How to Choose Ski Gloves

High-quality ski gloves are an important piece of skiing equipment. Good ski gloves and mittens will prevent your hands from becoming cold, damp and chapped, and will help protect your hands during a fall. It is important to choose a pair of ski gloves or mittens that balances comfort and warmth, and that meets your individual needs. It may be a challenge to find the right pair of ski gloves for you, but you should always take your time and test out numerous brands and types before settling.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select an appropriate fabric for your ski gloves. Consider the inside layer's insulation for comfort and warmth. Fleece is a popular fabric for the interior liner of ski gloves. The outside fabric should be windproof and waterproof, but should not cause your hands to sweat inside of your gloves. Popular choices for breathable exterior fabrics that will still shield you from the elements include nylon and leather.

    • 2

      Determine the length of ski gloves you want. Shorter gloves will end at the base of your wrist, while longer gloves extend under your jacket sleeve. Longer gloves are usually more expensive, but can help keep snow out of your gloves if you fall.

    • 3

      Decide between mittens and fingered gloves. Mittens will keep your hands warmer because all of your fingers will be in a single sleeve. However, gloves make it easier to perform tasks that require flexibility in your fingers, such as lacing boots and adjusting outerwear. Specialized gloves called "overmitts" are also available. These are fingered gloves with a cover that slips over the fingers, forming a mitten-like enclosure. According to Sun and Ski Sports, "Overmitts are a good compromise for those who want the warmth of a mitten but the dexterity of a glove."

    • 4

      Ensure that your gloves will fit snugly. This will help to keep your hands warmer and allow you to feel and control your ski poles more easily.

    • 5

      Visit a ski shop or sporting goods store and try on different gloves. Ski shop staff members can help guide you to quality gloves that meet all your criteria.