Choose the Best Climbing Gloves: Our Top 17 Picks for Safety and Comfort

Are you a climber seeking the perfect glove to protect your hands from harsh rocks and frigid temperatures? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top climbing gloves on the market, carefully selected to enhance your climbing experience and provide the utmost protection. Get ready to conquer new heights with our expert roundup.

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Reviews

Metolius Talon Belay Glove: Sturdy Climbing Gloves in Gray/Olive

Achieve self-assured belaying with the Metolius 3/4 Talon Belay Gloves. Manufactured from robust synthetic materials, this glove provides a comfortable and versatile fit, combined with a breathable stretch nylon back and sturdily reinforced wear areas. The glove boasts an adjustable hook and loop wrist closure which includes an integrated clip-in hole, making them a fantastic choice for passionate climbers. They are made from eco-friendly materials, offering effective safeguards without causing any animal-based harm. The convenience of removing these gloves is facilitated by the pull tabs situated on the tips of the fingers, making them an indispensable piece of equipment for your forthcoming expedition.

Pakistani Goat Skin Climbing Glove with Velcro Wrist Strap

The Liberty Mountain Rappel Glove is crafted from premium goat skin leather, with extra cowhide layers on the palm and thumb. The secure Velcro wrist strap and adjustable cuff ensure a comfortable and customizable fit for any hand size. Perfect for both recreation and professional use, these gloves are a must-have for climbers.

Slim-Fitting Leather Climbing Gloves with 4-Way Stretch & Breathable Comfort

Slip into the comforting embrace of these slim-fitting, protective gloves, designed for belaying or via ferratas. Featuring reinforced leather palms and fingers that provide long-lasting durability, these breathable gloves keep your hands cool and relaxed. The convenient Velcro closure ensures a snug fit, while the hook-and-loop cuff closure keeps them close-by when not in use. Enjoy the perfect blend of functionality and comfort when tackling your next adventure.

Climb X Super Crack Gloves: High-Performance, Moldable Climbing Gear

Super Crack Gloves are the ideal companion for climbers who have a passion for crack climbing. These cutting-edge gloves boast a robust design, utilizing authentic climbing shoe rubber for exceptional performance. The rugged finger and thumb loops ensure a snug fit, while the gloves adapt to perfectly fit your hand over time. Experience unparalleled protection and breathable comfort with these premium climbing gloves.

Intra-FIT Climbing Gloves - Durable, Firm-Fit, Full-Finger Protection for Rock, Tree, Wall, Mountain Climbing

Experience ultimate grip and safety with Intra-FIT’s lightweight climbing gloves. With a firm-fitting design, these gloves provide enhanced dexterity and protection while staying breathable and comfortable for all-day climbing. The synthetic leather palm and padded interior ensure durability, while the loop and hook feature allows easy attachment to your harness. Full-finger protection without sacrificing flexibility makes these gloves the perfect choice for any thrill-seeking adventure.

Ocun Crack Large Climbing Gloves

Experience ultimate protection and comfort with the Ocún Crack crack gloves. These gloves are a favorite among climbers, with their sticky rubber layer providing excellent protection and maximum friction for intense climbing sessions. The sophisticated construction allows the rubber layer to seamlessly cover the velcro strap, ensuring there’s nothing in your way when you’re focusing on your climb. And if you’re wondering what Adam Ondra or Tommy Caldwell use in Yosemite Park, it’s none other than the Ocún gloves.

Ocun Crack Gloves Lite S: Lightweight, Sensible, and Comfortable Climbing Gear

Embrace the perfect blend of comfort and functionality with the Ocun Crack Gloves Lite S. Crafted from one-piece stretch microfiber and highly sensitive CAT 1.5 adhesive rubber, these gloves provide maximum friction and protection without compromising on sensitivity. The Lite S version boasts thinner rubber and less inner cushioning, making them lighter and more comfortable for those tackling thinner hand cracks. The longer finger loops ensure a snug fit, while the reinforced Velcro closure and Dyneema material enhance durability and prevent detachment when scaling hard cracks.

Mountain Hardwear FL Belay Climbing Gloves

Crafted for durability and protection, Mountain Hardwear’s fingerless belay gloves offer the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Cut-off fingers allow for easy breathability, ensuring your hands stay fresh and comfortable even after long hours of use. A secure carabinercarabiner clip point keeps you and your climbing partner safe while the hook and loop closure ensures a snug fit.

