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The best kids’ winter gloves keep small hands warm and dry through snowball fights, sledding and recess, and, just as important, they stay on. Wet, cold hands end snow days faster than anything, so this winter essentials guide focuses on waterproofing, insulation and cuffs that keep snow out. We compared specs, expert testing from Treeline Review, Lucie’s List and Tales of a Mountain Mama, retailer details and owner reviews to pick ten gloves and mittens for babies, toddlers and big kids. They also make great stocking stuffers.
Part of our Baby & Kids Buying Guides.
Quick picks
Price ranges: $ under $20, $$ $20-$35, $$$ $35-$50, $$$$ $50+.
| Product | Best for | Price range | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens | Best overall mittens | $$$-$$$$ | See price |
| SnowStoppers Original Extended Cuff Mittens | Best budget / stays on | $ | See price |
| Stonz Baby Mitts | Best for babies | $$-$$$ | See price |
| Burton Toddlers’ Grommitt Mittens | Best for toddlers | $$$ | See price |
| Obermeyer Thumbs Up Mittens | Easiest on and off | $$$ | See price |
| The North Face Kids’ Montana Ski Mitt | Best warmth for the money on sale | $$-$$$$ | See price |
| Hestra Baby Zip Mitt | Best premium toddler mitten | $$$$ | See price |
| Reima Tartu Waterproof Gloves | Best gloves for older kids | $$$$ | See price |
| Columbia Youth Core Glove | Best budget gloves | $-$$ | See price |
| HEAD Junior Ski Mittens | Best value zip mittens | $ | See price |
1. Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens: Best Overall Mittens
Treeline Review named the Ote its best overall kids’ mitten, and it’s easy to see why. Recycled polyester insulation is doubled on the back of the hand, a waterproof insert keeps snowmelt out, and a long gauntlet cuff with a wrist strap slides over jacket sleeves. The palm and thumb are reinforced for kids who drag their hands through every snowbank. One model spans sizes from about age 1 to 10, so siblings can share a favorite.
Key specs
- Insulation: recycled polyester, doubled on the back of the hand
- Waterproofing: Hipora waterproof insert
- Cuff: gauntlet with wrist strap
- Sizes: about 1Y to 10Y
👍 Pros
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👎 Cons
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What owners say: Testers report that they stay put during active play and hold up for more than one season, with getting the gauntlet on as the main hassle for younger kids.
2. SnowStoppers Original Extended Cuff Mittens: Best Budget (and They Stay On)
SnowStoppers solve the most common kids’ mitten problem: losing them. The extra-long stretchy cuff runs nearly to the elbow, which keeps snow out and the mittens on. Inside is 40g Thinsulate plus polyfill, with a waterproof shell and liner, and sizes run from 6 months to 12 years. The smallest size has no thumb, which makes it easier on babies. Very wet, heavy snow can eventually soak through, and a few kids dislike the long cuff.
Key specs
- Insulation: 40g Thinsulate plus 100g polyfill
- Waterproofing: waterproof shell with Drypel liner
- Cuff: extra-long, stretchy, reaches toward the elbow
- Sizes: 6 months to 12 years (thumbless in the smallest size)
👍 Pros
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👎 Cons
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What owners say: Parents say these really don’t fall off, though a few mention that soggy, heavy snow can eventually seep in.
3. Stonz Baby Mitts: Best for Babies
Getting mittens onto a baby is hard; keeping them on is harder. Stonz Baby Mitts are thumbless pouches that go over the arm and cinch with two adjustable toggles, one at the wrist and one on the forearm. They’re insulated with Thinsulate and fleece, have a waterproof and windproof nylon shell, and clip together so pairs don’t get separated. Lucie’s List gave them an Editor’s Choice. They only go up to 24 months, and some colors have been discontinued, so check what’s in stock.
Key specs
- Insulation: 150g 3M Thinsulate with fleece lining
- Shell: waterproof, windproof nylon
- Design: thumbless, over-the-arm, two adjustable toggles; mitts clip together
- Sizes: 0-12 months and 12-24 months
👍 Pros
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What owners say: Owners say they stay on wriggly babies and kept hands warm and dry even in harsh northern winters.
