17 Best Winter Gloves for Men in 2026, Tested and Reviewed

What should I look for in winter gloves for men?

That varies depending on intended use and climate, and, as we mentioned above, many guys might realistically need more than one pair. For example: one for everyday wear, one for skiing or outdoor work, and maybe something dressier. A rugged work glove, for example, would feel out of place at a holiday soirée, and vice versa. Technical gloves prioritize breathability and dexterity for running, heavy-duty ski options are for extreme cold, and lifestyle gloves focus on comfort and style. That said, every pair above is designed first and foremost to keep your hands warm.

Fit is key: gloves should feel snug yet allow for movement, with fingers reaching the tips for warmth and better touchscreen use (if applicable). Gore-Tex remains the gold standard for breathable, wind- and water-resistant protection, while Thinsulate (higher grams equal more warmth but less dexterity) is the torch-bearing technical insulation. With lifestyle gloves, materials like wool, wool blends, fleece, and cashmere are usually a safe bet, while technical gloves often use synthetics and propietary blends for movement and breathability. Leather-wise, lambskin is popular (and durable) while suede or peccary is luxurious. Finally, details matter: quality linings, reinforced palms, solid stitching, and well-sealed cuffs make for gloves you’ll reach for season after season.

Can I use my phone and other touchscreen devices with all winter gloves?

No, not all gloves offer touchscreen capability. If that’s a priority, look specifically for pairs labeled “touchscreen compatible” or for those that state it in the description (as we’ve noted above where relevant). These gloves typically use certain materials woven into the fingertips to mimic the conductivity of bare skin, which is why fit matters—good fingertip contact and pressure are key.

Common sense applies here, too: heavy-duty winter work gloves and most ski gloves are designed for warmth, protection, and durability, and they’re usually too insulated and bulky for reliable touchscreen performance. Touchscreen-compatible gloves tend to be more streamlined and form-fitting, but it’s still worth keeping expectations in check. No glove will offer the same sensitivity or precision as bare fingers, and for longer texts or detailed typing, you’ll still be better off briefly taking a glove off. Ultimately, staying warm trumps device use; touchscreen capability is a useful, fantastic feature, but it should only be a deal-breaker if you regularly use your phone outdoors.

Are waterproof gloves necessary for winter?

Not necessarily. First, it’s important to understand the difference between waterproof and water-resistant. Water-resistant gloves can handle light moisture (think drizzle or snow flurries) thanks to treated fabrics or tightly woven materials, but they will eventually soak through. Waterproof gloves, by contrast, use sealed membranes like GORE-TEX and specialized construction to fully block water, even in heavy rain or snow, while still allowing some breathability. In short, water resistance (or even none) is usually sufficient for everyday lifestyle wear, especially in low-precipitation environments, while waterproofing matters more for prolonged exposure, wetter climates, and activities like skiing.