Why we stock Hestra at Crib Goch Outdoor
Cold, wet hands are one of the most common reasons mountain days end earlier than planned, and one of the most preventable. Hestra's Army Leather range is trusted by mountain guides, ski patrollers, and anyone who demands consistent performance from their gloves across full days in demanding conditions. The goat leather palm provides exceptional grip on wet rock and rope, the Gore-Tex membrane keeps hands dry even in sustained heavy rain and wet snow, and the construction is built to outlast synthetic alternatives by years rather than months. Independent testers with 150-plus days of continuous use in the Army Leather GTX report hands consistently dry and warm throughout. That kind of longevity at a premium price point makes the investment straightforward for anyone spending serious time outdoors.
The honest caveat worth stating: the Army Leather Gore-Tex is a moderate to warm glove rather than an expedition warmth option. For most hill walking, scrambling, and active mountain days in UK conditions it is well suited. For anyone who runs very cold, or for prolonged static use in extreme winter temperatures, a warmer insulated option or a liner glove worn underneath will extend the range. We are happy to advise on the right combination for your specific use in store.
What we stock and why we chose it
The Army Leather Gore-Tex five-finger glove is the most versatile option in the range and the one most of our mountain customers reach for. Gore-Tex ePE membrane, goat leather palm, G-Loft insulation, and a long gauntlet cuff that seals over jacket sleeves. Available in both black and natural grey colourways. The Army Leather Gore-Tex three-finger glove provides the same construction with improved warmth from the combined finger chamber, suited to colder conditions where some dexterity sacrifice is acceptable. The Army Leather Gore-Tex mitt maximises warmth for the coldest days, with the same leather, membrane, and insulation in a full mitt configuration. The Seam Sealed Shell Waterproof Mitt is a lighter, more packable waterproof option for those who want weather protection without the weight and bulk of the full Army Leather. The Ergo Grip Incline uses Hestra's pre-curved ergonomic construction for a closer fit and reduced hand fatigue on long days, suited to active hiking and scrambling. The Ergo Grip Active Wool Terry is a lighter, more breathable option for milder conditions and high-output activity. The Wakayama five-finger glove is a leather glove without the Gore-Tex membrane, suited to drier conditions where maximum feel and dexterity matter. The CZone Contact Glove and Gauntlet use Hestra's own CZone waterproof membrane as a more affordable waterproof option. The Merino Wool Liner Long and Gravita Merino Liner are worn under the outer glove for added warmth and as standalone gloves in milder conditions. We also stock Hestra Leather Balm, which maintains the waterproofing and suppleness of leather gloves and significantly extends their useful life.
Hestra Gloves FAQs
Are Hestra gloves worth the price? +
Yes, for regular outdoor use. The value case for Hestra rests on longevity rather than initial cost. The Army Leather range in particular is built to last years of heavy use rather than seasons. Independent reviewers report Hestra CZone gloves lasting close to a decade of regular use before needing replacement, not because they failed but because the owner wanted a newer pair. The goat leather palm improves with conditioning and maintained correctly outlasts synthetic alternatives significantly. Regular application of Hestra Leather Balm, which we stock, maintains the waterproofing and suppleness of the leather and is the single most important thing you can do to extend the glove's life.
How warm are the Hestra Army Leather Gore-Tex gloves? +
Moderate to warm. The Army Leather Gore-Tex is well suited to most UK mountain conditions including cold, wet winter days in Wales and Scotland, but it is not an expedition warmth glove. For most active hillwalking and scrambling in Eryri the warmth level is appropriate. For prolonged static use in very cold conditions, or for anyone who runs particularly cold, wearing a merino liner glove underneath extends the warmth range significantly. The mitt version provides noticeably more warmth than the five-finger for the same conditions, as combining the fingers generates more heat. We stock Hestra merino liner gloves specifically for this purpose.
What is the difference between Hestra CZone and Gore-Tex gloves? +
Both are waterproof membranes but they differ in construction and performance level. Gore-Tex is an independently certified waterproof and breathable membrane with a strong track record across demanding outdoor use and is used in Hestra's Army Leather range. CZone is Hestra's own proprietary waterproof membrane, used in the Contact Glove and Gauntlet range at a more accessible price point. Both keep hands dry in wet conditions. Gore-Tex offers higher breathability and is backed by Gore's own testing standards. CZone is a solid waterproof option for general outdoor use at a lower cost of entry into the Hestra range.
How do I care for Hestra leather gloves? +
Apply Hestra Leather Balm to the palm and outer leather two to three times per season, or more frequently with heavy use. This maintains the leather's waterproofing and prevents it from drying out and cracking. Allow the gloves to dry naturally after use rather than placing them on a radiator, which can damage the leather and membrane. Avoid machine washing leather gloves. For the non-leather components, follow the care instructions on the label. The leather palm on the Army Leather range will darken and soften with use and conditioning, which is normal and improves grip rather than indicating damage. We stock Hestra Leather Balm in store.
How do I find the right Hestra glove size? +
Hestra sizes by hand circumference measured in centimetres at the widest point of the palm, excluding the thumb. The size guide on each product page converts this measurement to Hestra's numbered sizing. Some customers prefer to size up slightly in the Army Leather range to allow room for a liner glove or for slightly more air circulation, which some find reduces claminess during high-output activity. Junior gloves are specifically sized for children with shorter finger lengths and are not comparable to adult sizing. If you want to try gloves before buying, come in to our stores in Llanberis or Beddgelert and we will help you find the right fit.
Can I try Hestra gloves in store in North Wales? +
Yes. We stock Hestra across our stores in Llanberis and Beddgelert. Glove fit is one of the harder things to assess from a size chart alone, particularly in leather gloves which vary in feel between models. Come in and we will help you find the right size and model for your hand shape and planned use.