The Hestra Heli. Its G-Loft liner is thicker and the long cuff traps heat. The Rab Baltoro uses 60gsm PrimaLoft Gold, which suits active climbing more than sitting still in deep cold.

Which is better for ski touring?

The Rab Baltoro. It is lighter, breathes better through the softshell and gives more dexterity for adjusting bindings and skins. The Hestra is built for lift-served and heli skiing.

Both use tough leather palms. The Hestra's goat leather covers the fingers too and its removable liner can be replaced, so it tends to hold up longer over repeated ski seasons.

Do the Hestra gloves keep hands dry in wet snow?

The backhand fabric is waterproof and breathable, but the glove is not fully waterproof. Wet snow soaking the leather seams can still get through over a long day.

Is the Rab worth stepping up to over a basic softshell glove?

Yes if you climb or tour. The pre-curved fit, PrimaLoft Gold and leather palm are a real step up in grip and warmth over an uninsulated softshell.

Can I use the Hestra for mountaineering?

It works for cold, static tasks, but the bulk and long cuff get in the way of rope work. The Rab Baltoro is the better climbing glove of the two.

Rab Baltoro Softshell Gloves vs Hestra Heli Insulated Gloves

The Hestra Heli is the better ski glove: a long cuff, a snowlock drawstring and a removable liner suit deep snow and cold lift rides. The Rab Baltoro is lighter and more dexterous, with a pre-curved fit and a leather palm that handles ropes and gear well. Both are well built and well liked by owners; pick by whether you ski deep snow or climb and tour in cold, dry weather.

Choose the Rab Baltoro if you want a lighter, more dexterous glove for mountaineering, ski touring or belaying in cold, dry conditions.
Choose the Hestra Heli if you ski deep snow and want a long-cuffed, warmer glove with a snowlock and a removable liner.

Prices

Rab Baltoro Softshell Gloves: $86.25 at EverestGear.com (checked today)
Hestra Heli Insulated Gloves: $179.98 at Amazon (checked today)
Difference: the Rab Baltoro Softshell Gloves is $93.73 cheaper than the Hestra Heli Insulated Gloves today