With so many “performance” options out there, why do ski patrollers, lifties, and your ski-bum friends still wear old-school leather work gloves on the mountain? They’re cheap, durable, mostly waterproof, and authentically stylish. They’re also popular enough that gearmakers have jumped on the trend. It’s hard to improve a classic, but these six come close.
1. The Original
This is the glove that started it all. Introduced in the 1980s, is tough and water-resistant. We suggest treating the palm with Nikwax or Sno-Seal to improve insulation. One pair should last a season. And because they’re less than twenty bucks, you won’t feel guilty retiring them. From $18;
2. The Swedish Classic
Family-owned Swedish manufacturer Hestra has been making wool and leather work gloves for four generations. Its demonstrates how well the company has dialed in the details, from exterior seams that improve dexterity and minimize contact—think seamless undies—to plush neoprene wrist closures for bomber insulation. $145;
3. The Pro Model
Designed for professional mountain men, the is packed with features—like Prima-Loft Gold on the back and insulation on the palm that resists packing down by ski poles. They’re also great for rope work, if you’re into that sort of thing. $129;
4. The Workman
Cut from goat leather—the most durable animal skin— is shaped to fit an open or closed hand (most ski gloves are cut to grip a pole). It also maintains the burger-flipping aesthetic while sneaking in a few upgrades. $40;
5. The Upgrade
During summer, FlyLow pays idling ski techs a dollar a glove to Sno-Seal its for water resistance. That same level of attention went into the design, which features articulated points at the thumb and forefinger for dexterity and a breathable insulated lining on the back. $32;
6. The Resort Edition
is the only glove here that includes a waterproof membrane, making it the best for rain-snow slurries and the worst for alpine pursuits. The wide zippered cuff gives it a slightly higher-profile look, but the added warmth is a plus for resort skiers. $50;
Second Skin
To extend the life of leather gloves, waterproof them with ($8) before you get them wet. The beeswax treatment fills the pores and prevents the hide from breaking down. Use heat when applying—a hair dryer or an oven on a low setting (185 degrees)—to sink the wax deep into the leather.