Winter Warrior's Guide: Choosing the Best Snowboard Gloves

When hitting the slopes, snowboard gloves are essential gear that protects your hands from the cold and moisture, and provides a secure grip on your snowboard. Choosing the right pair of snowboard gloves is crucial for a comfortable and safe snowboarding experience.

Snowboard gloves come in a variety of styles, materials, and features. The type of snowboarding you plan to do, the weather conditions you’ll be facing, and your personal preferences will all influence your choice of gloves.

Here are some key factors to consider when buying snowboard gloves:

• Warmth: Snowboard gloves should be insulated to keep your hands warm in cold weather. Look for gloves with a high insulation rating, such as Thinsulate or PrimaLoft.
• Waterproofness: Snowboard gloves should be waterproof or water-resistant to keep your hands dry in wet snow or rain. Look for gloves with a waterproof or water-resistant membrane, such as Gore-Tex or eVent.
• Breathability: Snowboard gloves should be breathable to allow moisture to escape from your hands. This will help keep your hands dry and comfortable.
• Grip: Snowboard gloves should have a good grip to help you hold your snowboard securely. Look for gloves with a textured palm or a leather palm.
• Fit: Snowboard gloves should fit snugly but not too tightly. They should be long enough to cover your wrists and should not restrict your movement.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start shopping for snowboard gloves. There are many different brands and styles of snowboard gloves available, so you’re sure to find a pair that fits your needs and budget.

1. Warmth

When snowboarding, your hands are exposed to the cold and wind, which can quickly lead to frostbite and other cold-weather injuries. That’s why it’s important to choose a pair of snowboard gloves that are insulated to keep your hands warm. Insulation is measured in grams per square meter (gsm), and the higher the gsm, the warmer the gloves will be. For snowboarding, it’s recommended to choose gloves with an insulation rating of at least 100gsm.

• Materials: The type of insulation used in snowboard gloves can vary, but the most common materials are synthetic and down. Synthetic insulation is less expensive and more durable than down, but it’s also not as warm. Down insulation is more expensive and less durable than synthetic, but it’s also much warmer.
• Fit: It’s important to choose a pair of snowboard gloves that fit snugly but not too tightly. Gloves that are too loose will let in cold air, and gloves that are too tight will restrict blood flow and make your hands cold.
• Features: Some snowboard gloves come with additional features, such as wrist gaiters, cinch cords, and glove clips. Wrist gaiters help to keep snow and cold air out of your gloves, cinch cords allow you to tighten the gloves around your wrists, and glove clips help to keep your gloves together when you’re not wearing them.

By following these tips, you can choose a pair of snowboard gloves that will keep your hands warm and protected all winter long.

2. Waterproofness

When snowboarding, your hands are exposed to the elements, including snow, rain, and wind. Wet hands can quickly lead to cold hands, which can ruin your day on the mountain. That’s why it’s important to choose a pair of snowboard gloves that are waterproof or water-resistant.

• Benefits of Waterproof Gloves: Waterproof snowboard gloves will keep your hands dry and comfortable, even in the wettest conditions. This is important for preventing cold hands and frostbite. Waterproof gloves are also more durable than water-resistant gloves, and they will last longer.
• Types of Waterproof Membranes: There are a number of different waterproof membranes used in snowboard gloves, including Gore-Tex, eVent, and HyVent. Gore-Tex is the most well-known and trusted waterproof membrane, but it is also the most expensive. eVent is a newer waterproof membrane that is more breathable than Gore-Tex, but it is also less durable. HyVent is a less expensive waterproof membrane that is not as breathable as Gore-Tex or eVent, but it is still effective at keeping your hands dry.
• Fit: It’s important to choose a pair of waterproof snowboard gloves that fit snugly but not too tightly. Gloves that are too loose will let in water, and gloves that are too tight will restrict blood flow and make your hands cold.

By following these tips, you can choose a pair of waterproof snowboard gloves that will keep your hands dry and comfortable all winter long.

3. Grip

When snowboarding, it is important to have a good grip on your snowboard. This will help you to control your board and avoid falls. Snowboard gloves with a good grip will help you to do this, even in wet or icy conditions.

• Materials: The material of the palm of the glove is important for grip. Leather is a good choice for a snowboard glove because it is durable and provides a good grip. Synthetic materials can also be used, but they may not be as durable or provide as good a grip as leather.
• Texture: The texture of the palm of the glove is also important for grip. A textured palm will provide more grip than a smooth palm. This is especially important in wet or icy conditions.
• Fit: The fit of the glove is also important for grip. A glove that is too loose will not provide a good grip, and a glove that is too tight will restrict your movement.