Anti-Slip Climbing Gloves for Rappelling and Rescue

For those seeking durability and protection, Intra-FIT Climbing Gloves are a gamechanger. Their anti-slip design, featuring top-notch PU reinforcement, delivers unmatched abrasion resistance and grip. With an EVA-padded rope channel and breathable spandex construction, these gloves are perfect for rappelling and rescue missions.

Warm and Waterproof Climbing Gloves by Black Diamond

Embrace optimal warmth and security with the Black Diamond Crew Gloves Natural. Meticulously designed with a blend of breathable Gore-Tex and resilient nylon, these gloves guarantee a snug fit in frigid conditions while preserving waterproof properties. The goatskin palm provides enhanced durability and grip, whereas the knuckle foam safeguards your hands during thrilling outdoor pursuits. Ideal for both men and women, these gloves are an essential addition to your skiing, expedition, or alpine gear inventory where maintaining a comfortable and dry hand environment is crucial.

Petzl Cordex Lightweight Belay/Rappel Gloves - X-Small Tan

Experience ultimate protection and comfort with the Petzl Cordex Lightweight Belay/Rappel Glove, featuring a durable double layer of leather on hand areas for enhanced grip and friction resistance. The stretch nylon on the back provides flexibility for your range of motion. With a neoprene cuff and Velcro fastener, these gloves are easy to attach to your strap or harness. Suitable for various outdoor activities, the Petzl Cordex is a must-have for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Metolius Full Finger Belay Glove for Optimal Climbing Experience

The Metolius Belay Glove is a durable option for belayers, providing a snug fit and impressive dexterity. Made with supple cowhide leather that molds comfortably to your hand, these gloves offer split-cowhide reinforcements on the palm and triple stitching to ensure longevity. The webbing clip-in loop and hook-and-loop wrist closure provide added convenience. Many users have found these gloves to be long-lasting and well worth the investment, despite some initial sizing concerns.

Mountain Hardwear Full-Finger Belay Glove for Climbing

Experience the warmth and protection of Mountain Hardwear’s Belay Glove while belaying rock climbers in Yosemite or the Tetons. Crafted with soft, durable goat leather, these gloves are designed to withstand hours on the climbing wall and offer a snug fit for optimal grip and seamless transitioning between belaying jobs and handling gear. Perfect for both seasoned climbers and novice belayers, the Mountain Hardwear Belay Glove provides unmatched protection and comfort throughout all your climbing adventures.

Black Diamond Mont Blanc Touchscreen-Compatible Climbing Gloves

Experience the ultimate grip and warmth for your mountainous escapades with the Mont Blanc Gloves. Featuring a weather-resistant shell and a grippy palm, these gloves offer the protection you need for your high-energy adventures. Plus, with conductive finger tips, you can use touchscreens without removing your gloves.

Black Diamond Lightweight Softshell Climbing Gloves

Experience versatility and adaptability with the Black Diamond Lightweight Soft Shell Gloves. These gloves are perfect for trail running, climbing, and backpacking, offering lightweight protection against wind and rain. The four-way stretch softshell fabric, along with digital thumb and index fingers, allows for touchscreen use, while the lightweight stretch cuff ensures a snug fit. With a rating of 4.4 stars and 224 reviews, these gloves won’t disappoint.

Black Diamond Crag Half-Finger Climbing Glove for Versatile Rock Climbing Performance

The Black Diamond Crag Half-Finger climbing gloves are designed for a secure grip and comfortable fit, making them perfect for climbing and belaying. Available in a range of sizes, the gloves offer excellent thumb and wrist coverage, while allowing for uncompromised dexterity. Crafted with a combination of highly breathable stretch-mesh and tough synthetic leather, these half-fingers ensure both durability and comfort during your climbing adventures.

OR Granite Full-Grain Leather Climbing Gloves - XS

Outdoor Research’s Granite Gloves are designed with a combination of durability and dexterity for demanding climbing sessions. Crafted from full-grain leather, these gloves feature a split suede overlay that provides excellent rope protection while ensuring a natural feel. The minimal seams allow for seamless fingers motion, making them the perfect choice for technical belaying and rappelling tasks. While they may not be the most durable option on the market, the Granite Gloves offer a well-thought-out design that delivers top-level climbing protection.

Buyer’s Guide

Are you on the hunt for climbing gloves to boost your grip and safeguard your hands while you embark on your next thrilling escapade? With such a plethora of options out there, deciding which pair will best suit your needs might seem daunting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the vital aspects, elements, and general guidance to help you pinpoint the ultimate climbing gloves that complement your climbing style and preferences.

