Choosing the right gloves can make or break a day in the mountains. Whether you’re logging trail miles, swinging tools into vertical ice, or chasing powder from first chair to last light, your hands need protection that matches the demands of the moment. The best gloves balance warmth, dexterity, durability, and weatherproofing—but the ideal combination looks different for hikers, climbers, skiers, and runners. Best for Hiking or Trail Running If you’re planning a hike or need a lightweight liner beneath heavier gloves, look for gloves that deliver stretch, dexterity, and breathability. Our current lineup offers glove options designed for layering and active use, featuring light, stretchy fleece construction that moves with you and keeps hands comfortable. Other nice-to-have features include: touchscreen compatibility - handy when you need to access your device, waterproofing - useful if you're hiking in wet conditions, and packability – carrying an emergency pair is always a smart move. Best Gloves for Hiking and Trail Running Ice Climbing and Alpine Climbing Gloves For ice climbers and mountaineers tackling cold, dry conditions, finding the right glove means balancing warmth, water resistance, and dexterity—so you can trust your grip on tools like ice axes without sacrificing protection or feel. The alpine glove collection is designed with these challenges in mind. Here are some top choices trusted by guides, climbers, and skiers, built to perform in demanding environments: Arete Modular GORE-TEX Gloves & Mitts: built for cold starts and demanding alpine missions alike. A waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX insert, and durable nylon shell keep hands dry when conditions turn. Mt. Baker Mitts™: A time-tested favorite, these blend weather-resistant, breathable protection with a removable wool blend liner for adjustable warmth. The gauntlet cuff adds coverage, while the tough shell material stands up to mountain abuse day after day. Whatever alpine objective you’re preparing for, Outdoor Research’s alpine gloves blend decades of design experience with field-driven details—so you can focus on the climb, not your gear. Shop Alpine Gloves Ski and Snowboard Gloves When choosing gloves or mitts for skiing or snowboarding, you need gear that keeps hands warm, dry, and ready for long days outside. Prioritize durable, waterproof shells—materials like Ventia™ waterproof membrane and GORE-TEX® that are engineered to block moisture while letting sweat escape, keeping your grip steady from first chair to last lap. A multi-layer approach reflects how we build the best clothing systems, letting your hands stay comfortable during the iciest chairlift rides and on deep powder days. Coverage plays a huge role in keeping your hands warm and protected. Extended cuffs—whether gauntlet-style or undercuff—help seal out wind and blowing snow, especially when paired with secure closures like zippers, drawcords, or adjustable straps. If you run cold or spend long days in deep winter conditions, insulated options add dependable warmth without sacrificing performance. Shop Ski and Snowboard Gloves No matter where your next adventure takes you—up a windswept ridge, across a frozen waterfall, or down a powderfilled line—the right gloves keep your hands warm, protected, and ready to move. Understanding what each activity demands helps you choose gear that won’t hold you back when conditions shift. With thoughtful design, durable materials, and fieldtested performance, the right pair of gloves lets you stay focused on the experience, not the temperature. Shop All Gloves
