Mittens

Ski mittens and gloves: comfort and performance on the slopes

Ski mittens and gloves are essential for protecting your hands from cold, wind and moisture, while ensuring good dexterity and a firm grip on ski poles. Whether you're a skier, snowboarder or other winter sports enthusiast, it's crucial to choose the right mittens or gloves to guarantee comfort and performance. Here's a guide to help you select the best models for your needs.

Features of ski mittens and gloves: warmth and waterproofing

To choose the right ski mittens or gloves, there are several features to consider:

• Thermal insulation: Ski mittens and gloves should offer excellent insulation to keep your hands warm. Common insulation materials include natural down and synthetic insulation such as Thinsulate or Primaloft. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves, as the fingers share the heat.
• Waterproofing: Good waterproofing is essential to keep out moisture. Membranes like Gore-Tex or waterproof coatings ensure that your hands stay dry even in wet conditions.
• Breathability: Good breathability wicks away perspiration and prevents your hands from becoming clammy, which can cause cold.
• Durability and protection: Mittens and gloves must be robust to resist wear and tear. Leather or synthetic reinforcements on palms and fingers offer greater resistance to abrasion.
• Comfort and fit: Make sure mittens or gloves fit snugly, but not too tightly. Models with adjustable cuffs and long sleeves offer better protection against snow and wind.

Types of ski mittens and gloves: Choosing according to need

• Ski mittens: Mittens are ideal for very cold conditions, as they allow your fingers to share the warmth. They're perfect for skiers and snowboarders who value warmth over dexterity.

• Ski gloves: Gloves offer better dexterity, which is important for handling ski poles, zippers and other equipment. They are suitable for skiers who need more control and precision.

• Snowboard mittens and gloves: Specially designed for snowboarders, these models often offer more protection and reinforcements on the palms to resist shock and wear.

• Leather mittens and gloves: Leather models offer excellent durability and water resistance once treated. They are also very comfortable and elegant.

• Mittens and gloves with Gore-Tex membrane: For maximum waterproofing and breathability, mittens and gloves with Gore-Tex membrane are an excellent choice.

Recommended brands: Quality and innovation

Several brands are renowned for their high-quality ski mittens and gloves, offering solutions for all levels of skiers and snowboarders:

• Wedze: Available at Decathlon, Wedze offers affordable, high-performance ski mittens and gloves, such as Wedze gloves and men's ski mittens.
• Hestra: Known for its high-quality leather gloves and mittens, Hestra offers excellent durability and protection.
• Black Diamond: Renowned for its mountain products, Black Diamond offers technical gloves and mittens with excellent insulation and waterproofing.
• Burton: A snowboard specialist, Burton offers sturdy, well-insulated snowboard gloves and mittens.
• Reusch: Specializing in ski gloves, Reusch offers models with excellent insulation and protection, perfect for extreme conditions.

Price and accessibility: Find the best deal

Ski mittens and gloves vary considerably in price depending on brand, materials and features:

• Entry-level: For skiers on a budget, brands like Wedze offer affordable mittens and gloves starting at 20 euros.
• Mid-range: Value-for-money mittens and gloves, such as those from Black Diamond and Burton, are generally priced between 50 and 100 euros.
• High-end: For serious skiers and snowboarders, mittens and gloves from brands such as Hestra and Reusch can cost between 100 and 200 euros, or even more.

Choosing the right mittens or ski gloves is essential to guarantee warmth, comfort and protection on the slopes. By taking insulation, waterproofing, breathability and durability into account, you can find the ideal models for your mountain adventures. Well-known brands such as Wedze, Hestra and Black Diamond offer a wide range of products to suit all budgets and conditions. Investing in the right mittens or ski gloves will enable you to make the most of your time on the slopes, safely and comfortably.