Glider pilots find them uplifting (8)
I believe the answer is:
thermals
'glider pilots' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I cannot understand how they can define each other.
I can't explain the rest of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for thermals that I've seen before include "Upward air currents - winter warmers" , "for gliders?" , "Warm underwear" , "Long johns" , "Warm clothes" .)