Ski and mountain gloves
Numb fingers from the first chairlift, and the ski day is cut short. The gloves on this page protect against the cold and snow, with lined versions for icy days, lobster gloves to keep the warmth of a mitten, or under-gloves to slide underneath, for both adults and kids.
Gloves or mittens according to your sensitivity to the cold
The glove keeps your fingers free for adjusting a ski binding, opening a pocket or holding onto your poles. The mitten retains heat better, as the fingers warm each other up. The lobster glove strikes a balance, with the thumb, index finger and middle finger separated from the others. If you always have cold hands, check out mittens as well.
Choosing the right size for your ski gloves
A glove that is too tight cuts off circulation and cools your hand, while a glove that is too loose means you can't grip the poles properly. There should be a small space of air at the tips of your fingers, without the material flapping around. Liners add thickness: if you plan to wear them, try on the whole set.
Accessories to go with gloves
Your hands aren't the only thing to protect. Your neck and face can be covered with a neck warmer or a balaclava, and your feet with ski socks. For your head, go for hats or helmets, and masks or sunglasses for your eyes.
Reusch, Level and other specialists in gloves
Reusch offers models like the Down Spirit, available in lobster and Gore-Tex versions. Rossignol and Helly Hansen provide gloves suited for the slopes, including the Alphelia for women from Helly Hansen. Peak Mountain covers both adults and children. Level and Cairn complete the range with a wide choice of ski models.
Affordable ski gloves
A spare pair in your bag prevents you from skiing in the afternoon with wet gloves. To find one without spending too much, the winter sports clearance offers end-of-line items. The winter sports sales and new arrivals also help with your search.
Making a pair of gloves last
A well-maintained pair of gloves can last multiple winters. Avoid leaving them crumpled and damp at the bottom of a bag: the lining will start to smell and lose its warmth. Leather benefits from a bit of suitable wax or grease at the start of the season to stay supple and repel water. Textile models can be hand washed in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Attach your gloves to your wrists with their leashes, so you don't lose one when getting off the chairlift, and store them in the evening with your hat and mask to find everything in the morning.
Frequently asked questions
How to dry wet ski gloves?
Open them up as much as possible and let them dry at room temperature, away from a hot radiator that can damage the materials and lining.
Is a lobster glove warmer than a regular glove?
Yes, generally, because the fingers grouped together warm each other up while still allowing more freedom than a mitten.
What are glove liners for?
They add a thin layer under the glove for very cold days and allow you to handle a phone or binding without bare hands.
What gloves for a child who is starting out?
Gloves with a long cuff that slip under the jacket sleeve or mittens, which are easier for little ones to put on.
Where to find cheap ski gloves?
End-of-line gloves are collected on the winter sports clearance.
