Gloves with built-in wrist guards keep your hands warm and protect your wrists in one piece of gear. You don't need to fit a separate guard under your gloves. Here are our picks, then what to look for.
Best Snowboard Gloves with Wrist Guards
- Level Fly Trigger Gloves: Level's Biomex wrist protection, a waterproof and breathable Membra-Therm insert, and Kevlar reinforcement. Our top pick. Check price
- Dakine Wristguard Gloves: A good balance of protection, warmth and price from a trusted snowboard brand. Check price
Prefer Your Own Gloves?
- Burton Impact Wrist Guards: Slim guards that fit under most gloves without costing you much grip. Check price
For more separate guards and kids' options, see our guide to the best snowboard wrist guards.
What to Look For
Protection
Look for rigid splints along the palm and the back of the wrist. They brace your wrist when you fall and stop it bending too far. Some gloves have removable splints. Level's Biomex system was developed with doctors who treat wrist injuries, and it is one of the most trusted designs.
Warmth
Look for synthetic insulation like PrimaLoft or Thinsulate. It stays warm when wet and doesn't add much bulk. If you ride somewhere very cold, choose a heavier insulation.
Waterproofing
Wet hands get cold fast. A waterproof, breathable membrane such as Gore-Tex keeps water out and lets sweat escape. A DWR (durable water repellent) coating on the outside helps snow bead off. Leather gloves also work well if you treat them with waterproofing wax.
Fit
Gloves that are too tight cut off circulation and make your hands colder. Gloves that are too loose are clumsy. Pre-curved fingers make gripping easier and tire your hands less. Try gloves on with the liners you plan to wear.
Durability
Leather or reinforced palms and fingertips last longest. Check the stitching.
Cuff Style
- Gauntlet: Goes over your jacket sleeve and seals out snow best.
- Under-cuff: Fits inside your sleeve and is less bulky.
Who Needs Them
Beginners should wear wrist protection. You will fall on your hands many times while you learn. Park riders benefit too. Experienced riders can choose: the guard adds little weight and can prevent weeks off the snow.
The Bottom Line
For the best protection and warmth together, get the Level Fly Trigger. For a cheaper option, get the Dakine Wristguard Gloves. If you'd rather keep your own gloves, add Burton Impact Wrist Guards underneath.