Ski Glove Maintenance – How to Keep Your Gloves in Top Condition

Investing in high-quality ski gloves or mittens is essential for warmth and comfort, but proper maintenance is key to ensuring they last through multiple seasons. Regular care can help preserve waterproofing, insulation, and overall durability. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to clean, store, and maintain your ski gloves.

Why Ski Glove Maintenance Matters

Ski gloves are constantly exposed to moisture, sweat, and rough conditions, leading to wear and tear. Without proper care, they may lose their insulation, waterproofing, and grip, making them ineffective in protecting your hands on the slopes.

Common issues with neglected gloves include:

• Loss of warmth and insulation
• Decreased water resistance
• Development of odor and bacteria
• Cracking or peeling of leather and synthetic materials

How to Clean Your Ski Gloves

Step 1: Check Manufacturer Instructions

Before cleaning, always check the label on your gloves to determine if they require special care. Some materials, such as leather, need extra attention compared to synthetic gloves.

Step 2: Hand Wash Only (Avoid Machine Washing)

• Fill a sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap or glove cleaner.
• Gently scrub the outer surface of the gloves with a soft cloth or sponge.
• For the inside, use a damp cloth to wipe away sweat and bacteria.
• Avoid fully submerging gloves if they contain leather or insulation that can be damaged.

Step 3: Dry Properly to Prevent Damage

• Gently squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing.
• Hang gloves fingers-up in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoid direct heat sources (such as radiators or dryers), as high heat can damage insulation and waterproof coatings.

Restoring Waterproofing on Your Ski Gloves

Over time, the waterproof coating on gloves can wear off, causing them to absorb moisture. To restore waterproofing:

• Apply a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) spray on synthetic gloves.
• For leather gloves, use a specialized leather treatment such as Nikwax or Hestra Balm.
• Let gloves fully dry before using them again.

Storing Ski Gloves Correctly

• Ensure gloves are completely dry before storing.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid compressing gloves, as it can damage insulation and shape.

Best Ski Gloves for Durability

Some brands offer men and women winter warm hand ski gloves and mittens designed for long-lasting performance. The most durable options include:

• Hestra Gloves – Known for high-quality leather durability.
• The North Face – Offers waterproof synthetic gloves with strong insulation.
• Burton – Great for snowboarders needing extra protection.
• Black Diamond – Designed for extreme cold and heavy use.

Conclusion

Taking care of your ski gloves ensures they stay warm, dry, and durable for seasons to come. By regularly cleaning, re-waterproofing, and storing them properly, you can extend their lifespan and maintain peak performance.

In our next article, we’ll cover the best ski gloves for different winter sports activities to help you choose the right pair for your needs.