Are gloves or mittens better for kids?

For sheer warmth, mittens—like the L.L. Bean Waterproof Mittens —are better for kids because they keep warm air around the digits, Dr. Poinsett explains. “Fingers share warmth, and warm air circulates in mittens,” she says. Since gloves separate the fingers into different compartments, “fingers do not benefit from the warmth of adjoining fingers.” To keep babies’ fingers warm, check out the Patagonia Baby Pita Pocket Mittens . However, gloves have their benefits, too. By separating the digits, gloves allow for more finger mobility, increasing overall dexterity. This is ideal for kiddos who enjoy outdoor activities for which they need to be able to use their hands and fingers—think gripping ski poles, tying ice skates, building snow forts, and more.

What are the best snow gloves for kids?

Dr. Poinsett says that the best snow gloves for kids are dependably warm and waterproof to keep out snow since damp fingers can quickly become icy cold. Plus, “Gloves or mittens that are lined with fleece will keep hands warmer,” she adds. Synthetic materials, like polyester, are great options for warmth in the snow. Made of breathable polyester fiber, the Hestra Junior Heli Gloves keep hands warm and dry—they’re windproof, waterproof, and help retain heat, even in wet conditions.

The 12 Best Winter Gloves for Kids of 2023

The 12 Best Winter Gloves for Kids of 2022 — Amazon / Patagonia

Snow days are exciting, but nothing ruins the fun like cold, wet hands. Warm winter gloves are the key to an enjoyable outdoor adventure—bundled-up hands make for fun playtime in the snow, cozy rides to school, memorable family ski trips, and more.

Depending on your kid’s activities and where you live, the best winter gloves may be a heavy-duty, waterproof pair for extended outdoor play, or a lightweight pair with touchscreen-compatible fingertips so they can use their tablet in the car. Plus, keep your kid’s personal preferences in mind: "Finding what children will keep on is just as important as anything else so involving them in the selection and shopping process can make all the difference,” San Diego-based pediatrician Curtis Leong, MD, tells Verywell Family.

To find the best winter gloves for kids, we spoke with multiple pediatricians about how to pick warm, safe gloves for different age groups. We also carefully examined dozens of popular, highly-reviewed products, keeping in mind that the best winter gloves for kids are warm, made from high-quality materials, and easy to clean.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Magarrow Kids Winter Gloves at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Lullaby Kids Snow and Ski Gloves at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Waterproof:

REI Co-Op Timber Mountain Gloves Kids at REI

Jump to Review

Best Mittens:

L.L. Bean Infants' and Toddlers' Cold Buster Waterproof Mittens at L.L.Bean

Jump to Review

Best for Skiing:

Burton Kids Gore-Tex Gloves at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Babies:

Patagonia Baby Pita Pocket Mittens at Backcountry.com

Jump to Review

Best for Toddlers:

Columbia Chippewa Long Mittens Toddler at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Snow:

Tough Outdoors Kids Winter Gloves at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Thinsulate:

N’Ice Caps Thinsulate Waterproof Winter Gloves Kids at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Extra Warm:

Hestra Juniors Heli Glove at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected Winter Gloves for Kids
What to Look for in Winter Gloves for Kids
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Budget-friendly
Windproof
Warm knit cuffs

Cons

Not waterproof

These cozy kids’ gloves are our top pick because they’re super soft, stay on securely with snug knit cuffs, and are wallet-friendly. Kids’ gloves go missing all too frequently, but this pair has safeguards in place to help your kiddo keep track of them: Wrist elastic and hook and loop closures keep the gloves securely on little hands, and a buckle keeps the gloves together when not in use.

These gloves come in two different kids’ sizes, and the hook and loop fasteners around the wrists can be tightened or loosened to best fit your child. The polyfill interlining keeps hands warm, while the patterned PU leather on the outside helps improve grip. Available in several color combinations, these windproof gloves are must-haves for winter.

