10 Best Mountaineering Gloves for Extreme Weather Conditions

Warm hands, warm heart ❤️ (or no frostbite). Here’s my review of the best heated mountaineering gloves to help your hands stay warm climbing, hiking or just getting fierce in the Outdoors.

Not all are gloves are created equal. You’re gonna likely need to replace them frequently however as they tend to tear with repeated use, but you already knew that.

They can come in “systems” with liners included, or you can buy separate liners, waterproof and over mittens.

Mountaineering gloves need to be durable, waterproof, and warm. They also need to allow for dexterity, so climbers can handle ropes and carabiners with ease.

If you’re not needing dexterity and want more warmth — check out my heated ski gloves review where the Black Diamond Solanos is my top choice.

Trust me, gloves are an essential item that often gets overlooked but they can make a huge difference in your outdoor experience.

The best mittens and gloves will have a variety of features to address breathability, weight, materials, fit, and function – and I know which ones to look for.

🧭 Read until the end for my insider travel tips from a physical therapist hiking & travel addict.

You will also like:
🗻 Discover the best jackets for hiking in cold weather.
🥾Take a look at the best winter hiking socks.

After researching and testing various mountaineering gloves, we have identified the best options for climbers, hikers and hunters. These gloves offer the perfect combination of warmth, waterproofing, and dexterity, making them ideal for any mountaineering adventure.

So let’s jump in where I’ll share my personal experience, pros and cons, and expert recommendations for the ultimate mountain gloves to avoid hypothermia and frostbite.

1. Best Overall : Black Diamond Mercury Mitts Gloves

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.5/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you are looking for a pair of gloves that can keep your hands warm in harsh winter weather, the Black Diamond Women’s Mercury Mitts Gloves might be worth considering.

Pros

• The removable liner allows for use during the warmer seasons.
• The gloves are waterproof, which can be useful when dealing with snow and wet conditions.
• The gloves are made of durable materials, including Kevlar, fleece, nylon, and leather.

Cons

• The gloves can be a bit bulky, which might make it difficult to perform certain tasks.
• Some users have reported that the gloves are not as warm as they expected.
• The sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to measure your hands carefully before ordering.

These gloves are a great option for anyone who spends a lot of time in cold and wet conditions. The removable liner is a nice feature that allows you to use the gloves in a variety of temperatures, and the waterproof construction ensures that your hands stay dry. The gloves are also made of durable materials, so they should last for a while.

That being said, the gloves can be a bit bulky, which might make it difficult to perform certain tasks. Some users have also reported that the gloves are not as warm as they expected, so keep that in mind if you are planning to use them in extreme cold.

---

---

2. Best Winter : Mountain Hardwear Standard Absolute Zero

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.1/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for a reliable and warm mountaineering glove, the Mountain Hardwear Standard Absolute Zero Gore-Tex Down Mitt is a great option.

Pros

• The Gore-Tex technology provides excellent weather protection, heat transfer, and moisture management.
• The 850-fill goose down on the back of the hand keeps your hands consistently warm.
• The Primaloft Gold insulation with Cross Core and aerogel technology provides the highest level of warmth.

Cons

• The gloves may run a little big, so make sure to check the sizing before purchasing.
• The gloves are quite expensive.
• The gloves may not be suitable for more technical climbing.

The Mountain Hardwear Standard Absolute Zero Gore-Tex Down Mitt is engineered with Gore-Tex technology, offering enduring weather protection, comfort, balanced heat transfer, and optimum moisture management.

The 850-fill goose down on the back of the hand retains critical loft for consistent, dependable warmth, while the Primaloft Gold insulation with Cross Core is fused with aerogel technology for the highest level of warmth in any conditions.

The gloves are made of Pertex 20D ripstop, which is lightweight and Diamond Fuse fabric technology provides extra durability and stability over extended use. Additionally, the gloves feature Pittards goat leather, which adds durability and abrasion resistance.

---

3. Best For Trekking : Mountain Hardwear Glove

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.6/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality mountaineering glove, the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-tex Glove is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The Pittards goat leather in key abrasion points adds durability and longevity.
• The inside-out seams enhance dexterity and mobility, making it easier to handle ropes and perform delicate tasks.
• The gloves are versatile enough to be used in a variety of technical environments.

Cons

• The gloves are a bit on the pricey side.
• Some users may find them a bit bulky.
• Sizing can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to consult the sizing chart carefully before making a purchase.

