Mittens are a good way to go if you struggle with keeping your hands warm when you ride. They are also nice to have around for those super cold days where you need a little extra comfort and protection from the elements.
I’m a certified snowboarding instructor who has seen every type of weather imaginable during my decades of riding experience. I always have a pair of mittens around for when the weather gets cold and have used many different models over the years.
The Black Diamond Spark Johnny is my pick for the best snowboard mittens of the year. These are a very warm and durable option that provides you with a lot of comfort. They are also some of the most flexible mitts around.
I’ll highlight a handful of my other favorite choices in this post. There are many mittens out there to choose from, and every option you’ll see here comes recommended for the performance and value they offer.
Let’s dive in.
Contents
Who Should Get This
Mittens are the choice for boarders who need to keep warm. The items are made to keep your fingers nice and toasty even on the coldest days, making them perfect for those who run cold or constantly have cold hands when they ride.
In addition, the mittens in this guide work well for boarders who simply want an alternative to traditional gloves. There is nothing wrong with using gloves, but they do tend to run a bit colder than mittens. Some people may prefer the solid look of mittens as well.
Top Snowboard Mittens
Here are my picks for the best snowboard mittens.
1. Black Diamond Spark Johnny
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Comfortable, warm, durable, decent dexterity, waterproof insert, fleece-lined, EVA padding
- Insulation: 60G PrimaLoft Gold
- Waterproofing: Treated goat leather/BD.dry insert
- Cost: $$$
The Black Diamond Spark Johnny is my choice for the best overall snowboard mittens. These are a solid choice for any snowboarder and will do an excellent job of keeping your hands and fingers warm when you ride.
They have a very solid construction that makes them a warm and very durable choice. A full goat leather shell and palm give you excellent waterproofing and protection from wind. This material is also super strong and durable to last for many seasons.
A 100% waterproof BD.dry insert provides additional waterproofing. This is a patented piece of tech that Black Diamond has created to give you serious waterproofing capabilities in any type of weather condition.
The mittens are insulated with 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold insulation to provide you with a serious layer of warmth. This synthetic material works well even if it gets wet and does a great job all-around.
Additional features include a soft fleece lining for added warmth and comfort, inner finger slots that give you extra dexterity, and EVA padding on the back of the hand to protect and cushion if you take a bad fall.
The Spark doesn’t have the longest wrist cuff, which might be a downside for anyone who rides in powder often or loves the backcountry.
==> You can also get it on Rope Master USA.
2. Burton Women’s Gore-Tex
- Best for: Women’s
- Key features: Durable, breathable, quick-drying, removable liner, warm, grip palm, touchscreen compatible, ergonomic fit
- Insulation: Thermacore
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex, DryRide 2-layer
- Cost: $$
Female riders will love what the Burton Women’s Gore-Tex mittens have to offer. These are a quality option that gets high marks across the board regarding warmth, comfort, performance, and value.
A DryRide 2-layer shell fabric gives you the first line of defense against the snow and cold. This is a durable, waterproof layer that Burton has created and includes on much of their gear. A Gore-Tex membrane adds another serious waterproofing layer.
The mittens are also very warm, thanks to a layer of Thermacore insulation. This is a lightweight, synthetic insulation that keeps you cozy without adding much bulk. The result is a mitten that is flexible and well-designed.
Another nice feature is the brushed microfiber lining. This material adds to the breathability of the gloves and will help to keep your hands dry. It wicks moisture away if it builds up and helps dissipate and dry off your hands.
You also get a removable Thermex liner that increases the warmth and versatility of the gloves. If you need to dig in your pockets or play with your phone, this liner lets you do so without exposing your skin.
These can feel a little bulky and aren’t the most flexible option.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Backcountry or Skis.
3. Outdoor Research Lucent Heated Sensor Mitts
- Best for: Cold Weather
- Key features: Battery-powered heating, touchscreen compatible, removable leash, breathable
- Insulation: Battery-heating, synthetic
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex, leather
- Cost: $$$$
If you want the warmest mittens around, look no further than the Outdoor Research Lucent Heated Sensor Mitts. These suckers will keep you toasty no matter what the conditions are outside, thanks to effective battery-powered heating capabilities.
