Columbia Gloves

 THE ASKMEN TAKE

Hot cocoa, comfy couches by the fireplace and heating things up in a hot tub after hitting the slopes can make winter seem magical. Then, reality sets in: frigid temps, blistering winds and the flu. It’s a harsh world out there, and only serious sportswear can fight it head on. But, finding reliable gear that won’t chip into your funds for an Aspen adventure isn’t as easy as you’d think. Fortunately, there’s Columbia Sportswear. In its over 70-year history, the company has gone from a mom-and-pop hat shop to a full-fledged global sporting goods brand. Today, Columbia has emerged as one of the largest American retailers of ski apparel. And top of the list of must-haves for making it through the season is a pair of  no-nonsense Columbia gloves.

UNIQUENESS

Somehow in that dreamy world of blissful snowfalls and sinfully sunny days on the slopes, protecting your hands from the elements doesn’t ever seem to be a problem. In reality, grandma’s homemade crochet creations or those pricey cashmere mittens you snagged at Bergdorf won’t cut it. That’s when you call on Columbia’s line of performance gloves.

Among the Columbia glove models, the Challenge and Mountain Access styles are crafted of hefty nylon with leather palms. Features include adjustable neoprene cuffs and an extra-long, snug-fitting gauntlet to keep snow out and heat in -- where it belongs. Other options like the 100-gram insulated goat leather Storm Trooper and windproof fleece Ballistic may be for less active outings, however, with Columbia’s capabilities, both can still handle the pressure of winter’s worst days.

 DURABILITY

The Columbia gloves collection employs state-of-the-art science to ensure you’re getting the most out of your gloves. Omni-Tech fabrics are both waterproof and breathable, allowing sweat to escape while sealing the hand off from external wetness. And that’s all done with the help of Omni-Dry, a lining that has wicking properties to draw perspiration away from the body and expel it through the glove’s outer layer. The increased dryness, quality materials and super-sturdy construction ensure that your small sportswear investment lasts -- whether you’re scaling a mountain or just strolling the resort shops.