The biggest difference is how they handle warmth and dexterity:

Gloves: Separate fingers give you better dexterity, making it easier to adjust bindings, use your phone, or grab gear.

Mittens: Fingers share warmth in mitts, making them the warmer option — perfect for cold conditions.

Trigger Gloves/ Trigger Mitts: A hybrid with a split-finger design (like a lobster claw) that offers a balance between warmth and dexterity.

Leather: Super durable, naturally water-resistant, and flexible. Needs occasional treatment to maintain performance.

Synthetic: Lightweight, quick-drying, and often more affordable.

Hybrid: Combines leather in high-wear areas with synthetic materials for a balance of durability and performance.

Down: Super warm but less effective when wet.

Synthetic: Retains warmth even when damp, making it ideal for variable mountain conditions.

Fleece Lining: Soft and cosy, often used as a liner for added warmth.

Yes, you need waterproof gloves and we don't advise using standard wool gloves - if you're heading to the snow, you'll need some technical gloves or mitts. Wet hands are cold hands, so look for waterproof and breathable membranes like Gore-Tex or similar tech. These materials keep moisture out while allowing sweat to escape.

If you're learning to snowboard or want extra protection, gloves with built-in wrist guards are a smart choice. They add support to reduce the risk of wrist injuries, which are common for beginners and park riders.

Park gloves are typically thinner and more flexible, designed for riders who spend a lot of time hitting rails, boxes, and jumps. They prioritise dexterity and grip over warmth, making them ideal for freestyle sessions.

For kids, warmth and waterproofing are crucial since little hands get cold faster. Look for adjustable cuffs, wrist leashes (so they don’t lose them), and easy on/off designs. Some kids' gloves also come with extra insulation and fun designs to keep the little ones stoked on their snow days.

In spring or warmer conditions, lightweight gloves or even pipe gloves work best. These gloves offer more breathability and less insulation, so your hands don’t overheat when the sun’s out.

Glove liners are a great addition for extra warmth in cold conditions. They’re usually made from lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Plus, you can remove them when it warms up for better temperature control.

Your gloves should fit snugly but still allow for finger movement. Make sure there’s a little space at the fingertips for warmth, but not so much that you lose dexterity.

To find the right fit, measure the circumference of your hand around the widest part of your palm (excluding the thumb) and check the manufacturer's size chart. Some gloves also list hand length measurements for even better accuracy.

Gauntlet gloves extend over your jacket sleeve, providing extra warmth and better protection against snow getting in—great for powder days.

Under cuff gloves sit beneath your jacket for a more streamlined, low-profile fit, often favoured by park riders and those who prioritise dexterity.