The ALTIHeat battery-powered system features rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that will keep their charge all day long, even in subzero temperatures. They also have customizable heat settings so you can get the perfect amount of added warmth.
An outer shell made of Gore-Tex and leather gives you a solid barrier from the elements. Gore-Tex is one of the best waterproofing materials around, and when combined with leather, you get outstanding weather protection.
The leather palm also adds durability, making these mittens strong and rugged enough to last for many seasons. Another unique feature is that they are also touchscreen compatible, which is pretty rare for mittens.
Additional features include molded EVA foam knuckles for added cushioning, a removable leash to help the gloves stay attached, a SuperCinch gauntlet that ensures the snow and wind will stay out, and a pre-curved construction that leads to a reliable fit.
The downside to all of this comfort and warmth is cost. These mittens are extremely expensive.
4. Dakine Baron Gore-Tex Trigger
- Best for: Tow Rope
- Key features: 3-finger design, durable construction, warm, waterproof, wool/fleece liner
- Insulation: PrimaLoft Gold
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex, leather
- Cost: $$$
If your local resort has a tow rope or Poma lift and you want a pair of mittens that will help you hang on, take a look at the Dakine Baron Gore-Tex Trigger. These offer the warmth of mittens with added dexterity, thanks to a 3-finger design.
The design of the Baron gives you independent use of your thumbs and index fingers. This is great with hanging on to a tow rope in mind. You use regular mittens, but these will give you extra grip when you need it.
A goat leather shell is treated with a DWR finish for excellent waterproofing and protection from the snow and cold. Dakine has also worked in a 4-way stretch material into the shell for added flexibility and comfort.
The mittens utilize PrimaLoft Gold insulation to keep your hands warm. This synthetic material does its job without adding too much weight. It’s also made from recycled material, which is a nice eco-friendly touch.
I also like the wool and fleece lining because it gives you a comfortable feeling inside the mittens. It also adds a little extra warmth and moisture-wicking properties to keep your hands dry.
These do have a slightly tighter fit than regular mittens, and they won’t quite be as warm because of the 3-finger design.
==> You can also get it on Backcounty or Evo or DICK’S.
5. Burton Gondy
- Best for: Comfort
- Key features: Very comfortable, durable construction, Living lining, removable leash, lifetime warranty
- Insulation: Thermacore
- Waterproofing: Treated leather
- Cost: $$$
The Burton Gondy are some of the most comfortable mittens around. These have an all-leather construction that leads to excellent dexterity, making them more flexible than your average mitt.
They also have an ergonomic pre-curved fit that adds comfort. These mittens just feel good, and once you wear them, you’ll know why. For long days on the slopes in the cold, these are a recommended option.
They aren’t just made for feeling good, they are also built to perform. Thermocore insulation gives you plenty of warmth, and a Living lining is designed to create customized performance in a range of weather conditions.
They also come with a touch-screen compatible thumb so you can check your phone if you need to and a Gnar Guard leather palm that is super strong and durable. The Gondy will hold up well under heavy use.
I also love the fact that these come with a lifetime warranty. It gives you peace of mind that they are built to last.
With an all-leather construction, you’ll need to retreat these with SnoSeal or another waterproofing treatment every once in a while.
==> You can also get it on Burton or Buckman’s or Sporting Life.
6. HANDLANDY Winter Snowboarding Mittens
- Best for: Budget Option
- Key features: Affordable, leather palm, warm, waterproof, adjustable cuff
- Insulation: 3M Thinsulate
- Waterproofing: Not specified
- Cost: $
The HANDLANDY Winter Snowboarding Mittens are the option to choose if you don’t want to spend a lot of money to get a decent set of mittens. These are my recommended budget option.
These are simple but well-designed mittens that will keep your hands warm and dry. They have 100 grams of 3M Thinsulate for a good layer of added warmth. The mitts are also treated to be waterproof.
The back of the mitts has waterproof nylon that helps block moisture, and the palms are a cow leather palm for extra grip and comfort. This is a solid combination that works well to keep you comfortable.
Another nice touch is a built-in glove design that keeps your fingers slightly separated for increased flexibility and dexterity. You also get a drawstring cinch cord to block out the wind and snow.
