If you are climbing, it is necessary that you have the right accessories. The next accessory we will cover that climbers need to equip are the gloves. But this is a pretty important weapon that many people overlook because they are not only convenient in terms of high grip but also protect skin from lag and rappels and are extremely useful for long targets involving long mountain climbing or support.
Moreover, comfort and dexterity should be the biggest factors to consider when choosing climbing gloves. Besides, a climbing gloves environment will also determine the kind of glove to choose because they also provide extra warmth when the weather is chilly.
In order to understand each product of the brands in the current market, we have compiled a fairly clear list of the products with the highest priority today, and the factors that make each product successful.
1. Types of the climbing gloves
Rappel climbing gloves
These are known for their special construction to protect hands from wire burns during outdoor climbing. On top of that, this gives you greater control over the climbing vines and increases the safety of the rappel.
Belay climbing gloves
These are for rappelling use only. The absence of Belay gloves can injure hands with the slip of the wire. But the use of leather for climbing will bring comfort and safety on the slopes.
2. Materials of the climbing glove
In general, the rock climbing gloves are made of leather and synthetic materials. However, when choosing you should better understand each material to get the right gloves to use them for daily activities.
Leather climbing gloves
They are usually durable and comfortable, and sometimes cheaper. Talking about the high quality part, we always recommend everyone to use the skin because they feel more natural in the hand and are also more dexterous and flexible. However, they have poor water resistance and only work in moderately dry to wet conditions but are especially important to keep dry.
Synthetic climbing gloves
They will not be as durable as leather, but on the contrary they are extremely waterproof and breathable. On the market, some gloves combine leather and synthetic leather on both sides of the hands.
3. Breathability of the climbing glove
If you choose climbing gloves, you should pay attention to the ability to keep your hands dry and prevent sweat from accumulating. That is why your hands get itchy due to excessive perspiration accumulation.
4. Waterproofness for climbing glove
If you go hiking in wet weather and the environment, you should consider the waterproof ventilation of the gloves. Examples include the waterproof options of black diamond.
5. Size of climbing gloves
The size of climbing gloves often depends on the material. If the gloves are leather, then you should choose a leather glove that is small and tight because the leather material will stretch with regular use. Note, the gloves should be wrapped tightly around the hand and the fingers should not be loose. The wide gloves will reduce sensitivity and comfort.
Also, when using synthetic materials, make sure that the gloves are not too tight as they only have an elongation property or do not.
7. Fit for climbing glove
Most of the climbing gloves usually cling very tightly to the hands and fingers. Therefore, you will have less sensation when touching the surrounding objects. Usually leather gloves will stretch with long-term use, so choose a smaller size. Synthetic gloves will not adapt well to the shape of the hand and will not last as long.
8. Features
- Velcro of climbing gloves: With a velcro lanyard that can be opened and closed easily with one hand. Besides, they also support gloves not to come off during climbing.
- Abrasion-resistant of the climbing glove: Abrasion resistance is an important criterion because, firstly, they will assist climbers with hand injuries due to the high wear of the gloves; The second saves you limited costs. So, when choosing climbers, always choose a glove with high wear resistance and durability.
- Pull out straps of the climbing glove: There are some climbing gloves with added zippers and straps. While they are not essential, they make it easier to take off your gloves.
- Frequency of use: Should pay attention to how long you use climbing gloves, if you participate regularly, you should choose a high quality and durable type, this type is usually more expensive. Low-quality gloves are cheap, but not suitable for frequent use.
9. Insulation of climbing gloves
Almost all gloves provide a certain amount of warmth, and that depends on the material and construction of the glove. Good fleece or mitts provide warmth from the actual material, but as with gloves, the inner and outer materials protect the external elements, body heat accumulates in the insulation. Therefore, they are one of the essential elements that you need to know. In addition, the better the weight and volume of the insulation, the better the glove you are about to choose is a quality product. Don't change the safety of our hands for the sake of saving.
10. Quality of climbing gloves
Currently, manufacturers all post videos on how to use and recognize product quality for you to better understand. And not all materials are characterized by their materials and properties. Leather material is resistant. Pay special attention, when buying, you should see the lines clearly because this factor also affects the use process more or less. Often, low-quality gloves can wear out after a short time and can't withstand the strain.
11. Dexterity of climbing gloves
The flexibility of the glove is an important feature when you are engaged on mountain routes or rocky surfaces. The first thing you need is a comfortable grip on the ledge when hooking the climbing rope, from which you can freely move in many directions. If you are a professional athlete, you will definitely need climbing gloves with flexibility.
Conclusion
Above the gearinstant's recommend list. Climbing gloves are an essential accessory for both outdoor and indoor activities if you want to protect your hands and fingers while climbing. They often prevent cracks, burns and hand injuries caused by rough cliffs or protruding wires on contact surfaces. So choosing a glove for yourself is very necessary for the climbing trip.