These gloves are the result of careful collaboration with some of the world’s most accomplished alpinists, and it shows. The Pittards goat leather in key abrasion points adds durability and longevity, while the inside-out seams enhance dexterity and mobility.

These features make it easier to handle ropes and perform delicate tasks, which can be crucial in technical environments. The gloves are versatile enough to be used in a variety of settings, making them a great investment for mountaineers.

That being said, the gloves are a bit on the pricey side, so they may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Some users may also find them a bit bulky, which can be a downside for those who prefer a more streamlined fit.

Sizing can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to consult the sizing chart carefully before making a purchase. The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-tex Glove is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality and versatile mountaineering glove.

---

---

4. Runner Up : Outdoor Research Highcamp Gloves

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.1/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for mountaineering gloves that can withstand harsh weather conditions, then the Outdoor Research Highcamp Gloves are a great option.

Pros

• The gloves feature VerticalX technology, which provides superior warmth-to-weight ratio, breathability, and moisture management.
• The gloves are touchscreen compatible, so you don’t have to take them off to use your phone or other devices.
• The gloves have a waterproof and windproof Ventia exterior shell, which keeps your hands dry and warm.

Cons

• The gloves are on the expensive side.
• The gloves may not fit well for people with larger hands.
• The gloves may not be as durable as some other mountaineering gloves.

The Outdoor Research Highcamp Gloves are made with high-quality materials that provide excellent insulation and protection against the elements. The gloves are comfortable to wear and provide a good grip, which is important when you’re climbing or hiking in difficult terrain.

The gloves are also touchscreen compatible, which is a nice feature that allows you to use your phone or other devices without having to take them off. The gloves have a waterproof and windproof Ventia exterior shell, which keeps your hands dry and warm even in the worst weather conditions.

These gloves may not fit well for people with larger hands, so it’s important to check the sizing chart before purchasing. Finally, the gloves may not be as durable as some other mountaineering gloves, so it’s important to take good care of them to ensure they last as long as possible.

---

---

5. Best Waterproof Liners: Outdoor Research Waterproof Liners

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.9/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for a reliable pair of waterproof gloves, the Outdoor Research Waterproof Liners are a great choice.

Pros

• With Sensor touchscreen compatible technology, you can use your phone without taking off your gloves.
• The gloves are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for layering or wearing on their own.
• The anti-slip silicone pads on the palm and fingers provide an enhanced grip.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the gloves are not warm enough for extreme cold weather conditions.
• The gloves may not fit well for those with larger hands.
• The gloves may not be as durable as some other options on the market.

If you need a pair of waterproof gloves that are both lightweight and breathable, the Outdoor Research Waterproof Liners are a great option. They are perfect for layering or wearing on their own, and the touchscreen compatible technology makes it easy to use your phone without taking off your gloves.

If you need gloves for extreme cold weather conditions, these may not be warm enough for you. Some users have reported that the gloves may not fit well for those with larger hands, and they may not be as durable as some other options on the market.

---

---

6. Best Ice Climbing : CAMP Geko Ice Pro Gloves

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.1/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for a pair of gloves that can handle steep ice climbing, drytooling, and technical mixed terrain, then the CAMP Geko Ice Pro Gloves might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• The Pittards Pearl Atomic Oiltac goat leather on the palms and fingers provides a solid grip in all kinds of conditions.
• The pre-shaped fingers and anatomical construction make for maximum precision and sensitivity.
• The PrimaLoft Gold 60 g/m2 insulation and waterproof/breathable DRYZONE membrane provide excellent protection from the elements.

Cons

• Sizing is important, so make sure to go a size larger for unrestricted movement.
• The closure with Velcro on the top of the wrist might not be everyone’s favorite.
• The gloves are a bit on the expensive side.

These gloves are designed to deliver both a solid grip on ice tools and warm, dry protection from the elements. The Pittards Pearl Atomic Oiltac goat leather on the palms and fingers features a special treatment to optimize grip in all kinds of conditions.

The pre-shaped fingers and anatomical construction make for maximum precision and sensitivity. The closure has been redesigned so the Velcro is on the top of the wrist and out of the way.

The PrimaLoft Gold 60 g/m2 insulation on the main body and the waterproof/breathable DRYZONE membrane combine to deliver a high level of protection from the elements.

While these gloves are a bit on the expensive side, they are definitely worth the investment if you’re serious about mountaineering. The sizing is important, so make sure to go a size larger for unrestricted movement.