4. Burton Toddlers’ Grommitt Mittens: Best for Toddlers
Burton’s toddler mittens use a waterproof, breathable DRYRIDE shell and mostly recycled ThermacoreECO insulation. The extended gauntlet has a wide opening that slips easily over jacket cuffs, a pull loop to help little hands, and a wrist leash so a dropped mitten doesn’t get left behind on the sledding hill. Fun animal prints make them easy to spot in the snow. Sizes stop at age 6, and stock can be patchy.
Key specs
- Insulation: ThermacoreECO (95% recycled)
- Shell: waterproof, breathable DRYRIDE 2.0
- Lining: brushed microfiber
- Cuff: wide gauntlet with pull loop and wrist leash
- Sizes: 2T, 3T/4T, 5/6
👍 Pros
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What owners say: Reviewers like the leash and the easy-on gauntlet, and note that the bold prints make dropped mittens easy to spot.
5. Obermeyer Thumbs Up Mittens: Easiest On and Off
These toddler mittens pack serious insulation, with heavier fill on the back of the hand than most kids’ mitts, plus a 10K/10K waterproof-breathable membrane and a fleece lining. A hook-and-loop closure makes them quick to put on, ribbed inner cuffs tuck under the jacket, and built-in clips and a nose wipe add everyday practicality. Under-the-cuff designs can let snow in more easily than a long gauntlet.
Key specs
- Insulation: synthetic, 227g back / 170g palm
- Waterproofing: HydroBlock Sport 10K/10K laminate
- Cuff: adjustable hook-and-loop with ribbed under-jacket cuff
- Extras: fleece lining, built-in clips, nose wipe
- Sizes: toddler XS to L
👍 Pros
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What owners say: Owners report they go on and off easily, keep hands warm and survive the washing machine.
6. The North Face Kids’ Montana Ski Mitt: Best Warmth for the Money on Sale
The Montana Ski Mitt is a classic for skiing and sledding families. Heatseeker Eco synthetic insulation is generous on both the back and palm, a WindWall-lined gauntlet blocks drafts, and a pairing clip keeps the two mitts together in the gear bin. Note that it’s sold as water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Its list price is premium, but it’s frequently discounted.
Key specs
- Insulation: Heatseeker Eco synthetic, 160g back / 120g palm
- Water protection: DryVent insert with non-PFC DWR (water-resistant)
- Cuff: gauntlet with WindWall lining, zigzag elastic wrist and cuff pull
- Extras: pairing clip
- Sizes: kids’ S, M, L
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What owners say: Few detailed owner reviews were available for the current version, so we relied on the published specs; check recent reviews before buying for very wet climates.
7. Hestra Baby Zip Mitt: Best Premium Toddler Mitten
Treeline Review picked the Hestra Baby Zip Mitt as its best toddler mitten. A full zip along the cuff opens it wide, so you can slide a little hand in without wrestling, and a hook-and-loop wrist strap plus a cuff that extends over sleeves help it stay put. PrimaLoft Gold insulation makes it very warm, and it’s machine washable. It isn’t fully waterproof, it’s pricey, and dexterity is limited.
Key specs
- Insulation: PrimaLoft Gold
- Water protection: weather-resistant, not waterproof; PU palm grip
- Closure: zip cuff with hook-and-loop wrist strap
- Extras: reflective details, washable
- Sizes: 1 to 5
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What owners say: Testers found it goes on easily and stays put, though older toddlers often need help with the zipper.
8. Reima Tartu Waterproof Gloves: Best Gloves for Older Kids
Older kids often want gloves so they can grip sled ropes, pack snowballs and zip their own coats. The Tartu delivers good dexterity with recycled PrimaLoft insulation, a waterproof and windproof insert, a fleece lining and reinforced palms, fingertips and thumbs. A wrist strap and pairing clip keep them secure. They run large, so reviewers suggest sizing down.
Key specs
- Insulation: recycled PrimaLoft
- Waterproofing: Hipora insert, also windproof
- Lining: fleece
- Extras: wrist strap, pairing clip, reinforced palm, fingertips and thumb
- Sizes: about 2Y to 14Y
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What owners say: Testers found them secure and long-lasting, though a roomy fit can make fingers clumsy if you size up.
