There are a lot of things to consider before hitting the slopes this season. Experienced skiers and snowboarders know that being perfectly geared up can be tricky, but picking snowboard and ski gloves for your day doesn’t have to be. Cold fingers can turn an exciting run into a miserable experience faster than you’d think. The right gloves make all the difference between cutting your day short and staying out until the lifts stop running.
In our blog today, we’re covering how to choose ski gloves and how to choose snowboard gloves so that you can get maximum time in the snow. You’re looking for gear that keeps your hands warm and dry while giving you enough dexterity to adjust your bindings or grip your poles. We’ll also cover how ski gloves should fit, as well as how to wash ski gloves and snowboarding gloves. Get it right, and you’ll have a much better day on the slopes or out in the cold!
1. Start with the Right Insulation Level
The amount of insulation you need depends on how cold you run and what kind of weather you’ll face. Too much insulation can leave your hands sweaty and uncomfortable. Too little, and you’ll be heading inside to warm up every hour.
Thinsulate and similar synthetic materials trap heat without adding bulk. They work well for active skiers and snowboarders who generate their own warmth through movement. If you tend to get cold easily or you’re spending time in below-zero temperatures, step up to heavier insulation.
Style 1189W HydraHyde Insulated Knit Wrist with Ski Strap: This five-finger glove from Wells Lamont features HydraHyde® specially tanned leather that stays water-resistant and breathable, unlike standard leather that absorbs moisture and stiffens over time. The 100-gram 3M™ Thinsulate™ insulation is perfect for protection and mobility. A reinforced palm patch adds durability in high-wear areas, and the stretchy knit wrist seals out cold and snow. The removable ski strap includes a leather pull tab to help pull it on.
2. Decide Between Gloves and Mittens
When picking how to choose ski gloves and how to choose snowboard gloves, one variable to consider is what style of protection you prefer. Gloves give wearers individual finger movement, which helps when adjusting bindings, working with ski pole straps, or using a phone.
Mittens trap more heat and work better in extremely cold conditions. Mittens are popular with skiers and snowboarders who prefer to stay on the slopes with little to no breaks or distractions.
Style 1199W HydraHyde Insulated Mitten Knit Wrist with Ski Strap: This mitten from Wells Lamont features the same HydraHyde® specially tanned leather that resists water while staying breathable and soft throughout its life. The 100-gram 3M™ Thinsulate™ insulation provides warmth without bulk, while the mitten design naturally keeps fingers warmer by allowing them to share heat. A reinforced leather palm maintains grip on poles and equipment, even in wet conditions, and includes a leather pull tab to help pull them on.
3. Waterproofing vs Water-Resistance
Another variable to consider when thinking through how to choose ski gloves and how to choose snowboard gloves is the waterproofing or water resistance levels. Water-resistant materials repel moisture for a while, but water will eventually permeate through if continuously exposed. Waterproof construction uses sealed seams and barrier layers that keep water out indefinitely.
Water-resistant gloves may be more suitable for experienced skiers and snowboarders, since experienced riders spend less time on the ground and thus have less contact with the cold snow.
Style 810K Outdoor HydraHyde Insulated Grain Cowhide DWR Waterproof Insert Hybrid Glove: This hybrid design combines traditional grain cowhide leather with modern DWR waterproof insert technology. Wearers get the durability and grip of leather with the complete water protection of a technical glove.
Style 813K Outdoor HydraHyde Insulated Grain Cowhide DWR Waterproof Insert Hybrid Mitten: The mitten version offers the same waterproof technology with extra warmth for cold days. The grain cowhide exterior handles abrasion while the waterproof insert keeps your hands dry, no matter how wet the snow gets.
4. How Should Ski Gloves Fit?
When thinking about how to choose ski gloves or how to choose snowboard gloves, proper fit should be high on the priority list. Understanding how ski gloves should fit matters more than most people realize. Gloves that are too tight restrict blood flow and actually make hands colder. Too loose, and wearers lose dexterity while cold air sneaks in around the wrists.
