Alaska ice climbing gloves?

[Kelsey]

As we know ice climbing in Alaska can be a cold venture. What is everyones suggestion for some good gloves to use. I used some last time that just didnt cut it!

[Jason_Martin]

For Valdez or something big?

 

Jason

Edited January 30, 2005 by Jason_Martin

[terrible_ted]

Which gloves did you use last time?

 

I have BD's Dry Ice gloves and they're very nice, but not warm enough when air temp is in the 20's (F), at least for me. I just picked up a pair of Cloud Veil Ice Floes, and I'm sure they'll be a bit warmer, but not a whole lot.

 

I'd be interested in hearing what other folks are using as well.

 

Of course, none of them are worth a shit when they're soaked...

[JackY]

 

One solution is to use two pairs, one thin pair for the sharp end when you need to fiddle with stuff and one warm pair for everything else.

[Valhalla]

I use OR Mix gloves on warmer days and at belays, and I am still using BD's Ice Gloves for the cold stuff.

[Climzalot]

I have used a combination of gloves up north and have had pretty good luck with the system. LIght fleece or powerstretch for around camp and fiddling with stoves and such. BD Drytool gloves for glacier travel and technical climbing when temperatures permit. BD Ice Gloves for colder technical climbing, BD Guide Gloves for when it's really frickin cold and I need some dexterity, and a pair of exped mittens for keeping my fingers alive when the crap hits the fan. Depending on the nature and length of the route I would have all or just a few of these pairs of gloves in my pack. Dry is key. Always have a fresh, dry pair handy because they will get wet. I usually have a spare pair of Drytool and Ice Gloves handy. Sounds like a lot I know, but in my opinion taking chances with your hands in a technical/committing environment is a bad idea.

[Kraken]

i count myself lucky t hat i have incredible circulation. I almost laways only use REI one gloves. these things are so damn thin, you don't even realize you're wearing 'em. most people want thicker gloves though.