Choosing the right waterskiing glove matters for comfort, grip, and safety. From preventing rope burn to improving throttle or handle control, the right glove changes your day on the water. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, analysis of technical features, and aggregated expert and consumer feedback.
How we tested and selected these gloves
We evaluated candidates using a three-pronged process: hands-on field testing, technical feature comparison, and market feedback analysis.
- Hands-on testing: Gloves were assessed on wet-grip performance, fit (dry and wet), dexterity, durability (seams, reinforcements), and comfort during multi-hour sessions.
- Technical review: Materials (Amara, neoprene, Lycra), construction (palm reinforcement, pre-curved fingers, Velcro straps), and purpose-built features (silicone grips, throttle pads) were compared.
- Consumer & expert input: We cross-referenced user reviews, brand reputation in tow-sports, and pro rider feedback to find consistent real-world issues and advantages.
Key considerations that influenced rankings
- Grip performance in wet conditions — traction materials and raised/textured palms ranked highly.
- Fit & dexterity — short-finger vs full-finger designs trade protection for fingertip control. We matched designs to likely use cases.
- Durability — double-layer palms, reinforced seams, and pre-curved fingers mattered for repeated handle wear.
- Comfort & entry/exit — wrist straps, neoprene back-of-hand panels, and stretch fabrics affect long sessions and quick adjustments.
- Specialized features — throttle grips and silicone laminates catered to PWC/jet-ski users; UV protection and thermal insulation matter for varying climates.
The final four picks balance price, performance, and intended use so you can choose the best glove for your waterskiing style.
Short-Finger Paddling Gloves
Affordable 3/4-finger gloves offering basic protection, breathable stretch fabric, and padded fingertips for improved grip. Great for beginners and multi-sport use—lightweight, quick-drying, and dexterous for knotwork and phone use while providing basic protection from rope burn.
Why we like it
These short-finger MRX gloves are a low-cost option that delivers solid functionality for occasional waterskiers and paddlers. The 3/4 finger cut preserves fingertip dexterity—ideal for tying knots or handling equipment—while padded fingertips and a grippy palm help reduce slippage.
Standout features
- 3/4 finger design keeps tactile control.
- Stretchy, breathable material for hot-weather comfort.
- Padded fingertips reduce impact and calluses.
Technical notes
The glove relies on a light synthetic palm and foam padding rather than heavy-duty Amara or double-layer construction. Expect adequate grip and protection for recreational use, but lower long-term abrasion resistance compared with premium waterski gloves.
Who it's for
Casual skiers, beginners, and anyone wanting a versatile, inexpensive glove for mixed water sports and gym use.
Drawbacks
Not the most durable option for heavy, frequent towing — seams and single-layer palms will show wear sooner than premium models.
Promo Waterski Gloves
A mid-range waterski glove with full Amara palm, silicone-laminated fingertips for tacky grip, and neoprene knuckle panel. Good balance of comfort, grip, and durability at a reasonable price—suitable for regular recreational skiers.
Why we like it
Connelly's Promo gloves offer a strong compromise between durability and cost. The full Amara palm and silicone-laminated fingertips produce a tactile, tacky feel on handles—helpful for maintaining consistent grip on wet ropes. The neoprene knuckle panel adds comfort and a performance fit.
Standout features
- Full Amara palm for abrasion resistance and grip longevity.
- Silicone laminated fingertips increase tack in wet conditions.
- TPU-injected wrist strap with Velcro for secure, easy entry/exit.
Technical notes
These gloves are ergonomically stitched for comfort and include a 2" back-of-hand Velcro strap for quick adjustments. The full-palm design provides more protection than short-finger models but sacrifices some fingertip dexterity.
Who it's for
Regular recreational skiers and those who tow frequently enough to need better abrasion resistance without paying top-tier prices.
Drawbacks
Slightly bulkier than short-finger gloves; some users may prefer 3/4-finger models for fine tasks.