Price at time of publication: $12

Material: Polyester, rayon, PU leather, and nylon | Insulation: Polyfill | Sizes available: Small (6-7 years), Medium (8-10 years)

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Waterproof and snowproof
Knit cuffs keep out snow
Pre-curved fit

Cons

Pre-curved fit

Kids are prone to losing things, so you may not want to make a big investment in your little one’s winter accessories. If you’re looking for kids’ winter gloves on a budget, these waterproof and snowproof gloves are a top-notch option. With a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, you’re sure to find a style that suits your kid’s preferences, and the pre-curved shape follows the natural shape of the hand for a closer fit.

These gloves also have knit cuffs and elastic wrists to keep snow from getting into your kid’s jacket sleeves, as well as non-slip PU leather palms for better gripping. Buckles keep the pair together when not in use.

Price at time of publication: From $15

Material: Polyester blend | Insulation: Thermal | Sizes available: Small (3-6 years), Medium (7-9 years), and Large (10-12 years)

REI

View On REI

Pros

Waterproof inserts
Detachable wrist loops
Grippy synthetic leather palms

Cons

Bulky

With these waterproof gloves, kids are ready for a full day of comfortable—and, most importantly, dry—snow play. Polyester insulation and breathable, waterproof inserts combine to keep little hands warm and cozy, while synthetic leather palms provide a substantial grip and hold up against the elements.

Adjustable wrist straps and elastic straps offer a customized, secure fit, and detachable wrist loops make for easy hanging when not in use. Check REI’s size chart for detailed measuring instructions before purchasing.

Price at time of publication: $35

Material: Polyester and polyurethane | Insulation: Synthetic | Sizes available: Small, Medium, and Large

L.L. Bean

View On L.L.Bean View On Zappos

Pros

Extra-wide opening
Warm and waterproof
Name label and clip for security

Cons

Hand wash and line dry only

With mittens for babies and toddlers, it’s not just the size and fit of the mittens themselves that matter, but how easy they are to get on. Available in solid colors or patterns, this pair has an extra-wide opening to help guide little hands inside.

Polyester insulation keeps hands warm, while a waterproof membrane keeps moisture out. A hook and loop closure and an adjustable strap keep the mittens securely on wiggly fingers, and a clip and name label on the inside help keep them connected to their owners.

Price at time of publication: $25

Material: Polyester shell (solids), nylon shell (prints) | Insulation: Thinsulate | Sizes available: 12-24 months, 2-4T

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Burton.com View On Zappos

Pros

Ergonomic, curved design
Waterproof and windproof
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips

Cons

Hand wash only

Hitting the slopes requires performance-driven gloves, and these are up to the task. These gloves have a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and a brushed microfiber lining that keeps little hands warm and dry without feeling too bulky. Plus, the padded palm allows the wearer to control a touchscreen device while the gloves are on. The ergonomic, curved design fits little hands well, and the removable wrist leash helps your little one keep track of their gloves. They are available in several colorways, from neutral colors to geometric prints.

Price at time of publication: $50

Material: Gore-Tex | Insulation: Thermacore | Sizes available: X-small to x-large

Patagonia

View On Backcountry.com View On Patagonia.com

Pros

Soft on the outside to protect faces from scratches
Long, knit cuffs keep snow and cold air out

Cons

Don't allow full use of digits during play

When it comes to infants and snow play, you need dependable warmth and a close fit for those fragile little fingers, so opt for mittens or an outer layer with foldable cuffs. These cozy Patagonia mittens will keep your baby’s fingers warm and protected—plus, they’re just plain cute. The smooth polyester brushed inner lining helps the mittens slide on easily, while the fleece on the outside is soft to protect little faces from scratches. Long cuffs tuck under jacket sleeves to keep the gloves in place and the snow out, and a large thumb area makes it easier to wrangle those little digits into the right spot.

Price at time of publication: Starting at $29

Material: Fleece | Insulation: Polyester brushed tricot | Sizes available: 0-3 months through 2-5T

Zappos

View On Amazon View On Columbia.com View On Dick's

Pros

Warm and waterproof
Extended length keeps snow out
Liquid-repellent coating

Cons

Only comes in one size

Since mittens generally keep hands warmer than gloves, these Columbia Chippewa Long Mittens are an ideal choice for toddlers. The brand’s water-repellent “Omni-Shield” coating resists the absorption of liquids, so the mittens stay clean and stain-free even with rough-and-tumble toddler play. A form-fitting, extra-long design with elastic at the wrists and cuffs keeps snow out so hands stay warm and dry. Plus, there's a clip to keep the mittens together when they’re not being worn, and an adjustable hook and loop wrist strap further customizes the fit.