By following these tips, you can choose a pair of snowboard gloves that will provide you with a good grip and help you to stay in control on the slopes.

Snowboard Gloves FAQs

This section addresses frequently asked questions about snowboard gloves to help you make informed decisions when purchasing and using them.

Question 1: How do I choose the right size snowboard gloves?

Answer: Measure the circumference of your hand around the widest part of your palm, excluding your thumb. Then, refer to the manufacturer’s size chart to find the corresponding glove size. It’s best to try on different sizes to ensure a snug but not too tight fit.

Question 2: What materials are best for snowboard gloves?

Answer: For warmth, look for gloves with synthetic or down insulation. Synthetic insulation is cost-effective and durable, while down insulation provides superior warmth but may not be as breathable. For waterproofing, Gore-Tex, eVent, and HyVent membranes offer excellent protection against moisture.

Question 3: How do I care for my snowboard gloves?

Answer: Hand wash your gloves in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals. Allow them to air dry completely before storing them in a cool, dry place.

Question 4: How often should I replace my snowboard gloves?

Answer: The lifespan of snowboard gloves varies depending on usage and care. If you use your gloves frequently, it’s recommended to replace them every two to three seasons. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as torn seams, worn-out insulation, or a compromised waterproof membrane.

Question 5: Can I use snowboard gloves for other winter activities?

Answer: While snowboard gloves are designed specifically for snowboarding, they can be used for other winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding. However, they may not provide the same as gloves designed specifically for those activities.

Question 6: How do I prevent my hands from sweating in snowboard gloves?

Answer: Choose gloves with breathable materials, such as Gore-Tex or eVent. Additionally, avoid wearing thick or bulky liners underneath your gloves. If your hands still sweat, try using moisture-wicking liners or changing your gloves more frequently.

By addressing these common concerns, this FAQ section aims to provide valuable insights and guidance on selecting, using, and maintaining snowboard gloves for an optimal snowboarding experience.

Proceed to the next section for additional information on snowboard accessories.

Tips for Buying Snowboard Gloves

Before hitting the slopes, equip yourself with the right snowboard gloves to ensure warmth, comfort, and performance. Consider these expert tips to make an informed choice:

Tip 1: Prioritize Insulation

Choose gloves with ample insulation to keep your hands warm in freezing temperatures. Look for materials like Thinsulate or PrimaLoft with high insulation ratings.

Tip 2: Ensure Waterproofing

Waterproof or water-resistant gloves are crucial to keep your hands dry in wet snow or rain. Opt for gloves featuring membranes like Gore-Tex or eVent for optimal protection.

Tip 3: Enhance Grip

Select gloves with a textured or leather palm to provide a secure grip on your snowboard. This ensures control and stability while riding.

Tip 4: Consider Breathability

Choose breathable gloves that allow moisture to escape, preventing sweaty hands. Look for materials that promote airflow, such as Gore-Tex or eVent.

Tip 5: Ensure Proper Fit

Gloves should fit snugly without restricting movement. Measure your hand circumference and refer to manufacturer’s size charts for accurate sizing.

Summary of Key Takeaways:

• Insulated gloves provide warmth in cold conditions.
• Waterproof gloves keep hands dry in wet environments.
• Gloves with a good grip enhance snowboard control.
• Breathable gloves prevent sweaty hands.
• Properly fitted gloves ensure comfort and dexterity.

By following these tips, you can select snowboard gloves that optimize your warmth, comfort, and performance on the slopes.

Closing Remarks on Choosing Snowboard Gloves

Selecting the right snowboard gloves is crucial for a comfortable and safe snowboarding experience. To recap, consider the following key points:

• Prioritize warmth with insulated gloves featuring materials like Thinsulate or PrimaLoft.
• Ensure waterproofing with membranes such as Gore-Tex or eVent to keep hands dry in wet conditions.
• Enhance grip with gloves featuring textured or leather palms for secure control on the snowboard.
• Choose breathable gloves that promote airflow, preventing sweaty hands.
• Ensure a proper fit that balances snugness with unrestricted movement.

By following these recommendations, you can make an informed decision and select snowboard gloves that optimize your warmth, comfort, and performance on the slopes.

Remember, well-chosen snowboard gloves will not only enhance your snowboarding experience but also protect your hands from the elements, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time on the mountain.