Compromising on the fit of your ski gloves and mittens will lead to colder (and shorter) days on the hill. A loose glove traps excess air, which can leave your hands colder and make basic tasks, such as tightening boots or adjusting zips, awkward, or impossible. A glove that is too tight can restrict blood flow and also make your fingers freeze. As a result, liners don’t always mean warmer fingers, in fact the opposite can be true if you don’t size accordingly.
Most gloves come in small, medium, large, with some offering XS and XL, although to make life interesting some brands like Hestra use numerical sizing, so always check the manufacturer’s size guide before buying, and take the time to measure properly. Sizing is usually based on hand circumference, measured around the widest part of your hand at the knuckles with a soft tape or a piece of string. Some brands also provide finger length measurements, which can help if you often find fingertips bunching or coming up short.
Trying gloves on remains the most reliable way to find the right size. Your fingers should sit close to the end of the glove without pressing against it, and you should be able to make a fist easily. Try on with your ski jacket too, as different cuff designs—both on jacket and with gloves—can play havoc with cold spots and comfort.
Sizing differs enormously between brands, so please check dimensions carefully before ordering online, and choose a retailer with a generous return policy so you can order two sizes without being penalised.
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