Hestra Gloves & Mittens

Hestra Gloves are a premium investment, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and durability. Established in Sweden in 1936, Hestra uses high-quality materials like treated cowhide and goatskin leather, coupled with advanced insulation such as G-Loft or Primaloft. Models like the Hestra Fall Line Gloves offer waterproofing and breathability, ideal for skiing or mountaineering. Although they come at a higher price point (typically £80–£150), their longevity—often lasting several seasons with proper care—makes them cost-effective compared to cheaper alternatives that wear out quickly.

Sizing Hestra Gloves requires measuring your hand’s circumference (around the widest part, excluding the thumb) and length (from wrist to middle fingertip). Hestra uses a European numerical system (e.g., 6–11 for men, 5–9 for women), which differs from generic small-medium-large labels. For gauntlet-style gloves like the Army Leather Heli, opt for a snugger fit, while for short-cuff styles like the Ergo Grip Incline, consider sizing up slightly. Check the printable size guide on Hestra’s website or try them on if possible to ensure a precise fit for optimal warmth and dexterity.

For skiing, the Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Gloves and Fall Line Gloves stand out. The Heli Ski Gloves feature a removable Bemberg polyester liner and a goatskin leather palm for warmth and grip, with a waterproof CZone membrane in some variants. The Fall Line Gloves, with their cowhide leather exterior and foam insulation, excel in dexterity and waterproofing—perfect for both resort and backcountry skiing. Choose based on your need for warmth versus flexibility, with mittens like the Army Leather Mitt offering superior heat retention for colder conditions.

Many Hestra Gloves, such as the Army Leather Gore-Tex and Heli Ski models, incorporate waterproof-breathable membranes like Gore-Tex or CZone, making them highly resistant to snow and moisture. Leather models, like the Fall Line, use treated cowhide that is naturally water-resistant but may require regular application of leather balm (for example, Hestra’s own balm) to maintain performance. Without a membrane, untreated leather can absorb water over time, so regular maintenance is key for long-term waterproofing.

Hestra Gloves vary in warmth depending on insulation and design. The Army Leather Patrol Gloves use G-Loft synthetic insulation for excellent heat retention in sub-zero temperatures, while the Power Heater Gloves include rechargeable battery-powered heating elements for extreme cold, providing up to 8 hours of warmth. Mittens, like the Moon Light Mitt, trap heat better due to their design, whereas five-finger gloves prioritise dexterity. For milder climates, the Pointer series with synthetic insulation offers sufficient warmth without bulk.

To maintain Hestra Gloves, clean leather models with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding full submersion. Apply Hestra leather balm every few months to keep the leather supple and water-resistant. For models with removable liners (such as the Heli Ski), wash the liner separately in lukewarm water and air dry. Store your gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct heat sources like radiators, to prevent cracking. Regular care can extend their lifespan significantly, often beyond five years.

Hestra Gloves combine premium materials for performance and durability. Outer shells are often made from aniline-dyed cowhide or goatskin leather, which offer natural flexibility and grip. Insulation materials vary—Primaloft provides lightweight warmth, while G-Loft excels in damp conditions. Liners typically use Bemberg or brushed polyester for moisture-wicking, and some models include Gore-Tex membranes for added waterproofing. This blend of materials ensures comfort, protection, and longevity across their extensive range.

With proper care, Hestra Gloves can last 5–10 years or more. Leather models, such as the Army Leather Patrol, are known to withstand heavy use for up to 500 days or more with reinforced stitching and durable material. While insulation and liners may degrade faster, many models feature removable liners which can be replaced, ensuring the gloves endure multiple seasons of use.

Hestra gloves (the five-finger style) offer superior dexterity, making them ideal for tasks like adjusting gear during skiing or climbing, as seen in models like the Ergo Grip Active. In contrast, mittens, such as the Army Leather Mitt, prioritise warmth by keeping fingers together to reduce heat loss, which is beneficial in extreme cold. There are also three-finger 'lobster' designs (for example, the Heli Ski 3-Finger) that balance dexterity and warmth.

Absolutely. Models like the Pointer Gloves, with windproof APPAS polyester backs and goatskin palms, provide both warmth and durability for daily wear. Similarly, the Omni Gloves, with G-Loft insulation and a classic leather shell, suit urban winters stylishly. For more extreme conditions, the Army Leather Gore-Tex offers added waterproofing, making Hestra Gloves versatile for both sports and everyday use.

Hestra Gloves are crafted in Sweden, in the village of Hestra, by a family-run business now in its fourth generation. Many gloves are handmade by skilled artisans, with leather sourced and tanned to exacting standards. Although some production occurs in partner facilities in Europe and Asia, the design and quality control remain firmly rooted in Sweden, ensuring consistent excellence across their range since 1936.