9. Columbia Youth Core Glove: Best Budget Gloves
For a reliable everyday glove that won’t break the bank, Columbia’s Youth Core Glove is a solid choice for school recess and the walk to the bus. It has 150g of polyester insulation, a waterproof-breathable build with Omni-SHIELD water repellency, and an elastic wrist with a hook-and-loop adjustment. The short cuff isn’t ideal for deep snow. Columbia has released updated versions, so match the exact name on the listing.
Key specs
- Insulation: 150g polyester
- Water protection: waterproof-breathable, Omni-SHIELD repellency
- Cuff: elastic wrist with hook-and-loop adjustment
- Fit: youth sizes
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What owners say: It’s typically bought as an affordable everyday or backup pair; families wanting maximum warmth for long sledding sessions tend to choose a gauntlet mitten instead.
10. HEAD Junior Ski Mittens: Best Value Zip Mittens
HEAD’s junior mittens are a budget favorite for a backup or recess pair. A long side zipper opens them wide so they’re easy to put on, and a quick-release clip keeps pairs together. Inside is renewably sourced Sorona Aura insulation and a fleece lining, with a waterproof, windproof insert. They’re not as warm or as waterproof as premium mittens, so save them for shorter outings.
Key specs
- Insulation: Sorona Aura
- Water protection: waterproof, windproof insert
- Closure: extended side zipper, elastic wrist, quick-release clip
- Sizes: XXS (1-2), XS (2-4), S (4-6)
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What owners say: Reviewers call them a good backup or school pair, best for shorter play sessions rather than all-day sledding.
How to choose kids’ winter gloves and mittens
- Mittens vs. gloves: Mittens are warmer because fingers share heat, and they’re easier for little kids to put on. Gloves give older kids the dexterity to grip sleds, ski poles and zippers.
- Waterproofing: For snow play, look for a waterproof insert or membrane, not just water-resistant fabric. Wet gloves get cold fast.
- Insulation: Synthetic insulation like Thinsulate or PrimaLoft stays warm even when damp. Heavier fill on the back of the hand adds warmth where kids lose it most.
- Cuff style: Long gauntlet cuffs go over jacket sleeves and keep snow out best. Short under-the-cuff styles are easier but let snow in during deep play. Extra-long cuffs (SnowStoppers) or zips (Hestra, HEAD) make mittens easier to put on and harder to lose.
- Stay-on features: Wrist leashes, toggles and pairing clips save you from buying replacement pairs midwinter.
- Sizing: Check each brand’s size chart; some run large. A little extra room at the fingertips adds warmth, but too much makes kids clumsy.
- Easy care: Washable gloves and mittens are a big plus for kids who use their sleeves and mittens interchangeably.
FAQ
Are mittens or gloves warmer for kids?
Mittens are generally warmer because fingers share heat inside one compartment, which is why they’re the go-to for babies, toddlers and very cold days. Older kids who need dexterity often prefer gloves for recess and skiing.
How do I keep mittens on a toddler?
Choose long-cuff or over-the-arm designs, look for wrist straps, toggles or zips, and put mittens on before the coat so the cuffs go under or over the sleeves as designed. Pairing clips and leashes help prevent lost mittens.
How do I know what size gloves my child needs?
Measure around the widest part of your child’s hand, and check the brand’s size chart, since sizing varies. Many kids’ mittens are sized by age, but brands like Reima note that some styles run large.
Should my child have two pairs of winter gloves?
Many parents keep a backup pair, especially for school, because gloves often come home wet after recess and may not dry overnight. A budget pair works well as the spare.
Related guides
- The Best Kids’ Snow Boots of 2026
- The Best Kids’ Snow Pants and Bibs of 2026
- Kids’ Winter Essentials 2026
- The Best Kids’ Base Layers of 2026
- Baby & Kids Buying Guides
Sources
We compared specs, expert testing and owner reviews from: Treeline Review, Lucie’s List, Tales of a Mountain Mama, REI, and brand pages from Burton and Hestra. Owner feedback is summarized in our own words from public reviews. Photos courtesy of Unsplash.