Rummaging through the thrift store racks, fluorescent snow pants here and a neon fleece hoodie there.
The thrill of prepping for snowboarding season is nothing short of euphoria. But what about when the blizzard of dreams becomes the blizzard you’re riding through? Enveloped in snow and ice so cold, your hands might as well be icicles. Fear not, for we’re delving deep into why waterproof gloves are a must-have whilst snowboarding, what factors you should consider when choosing them, and the top five on the market. Plus, a few tips and tricks to keep them going long after the powder has settled.
Why Waterproof Gloves are Essential for Snowboarding?
Snowboarding is an adventure sport that requires you to put your best foot forward, or should we say your best glove forward? That’s right; your gloves are just as important as your snowboard and boots when it comes to snowboarding. Choosing the right gloves can be the difference between having a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the slopes versus a cold and miserable one.
You may be thinking, “But I have gloves already, and they seem to work just fine.” Well, think again. Regular gloves aren’t designed to withstand the harsh winter elements that you’ll encounter while snowboarding. The constant exposure to snow, rain, and freezing temperatures can make your hands numb, and your gloves soaking wet, making it difficult to grip your board and handle the equipment.
That’s why waterproof gloves are essential for snowboarding. They’re specifically designed to keep your hands warm and dry, enabling you to maneuver your snowboard with ease. Waterproof gloves are created with a durable and high-quality material that repels water and prevents it from seeping in, ensuring that your hands remain dry, comfortable, and warm throughout your snowboarding excursion.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking regular gloves will suffice when snowboarding. Choose the right gloves, and you’ll have a memorable and comfortable snowboarding experience.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Waterproof Gloves?
When choosing the best waterproof gloves for snowboarding, several factors must be taken into consideration. First and foremost, the gloves must be waterproof. It’s essential to keep your hands dry while snowboarding to stay warm and comfortable. You don’t want to have soggy, cold hands while trying to maneuver your board down the slopes.
Another factor to consider is insulation. Snowboarding takes place in cold temperatures, and you’ll need gloves that can keep your fingers warm. Look for gloves with insulating materials such as Thinsulate or Gore-Tex. These materials trap heat and keep it close to your body, ensuring that your fingers stay warm.
A snug fit is also important when selecting snowboarding gloves. You don’t want gloves that are too loose or too tight, as they can hinder your ability to grip your board or hold your poles. Test out your gloves before purchasing them to ensure they fit properly and give you the mobility you need.
In addition, consider the design and features of the gloves. Some gloves have extra padding on the palm and fingers for protection during falls, which could be beneficial if you’re a beginner. Others have reinforced stitching or adjustable wrist straps to provide a more secure fit.
Lastly, consider the price. While it’s important to invest in a quality pair of snowboarding gloves, you don’t want to break the bank. Set a budget and look for gloves within that price range, but don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price. In the end, you want gloves that are durable, functional, and will last you several snowboarding seasons.
Top 5 Best Waterproof Snowboarding Gloves to Check Out!
When it comes to finding the best waterproof snowboarding gloves for your next adventure, you’ll want to take a close look at the following top picks. Each of these gloves is designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and dry no matter what the weather conditions are like on the slopes.
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Burton Gore-Tex Snowboard Gloves: These gloves are a great choice for snowboarders who want to stay dry and comfortable in wet conditions. Featuring a Gore-Tex membrane, they’re guaranteed to keep you dry all day long. They’re also incredibly warm, thanks to the Thermacore insulation.
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Dakine Titan Insulated Gloves: If you’re looking for a super warm and comfortable pair of gloves, look no further than the Dakine Titan Insulated Gloves. They feature a Gore-Tex membrane to keep you dry, as well as a high-loft synthetic insulation for added warmth. They also come with a removable liner, which is great if you need to dry them out between runs.
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Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Gloves: If style is just as important to you as function, check out the Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Gloves. These gloves feature a classic leather design, combined with a Gore-Tex membrane for ultimate waterproofing. They’re also incredibly durable and will last you for many seasons to come.
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The North Face Montana Etip GTX Gloves: These gloves are a great option for anyone who wants to stay connected while they ride. They feature touchscreen-compatible fingertips, so you can use your phone without taking them off. They’re also incredibly warm and waterproof, thanks to the Gore-Tex membrane and Heatseeker insulation.
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Outdoor Research Alti Gloves: If you’ll be snowboarding in extreme conditions, check out the Outdoor Research Alti Gloves. These gloves are specifically designed for mountaineering and feature a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex shell, as well as a removable PrimaLoft liner for added warmth. They’re also incredibly durable and will withstand even the harshest conditions.
Tips and Tricks to Take Care of Your Snowboarding Gloves
Now that you’ve invested in the perfect pair of waterproof gloves for snowboarding, it’s important to take good care of them to ensure they last you many seasons. Here are some tips and tricks for maintaining your snowboarding gloves:
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Keep them clean: Hand wash your gloves regularly using a gentle detergent and warm water. Avoid machine washing as this can damage the waterproofing and insulation of your gloves. Always air dry your gloves.
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Store them properly: When you’re not using your gloves, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in damp places as this can promote the growth of mold and mildew.
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Reapply waterproofing: Over time, the waterproof coating on your gloves will start to wear off. To keep your gloves waterproof, reapply a waterproofing spray or wax periodically.
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Don’t dry them out with heat: Drying your gloves out with a heater or dryer can damage the waterproofing and cause the fabric to shrink. Instead, let them air dry at room temperature.
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Patch up any holes: If you notice any small holes or tears in your gloves, patch them up with a small amount of waterproof seam sealer to prevent them from getting worse.
By taking good care of your snowboarding gloves, you’ll not only ensure they last you many seasons but also help to maintain their waterproofing, insulation, and overall quality.