Fingertips should reach the end of each glove finger without feeling cramped, and you want a snug fit through the palm and around your wrist. A good-fitting glove should allow you to be able to make a fist comfortably. Test the gloves by mimicking the motions you’ll make on the mountain. The question of how ski gloves should fit extends to wrist closure, too. Knit wrists provide stretch and comfort while keeping out snow. Adjustable straps let you customize the fit around your jacket cuffs.
Style 7161C HydraHyde Insulated Knit Wrist with Ski Strap (Alternative Style): Another option in the HydraHyde line, this glove features the same reliable insulation and water-resistant leather with a slightly different design. The knit wrist construction answers the question of how ski gloves should fit by providing secure, comfortable coverage that moves with you.
5. Consider Better Materials for Cold Conditions
Natural leather brings its own water resistance, especially when treated properly. Split deerskin has a soft feel with natural weather protection that gets better over time. When combined with warm linings, leather gloves and mittens handle the coldest days after a long ski or snowboard trip.
Style 990 Men’s Sherpa-Lined Split Deerskin Winter Gloves: Split deerskin leather from Wells Lamont provides a supple, broken-in feel right from the start. The Sherpa lining adds serious warmth for cold winter days, while the leather exterior handles wet snow and maintains warmth. These gloves are great to wear hanging with friends around a fire at base while the rest of your ski and snow gear is drying out.
Style 991 Sherpa-Lined Split Deerskin Winter Mittens: The mitten version combines the natural warmth of deerskin with Sherpa lining for maximum heat retention. When the temperature gauge drops into single digits, these mittens keep your hands comfortable while giving you the grip you need for a cold day outdoors after skiing.
6. Smart Design Features
Small details can make a big difference when skiing or snowboarding. Ski straps attach your gloves to each other when you’re not wearing them, which makes keeping track of them a lot easier. Pre-curved fingers follow your hand’s natural shape and reduce fatigue. When learning how to choose ski gloves and how to choose snowboard gloves, be sure to pay attention to these features!
Style 7163C HydraHyde Insulated Knit Wrist Mitten with Ski Strap (Alternative Style): This mitten variant rounds out the HydraHyde collection with all the features that matter, like integrated ski straps, knit wrist closure, and insulation that keeps up with changing conditions. The design balances warmth with the dexterity you need to handle equipment and stay comfortable all day.
7. Know How to Wash Ski Gloves and Snowboarding Gloves
Taking care of your gloves extends their life and keeps them performing well. The question of how to wash ski gloves depends on what materials you’re working with, but gentle handling is always the rule. For leather gloves, washing typically isn’t necessary. Use a damp cloth or use a specialty cleaner designed for leather. Gently wipe your cloth through the material and don’t wring or twist. When considering how to wash ski gloves with synthetic shells, you can follow the instructions on the care label. In general, using a washing machine or adding harsh soaps is not considered best practice.
If the glove can be washed, then the drying process matters as much as washing. Never put ski gloves in a dryer or near direct heat. Instead, stuff your gloves loosely with paper towels or clean, dry rags to help them hold their shape and air-dry them at room temperature. Change the stuffing material once or twice as it absorbs moisture.
For how to wash ski gloves between deep cleanings, wipe down the exteriors with a damp cloth after each use. This removes salt, dirt, and grime before they set in. Let gloves dry completely before storing them to prevent mildew and odors.
Get Out There with Wells Lamont
Now that you know how to choose ski gloves and how to choose snowboard gloves, along with understanding how ski gloves should fit and how to wash ski gloves properly, you’re ready to make a smart purchase.
Ready to find your next pair? Check out the complete WL (Rec)reation™ gloves and mittens designed specifically for skiers, snowboarders, and the outdoor enthusiasts. With options for every temperature range and riding style, you’ll find gear that works as hard as you do. Take a look at our complete collection of gloves and make the most of every run today!
