When winter rolls around, I begin the sacred ritual of checking (and sometimes overhauling) my snow gear.
This year, amidst the familiar brands that littered my room, I stumbled upon a name that had been gaining traction in my snowboarding circles – Oyuki.
Hailing from the snow-laden lands of Niseko, Japan, a place renowned for its pristine powder, Oyuki has been quietly building a cult following.
But is Oyuki a good brand?
Let’s find out!
Oyuki are an exceptional snow sports brand, offering outstanding quality and a strong commitment to sustainability. I highly recommend their mittens, which stand out for their warmth, functionality and style. The only slight negative is the price tag.
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post, these are my own honest opinions. There are some affiliate links in the article though, which may earn me a commission if you make a purchase (at no cost to you).
Who are Oyuki?
Oyuki originates from the increasingly popular Niseko, Japan.
Niseko is renowned worldwide for its pristine powder, making it an ideal testing ground for snow gear. Oyuki, which translates to “big snow” in Japanese, encapsulates the essence of this region.
The brand specializes in producing high-quality winter wear, with a particular emphasis on gloves and mittens. Â
Oyuki combines traditional Japanese insights with modern technology and materials to produce products that are both functional and stylish.
What Makes Them Different From Other Brands?
One of the distinguishing features of Oyuki products is their emphasis on designs that cater for deep snow conditions.
The brand has a reputation for creating gear that is not only warm and durable but also offers optimal dexterity, which is crucial for the discerning powder hound.
Edit: Having tested more Oyuki gear, I’ve added them to the list of best snowboard clothing brands. I’m pretty stoked on their stuff so far!
First Impressions: The Mighty Mittens
The first thing I tried from Oyuki was their mittens.
As someone who’s battled with cold fingers in the past, mittens are a crucial part of my snowboarding gear (more on gloves versus mittens here).
And my experience?
Oyuki’s mittens felt like a warm hug for my hands.
Expertly crafted with the perfect amount of insulation and a robust exterior, they seamlessly combined warmth and style.Â
I did find that they were on the snug side – which was easily fixed by going one size up.Â
Value for Money
I wouldn’t blame you for being a little put off by the price tag. Oyuki don’t make cheap gear. However, given the quality and craftsmanship put into each item, I think the price is perfectly reasonable.
My trigger mittens from 4-years ago are still holding up strong. More than can be said of the cheaper mittens I bought last year.
Weekend warriors may be better with cheaper alternatives, but for dedicated riders, Oyuki could be a worthy investment.
Beyond Products: A Commitment to the Planet
But a brand isn’t just its products; it’s the ethos that drives it.
My deep dive into Oyuki’s values revealed a commendable dedication to sustainability. Their conscious decision to use eco-friendly materials and environmentally responsible methods receives a nod of approval from me.
These days I only support brands that are protective of both its wearers and the earth. Fortunately, Oyuki is one of them.
Final Thoughts: Is Oyuki Worth the Hype?
So, is Oyuki a good brand?
My experience with them so far suggests they’re not merely good, but outstanding. However, I always say gear is pretty personal, and what works for one might not for another.
So give Oyuki a shot and see if it fits your winter setup. Let me know your own experiences in the comments.Â
As for me? I’m currently saving up for some more Oyuki ensemble. Don’t tell the wife!Â