What to Look for in Snow Gloves

Snow Gloves Explained: Waterproofing v Breathability and Why You Need Both

When you’re out carving turns on the slopes or trekking through snowy trails, cold, wet hands can turn a perfect winter day into a miserable one fast. That’s why finding the right snow gloves is more than just picking something warm—it’s about understanding two essential features: waterproofing and breathability. These terms get tossed around in product descriptions, but what do they really mean for your hands? Let’s break it down.

What Does Waterproofing in Snow Gloves Mean?

Waterproofing is your first defence against snow, slush, and sleet. Gloves with high-quality waterproofing prevent moisture from getting in, which is crucial when constantly handling snow, whether skiing, snowboarding, or just making snowballs.

Materials and Technologies:
Most snow gloves achieve waterproofing through specialised fabrics or inserts like GORE-TEX, Hipora, or Polyurethane membranes. Some even come with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings on the outer shell, which helps water bead up and roll off. The higher the number, the more waterproof they are. 

Why It Matters:
Once your gloves get wet inside, the insulation becomes useless. Wet hands = cold hands = shortened outdoor adventures. Waterproof gloves ensure your hands stay dry no matter how deep the powder.

What is Breathability?

Breathability keeps hands dry from the inside. When you're active in cold weather, your hands sweat—even if you don’t notice it right away. If your gloves don’t let that moisture escape, it builds up, creating a damp, clammy interior. That moisture eventually cools, making your hands feel cold and uncomfortable.

How It Works:
Breathable materials allow water vapour (sweat) to escape while keeping external moisture out. For example, GORE-TEX is waterproof and breathable—its microscopic pores are small enough to block water droplets but large enough to let vapour pass through.

Why It Matters:
Without breathability, gloves become a sauna, trapping sweat, reducing warmth, and potentially chilling hands once they stop moving. Breathable gloves maintain comfort and warmth over long periods of activity.

The Balancing Act: Waterproof and Breathable

The best snow gloves offer a balance of waterproofing and breathability. Too much focus on waterproofing without breathability can lead to sweaty hands, while breathable but not waterproof gloves can soak through quickly. This is why high-performance gloves feature a multi-layer design:

• • A waterproof/breathable membrane
  • Insulating layer
  • Durable outer shell
  • Sometimes a wicking inner lining

Features to Look For:

• • GORE-TEX or similar membranes – Trusted for a reason.
  • Adjustable wrist closures and gauntlet cuffs – To seal out snow.
  • Removable liners – Add versatility and faster drying times.
  • Moisture-wicking linings – To move sweat away from your skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a backcountry pro, don’t underestimate the importance of waterproofing and breathability in snow gloves. Investing in the right pair will protect your hands and enhance your comfort and endurance on snowy adventures. So next time you’re glove shopping, look beyond the insulation rating—your hands will thank you.