Glaceon is a quadrupedal, mammalian Pokémon covered in light-blue fur. It has long, pointed ears, dark eyes, and a small nose. A teal crest with two dangling flaps adorns its head, resembling hair or headgear. Glaceon has two dark blue, rhombus-shaped markings on its back; the tip of its tail, feet, and flaps are the same shade of blue.

By controlling its body temperature, it freezes the moisture in the air, producing ice crystals or diamond dust surrounding it. It is capable of freezing its fur into sharp needle-like icicles, which it can fire at opponents or use as protection as it tackles at its prey. Glaceon can also perform this defense mechanism while sleeping. It can quickly drop its body temperature below −75 °F (−60 °C). Glaceon is rather popular in ski resorts due to its ability to create powdery snow. Those captivated by Glaceon's beautiful snowfall will be instantly frozen without realizing it.

Glaceon shares characteristics with foxes, dogs, and cats. It may be more closely based on an arctic fox, due to their habitat. Assuming Leafeon draws inspiration from Siamese or other colorpoint cats, Glaceon may also draw some inspiration from them (especially blue points). Its "hair" resembles an ushanka or a scarf hat.