Gloves & Mittens

Mittens vs. Gloves

• Mittens: Warmer than gloves as fingers share body heat but reduce dexterity.
• Gloves: Provide more dexterity but less overall warmth.
• Hybrid: Gloves with mitten covers (e.g., Burton Convertible Mittens) offer a balance of warmth and dexterity.

Choosing the right gloves or mittens depends on the weather conditions and the activity level. Below is an in-depth guide to help families select the best options for their needs.

1. Everyday Use (General Cold Weather)

Purpose: Comfortable and versatile gloves for casual outdoor activities.

• Material: Wool, fleece, or synthetic blends.
• Best for: Walking, short outings, or car trips.
• Recommended Gloves:
  • Carhartt Insulated Gloves: Rugged and warm for casual use.
  • L.L. Bean Everyday Mittens: Comfortable and easy to slip on.
  • Patagonia Better Sweater Gloves: Stylish and functional fleece gloves.

2. Light Cold Weather (Cool and Dry)

Purpose: For milder winter days or high-energy activities where hands might sweat.

• Material: Lightweight fleece, knit wool, or synthetic materials.
• Best for: Hiking, moderate outdoor play, or layering under waterproof shells.
• Recommended Gloves:
  • Outdoor Research Fleece Gloves: Warm and breathable, great for active kids.
  • Smartwool Liner Gloves: Thin wool liners can be worn alone or layered.
  • REI Co-op Fleece Grip Gloves: Lightweight with good dexterity for holding items.

3. Wet Weather (Rain or Wet Snow)

Purpose: Keep hands dry during slushy or rainy conditions.

• Material: Waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or coated nylon.
• Best for: Playing in wet snow, puddle jumping, or rainy hikes.
• Recommended Gloves:
  • Hestra CZone Waterproof Gloves: Durable and highly waterproof.
  • Columbia Whirlibird Gloves: Affordable, waterproof, and warm.
  • Oakiwear Waterproof Mittens (for younger children): Easy to put on and reliably waterproof.

4. Extreme Cold (Below Freezing)

Purpose: Maximum warmth to prevent frostbite in frigid temperatures.

• Material: Insulated with down or synthetic fill, often with a fleece or wool liner.
• Best for: Low-activity outdoor time in very cold weather (e.g., sledding, outdoor learning).
• Recommended Gloves:
  • Black Diamond Guide Gloves: Down-insulated with a waterproof membrane.
  • Hestra Army Leather Mittens: Exceptionally warm and durable.
  • Lands’ End Expedition Mittens (for kids): High insulation and long wrist coverage.

5. High-Energy Activities (Skiing, Running, Climbing)

Purpose: Protect hands while allowing flexibility and breathability.

• Material: Lightweight and moisture-wicking, with reinforced palms for grip.
• Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, or high-energy activities.
• Recommended Gloves:
  • Burton Gore-Tex Gloves: Waterproof with a removable liner.
  • Dakine Scout Gloves: Excellent for skiing or snowboarding.
  • The North Face Etip Gloves: Lightweight and touchscreen-friendly for moderate cold.
  • L.L. Bean Everyday Mittens: Comfortable and easy to slip on.
  • Patagonia Better Sweater Gloves: Stylish and functional fleece gloves.

Tips for Families

1. Layering: Pair thin liner gloves with waterproof shells for versatile protection.
2. Fit: Gloves should fit snugly without being tight; loose gloves reduce warmth.
3. Long Cuffs: Look for gloves with gauntlet-style cuffs that go over jackets to seal out snow.
4. Hand Warmers: Use disposable warmers (e.g., HotHands) for extended outdoor time.