Seal otter mittens

I chose a full fur for the outer part, as it effectively traps warm air pockets and creates a halo of warm air around your hands. I lined them with wool, as wool is breathable and can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling clammy. It also feels warm even when your hands are wet.

Some people ask why I do not use fur to line mittens or hats , and the reason is that fur does not function properly when compressed. (Remember, animals have fur on the outside for a reason) I have tried these with a polar fleece liner, but your hands get clammy, and also sheepskin, which was warm but too rigid, and this wool liner was the best option. They are extremely warm and soft enough where you can move and use your hands while wearing them. I wanted to make sure you could wash the liner if needed, so while it’s sewn to the mitten, you can still pull it out and hand wash that portion if ever needed.

Additionally, I reinforced the thumb, as I have found that it is the area where most fur and leather mittens wear out the earliest. I also reinforced the wrist, where you will pull the mitten onto your hand. These mittens are meant to be loose so that they can trap warm air around your hands. I also added leather tabs with a metal ring so you can clip them to a pack or hang them to dry or store if needed.