-stage glove-in-glove system, the Titan Insulated Gloves feature removable inserts that are both waterproof and windproof. Adding another layer of comfort and convenience, fleece interior liners are soft, warm, and machine washable – just take them out to let them dry after a day in the harshest conditions for a quick turnaround time. Compare that to gloves without removable liners, which take much longer to dry. 

The DAKINE Titan Insulated Gloves are also smartphone compatible as they have high-tech sensors in the fingertips for the ultimate convenience.

BEST RACE & PERFORMANCE GLOVES

Competitive cross-country skiers who enjoy the Race & Performance category will love the Swix Star XC 2.0 Gloves. They’re lightweight and insulated for the perfect blend of performance and comfort. 

Relying on a glove stretch technology, the Swix Star XC 2.0 Gloves fit like a second skin for a snug fit and aerodynamic performance. They also feature PrimaLoft insulation, a moisture wicking synthetic material that traps warm air in tightly woven fibers to maximize both warmth and comfort. 

These gloves are also smartly designed as they have reinforced high wear areas in the cradle of the thumb and palms to prevent blowout, making these a true performance glove designed to last.