Without a doubt, the Aussie landscape is full of stunning natural scenery that can be explored through hiking adventures or other outdoor activities. Among those landmarks, the snow-capped mountains and forests always manage to take our breath away. Their undeniable beauty has inspired many people to engage in different winter sports, including snowboarding.

If you live down under and are planning on hitting the slopes anytime soon, you need to have all the necessary tools and equipment to ensure that your experience is both fun and safe. Apart from the essential snowboarding gear like a board and boots, you will also need to invest in some quality gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm.

The Difference Between Gloves and Mittens

As you’re preparing for your new adventure, shopping for extra cosy snowboard gloves and mittens should be high on your to-do list. But before you start browsing, it’s important to understand the difference between these two types of winter gear.

Gloves are usually thinner than mittens and offer more dexterity, as each finger has its own compartment. This design offers more flexibility to those who need to perform tasks that require a high level of precision, such as adjusting bindings or fixing goggles.

Mittens, on the other hand, have a bulkier design with a single compartment for all five fingers. Even though they might not be as practical for certain activities, mittens tend to be warmer than gloves since each finger benefits from the heat generated by the others.

For the most part, beginner snowboarders won’t really notice much of a difference with either type of gear. But as you become more experienced, you might want to consider investing in a pair of snowboarding gloves if you often find yourself fiddling with your equipment. Mittens might be a better option for those who are still getting used to the sport and tend to spend more time resting on the slopes.

Things to Look for in Snowboard Gloves and Mittens

Once you’ve decided whether you want gloves or mittens, it’s time to start looking at the different features that these winter accessories offer. Some might offer greater benefits than others, depending on your needs and preferences.

Size and Fit

You can’t exactly use your pair properly if it’s ill-fitting or uncomfortable. There should be no gaps around the wrist or fingers, as this will let in cold air and cause discomfort. Mind you, you also don’t want your snowboard mittens or gloves to be too tight, as this can restrict movement and make it difficult to perform certain tasks.

To find the perfect size, take a tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of your hand. Make sure to include the thumb in this measurement, as you don’t want the glove or mitten to be too tight around this area. Once you have the measurement, consult a size chart to find the corresponding size.

Insulation

Generally speaking, both gloves and mittens can have two types of insulation – down and synthetic. The former is a natural material that provides excellent warmth, even when wet. However, it tends to come with a higher price tag due to its premium quality.

On the flip side, synthetic insulation is made of man-made fibres that can be just as effective as their natural counterpart. The main advantage of synthetic insulation is that it dries faster, which comes in handy if you happen to fall in the snow or get caught in a sudden downpour.

Plus, their more affordable nature means that you won’t put a dent in your wallet if you need to replace them more often. And as a bonus, synthetic materials are usually vegan-friendly, so they’re a great option for those who are looking for an ethical alternative.

Waterproofing

Since you’ll be spending most of your time in the wet snow, you definitely don’t want to deal with soggy hands constantly. Having a regular pair simply won’t cut it, as they will eventually become soaked and fail to provide the necessary warmth.

For this reason, you should opt for a pair that has some form of a waterproof membrane. This will provide a barrier between your hands and the snow, keeping them dry no matter how wet the conditions are. The synthetic fabric is not only effective at repelling water but also breathable, so your hands won’t overheat when you’re working up a sweat.

Touch Screen Sensitivity

In a world where we’re constantly glued to our phones and rely on technology to find our way around, it’s only natural that we would want to be able to use our devices while on the slopes. And thanks to the latest advancements in glove and mitten design, this is now possible.

Some manufacturers have started incorporating special materials into the fingertips of their products that allow you to operate touch screens without having to take your gloves off. This is extremely convenient if you need to quickly check a map or take a photo, as you won’t have to expose your hands to the cold.

Wirst Leashes

This might not be an essential feature, but it’s definitely a handy one. Wrist leashes are usually made of stretchy cord or fabric and attach to the back of the glove or mitten. They help to keep your gear from falling off if you happen to lose your grip, which is especially useful if you’re carrying something fragile like a camera or phone.