This review dives into the performance of The North Face Montana Ski Gloves, focusing on their warmth, water resistance, and overall suitability for winter activities. The author, facing unreliable weather conditions and inadequate previous gloves, sought a reliable pair for snowshoeing and general winter use. This review details their experience with the gloves, highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. Specific features like the e-tip touchscreen compatibility and adjustable cuff are examined, alongside a discussion of the trade-off between dexterity and warmth.The review explores the glove's effectiveness in keeping hands dry and warm, even in challenging 25-degree Fahrenheit weather. Comparisons are made to previous models, noting subtle design changes while emphasizing that core functionality remains consistent. Ultimately, the author assesses the value proposition of the Montana Ski Gloves, considering their price point and overall performance in cold, wet conditions. The conclusion provides a clear recommendation based on the reviewer's practical experience.
Pros And Cons
- Water resistant
- Keeps hands warm
- Blocks wind well
- Adjustable cuff with velcro
- E-tip feature for phone use
- Clasps to prevent loss
- Limited dexterity due to thick insulation
- Very warm; may be too warm for some situations
- High cuff may require coat adjustment
Read more: Top 5 Ski Gloves for Unforgettable Adventures
The Need for Warm, Waterproof Gloves
Living in a region with unpredictable weather, I needed a reliable pair of gloves for snowy and windy conditions. My previous knit gloves from Cabela's simply weren't cutting it; they lacked the warmth and waterproofness necessary for outdoor activities like snowshoeing and clearing snow from my car.
Finding gloves in my size that also offered good dexterity was a challenge. I wanted the warmth and protection of thicker gloves but still needed the ability to use my fingers easily.
Montana Ski Gloves: Initial Impressions
The Montana ski gloves from The North Face immediately impressed with their thick insulation and e-tip feature. The e-tip, evident in the contrasting stitching on the fingertips and thumb, allows for touchscreen use.
The gloves feature an adjustable cuff with velcro closure and a pull-on tab, although the purpose of the latter remains unclear. They're designed to fit snugly, even over a watch, providing a secure feel.
Performance and Fit
While dexterity is somewhat limited due to the thick insulation, these gloves provide excellent warmth and dryness. They effectively kept my hands warm and dry, fulfilling their primary purpose.
The high cuff requires some adjustment with a coat, necessitating undoing the velcro to layer the coat over the gloves. However, this also helps prevent snow from getting inside.
Comparison with the Newer Model
The current model of the Montana Ski Gloves has a slightly different wrist design than the one reviewed (a previous year's model). The newer version features an added detail on the wrist area.
Despite the minor design differences, the functionality and performance remain largely consistent between the models. The core features, such as warmth, water resistance, and e-tip functionality, are unchanged.
Overall Assessment
The Montana Ski Gloves from The North Face provide excellent water resistance, effectively shielding hands from moisture during snow removal and other winter activities.
While dexterity is sacrificed for warmth and protection, the gloves kept my hands exceptionally warm, even in 25-degree weather with other winter gear. The added features like the clasps and e-tip enhance their practicality.
Overall, the Montana Ski Gloves are a worthwhile investment for individuals seeking warmth, waterproofness, and reasonable price, especially if found on clearance. The minor limitations in dexterity are outweighed by their excellent performance in cold, wet conditions.
