I was recently sent a pair of Ipsoot Photography Gloves by Vallerret, and asked to share my thoughts. This is the Norway-based company that is the winter weather best friend to cold hands everywhere. Things have been a little unseasonably warm here in St. Louis, so my more in-depth review will come later. However, I wanted to take a quick moment to give my first impressions.

Having worked for a soft goods manufacturer previously, I understand that small details count for a lot. I can say, with zero reservations that Vallerret sweats the small stuff. The materials, stitching, and feel of the Ipsoot are all stellar. It is obvious from close inspection that these gloves will hold up to some serious abuse, which is pretty much what one should expect for an outdoor adventure brand.

“For the darkest days of winter.”

The Ipsoot is designed to provide extra protection from the elements, and extra warmth for those up-before-sunrise shoots on snowy, mountain trails. This is achieved with a 100% Merino Wool and Thinsulate liner that is both moisture-wicking and heat trapping. Innovation extends to the shell also, which is comprised of a DWR 2-ply laminated micro twill with goat leather palm. The palm side of the fingers are printed with a non-slip grip that provides confidence for handholding slippery electronics, while the thumb and forefinger on both hands feature FlipTech finger sheaths with magnet stays (past photo gloves that I’ve used don’t stay closed very well, which I don’t think will be an issue for these). A jersey cuff, with a reinforced tab for pulling the gloves easily on and off, ensures a comfortable (and snow free) fit. Needless to say, I am absolutely stoked to get these out in the field soon!

There are plenty of reasons to pick up a pair of these gloves if you are in the market, and you can add to that that Vallerret products are designed by actual photographers. This makes a huge difference. They’ve experienced the same issues we have all encountered while out operating cameras in the cold, and have made it their mission to solve them. Based on my initial impressions of the Ipsoot, it looks like they are well on their way!

Here’s yet another (and maybe most important) reason to love them: instead of running a Black Friday deal to boost sales, Vallerret is donating 100% of their profits from Black Friday to the Norwegian Society of Conservation to help fund protection for the natural environment of Lofoten and the cold-water reef just off its coast (the world’s largest). That’s enough to give you warm hands and a warm heart.