Radar Lyric Waterski Gloves
A premium women’s waterski glove engineered for fit and performance. Radar's Lyric model emphasizes a snug in-water fit, modern materials, and design tweaks that reduce hand movement and fatigue during competitive or intensive sessions.
Why we like it
The Radar Lyric is built around precision fit and modern materials to shave off fatigue during extended runs. Radar is a well-respected brand in tow sports; this glove is designed to fit snugly (especially when wet), with materials chosen to stay comfortable while maintaining excellent handle feel.
Standout features
- Purpose-built fit that becomes snug when wet for maximal handle control.
- Inside-out construction to improve comfort and reduce bulk on the outside where it contacts the handle.
- High-quality materials aimed at competitive and serious recreational skiers.
Technical notes
The Lyric emphasizes contour and snugness — users should expect a tight initial fit off the water. That tightness helps prevent the glove sliding on the handle once wet. Construction choices favor low profile and control over heavy-duty padding.
Who it's for
Competitive skiers, frequent riders, and anyone prioritizing precise feel and minimal hand fatigue.
Drawbacks
Higher price and a snug fit that may feel restrictive to users who prefer looser gloves or more fingertip freedom.
Tournament Waterski Gloves
A heavy-duty tournament-grade glove with double-layer Amara palm, raised silicone texturing, reinforced pre-curved fingers, and locking Velcro straps. Built for durability and maximum handle control during intense or competitive waterskiing sessions.
Why we like it
The Tournament glove is our editors' top pick for its combination of durability, grip, and ride-focused design. Double-layer Amara palms and raised silicone texturing give exceptional handle traction and a long service life under heavy towing conditions.
Standout features
- Double-layer Amara palm for lasting abrasion resistance.
- Raised silicone texturing enhances wet grip significantly.
- Reinforced pre-curved fingers and robust Velcro straps to lock wrist position.
Technical notes
This glove is constructed for heavy use: the thicker palm layers and reinforced pre-curved fingers reduce break-in wear and maintain grip ergonomics. The locking wrist system stabilizes the hand on the handle — helpful for tournament-level runs.
Who it's for
Frequent waterskiers, advanced riders, or anyone who wants a long-lasting, high-performance glove for regular towing.
Drawbacks
Heavier and less breathable than minimalist gloves; pricier than basic models but justified by materials and construction.
Comparison at a glance
- Best Budget Pick — Short-Finger Paddling Gloves (MRX): Lowest cost, 3/4-finger dexterity, breathable and versatile for casual use. Best for beginners and mixed-sport use.
- Best Value for Money — Promo Waterski Gloves (Connelly): Full Amara palm and silicone fingertips deliver reliable wet grip and better durability at a mid-range price.
- Premium Choice — Radar Lyric (Radar): Snug, performance-oriented fit and premium construction for competitive or frequent skiers who prioritize feel.
- Editors Choice — Tournament Waterski Gloves (Connelly): Best overall for durability and grip; double-layer palms and reinforced construction for heavy use.
Which is best overall? Tournament Waterski Gloves offer the most complete package for waterskiing: durability, grip, and ergonomics tailored to towing. If you want to save money and still get robust performance, the Promo Waterski Gloves are the best value.
Quick picks by scenario:
- Recreational occasional skier: MRX Short-Finger (budget).
- Frequent recreational skier: Connelly Promo (value).
- Competitive or long sessions: Radar Lyric (premium) or Connelly Tournament (editor’s pick).
Final recommendation
After hands-on testing, technical review, and surveying user feedback, our top recommendation for most waterskiers is the Tournament Waterski Gloves for their superior durability and consistent wet-grip performance. For budget-minded buyers who still need functionality, the MRX short-finger glove is a solid starter pick. If you prioritize a snug, performance-oriented fit and are willing to pay more, the Radar Lyric is an excellent premium alternative. All four picks target different needs—choose based on how often you ski, whether you need fingertip dexterity, and how much wear-and-tear your gloves must withstand.
This guide reflects field testing, material and construction analysis, and aggregated consumer experience to help you pick the right glove for your on-water needs.