Price at time of publication: $22

Material: 100% nylon Dobby Rainwear WR and 100% polyester Chamois touch tricot | Insulation: Polyester 150g insulation and Microtemp XF II insulation | Sizes available: One size

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Elastic cuffs and adjustable wrist straps
Broad size range

Cons

Fitted finger openings can be a challenge to get on

With thermal insulation, waterproof nylon coating, and a faux leather palm, these gloves help keep your kiddo warm, dry, and having fun outside. They hold up against rugged wear and tear, so they’re great for snowball fights, building snowmen, and more. Plus, elastic cuffs and adjustable hook and loop wrist straps help customize the fit.

There are sizes to fit kids between 3 and 12 years old, and there are multiple color options available.

Price at time of publication: $19

Material: Nylon | Insulation: Thermal | Sizes available: XS (3-4 years) to XL (10-12 years old)

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Pros

Warm, breathable insulation
Wide range of colors and prints
Available in lots of sizes

Cons

Can be challenging to put on since inside lining may shift

This 30-year-old Minnesota brand knows a thing or two about cold weather—and that expertise is reflected in these super-warm gloves, insulated with Thinsulate. (Thinsulate is 3M’s trademarked thin synthetic insulation that’s lightweight yet warm.) The gloves are also fully waterproof and have a substantial 2.5-inch knitted cuff, which stays tucked under kids’ jackets to keep snow from going up their sleeves. They’re also easy to put on and wear, thanks to the elastic wrists, ergonomic curved fingers, textured palms, and hook and loop closures. Choose from nearly 30 colors and prints.

Price at time of publication: Starting at $17

Material: Waterproof polyester | Insulation: 100g 3M Thinsulate | Sizes available: 3-4 years through 12-15 years

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com

Pros

Ultra-warm materials
Durable, grippy goat leather on palms and fingers
Removable liner

Cons

Expensive
Leather shouldn’t be washed too frequently

When the weather is extremely cold and kids face extended exposure, you need gloves that seriously perform. Made from windproof, waterproof, and breathable polyester fiber, these gloves do an impressive job at retaining heat, even in wet conditions. The rugged goat leather on the palms and fingers is durable for winter sports, and a super-soft liner can even be removed and combined with other liners to adapt to specific conditions.

The elastic straps with hook and loop closures helps the gloves tighten easily while keeping out the cold. Featuring a curved design, these gloves are meant to follow the natural bend of the hand for a closer fit and better grip.

Price at time of publication: $120

Material: Polyester and leather | Insulation: Bemberg | Sizes available: 3 (4-5 years) to 7 (12-13 years)

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Lightweight fabric offers full range of movement
Index fingers and thumbs are touchscreen-compatible
Reflective strip for safety

Cons

Limited colors available

While other gloves may be bulky and constrictive, this pair is thin, lightweight, and offers an ample range of motion. Made of elastic, Spandex, and plush lining, these gloves are soft and comfy, too. Silicone palms provide extra traction to grip a tablet or a seat belt, and the thumbs and index fingers are touchscreen-compatible for easy device use in the cold. The machine-washable gloves also feature reflective strips on the backs of the hands for visibility at night.

Price at time of publication: $16

Material: Polyester and Spandex | Insulation: Plush | Sizes available: XS (age 4 to 6) to XL (10 to 12)

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Fingerless gloves convert to mittens for versatility
Thinsulate lining for warmth
Made from soft, cozy fleece

Cons

Flap may not stay firmly in place over fingers

This winter accessory punches above its weight because it converts into multiple accessories in one. These useful hand coverings can be worn as fingerless gloves (leaving the fingertips exposed) for maximum dexterity, or they can be converted into mittens by flipping up the cozy fleece cap to cover the tips of the fingers.