These aren’t the most durable mittens around, and they also have a layer of cotton insulation which is ineffective when wet.
7. Hestra Fall Line
- Best for: Durability
- Key features: Strong and rugged construction, good fit, waterproof, comfortable, elastic handcuffs
- Insulation: G-loft polyester
- Waterproofing: Treated leather
- Cost: $$$
The Hestra Fall Line is a well-built pair of mittens that will last you for many seasons of regular use. These are made out of cowhide and goatskin to give you the advantage of natural fabrics that are built to last.
They have G-loft polyester insulation that provides you with a good amount of warmth and comfort. This material will retain its warming properties even if it gets wet.
The Fall Line also comes with a 5-finger lining that adds flexibility and dexterity so you can grip and grab more things with your mittens on.
A neoprene cuff gives you an elastic fit around the wrist. This effectively blocks out wind and snow and features a velcro closure to keep everything locked down tight.
These do have a short fit, which might not be ideal for anyone who wants a more extended cuff that goes up the wrist.
==> You can also get it on Evo.
How to Choose Snowboarding Mittens
Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for a good pair of snowboarding mittens.
Insulation
Warmth should be your priority when you are looking into which mittens to get. Always choose warm models that protect your hand in multiple ways. There are two insulation types, down and synthetic.
Down insulation is light and breathable, while synthetic insulation is more affordable and tends to dry a lot faster. Most mittens on this list feature synthetic insulation, and that is much more common these days.
Design
There are quite a few mitten designs to choose from. The standard models bunch all of your fingers in one place, but some companies offer a finger slot to give you a bit of extra dexterity.
In addition, some 3-in-1 models come with both a shell and removable liner. Those are particularly great for boarders who ride in different conditions and need some extra versatility.
You can also pick a 3-finger style mitten, which is like a glove/mitten hybrid design. This also helps add dexterity.
Additional Features
When getting mittens for your winter excursions, always pay attention to extra accessories. A tough shell, strong design, and good insulation are essential, but that is only the beginning.
Many models also have special drawstring closures, pockets for hand warmers, and nose wipe thumbs. Wrist cinches and long gauntlet cuffs go a long way as well.
If you prefer any of these extras in mind, make sure that the model you are looking at comes equipped with what you are looking for.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about snowboard mittens alongside their answers.
Why do snowboarders wear mittens?
In my experience, most snowboarders wear mittens either for added warmth or because it’s a personal preference. I usually rock my mittens when the weather is colder, and I want to make sure my hands and fingers stay warm.
What’s better for snowboarding mittens or gloves?
It really just depends on any personal preferences you have. Both mittens and gloves can work fine for any rider. Mittens tend to be warmer, while gloves offer added dexterity so you can grab things. If you don’t know which you prefer, try them both to find out.
Are leather mittens good for snowboarding?
Yes, they are. I like to use leather mittens and gloves because of the added durability that they offer. Leather needs to be treated with a waterproofing material, so that might seem like added work. But I think it’s worth it.
What are the warmest mittens on the market?
The warmest mittens on the market are the Outdoor Research Lucent Heated Sensor Mitts. Outdoor Research makes warm mittens in general, but these take things to the next level by offering battery-powered heating capabilities.
Are Burton mittens good?
Yes. Burton makes some solid mittens. I’ve included two of my favorite models from the brand on this list, but they have a range of other options you can choose from. Burton makes excellent gear and has quality customer service.
Useful Tips & Resources
Mittens are a great way to keep your hands warm, but what about the rest of your body? Keeping out the cold is an essential part of snowboarding, especially in rough conditions.
If you want more ways to stay toasty, this video outlines some great tips.
Even after reading through this article, you may still wonder about the difference between gloves and mittens. Both come with their pros and cons, especially in different conditions.
If you want to explore what those may be, see this article.
My Verdict
The Black Diamond Spark Johnny is my top pick for the best snowboard mittens. These will give you a lot of warmth and comfort so you can ride in colder conditions without worrying about your hands getting cold.
It doesn’t matter how often, where, or when you ride; if you find yourself with cold hands, the products listed above will give you great results. Mittens do a great job of providing you with extra warmth and give you excellent insulation for tough or stormy days.
About Lorraine