What is the difference between a pair of snowboard mitts and a pair of snowboard gloves? Apart from the obvious, that they look different, mitts are the warmest option for your hands.
Why are snowboard mitts generally warmer than snowboard gloves exactly? Well, a pair of mitts allow your fingers to huddle together within the fabric while also exposing less surface area to the cold. Both of these factors reduce heat loss.
“Mitts are the warmest option for your hands”
There are plenty of different snowboard mitts to choose from and some, of course, are warmer than others. Have a look at our how to how to choose your snowboard mitts and gloves piece for a more in-depth guide, or alternatively scroll down here for the most crucial bits.
As with anything snowboard gear related, make sure you consider the circumstances you’re likely to face before purchasing a pair of mitts. Whether you’re about to tackle some serious cold or are more likely to spend most of your season lapping the park should play a part in your purchasing decision.
“There’s nothing worse than a pair of soggy mitts, keep this in mind before you buy the ‘nicest looking’ pair”
There’s nothing worse than a pair of soggy mitts, keep this in mind before you buy the ‘nicest looking’ pair. Gore-Tex is always a good option when it comes to buying a new pair of mitts as it offers the ideal combination of waterproofing and breathability. Leather and suede mitts are popular too, and very durable. However, they will need the occasional wax treatment to ensure their waterproofness.
By adding insulation to the mitts, the brands obviously make the mitts much warmer and therefore better suited to tackling cold conditions. Most insulated mitts use synthetic insulation, simply because it can keep on insulating even when wet and takes less time to dry than down.
You also ought to make sure the mitts are comfy, so try and try them on first to find out if the lining feels good against your skin. While you’re at it, try and make sure the mitts are the right fit too before buying.
The downside with mitts is that you obviously sacrifice some dexterity (fiddling with your bindings or scrolling through your phone can be much more of a hassle). If you feel like this might be an issue for you, take a look at our list of the best snowboard gloves for 2020/21.
Mitts often come in cooler designs than gloves. If it’s style you’re after, be aware that mitt companies tend to serve up some pretty sick graphics.
