The WARM OUTERWEAR GLOVES with Style for FALL/WINTER 2011
Outdoor Retailer, SLC
Words, images Judith Ecochard
We used to wear strictly ‘fashion’ gloves/mittens on cold days…except when we were hiking, snowboarding etc.
No more…
The latest bunch of hand coverings that we saw at Outdoor Retailer tradeshow…are so trend on…and so much more protective against the elements…why bother with the other stuff.
GORDINI introduced a Heatrap® Glove Warmer System …that’s a non-battery glove that keeps fingertips (where we need it!!) toasty for eight hours. A special warmth pocket on the top of the glove holds a custom finger shaped heater unit with techy features like Aquabloc®, Megaloft® and Thinsulate® (moisture blocking, heat retaining materials).
Other eye-catching gloves are made from proprietary lava wool that’s boasts superior warmth, moisture and odor wicking traits.
Features we loved include two-way zips, multi layers (and hoods) for warmth…plus some spandex in the mix for shape retention.
We also saw a group of gloves with MADGRIP---an “injected construction for all day comfort” that’s gives wearer (think construction, mechanics, etc) the ability to be warm and hold onto stuff with a cool tread system. Made with pre-curved rubber construction, there’s a breathable knit back for comfort, and it’s washable too.
GOOGLES---get glam with the Artist Series Project.
Some models, like the Sprock... can fit over glasses too.
INFO: GORDINI
At KOMBI, we saw plenty of gloves and mittens that all have the technical fit/features (like neoprene cuffs) for hardcore mountaineers…and the sass for hipsters on the L train…including ‘plain’ versions with bold hits of colors.
Divided into categories ---the Signature Series, Gore-Tex, Waterguard, Waterproof, Hardware and Outdoor…prices typically range from mid twenties on up---topping out at $160 for the ultra GORE IRIP (m/w) that includes an integrated wireless iPod remote control with Fibretronics technology, a google wipe, stretch thumb panel, Microban® anti-bacterial product protection plus X-loft, Gore-Tex® and Accu-Dri lining. WOW.
WHAT ELSE:
All Kombi items are multi-layered in various degrees of necessity (Shell, Insert, Insulation, Lining, Palm, Cuff) for warmth…and manufactured for the ultimate in keeping wearers dry AND without the gloves falling apart.
Kombi also inputs a pre-curved designed…based on a person’s natural hand curve when at rest (smart).
The Team Series designed with input from pro riders PK HUNDER,
JON OLSSON, DAVE FORTIN, ROSALIND GROENEWOUD, and JESS CUMMING--- are some of the best sellers in this huge line…
ROZ
Captain Freedom II
Slayer X-Trafit –mid weight comfort.
CHUNKY KNIT HATS TOO.
INFO: KOMBI SPORTS
MANZELLA makes gloves for winter sports, and ‘lifestyle’ endeavors. We thought these mittens …called the Bubble Down (also in gloves)…very cute and super warm via goose down insulation. The water resistant microfiber shell and hidden stretch cuff plus the HydroBlok® WPB insert (waterproof, breathable, and windproof) keeps the elements out.
Available in pale pink too.
INFO MANZELLA