Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Gloves Review: Ultimate Cold Weather Protection?

Are you tired of gloves that fail in extreme cold? Do you need reliable hand protection for serious winter activities like snowboarding or skiing? Then look no further than the Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Gloves. This in-depth review explores the performance and features of these premium gloves, examining their durability, warmth, and overall value. We'll delve into the details of their construction, focusing on the materials used and the design elements that contribute to their exceptional cold-weather performance. From the long cuff design to the Gore-Tex membrane, we'll uncover what makes these gloves stand out from the competition.This review is based on years of real-world use in frigid conditions, offering a firsthand account of the gloves' capabilities. We'll assess their waterproofness, breathability, and dexterity, comparing them to other gloves used in similar demanding environments. Ultimately, we'll determine whether the high price tag is justified by the superior protection and longevity offered by the Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex Gloves. Discover if these gloves truly represent the ultimate in cold-weather hand protection.

Read more: Top 5 Ski Gloves for Unforgettable Adventures

Why I Needed New Gloves

My old Burton gloves, while great for some conditions, failed miserably in extreme cold. My hands froze quickly during snowboarding trips to frigid locations. A cheaper, thicker alternative proved inflexible and not very durable. I needed a glove that provided superior warmth and long-term durability, justifying a higher initial investment.

Image of the speaker holding up their old Burton gloves.
Image of the speaker holding up their old Burton gloves.

Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex: Initial Impressions

The Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves immediately impressed me with their long cuff design. This feature allows for easy tucking under a snowboarding jacket, ensuring wrist warmth and preventing snow ingress. The durable leather construction promised longevity, a key factor in my purchasing decision. The gloves are quite stylish too.

Close-up shot showcasing the long cuff design of the gloves.
Close-up shot showcasing the long cuff design of the gloves.

The extended cuff provides excellent protection against the elements, significantly enhancing warmth and comfort. This is a thoughtful design feature often overlooked in other gloves.

Demonstration of tucking the gloves under a jacket.
Demonstration of tucking the gloves under a jacket.

Material and Construction: Durability and Comfort

The gloves feature a combination of materials. The outer layer is durable, almost worker-glove-like leather, promising exceptional longevity. The combination of leather and a nylon-like fabric creates a glove that's both tough and surprisingly flexible.

Close-up of the glove material, highlighting the leather and other fabric components.
Close-up of the glove material, highlighting the leather and other fabric components.

The inner lining is also incredibly strong, ensuring the gloves maintain their shape and function even with extended use. I've used these for several years without any significant wear or tear.

The grip is excellent, maintaining dexterity despite the glove's thickness. The balance between durability and flexibility is what sets these gloves apart.

Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathable Performance

The nylon-like outer fabric is impressively water-resistant. I've never experienced any water or ice penetration. Furthermore, it provides exceptional wind protection, creating a near force-field effect against the elements. It's really warm, even in windy conditions.

Shot showing the water-resistant outer fabric.
Shot showing the water-resistant outer fabric.

The inner Gore-Tex membrane is what really sets these gloves apart. It breathes well, releasing heat and moisture, preventing sweaty hands. It maintains a comfortable temperature by controlling moisture while still blocking outside elements.

Close-up of the Gore-Tex membrane inside the glove.
Close-up of the Gore-Tex membrane inside the glove.

Additional Features and Overall Impression

The gloves also include a velcro cuff for a secure and adjustable fit, preventing snow entry. A handy carabiner clip allows for easy attachment to a belt or backpack. An additional pull strap ensures a tight seal for enhanced waterproof performance.

Close-up shot of the velcro cuff.
Close-up shot of the velcro cuff.

The Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves are high-quality, durable, and exceptionally warm. While they are expensive, their long-lasting nature and exceptional performance in extreme conditions justify the cost.

Conclusion: Are They Worth It?

The Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves are a premium product with a premium price tag. However, if you prioritize durability, extreme weather protection, and long-term value, these gloves are a worthwhile investment. Their combination of warmth, waterproofness, breathability, and robust construction makes them ideal for serious skiers and snowboarders who demand the best.

Final shot of the speaker holding the gloves.
Final shot of the speaker holding the gloves.

The superior design, materials and build quality clearly set them apart from other gloves. While there are cheaper options, they simply don't offer the same level of performance and longevity. These gloves are a sound investment for those who prioritize function over price.