Looking for the best snowboarding gloves for 2026 that won’t let you down on freezing chairlifts or deep powder days? Trust us, we’ve been there. In Ajax, Ontario, where we ride and serve the local snowboarding community through Switch Skate and Snow, winter demands serious gear. Whether you're carving trails in Blue Mountain or heading out west to Whistler, your hands deserve top-notch protection.
We’ve put together a fresh guide on the best snowboard gloves and mittens for 2026, pulling insights from industry leaders, our experience, and trusted sources. We've also taken a close look at our own line-up from switchnow.ca, making sure you’re getting the best gear available in Canada.
Let’s dig in and find the perfect pair for you.
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Switch Skate & Snow:
161 HARWOOD AVE N UNIT #6, AJAX, ONTARIO, L1Z0A1
Why Choosing the Right Snowboarding Gloves Matters
When you're out in sub-zero temps, one weak point—like cheap gloves—can ruin your entire day. Ever had frozen fingers mid-run? It's like trying to zip your jacket with icicles for hands.
Choosing the right gloves or mittens is not just about warmth. It's about:
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Dexterity: Can you adjust your bindings or zip up your jacket?
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Waterproofing: Are your gloves soaked after a single wipeout?
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Breathability: Do your hands sweat, then freeze?
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Durability: Will they last more than one season?
We’ve tested and compared dozens of gloves, so you don’t have to guess.
Gloves vs. Mittens: Which One Should You Go With?
Let’s settle this. Gloves vs. mittens—which is better for snowboarding?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Gloves: Offer better dexterity. Perfect if you need to tweak gear on the fly or use your phone.
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Mittens: Toastier. Fingers share heat, but you lose some movement.
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Trigger Mitts (a hybrid): A nice compromise. Think lobster claw—dexterity with extra warmth.
Our take? If you're riding in Ontario or heading out in -20°C weather, mittens are gold. But if you're a park rat tweaking gear constantly, gloves might be your jam.
Top Features to Look for in the Best Snowboarding Gloves
When shopping for the best snowboarding gloves near me, keep an eye out for:
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Waterproof membranes (GORE-TEX or similar)
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Insulation types (Primaloft, Thinsulate)
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Wrist cinches and gauntlet cuffs
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Touchscreen compatibility
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Reinforced palms for durability
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Removable liners or leashes
We’ve made sure our picks tick all these boxes.
1. 686 Lander Mitt 2026 - Purple Dawn
Straight up, the 686 Lander Mitt 2026 in Purple Dawn is one of the most stylish and functional mittens we've seen for the upcoming season. Whether you’re lapping the park or braving blizzard days at Blue Mountain, this mitt delivers warmth and durability without compromising on looks.
Why we love it:
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10K waterproof infiDRY® shell for all-day dryness
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Velvety soft micro tricot lining for next-to-skin comfort
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Soundtouch™ touchscreen technology
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DuraGrain™ synthetic leather palm for grip and longevity
We’ve had riders from the Durham Region swear by these—especially those who prioritize warmth and a low-profile fit without bulk. The Purple Dawn colorway is an eye-catcher, but the performance is what really makes it a top choice for 2026.
Pro Tip: These run true to size, but if you layer liners underneath, consider sizing up for extra comfort.
2. Dakine 2026 Baron Coupe Gloves - Griffin – AllAround Winner
Fully equipped with a 4-way stretch soft shell and 100% goat leather with PFC-free DWR, our Baron Coupe Glove is a classic and timeless piece that can handle anything you can throw at it.
Features we like:
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High-loft synthetic insulation
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Extra insert with Warmth Rating 5/5
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Slip-on stretch-to-fit cuff ensures a comfortable closure
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LINING: 360g Wool blend (64% wool, 20% polyester, 16% nylon)
Dakine gear is trusted Canada-wide, and the Baron Coupe Gloves is right at home here in Ontario where temps drop fast and deep.
3. Crab Grab Cinch Mitt – Style Meets Substance
Here’s a fan favorite in the terrain park scene. The Crab Grab Cinch Mitt isn’t just a style statement—it packs real function too.
What stands out:
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Double layer ripstop shell = rugged
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PrimaLoft® insulation
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Micro Fuzz™ lining
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Cinch cuff design to lock in warmth
They're insanely warm, easy to slip on, and ideal for those who prioritize creativity and style with substance.
