July 25, 2015

When the initial spark of the idea to make photography gloves hit us a few years ago, a massive brainstorming session followed. We put all our ideas on the table discussing our personal experiences on the mountain shooting with different types of gloves and why some of them didn’t quite fit the bill.

Next step was naturally to discuss: What makes the perfect photography glove?

This is what we found to be the most important features of great photography gloves and what we would recommend you to look for.

 

When buying photography gloves, look for…

#1 An ergonomic fit (ensures the best camera-feel)

Some photographers discuss in whether to wear photography gloves or not. Most of these discussions center around a cost/benefit analysis: What do you gain by wearing gloves and what do you lose? Wearing no gloves at all naturally gives you the perfect feel of your camera and the best conditions for operating your dial. But when it’s freaking freezing and the mountains are calling, we are definitely willing to trade an extra layer of fabric between you and your camera with the comfort of having warm hands.

Go for the fitted ergonomic glove that look like the natural extension of your hand – and watch out for bulky gloves with fat fleece insulation. If the material is too thick you will loose all feel with your camera.

 

#2 A reliable grip

Great photography gloves has a reliable grip across the palms. We highly value when you are able to hold your camera with one hand, without a shred of a doubt that it wont slip through your fingers. It’s great when you don’t have to cramp up your hand to make sure that your “Nikon-baby” is safe. A reliable grip is a must.

There are many different solutions and many different types of material you could apply. Most leather material has a natural grip that your camera wont slide over, and there are endless rubber-like materials that provide the same non-slip feel. Silicone palms in a widespread print is usually a safe choice.

 

#3 High performing materials

A great performing photography glove is not only about the perfect construction of an ergonomic design. The real key is to get a glove with the right performing fabrics.

The materials of a great photography glove should be durable, windproof, water resistant, breathable and thick enough to provide warmth – yet thin enough to ensure a great camera-feel. Easy, aye? But most important, they must have that comfortable quality feel. You will thank yourself later for choosing the upgraded version – they will be your best friends on your missions throughout Winter.

If you are looking for a pipe glove, a combination of soft shell and neoprene is a great way to go. Soft shell allows your skin to breath and is both stretchy and durable. Neoprene is also very flexible and keeps your hands warm even if they get a little wet. A wet suit for your hands, what’s not to like?

Ensuring to buy a glove with a certain quality standard is a little tricky when you make your purchase online. Pictures can be deceiving and descriptions can be – well – a little too flattering compared to what you actually get. In our experience there are quite a few plastic-like models out there, so pay attention to the fine print…

A rule of thumb is to have the price level as a guide. If the glove is too cheap…. it’s probably too cheap.

 

It might not be a necessity, but… why should your photography gloves not look awesome? The perfect photography glove has to look sweet. No arguments. Just get the cool looking gloves, aye.

  

Other features you would look for as value adding? Then shoot your ideas our way. We highly value your input.

 

Our first edition Photography Glove will hit the store shelves in Winter 2015, but we are already designing on the second edition.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your input!

Chur,

Stine // Team Vallerret

If you liked this post, you’ll love these too!

Winter is no joke! Keep warm and shop our range of Vallerret Photography Gloves.


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