The closure with Velcro on the top of the wrist might not be everyone’s favorite, but it does keep the gloves securely in place.

---

7. Alpine Climbing : Black Diamond Transition Gloves

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.8/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re in the market for a pair of gloves for via ferrata and belaying, the Black Diamond Transition Gloves might be worth considering.

Pros

• The goat leather and abrasion-resistant woven nylon with four-way stretch make these gloves durable and long-lasting.
• Leather knuckle and palm patches provide extra protection and grip.
• The hook-and-loop cuff closure ensures a secure fit and easy on/off.

Cons

• The gloves might run a bit tight, so you may need to break them in or size up.
• The cuff can be cumbersome and get in the way.
• Some users have reported issues with the velcro strap tearing.

The Black Diamond Transition Gloves are made with high-quality materials and designed to withstand wear and tear. The leather knuckle and palm patches provide extra grip and protection, while the hook-and-loop cuff closure ensures a secure fit.

Some users have reported issues with the velcro strap tearing, and the gloves can be a bit tight, so you may need to break them in or size up.

---

---

8. Best For Via Ferrata: BLACK DIAMOND Crag Full-Finger Rock Climbing Gloves

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.5/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable glove for belaying and via ferrata, the BLACK DIAMOND Womens Crag Full-Finger Rock Climbing Gloves are a great option to consider.

Pros

• Available in women’s specific sizes and colors, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit
• Breathable stretch mesh fabric and knuckle padding keep your hands cool and protected
• Synthetic leather palm and fingers with reinforced index finger and thumb crotch for durability

Cons

• May run small, so be sure to consult the size chart before purchasing
• Hook-and-loop cuff closure may not be as secure as other closure types
• May not provide enough warmth for extremely cold weather climbing

These gloves are designed to fit comfortably and provide excellent grip and dexterity, making them a great choice for a variety of climbing activities. The breathable mesh fabric and knuckle padding keep your hands cool and protected, while the synthetic leather palm and fingers provide durability and grip.

The reinforced index finger and thumb crotch also add to the glove’s durability.

One potential downside to these gloves is that they may run small, so be sure to consult the size chart before purchasing to ensure a proper fit. The hook-and-loop cuff closure may not be as secure as other closure types, which could be a concern for some climbers.

These gloves may not provide enough warmth for extremely cold weather climbing, so they may not be the best choice for winter mountaineering.

---

---

9. Best Heated Gloves : Venustas Heated Gloves

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.3/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

If you’re looking for heated gloves that can keep your hands warm and cozy for up to 8 hours, then Venustas Heated Gloves are the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The gloves are rechargeable and come with 2 Lithium Polymer batteries, which can last up to 8 hours on a single charge.
• They are made of high-quality materials and have a sleek design.
• The gloves are suitable for both men and women and come in various sizes.

Cons

• The batteries take a long time to charge fully.
• The sizing chart can be confusing, and some customers have reported that the gloves are too small or too big.
• Some customers have reported issues with the batteries, such as short battery life or a faulty battery.

These gloves are perfect for anyone who wants to keep their hands warm while participating in outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. The gloves are made of high-quality materials and are designed to keep your hands warm and dry in cold and wet conditions.

The gloves are easy to use and come with a rechargeable battery that can last up to 8 hours on a single charge. The gloves have three different heat settings, so you can adjust the temperature to your liking.

Some customers have reported issues with the batteries, such as short battery life or a faulty battery. Additionally, the sizing chart can be confusing, and some customers have reported that the gloves are too small or too big.

---

---

10. Best For Mountaineering : Hestra Army Leather Heli

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.9/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

You should definitely purchase the Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove if you’re looking for a durable and warm glove for skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering.

Pros

• The quality of the leather and craftsmanship is excellent.
• The removable liners make it easy to dry out the gloves.
• The gloves are warm and fit great.

Cons

• The price point might be a bit high for some people.
• The gloves might not be as waterproof as some other options.
• The sizing might run a bit small.

The Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove is made of 70% leather and 30% synthetic material, making it a durable option for outdoor activities. The gloves are warm and fit great, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

The removable liners make it easy to dry out the gloves, which is important for keeping your hands warm and dry.

One downside of the Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove is that it might not be as waterproof as some other options. Additionally, the pricing might be a bit high for some people. It’s important to note that the sizing might run a bit small, so it’s a good idea to try them on before purchasing.

