What To Look For
When choosing snowboarding gloves, pay attention to both the assembly of the gloves and the material. Ideally, you want the most waterproof pair of gloves you can find. Gor-tex, while expensive, is top of the line in terms of keeping water out. Read the label and make sure the gloves are waterproof rather than just water resistant.
Insulation is also important. For cold weather, choose thick and insulated gloves or mittens. If you prefer a less bulky glove, gloves with Thermoliner or Membra-therm insulation can be just as warm as puffier gloves. Gloves with a removable inner liner are also nice: they wick away perspiration and dry out quickly when removed.
Look for taped, double or triple-stitched seams as well as reinforced palms and fingers. Snowboarding is a high-contact sport so the sturdier the assembly, the longer the gloves will last. According to Snowboarding Essentials, "a good-quality set can last for hundreds of sessions." (Ref1)
Finally, look at the gloves' cuffs. They should be designed to keep snow out, which means the cuffs fit tightly and cover a good portion of your wrist. (Ref1)
Common Pitfalls
If you'll be snowboarding in below-zero temperatures, avoid tight, ultra-thin gloves with minimal insulation. These gloves may be comfortable when you try them on, but they won't keep your hands warm enough, nor will they keep water out. Reserve these gloves for spring temperatures. If you're a beginner snowboarder, choosing gloves with wrist guards to prevent broken wrists during falls is crucial in terms of safety. Always try gloves on first for comfort and fit and refer to manufacturers' size charts if possible.
Where To Buy
Major sporting goods stores often carry snowboarding gloves but they may not have the greatest selection. Stores that specialize in winter sports often have a larger variety. Searching online can help you get the best deals. The online REI Outlet store often has last-season's gloves marked down. The House and Tactics also specialize in snowboarding gear and have large selections of gloves.
Cost
Snowboard gloves can range from $30 up to over $150 for gloves with special features like i-Pod holders. More expensive gloves are often sleeker and feature Thermoliner insulation. Cheaper gloves are not necessarily less effective, but they can be bulkier as they often use high-loft insulation which resembles down.
Comparison Shopping
Choosing between snowboarding gloves and snowboarding mittens can be confusing, but it ultimately depends on your preferences. According to Snowboarding Essentials, mittens can be more waterproof because they have fewer seams to let water in. The warmth generated by keeping your fingers together can also make your hands more comfortable in cold temperatures. The advantage of gloves is that they have a better grip and allow you to easily pick up your board and other accessories.
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