Whether they’re being worn as gloves or mittens, the thumbs are fully enclosed for extra warmth. The Thinsulate lining makes little hands nice and cozy, and a 2.5-inch knitted cuff can be tucked under clothing layers to thoroughly keep out snow. Elastic wrists widen to help the gloves slide on easily, and a grippy palm area and thumbs amp up the functionality during snow play or activities.

Price at time of publication: $19

Material: Fleece | Insulation: Thinsulate | Sizes available: 3-4 years through 8-10 years

How We Selected Winter Gloves for Kids

To pick the best winter gloves for kids, we spoke with:

Pierrette Mimi Poinsett, MD, a pediatrician and consultant for Mom Loves Best
San Diego-based pediatrician Curtis Leong, MD,

to learn about the best materials and construction for kids’ gloves, including specific recommendations for different age groups. We also researched customer reviews and studied dozens of options. When making our picks, we considered materials, warmth, care instructions, and price.

What to Look for in Winter Gloves for Kids

Materials

When picking the best pair of winter gloves for a kid, look for gloves that are made with comfortable yet functional outer materials, such as waterproof or windproof fabric. You’ll also want to look for an insulated inside and a warm, soft lining to keep their little hands cozy and dry.

“Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton, muslin, and fleece,” Dr. Poinsett tells Verywell Family. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, are also safe and can be more budget-friendly than other options. Wool may irritate infants’ sensitive skin, so Dr. Poinsett recommends that babies wear a layer of cotton under wool garments.

Warmth

Warmth is a key factor in all winter gloves, but it may be more of a priority for some outdoor activities over others. For instance, a day on the slopes will require maximum warmth and waterproofing, while everyday use might favor other features, such as touchscreen compatibility.

“Babies and kids need one extra layer of clothing compared to adults, and layering is the most effective way to bundle up babies and kids,” Dr. Poinsett says. “Watch for overheating signs such as sweating on the forehead, reddish face color, damp hair, and rapid breathing. Note it is normal for a baby's hands and feet to be cool, so do not rely on checking hands and feet to determine if a baby is overheating.”

Overall, prioritize function over style, Dr. Leong advises. While it can be tempting to pick a pair of kids’ gloves for the cuteness factor, it’s most important to go with a pair that will keep your kid warm and safe in the cold winter.

Care Instructions

Note the care instructions when buying winter gloves for kids, including how to spot clean, wash, and store when not in use. Many gloves are machine washable, but some materials, like leather, are hand-wash only, so consider your family's laundry habits before purchasing a pair. If your little one is a thumbsucker, keep that in mind when making your purchase, since you’ll likely be doing frequent loads of laundry—Dr. Poinsett recommends keeping an extra pair of gloves on hand while you’re out and about so you can swap them with the slobbery ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gloves or mittens better for kids?

For sheer warmth, mittens—like the L.L. Bean Waterproof Mittens—are better for kids because they keep warm air around the digits, Dr. Poinsett explains. “Fingers share warmth, and warm air circulates in mittens,” she says. Since gloves separate the fingers into different compartments, “fingers do not benefit from the warmth of adjoining fingers.” To keep babies’ fingers warm, check out the Patagonia Baby Pita Pocket Mittens.
However, gloves have their benefits, too. By separating the digits, gloves allow for more finger mobility, increasing overall dexterity. This is ideal for kiddos who enjoy outdoor activities for which they need to be able to use their hands and fingers—think gripping ski poles, tying ice skates, building snow forts, and more.
What are the best snow gloves for kids?

Dr. Poinsett says that the best snow gloves for kids are dependably warm and waterproof to keep out snow since damp fingers can quickly become icy cold. Plus, “Gloves or mittens that are lined with fleece will keep hands warmer,” she adds.
Synthetic materials, like polyester, are great options for warmth in the snow. Made of breathable polyester fiber, the Hestra Junior Heli Gloves keep hands warm and dry—they’re windproof, waterproof, and help retain heat, even in wet conditions.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Alesandra Dubin is a professional product reviewer in the parenting and lifestyle space. She’s also mom to boy-girl twins and has eight years of in-home, hands-on, kid-tested experience.