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There should be a little air space at the tips of Don’t buy gloves or mittens that are too tight. Cross country skiing gloves tend to be lighter-weight for extra movement. Some snowboarding gloves and mittens also have built-in wrist guards, which are excellent for novice snowboarders. Snowboarding gloves and mittens often have a reinforced palm because of extra wear from adjusting bindings and balancing on the snow.

Consider the type of activity. Mittens, in general, are warmer than gloves. Gloves and mittens: Look for gloves and mittens that use waterproof, breathable fabrics. Watch for gaps, especially around the nose. Goggles should form an uninterrupted seal on the face, extending above the eyebrows and below the cheekbones.

Make sure the glasses fit snugly behind the ears and rest gently on the bridge of the nose. Look for 100 percent UV protection in sunglasses. On flat-light days or when it's snowing, goggles are vital. Snow, or any other reflective surface, makes ultraviolet (UV) rays stronger, while increased altitude also magnifies the danger.

They also protect eyes from damaging solar radiation. Sunglasses and goggles: Sunglasses do much more than create a cool image. A fleece neck gaiter (like a collar) or face mask is a must on cold days. Not only do they protect your head from bumps, but they also keep your head warm.

Helmets are becoming very popular. Many have non-itch liners. (Tip: Wearing a hat, translates to one less layer on the body.) There are thousands of styles of hats and headbands, usually made from fleece or wool.  Up to 60 percent of the body's heat can escape from an uncovered head, so wearing a hat, headband or helmet is essential when it's cold.