Backpacker Magazine – March 2010

Gear Review: First Ascent Guide Gloves

Featuring a merino lining and insulated with Primaloft these gloves were soft enough for nose-wiping yet tough enough for ice axes and high-friction rappelling.

by: Jonathan Dorn & Shannon Davis

Tags:
• Gear
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• Gloves
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Want a superb technical glove for mountaineering, skiing, and winter camping? These Pittards leather gloves are soft enough for nose-wiping yet tough enough for ice axes and high-friction rappels; for grip and dexterity, leather this supple has few equals. Inside, a merino wool lining kept my palms dry and didn’t catch when I slid wet hands in and out. A wide, adjustable, elastic cuff helps there; it also seals tight against spindrift. Insulated with Primaloft, the Guides are warm well below freezing if you’re active. Pros: impeccable fit and great dexterity. Cons: The water-resistant leather wets out after prolonged rain or slush. firstascent.com.

Best For
Mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and tool- intensive cold-weather trips

Tester Data
> Jonathan Dorn
> Other Tester: Shannon Davis
> Duration Aug. to Dec.
> Locales/conditions Rockies, Alps, six varieties of snow
> “In subzero windchills, you can’t afford to take your gloves off to fiddle with gear. The Guides have the touch you need.”

> $119
> 6.7 oz. (m’s L)
> XS-XL

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