---

---

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best mountaineering gloves, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your purchase:

Fit and Comfort

The fit and comfort of your gloves are crucial to your overall experience while climbing. Gloves that are too tight can restrict movement, while gloves that are too loose can make it difficult to grip onto tools. Look for gloves that fit snugly but still allow for flexibility and movement. Consider trying on different sizes and styles to find the perfect fit for you.

Insulation

Mountaineering gloves need to be able to keep your hands warm in cold temperatures. Look for gloves with good insulation, such as down or synthetic materials. Keep in mind that gloves with more insulation may be bulkier and less flexible, so find a balance that works for you.

Waterproofing

Wet gloves can quickly lead to cold, uncomfortable hands. Look for gloves that are waterproof or have a waterproof membrane to keep your hands dry in wet conditions. Keep in mind that gloves with more waterproofing may be less breathable, so consider your needs for both warmth and moisture management.

Durability

Mountaineering can be tough on gear, so look for gloves that are made with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Leather is a popular choice for its durability, but synthetic materials can also be durable and more affordable.

Other Features

Consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as touch screen compatibility, wrist straps, or reinforced palms for extra grip. Keep in mind that additional features may add to the cost of the gloves, so prioritize what is most important to you.

Mountaineering Gloves vs Mittens

This is an age old question and we all know that mittens will keep you warmer, but it’s a tradeoff.

Final Verdict: Best Performance

Let’s face it, you pay for what you get. You’ve got many options, but if you’re really interested in performance I highly recommend you consider this one.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the warmest gloves for mountain climbing?

The warmest gloves for mountain climbing are those made with high-quality insulation materials like synthetic, down, or wool. The gloves should also have a waterproof and breathable membrane to keep your hands dry and comfortable in cold and wet conditions.

What gloves do Everest climbers wear?

Everest climbers wear gloves that are specifically designed for high-altitude mountaineering. These gloves are usually made with high-quality insulation materials like down or synthetic, and they also have a waterproof and breathable membrane to keep your hands dry and comfortable in cold and wet conditions.

What are the best Gore-Tex gloves for mountaineering?

The best Gore-Tex gloves for mountaineering are those that are made with high-quality Gore-Tex materials and have a waterproof and breathable membrane. These gloves should also have a good insulation system to keep your hands warm in cold and wet conditions.

How do I choose mountaineering gloves?

When choosing mountaineering gloves, you should consider the type of climbing you will be doing, the weather conditions you will be facing, and your personal preferences. Look for gloves that are made with high-quality insulation materials, have a waterproof and breathable membrane, and provide good dexterity and grip.

What are the differences between mountaineering gloves and ski gloves?

Mountaineering gloves are designed for high-altitude mountaineering and have a more robust insulation system than ski gloves. They also have a waterproof and breathable membrane to keep your hands dry and comfortable in cold and wet conditions. Ski gloves, on the other hand, are designed for downhill skiing and have a more flexible and lightweight insulation system.

Are there any mountaineering gloves specifically designed for women?

Yes, there are mountaineering gloves specifically designed for women. Black Diamond Mercury Mitts are sized for women. These gloves are designed to fit the smaller hand size of women and have a more feminine design. They also have the same features as regular mountaineering gloves, including high-quality insulation materials and a waterproof and breathable membrane.

---

---

Why Trust?

At Crave the Planet, I’m all about honest and relatable reviews of outdoor products. As a physical therapist, hut to hut hiker, downhill skier and mom, I’m constantly trying new gear to make my outdoor experiences more comfy and fun but with science in mind.

I’ll be real with you, I don’t do every outdoor activity. But, who does? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet. Perfectionism is my enemy and I hope to help you ditch that vibe too.

My review process involves testing each product in real-life outdoor situations, but if it’s a really horrible day I’ll probably find a hotel in the valley. I’ll let you know what worked for me and what didn’t, so you can make informed decisions about your gear choices.

I don’t do sponsored reviews or take payment for my reviews. All comments are based on my personal experience. Sometimes I’ll test something and then send it back for a refund. Usually there’s a hefty fee. Bummer. So, if you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.

More Hiking & Outdoor Gear Resources

Here’s more awesome gear to empower your journey. I have written in-depth comparisons of products that make hiking and exploring the Great Outdoors safer and more fun, especially if you’re a beginner (or like me, a little rusty in the knees).

---

If you’re a passionate mountaineer, you know that gloves are an important part of your gear. I hope this list of the best mountaineering gloves helps you enjoy the nature.