Welcome to a special Buyer’s Guide installment of Gear Spotlight from FREESKIER. Here, we provide a close-up look at the equipment and accessories that everyone should know about. Can’t get enough gear? Click here to see our entire 2019 Buyer’s Guide.
1. Hestra Army Leather Abisko Glove
This short-cuffed glove from the maestros at Hestra is a durable and dexterous offering designed to keep you warm whether at the resort or traveling deep out of bounds. The Army Leather Abisko is made of the company’s most durable, wear-resistant and waterproofed goatskin originally formulated to make gloves for the military, while the back of the glove is an extra-tough, wax-finished cotton-polyester that can withstand scrapes and scuffing. Inside, a wool terry lining—that may very well be the softest inner glove material we’ve ever touched—ensures your digits will stay warm, happy and protected from the elements.
2. Flylow Savage Gloves
A brand-new product from Flylow, the Savage Gloves combine functionality and durability in beautiful harmony. They’re made of triple-baked cowhide leather that gives a flexible feel and waterproofing right out of the box. Foam blocks on the back of the hand defend against scrapes from rocks, trees and ice and also insulate the glove. Go ahead, let your freeride flag fly with these ultra-durable and undeniably comfortable gloves from one of our favorite independent gear manufacturers.
3. Level Off-Piste Leather Glove
The go-to for Level’s big-mountain freeride athletes, the Off-Piste Leather is everything you’ve been dreaming about in a glove. Pliable and comfortable like you’ve been wearing them for years, these bad boys made of waterproofed goat leather come with a 3000 Thermo-Plus rating—middle of the line for Level’s in-house heat-rating system—to keep you comfortable as you work up a sweat navigating the mountains. A short, neoprene cuff and a safety leash also ensure they’ll stay put even when you’re futzing around on top of your next big line.
4. Dakine Team Baron Trigger Mitt
Complete with radical design accents by legendary Dakine team rider Chris Benchetler, the Team Baron Trigger Mitt utilizes lightweight PrimaLoft insulation nestled beneath a Gore-Tex exterior for unmatched waterproofing, breathability and warmth in a single package. On the palm, a special grip tape prevents slippage, even when conditions turn sour. For skiers seeking a glove that’s as beautiful as it is effective, the Team Baron Trigger Mitt should be top of mind heading into next season.
5. Level Bliss Women’s Flame Mitt
Level’s brand-new Flame Mitt, part of its women’s Bliss collection, is the hottest mitt on the market heading into next season. The Flame is the only female-specific mitten in Level’s lineup with a 5000 Thermo-Plus rating (the warmest certification offered by the Italian glove maker), so you can be certain that the three layers of PrimaLoft insulation and a plush cashmere lining will keep your hands toasty and ultra-comfy in the coldest, most daunting winter conditions. A completely water-resistant fabric backing, sheep leather palm and a long cuff also help keep Mother Nature at bay.
6. Oyuki The Pep Mitts
Oyuki, a Japanese brand based in Niseko, is making a name for itself in the North American market. Featured here is one of our favorite items: The Pep Mitts. Designed in collaboration with freeski legend Pep Fujas, these offerings are built in the trigger style, which combines the maneuverability of a glove and the warmth of a mitt. The Pep also utilizes 200 grams of PrimaLoft Gold insulation and a Gore-Tex membrane to ensure incredible warmth, waterproofing, wind resistance and breathability. On the aesthetic front, a Fujas sketched outline of the Oregon mountains he grew up amongst adorns the exterior.
7. Auclair Mountain Ops Glove
Give your hands what they deserve with the Auclair Mountain Ops Glove. These workman-style gloves are lined with soft, cotton-based Bemberg on the inside, while the exterior is constructed with durable, waterproof, windproof and breathable cowhide. Take on the coldest of winter outings with the help of 150 grams of Thinsulate Platinum insulation and never hesitate to hand-drag knowing the safety wrist, storm cuff and elastic pull-cord features will keep these puppies on your hands at all times.
8. Hestra Leather Fall Line 3-Finger Glove
Protect your digits from the elements this season with the ultra-durable, soak-proof Leather Fall Line 3-Finger glove from Hestra. A moisture- and wear-resistant cowhide adorns the glove exterior while the inside is silky soft thanks to a cotton-based Bemberg lining. Designed with professional mountain guides and ski patrollers in mind, this three-finger glove boasts a neoprene cuff to keep warmth in and snow out, while external seams ensure your fingers feel nothing but the soft lining inside. A foam insulation provides warmth without restricting dexterity making these hot pockets tough enough for the highest demands.
