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The Great Debate | Snow Gloves or Mitts?
Hey there, snow enthusiasts! Winter is now visible in the distance, and that means it’s time to gear up for some epic snow sports action. Now, when it comes to keeping your hands warm and comfortable on the mountain, there’s an age-old debate: snow gloves or mitts? In this blog, we’ll dig into the pros and cons of both to help you decide which one is right for you.
Snow Gloves
Pros:
– Dexterity and Grip: One of the most significant advantages of gloves is their superior dexterity. Naturally, they allow for more freedom of movement in your fingers. This makes it easier to handle gear, adjust bindings, and perform fiddly tasks like zipping up your jacket or adjusting your goggles.
– Warmth Control: Gloves have separate compartments for each finger, allowing you to move your fingers independently. This makes it easier to adjust your hand’s temperature by wiggling your fingers or just letting a little bit of air in when it gets too warm.
– Touchscreen Compatibility: Many modern gloves come with touchscreen-compatible materials on the fingertips, so you can use your smartphone without exposing your hands to the cold.
– Versatility: Gloves are not exclusive to snow sports and are suitable for various cold weather activities, such as hiking, ice climbing, or even just a winter walk.
Cons:
– Less Warmth: While gloves provide better dexterity, they may not be as warm as mittens. In extremely cold conditions, you might need to rely on hand warmers to maintain the desired comfort level.
– Complex Design: The multiple compartments and design elements in gloves can sometimes make them bulkier than mittens, which may limit mobility.
– More Difficult to Dry: If your gloves get wet, it takes a while to dry out each individual finger compartment. As a result, your comfort on the slopes might be impacted the next day.
Snow Mittens
Pros:
– Exceptional Warmth: Mittens are known for their superior warmth as their design keeps all fingers together, sharing warmth. They are therefore excellent for frigid weather conditions.
– Simplicity: Mittens are easy to put on and take off. This makes them a great option for young kids or anyone who prefers a hassle-free experience.
– Less Prone to Moisture: Due to the reduced number of seams and openings, mittens are less likely to allow moisture in. They are therefore a better choice in wet snow or rainy conditions.
Cons:
– Limited Dexterity: The biggest drawback of mittens is the reduced dexterity. Without being able to move fingers independently, it is a challenge to manipulate zippers, bindings, or do anything that requires precision.
– Less Versatility: Mittens are primarily designed for extremely cold conditions and aren’t as versatile as gloves in other outdoor activities.
– Bulkiness: The added insulation and lack of separation between fingers makes mittens bulkier, which can make it harder to grip objects.
The Verdict
In the end, the choice between snow gloves and mittens ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the conditions you’ll be facing. If you prioritise warmth and comfort in extreme cold, mittens are a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you need dexterity and versatility for various activities, gloves might be your best bet.
Some people opt for the best of both worlds by using glove liners underneath mittens. This allows for added warmth when needed and more dexterity when they want it. The key is to choose the right gear for your specific needs. Primarily, you should always ensure gear is insulated and waterproof to keep your hands toasty and dry on the slopes.
So, wherever your destination this snow season, it’s all about finding the right balance between warmth and function to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable snow sports experience. Embrace the debate, stay warm, and shred the slopes!
