When choosing the right pair of snowboard gloves, there are a few things you ought to bear in mind: fabric, waterproofing, breathability, durability, warmth, and fit. That’s before you even start considering all the other fancy features that may not be a necessity but which can make the glove you go for a bit more fun and user-friendly.
To help you select the perfect glove we’re going to break down the key things to consider in a (hopefully) useful way. And then, we’re going to show you our top selections. Consider us your helping hand.
“Choosing a Gore-Tex glove is always a safe bet on this front. No dramas”
The fabric that’s been used to make the glove is of the utmost importance as this often defines the gloves waterproofness, breathability, and durability. You want to make sure the glove rates high at all three since there’s literally nothing on earth worse than a pair of soggy gloves. Choosing a Gore-Tex glove is always a safe bet on this front. No dramas.
As reliable as a Gore-Tex glove is though, a glove with a leather palm is also well worth considering; especially in terms of durability. Durability is well worth taking into account because the longer the gloves last, the better it is for the environment. Buying a more durable glove can also be a good move long term for your wallet, as it means you won’t have to keep buying new gloves every time winter rolls around.
“Another thing you should definitely consider before purchasing a pair of snowboard gloves are the conditions you will be using them in”
Another thing you should definitely consider before purchasing a pair of snowboard gloves are the conditions you will be using them in. If you’re all about the exploring the serious cold of the backcountry, for example, you’re going to want a very different product to someone who’s all about them slushy spring sessions.
The more insulation, the warmer the glove. However, if you’re about to tackle some extreme cold you might be better off investing in a pair of snowboard mitts – as they are often able to offer more warmth (although you do obviously sacrifice some hand dexterity if you go down this route).
“The more insulation, the warmer the glove”
For hose sunny spring laps, a mid-weight or neoprene (aka ‘pipe’) glove is probably your best bet as they are more low profile and made out of a more flexible material – making them ideal for grabs and hand drags whilst still keeping your hands safe from the cold.
Before walking away with a new pair of gloves, make sure they properly fit your hands. Squeezing your fingers into a small pair of gloves won’t be comfortable in the long run, but neither will nesting them inside something way too big. If the fit is too big or too small, it will also reduce the glove’s ability to keep your hands warm and dry – which is, ultimately speaking, the main reason you’re wearing them in the first place.
As for added features, most of the gloves here offer some sort of touchscreen-compatibility – making it easier for you to scroll through your phone without having to take the gloves off.
For more advice, check out our video article on how to choose your snowboard gloves.
