Black Diamond Glissade Gloves

Very well-made gloves with a great balance of warmth and dexterity within their temperature rating, for general mountaineering, mountain activities, and more.

Bought them for a winter trip and while keeping in mind that my activities in the mountains will diversify and become more technical in the next few years. I bought the previous year's model now that a new one has surfaced and got a bargain.

The outer shell is synthetic and inspires confidence in its water proof and windproof abilities. The palm is goat leather, well treated, soft and flexible. A velour like textile on the outer thumb meant to function (I think) as a nose wipe. Finally, a loop on the outer middle finger for attaching them with a biner and the opening facing down.

These gloves are worn over the sleeve of any jacket (except the burliest of the burly perhaps), and a drawstring ensures no snow or wind will enter. This string is elastic and functions in the same simple way as the ones on backpacks' openings: pull and it locks, pull the non-elastic loop and it opens, so great single-hand functionality. 

Background

I have used it in cold conditions (-2°C) and played around with the surrounding snow to test their warmth and insulation; no sign of cold. I also tried to tie in a no-step-in harness (where you tie the belt buckle and leg loops around you), I don't think the operation could be better for this level of warmth, and although I didn't have a lot of difficulty I think the force of habit will overcome a few difficulties. Greatly recommended, and I don't think there are missing features as compared to the new model, a lot must be cosmetic.

Great glove for the price but I don't really like the Thinsulate insulation (it's kind of scratchy). If you are willing to spend a little bit more money the Black Diamond Soloist Glove is a better option.

11-13-2010 Update:

In my last review i said this glove was kinda scratchy. Well it got worse with time and now it is extremely, irritatingly uncomfortable to put them on I am returning them.

P.S. I have a pair of BD Mercury Mitts and so far so good :) super comfy