How to stay warm

When hands are exposed to cold, thoughtful protection matters. Hestra’s three-layer system allows warmth, moisture, and protection to be adapted to activity and weather.

Why Hands Need Extra Protection

Hands and feet are often the first parts of the body affected by cold. They are far from the body’s core - your heart, brain, and other vital organs - and the body prioritizes keeping these areas warm. As temperatures drop, blood flow to the fingers and toes decreases, which can be noticed when the skin turns pale and sensation is reduced.



This is a natural protective response, but it also means your hands need extra care in cold environments. Even if your body feels warm overall, your hands can still be exposed to cold stress or frost injuries if they are not properly protected. With the right layering and thoughtful choices, you create better conditions for both comfort and safety - regardless of activity or climate.

Stay Warm with the Three-Layer Principle – Hestra Glove System

Keeping your hands warm involves more than choosing a single pair of gloves. Hestra’s Glove System is based on the same principle as layering clothing for the body. By combining different glove layers, you can regulate temperature, manage moisture, and adapt protection to changing weather and activity levels. The result is a balanced combination of comfort, mobility, and protection.

1. The Liner – the Hand's Base Layer

The liner is worn closest to the skin. It wicks moisture away while creating an insulating layer of air that helps retain warmth. It also protects against contact cold when you remove your outer glove for tasks that require precision. A thin fingered liner can increase warmth by approximately 20 percent when used together with a base glove.

2. The Base Glove – the Foundation of the System

The base glove is the model you use most often. It protects against moderate cold, wind, and moisture while providing a good balance of warmth and dexterity. Models with removable liners make it easier to adjust insulation based on temperature and activity level.

3. The Shell Glove – Extra Protection When Needed

The shell glove acts as a reinforcement layer when temperatures drop, conditions become wet, or activity levels are low for extended periods. It creates an additional layer of insulating air around the hand, significantly increasing warmth. When combined with a liner, a shell glove can provide up to 50 percent more warmth compared to using only a base glove. It takes up little space and is easy to pack until needed.

Always Adapt to Activity and Weather

Your need for warmth changes depending on your level of activity and the conditions you are in. By adjusting your layers, you can create the right protection for every situation. Also keep in mind:



· For activities that require fine motor skills, thin liners provide warmth while maintaining good fingertip sensitivity.



· When activity levels increase, body temperature rises, but wind may still cool your hands. A windproof glove with good ventilation can be a good choice.



· Gloves with waterproof membranes, such as GORE-TEX, CZone, or HDry, provide effective protection against moisture but generally offer lower breathability.



· During stationary activities, more insulation is needed than when you are moving, add a shell glove as your outer layer.



· If your hands often feel cold, you may choose a mitten. Mittens are roomier and trap more air, which makes them warmer. A three-finger glove offers a good compromise between a mitten and a five-finger glove.



· If you are especially sensitive to cold, a battery-heated glove or liner can also be a good option.

Our warmest sport gloves

Liners & shell

Explore more

Learn more about Hestra, our materials, and the craftsmanship behind every glove – as well as how to choose and care for your gloves over time.

View all articles
Glove care

Glove care

Proper care extends the life of your leather gloves. Here, we guide you through gentle cleaning and care – helping preserve quality, function, and fit over time.
Leather

Leather

Through careful material selection and solid craftsmanship, we create gloves where each type of leather contributes its distinct character.
Size & fit

Size & fit

The right size and fit are essential for comfort, warmth, and performance. A properly fitting glove provides better mobility, more effective insulation, and a more natural feel in the hand.