Hestra
Goat leather gloves, Swedish family glove maker since 1936
Philosophy
Swedish heritage glove maker since 1936. Premium leather and technical gloves for ski and everyday.
History
Hestra, Sweden, 1936. Martin Magnusson makes leather gloves for local lumberjacks. In 1937, a ski hill opens near the Magnusson home. Sons Lars-Olol and Göte become skiers, and it's clear lumberjack gloves won't do for skiing. Martin adapts his craft.
Four generations later, the Magnusson family still runs the company from the same village. Among enthusiasts, Hestra is a monument: Heli Ski gloves shown after 8 seasons, 15-16 years. 'Best gloves you can buy.' Only advice: skip synthetic entry-level, go straight for the long leather. Army Leather Heli Ski at 200 euros - expensive for gloves, but cheaper than replacing 60-euro pairs every two years. Hestra also offers repair and re-waterproofing service.
Iconic Products
Army Leather Heli Ski
THE ski glove. Goat leather palm, removable Fiberfill insulation, velcro wrist closure. The model enthusiasts recommend in every 'best ski gloves' thread - lasts 8, 10, 15 seasons. About 200 euros, an investment not a purchase.
Fall Line
The all-leather alpine ski glove. No textile, only goat leather inside and out. Warmer and more supple than the Heli Ski. Ages beautifully, leather patinas in one season.
Deerskin Primaloft
The urban winter glove. Deerskin (softer than goat), PrimaLoft insulation, Merino wool lining. For city wear at -5C when you refuse to wear North Face gloves. Slim, warm, elegant.