Materials and Thermal Protection

One of the most fundamental aspects to mull over when purchasing climbing gloves is the materials employed and the level of insulation they offer. Climbing gloves, fashioned from diverse materials, encompass leather, synthetic fabrics, and even neoprene. Leather gloves, known for their durability and puncture resistance, are an optimal choice for extended routes. In contrast, synthetic fabrics provide enhanced breathability and flexibility, making them ideal for bouldering and sports climbing.

Grip and Palm Characteristics

Another crucial factor to consider is the grip and palm features of the climbing gloves. Seek gloves with reinforced palm areas and strategically positioned rubber grip patches to bolster your grip on distinct types of holds, such as smooth rock surfaces or textured climbing walls. Moreover, ponder gloves sporting adjustable wrist cuffs to ensure a snug fit and prevent them from slipping off during your climb.

Sizing and Fit

Securing the perfect climbing glove size and fit for your hands is vital for comfort and performance. Measure your hand length and width to identify the appropriate size. Some gloves come in unisex sizing, whereas others may be specifically designed for men or women. Invariably, attempt to try on gloves prior to buying or consult the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer to ensure the most suitable fit for your hands.

Maintenance and Care

Preserving and nurturing your climbing gloves to prolong their lifespan are indispensable measures. Following each use, cleanse the gloves with warm water and a gentle soap, then let them air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Applying a protective cream or balm to the leather parts of the gloves might also be beneficial in preventing cracks and drying. Remember to store your gloves correctly when not in use to deter dirt, sweat, and odor buildup.

FAQ

Factors to Consider When Purchasing Climbing Gloves

When buying climbing gloves, it’s crucial to take into account several important factors. Begin by evaluating the type of climbing you’ll be engaging in and the weather conditions you’ll be dealing with. Various gloves have differing levels of insulation and breathability, so selecting the best pair for your needs is vital. Consider your gripping needs and whether you require gloves with enhanced grip characteristics, such as rubberized palms or textured patterns.

Additionally, contemplate the comfort and fit of the gloves. They should feel snug but not overly tight. Lastly, examine the gloves’ durability by checking for high-quality materials like reinforced stitching and abrasion-resistant palms. Research brands’ reputations for quality and read user reviews to ensure your investment will last.

Benefits of Wearing Climbing Gloves

Climbing gloves offer a range of benefits for climbers, including protection, comfort, and enhanced grip. They prevent damage to the skin, reduce injury risks, and maintain a better grip on surfaces, especially those that demand precision. The advantages of wearing climbing gloves make them an essential investment for serious climbers seeking safety and peak performance.

However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some gloves may limit finger sensitivity, making it more difficult to feel small holds or grip patterns. Additionally, the added weight of the gloves may tire climbers out during long climbing sessions. Lastly, climbing gloves might not be as comfortable in hot weather, as they provide insulation that is unnecessary or uncomfortable in warm environments.

Choosing the Right Size for Climbing Gloves

Selecting the right size for climbing gloves is pivotal for both comfort and performance. Measure the circumference of your hand at its widest point, typically about two to three finger widths above the base of your palm, and consult a size chart provided by the manufacturer. To ensure the best fit, try on the gloves with your climbing shoes and socks to simulate climbing conditions.

Properly-fitted gloves provide support without limiting circulation or causing discomfort. Follow the size chart and try on different gloves to find the best fit for your hands.

General Maintenance Tips for Climbing Gloves

Maintaining the longevity and performance of your climbing gloves relies on proper care. Clean the gloves thoroughly after each climbing session using a soft brush and warm soapy water. Air-dry them away from direct sunlight and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures. Additionally, store the gloves in a cool, dry place to prevent exposure to moisture or humidity. Regularly inspect your climbing gloves for wear and tear, repairing or replacing them as necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Using Regular Gardening or Work Gloves for Climbing

While it’s possible to use gardening or work gloves during climbing activities, regular gloves aren’t specifically designed for climbing. Climbing gloves offer more extensive protection, grip, and dexterity. Work gloves might not provide the necessary level of protection against cuts, bruises, and blisters required for climbing.

If you’re new to climbing or looking for an affordable option, using gardening or work gloves may be an acceptable alternative, though you should expect potential trade-offs in protection and performance. For climbers seeking optimal performance and safety, investing in dedicated climbing gloves is the better choice.

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