Photos by Hestra
Cold hands can cut the day short or make for a miserable experience. While mittens and gloves seem basic, they’re an important part of skiers’ and snowboarders’ kit. But keeping hands warm on the slopes is much art as science—especially for young skiers. You have to decide whether you prefer mittens or gloves. You need something warm but not bulky, made of material that shields against wind and water. And you want a design that’s snug but easy to get on and off. There are lots of factors to consider, and it can be difficult to know where to start. But one name stands out.
Hestra, a Swedish company, has been perfecting ski gloves and mittens since 1936, prioritizing warmth, dexterity, and durability. One of the nice things about Hestra is that it applies the same high-quality technology that makes its adult gloves so good to its kids’ line, honoring the need for warm hands and dependable performance shared by all ages and abilities.
“Hestra prides itself on the quality of materials, the attention to detail, and the time that goes into each pair of gloves,” explains Steven Binns, Hestra’s North American marketing ambassador. “It’s no different with our kids’ gloves. For example, the Army Leather Heli Jr. series has the same high-quality materials and construction as the adult versions—they’re just smaller. We don’t believe in using lower-quality materials in our kids’ gloves, because their hands get cold just like adults.”
From big mittens and standard gloves to three-finger crossover designs, Hestra has a variety of products for young riders to choose from. Most feature a mix of polyurethane, Gore-Tex, and other materials that waterproof the glove while providing grip and durability. This makes them a great option for long days on the slopes in cold, snowy conditions.
Hestra’s kids’ gloves also offer a variety of features catering to young athletes. All of its gloves and mittens are easy-access—a win for everyone. Furthermore, many of Hestra’s designs include leashes, which keep loose gear to a minimum even amid the excitement of a snack break.
Hestra’s kids’ products range in price from $55 to $150. Because the brand also has a phenomenal adult line, as young skiers grow they can size up their favorite designs and dial in their system to stay comfortable on the mountain. “Keeping kids’ hands warm during a day of skiing is important, because it reduces breaks and keeps them outside,” Binns says. “That helps create lifelong skiers.”