How to Layer Mitts for Warmth in Snow
By Volcom® | Skate, Surf & Swimwear, Snowboarding Clothes ... | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the right way to layer mitts for maximum warmth on the mountain. From base liners to insulated shells, plus care tips for Gore-Tex mitts and kids' options.
Quick answer
Layer a thin moisture-wicking liner under an insulated mitt like the Women's V.Snow Over Mitts or Kids' Big Day Saver Mitts, then add a waterproof shell mitt if conditions get wet. For extreme cold, use a mid-weight fleece liner instead of a thin one.
Why layering mitts works better than a single thick pair
Layering traps warm air between layers and lets you adjust warmth as conditions change. A single thick mitt can get sweaty and lose insulation when wet. With separate layers, you can remove a shell on sunny days or add a liner when the wind picks up.
The trade-off: more layers mean less dexterity. For tasks like adjusting a binding or zipping a jacket, you may need to remove a layer. Plan your layering based on how much fine motor work you'll do.
When to choose a Gore-Tex mitt over a standard insulated mitt
If you often ride in wet snow or spring conditions, a Gore-Tex mitt like the Women's Skye Gore-Tex Mitts provides reliable waterproofing without sacrificing breathability. The membrane keeps moisture out while letting sweat vapor escape, so your hands stay dry longer.
However, Gore-Tex mitts cost more and can be overkill for dry, cold days. On those days, a standard insulated mitt with a waterproof insert (like the Women's V.Snow Over Mitts) offers similar warmth at a lower price.
Special considerations for kids' mitts
Children's hands get cold faster because they have a larger surface area relative to their mass. The Kids' Big Day Saver Mitts include 3oz/4oz insulation and a polar fleece lining, which is enough for most days. For extra warmth, add a thin liner underneath.
Make sure the mitt fits snugly but not tight—if it's too tight, it restricts blood flow and makes hands colder. Use the wrist cinch and glove leash to keep the mitt on during active play.
How to layer mitts for snow: step by step
- Choose your base layer: Start with a thin, moisture-wicking liner glove made of merino wool or synthetic fabric. Avoid cotton—it holds moisture and will make your hands cold. Common mistake: using a thick liner that makes the outer mitt too tight. The liner should be snug but not compress the insulation.
- Add the insulated mitt: Put on your main insulated mitt, such as the Women's V.Snow Over Mitts or Kids' Big Day Saver Mitts. Ensure the liner sits flat inside without bunching. The mitt should feel snug but not restrictive. Check that the wrist cinch can still close over both layers. If it can't, the liner is too bulky.
- Add a waterproof shell mitt (optional): If snow or rain is expected, add a waterproof shell mitt over the insulated mitt. The Women's Skye Gore-Tex Mitts work well as a shell because the Gore-Tex membrane keeps moisture out. Make sure the shell is large enough to fit over the insulated mitt without compressing the insulation. Checkpoint: after adding the shell, wiggle your fingers. If they feel compressed, the shell is too small—size up or skip this layer.
- Secure and adjust: Use the wrist cinches and bungee cords on each mitt to seal out snow. Attach the glove leash to your jacket sleeve so you don't lose a mitt when you take it off. Test the fit by making a fist—the layers should move together without shifting. Common mistake: overtightening the wrist cinch, which restricts blood flow. Cinch just enough to keep snow out.
Mitts that help with layering
- Women's Skye Gore-Tex Mitts: Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable construction for all-day performance Use these as a shell over a liner for wet days, or wear them alone when conditions are mild and you want maximum breathability.
Women's Skye Gore-Tex Mitts - Women's V.Snow Over Mitts: 4oz/6oz insulation and brushed tricot lining for warmth This mitt works as your main insulated layer—add a thin liner underneath for extra warmth without bulk.
Women's V.Snow Over Mitts - Kids' Big Day Saver Mitts: Youth-specific ergonomic fit with 3oz/4oz insulation and polar fleece lining A great standalone option for kids on most days; add a thin liner for extra cold days or when they're less active.
