Here is a comprehensive buying guide to help you find the right pair of mittens:
Some Popular Mitten Variations to Keep Your Hands Cozy
While mittens are the coziest article for keeping your hands warm, they are not the only option. Below we have discussed some other options.
Gloves
Gloves are another popular clothing article for both summer and winter wear. They have individual fingers that generally offer better dexterity than mittens making holding snow gear a lot less awkward to hold. However, they don't provide the same level of warmth.
Lobster
Lobsters look a lot like mittens but separate your index finger from others. They are a blend of mitten and glove having individual fingers for your thumb and index finger while keeping the middle, ring, and pinky fingers together.
They are a great compromise for people who find mittens clumsy but are not satisfied with the warmth gloves offer.
3-in-1
To keep up with the lobster trend, many manufacturers came up with 3-in-1 models that combine a shell and removable liner consisting of either mitten or glove styles. Some 3-in-1 units have a mitten shell with glove liner, others have a mitten liner and glove shell. A good thing about these is that you can separate both and use them individually during the warm season.
How to Choose a Good Pair of Winter Mittens
Below we have identified a few things to consider when purchasing pair of mittens:
Size and fit
The key to keeping your hands warm and comfortable is to choose the right size and fit. A mitten that is too big won't retain your body heat and also make it difficult to hold snow gear, operate zippers, etc. On the other hand, mittens that are too small not only restrict movement they most likely leave your wrists exposed to the cold.
You should first measure your hand to learn about your proper mitten size and then consult the manufacturer’s size chart to pick the one that suits your measurement.
Material
Considering the material of your mittens is also very important. Since you are getting them for winter wear, they should be warm and insulating against the cold.
Wool mittens are generally considered the warmest material, closely followed by nylon for its water resistance. But if you are getting a pair for snow sports, it's best to choose a leather pair with adequate insulation. They are both waterproof and heat-retaining keeping you comfortable in harsh conditions.
Touchscreen compatibility
Another important consideration in winter mittens these days is touchscreen compatibility. Since mittens don't have separate fingers, most manufacturers incorporate touchscreen responsive materials into the thumb so you can easily use your smartphone without needing to take them off.
If you use your phone frequently, it's best to choose a pair that is both dexterous and touchscreen compatible.
Gloves or Mittens
This is a big question that confuses many buyers. Many people choose to purchase gloves because they are more practical. However, when it comes to warmth, mittens are unbeatable. Here are some advantages of choosing mittens over gloves:
- Mittens offer better warmth by keeping your fingers together inside the lining.
- They are easier to put on.
- There is a large variety to choose from.
- They are made up of different components to keep you warm, dry, and protected.
- They have less total surface area for body heat to escape.
How to Wash and Care for Winter Mittens
The first thing you should know about winter mitten care is that they rarely need washing. Hence, you shouldn't be tossing your pair in the weekly laundry pile. However, there are times when a dirty mitten requires cleaning and a worn-out one needs some TLC. Here is how you should care for your pair:
- Spot cleaning: When it comes to washing mittens, it is always better to substitute the full wash cycle with a spot cleaning ritual. Take some mild soap and water and wipe the dirt or spots to remove them. Air dry.
- Wash the removable liner: If your mittens have a removable liner, you should remove and wash it regularly.
- Use Tech-specific cleaners: If the mitten needs absolute washing, use Tech-specific cleaners and wash on the delicate cycle. Lay flat to dry.
- Condition leather mittens: The right way to care for a leather mitten is to first rub it with a damp cloth to remove grit and then massage them with a leather wax to restore the shine.
Conclusion
Mittens are an important winter accessory that you should own. They come in a variety of styles, colors choices, materials, and designs. Choosing the right pair of mittens can be the difference between an enjoyable outing or a miserable one with frigid fingers. To help you out, we have identified the top winter mittens in 2022. Check them out and choose a suitable one for your needs.
