Conventional desktop applications provide users with hotkeys as shortcuts for triggering different functionality. In this paper we consider what constitutes an effective parallel to hotkeys in a 3D interaction space where the input modality is no longer limited to the use of a keyboard. We propose HotGestures: a gesture-based interaction system for rapid tool selection and usage. Hand gestures are frequently used during human communication to convey information and provide natural associations with meaning. HotGestures provide shortcuts for users to seamlessly activate and use virtual tools by performing hand gestures. This approach naturally complements conventional menu interactions. We evaluate the potential of HotGestures in a set of two user studies and observe that our gesture-based technique provides fast and effective shortcuts for tool selection and usage. Participants found HotGestures to be distinctive, fast, and easy to use while also complementing conventional menu-based interaction.