How to Waterproof Your Old Snowboarding Gloves

Great question. There's something satisfying about giving a trusted piece of gear a second life, especially gloves that have seen powder days and chairlift rides. Waterproofing old snowboarding gloves is doable, and it can extend their season for more adventures. Here's how to assess, treat, and maintain them so you can get back out there with dry hands.

Step 1: Assess and Clean Your Gloves

Before anything, know what you're working with. Check for:

• Material: Leather, synthetic, or both? That determines the waterproofing method.
• Condition: Seams intact? Any rips or holes? Waterproofing won't fix physical damage—that needs a separate repair.
• Current DWR: If water no longer beads up but soaks in, the Durable Water Repellent coating is worn and needs refreshing.

The Golden Rule: Always start with clean gear. Dirt, oils, and salt block treatments from bonding.

1. Check the manufacturer's care label first.
2. Use a gentle technical gear cleaner (skip standard detergents or softeners).
3. Hand wash in lukewarm water, gently agitating.
4. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
5. Air dry completely, away from direct heat. Slow drying is best.

Step 2: Choose Your Waterproofing Method

The right method depends on your glove material.

For Synthetic or Fabric Gloves

You're revitalizing the DWR coating. Use a wash-in or spray-on DWR rejuvenator.

• Wash-In: Great for even coverage, including insulated areas. Add to the wash cycle during cleaning.
• Spray-On: Offers more control. Lay the dry, clean glove flat and apply an even coat from about 6 inches away, focusing on high-wear areas like palms and fingertips.

For Leather or Leather-Palm Gloves

Leather needs conditioning and sealing. Use a leather-specific waterproofing conditioner or wax. These nourish the leather to prevent drying and cracking while creating a water-resistant barrier.

For Gloves with a Built-in Waterproof Membrane

The membrane is your primary barrier. The outer fabric's DWR needs maintenance. If water soaks through the fabric and the glove feels wet, refresh the DWR. If water leaks through the membrane, the seam tape may be compromised—that's a more advanced repair.

Step 3: Application & Activation

1. Work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Follow the product instructions—application and dry times matter.
3. Heat is your friend for DWR treatments. After application, tumble dry on low heat for 20–30 minutes or use an iron on low, no-steam with a towel between the iron and the glove. Heat reactivates the DWR and bonds it to the fibers.

Step 4: Test and Maintain

Once fully dry, test your work. Sprinkle water on the gloves—it should bead up and roll off. If it soaks in, a second application might be needed.

To make your waterproofing last:

• Store gloves in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid excessive heat (like car dashboards) which can degrade treatments.
• Re-apply DWR as soon as water stops beading. Regular maintenance beats a major revival.

A Note on Longevity and When to Retire Gear

We love making gear last, but there's a point where safety and comfort come first. If your gloves' insulation is compacted and no longer warm, or if the leather is cracked beyond repair, it might be time for an upgrade. The best gear is designed to be durable and easy to use from the start, with robust waterproofing built-in—so you spend less time maintaining and more time out there.

Re-waterproofing your gloves is a rewarding ritual. It reconnects you with your gear and the philosophy of making the most of what you have. Now get those gloves treated, and go find some fresh tracks.