According to a 2025 study by the Outdoor Industry Association, 72% of snowboarders reported that hand warmth was a top factor affecting their performance and enjoyment on the slopes—highlighting how essential your glove choice really is.
How to Choose the Right Size for Snowboarding Gloves
A glove that’s too big? Clumsy and cold. Too small? You’ll lose circulation.
Here's how we help customers find the right fit:
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Measure your hand circumference at the knuckles
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Match it with the brand’s size chart
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Try on with liners if you plan to wear any
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Ensure there's room for air circulation (that’s what holds heat!)
At Switch, we recommend trying gloves on in-store (if you're in the GTA or Durham), but if shopping online, double-check size guides—we include those on each product page.
Glove Care Tips to Make Them Last
You invest in good gloves—you want them to last. Here’s what we do:
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Air-dry only—never toss them in the dryer
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Use leather balm for leather gloves like Hestras
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Remove liners to dry separately
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Avoid direct heat sources like radiators
These little habits go a long way, especially in Canadian winters where gear takes a beating.
Where to Buy the Best Snowboarding Gloves for 2026
If you're in Canada, we’ve got you covered. At Switch Skate and Snow, we curate only the most trusted snowboard gloves and mitts.
We ride what we sell. We don’t push products—we push performance. Whether you’re buying online or walking into our Ajax shop, we’re here to help you gear up the right way.
Best Gloves for Different Riding Styles
Every rider’s different. So here’s what we recommend based on how you ride:
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Freestyle/Park Riders: Crab Grab Cinch Mitt or Burton Pipe Glove (for spring)
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All-Mountain Riders: Hestra Heli Glove or Dakine Titan
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Backcountry Adventurers: Hestra Guide or Black Diamond Solano Heated Glove
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Resort Weekenders: The North Face Montana or Burton GORE-TEX
Do Heated Gloves Make a Difference?
We get this question often—are heated gloves worth it? Short answer: if your hands get cold no matter what, yes.
Some heated models, like the Black Diamond Solano, feature:
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Rechargeable batteries
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3 heat settings
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Windproof + waterproof shells
But they’re heavier and pricier. We usually recommend them for backcountry riders or those with circulation issues.
Budget-Friendly Picks That Don’t Skimp on Quality
Don’t want to break the bank? We get it. Here are some affordable but reliable options:
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Burton Profile Glove: Solid all-rounder
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Dakine Scout Glove: Great warmth under $100
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Volcom CP2 Gore-Tex Mitt: Clean look, real tech
You’ll find these on our site and in-store, and they deliver real bang for your buck.
How We Test Our Gear at Switch
Everything we recommend has been tested—either by us or trusted riders in the field. We test in:
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Durham Region hills
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Trips to Blue Mountain
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Whistler backcountry
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Ontario parks
It’s not just about warmth. We look at grip, durability, cuff design, how easy they are to dry, and if the liners shift (that’s a dealbreaker).
Conclusion
Finding the best snowboarding gloves for your riding style and local climate is about more than just grabbing whatever looks good. We’ve seen the difference the right glove makes—from keeping fingers moving to riding longer and pushing harder.
At Switch Skate and Snow, we know the cold and ride through it. That’s why we’re proud to offer the best selection of snowboarding gloves in Ontario—carefully selected, rider-tested, and ready to ship Canada-wide.
EEAT Note: As a locally trusted skate and snow retailer based in Ajax, Ontario, with years of hands-on experience and in-depth product testing, Switch Skate and Snow provides accurate, expert-backed recommendations and only sells gear we’ve personally used or trust on the hill.
FAQs
1. What are the warmest snowboarding gloves available in 2026?
The Hestra Army Leather Heli Mitt and Dakine Titan Mitt are among the warmest, ideal for deep winter conditions.
2. Are mittens better than gloves for snowboarding?
Mittens are warmer, while gloves offer more dexterity. It depends on what you prioritize—warmth or movement.
3. Do I need waterproof gloves for snowboarding?
Yes, always. Wet gloves lead to freezing hands. Look for gloves with GORE-TEX or similar waterproof tech.
4. How long do good snowboarding gloves last?
With proper care, high-quality gloves can last 3–5 seasons. Brands like Hestra often last even longer.
5. Where can I buy the best snowboarding gloves near me in Ontario?
You can shop online or visit us at Switch Skate and Snow in Ajax. We serve all of Durham Region and beyond.
