If you are an avid climber, you must know that you often have to come down when you go up. The form of using climbing gear for coming down a cliff is called rappelling. Doing this can be hard on your hands if you don’t have the right gloves to keep you protected. For many beginners, the main question is, “What are Rappelling Gloves?”
Rappelling gloves are thick gloves made from high-quality materials. These gloves protect your hands when you have to navigate the rope while you are descending. They are more durable than most gloves, and if you don’t want rope burn, you can use some of these gloves to ensure your hands are protected.
Since there are many different gloves to choose from, you must consider the different options. This article aims to help you make the right decision. We have added a basic buyer’s guide to make it possible for you to find the right gear. It should be an interesting article if you love climbing.
What Do You Need To Look For When Buying A Pair Of Rappelling Gloves?
When looking for rappelling gloves, you will need to ensure that you have the right gloves to ensure your hands are protected. In addition, the gloves need to fit comfortably, and this will allow you to wear them for longer periods. However, durability is one of the most important things to keep in mind when searching for gloves.
If you can find versatile gloves that include additional grip, it can give you more uses. Occasionally, you will be able to find these gloves and use some of them for climbing as well. However, to combat the thickness of these gloves, it is important that you also keep ventilation in mind. It will help reduce the heat you need to deal with.
Are you looking for Climbing and Rappelling Gear? Then, check out our beginner’s guide!
Key Features To Look For In A Pair Of Rappelling Gloves
Now that you understand some of the basic information about buying rappelling gloves, we have also looked at some of the important features. These features are the most important when you are looking at rappelling gloves. These are the most important features to keep in mind when buying these gloves:
Materials
One of the first things to keep in mind is the materials of the gloves. Generally, leather is the best option, but many people also choose polyester. However, when looking at the palm section, you must have something durable like leather. In addition, leather can withstand a lot of punishment to ensure you have a durable glove.
On a side note, we should also mention that double padding. There are additional forms of padding to keep in mind, and generally, the palm is reinforced. If you choose something cheaper like polyester, we would recommend leather or synthetic leather of the palm section.
Sizing
The size of the gloves is also one of the most important decisions you can make. Each glove and brand have different sizes, and you will need to use the chart to find the right size. With rappelling gloves, you don’t want something too big, or your hands might slip. On the other hand, if the gloves are too tight, it could restrict blood flow.
Ventilation
Since you will be spending a lot of time wearing these gloves, you will need to provide some form of ventilation for your hands. Generally, these gloves have ventilation ports along the upper part of the glove. It should make it easier for air to pass through and ensure that you can also use the gloves for a little longer.
Grip
Finally, the palm side of the glove is the most important part. While you might have some form of different padding, you often have riffles that mesh with the rope. It should make it possible for you to have a solid grip on the rope. One of the last things you want is for the gloves to slip and lose control when rappelling.
Top 3 Rappelling Gloves
Once you understand the features needed for buying these gloves, you will have to buy the right gloves. To make it possible for you to find the right gloves, we have identified a couple of the best gloves on the market today. Here are some of the best options on the market today:
PETZL Cordex Plus Medium Weight Belay & Rappel Gloves
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Durable leather construction
- Padded palm
- Low profile setup
- Comfortable setup
Cons:
- Expensive
Bottom Line: The PETZL Cordex Plus Medium Weight Belay & Rappel Gloves are some of the most durable on the market today. It is made from goatskin and features a reinforced palm setup. The padded palm will reduce the heat and abrasion that you need to deal with.
Black Diamond Crag Glove
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Lightweight setup
- Affordable
- Multi-sports gloves
- Reliable brand
Cons:
- Lacks durability
Bottom Line: The Black Diamond Crag Glove is one of the best for strapped to a tight budget. It features a unique design, and synthetic leather gives it a little bit of durability. However, while the gloves are affordable, they are a little less durable than leather gloves.
Intra-FIT Climbing Gloves
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Goat Skin Leather
- Flexible design
- Affordable
- Warm for winter
Cons:
- Oversized
Bottom Line: If you want something more affordable, you should look at the Intra-FIT Climbing Gloves. These gloves are made from durable leather materials, and it is flexible due to the neoprene being included. In addition, the warmer design makes them perfect for climbing in cold weather conditions.
Rappelling Gloves Summary
Finding the best rappelling gloves is not that hard when you know what to look for. There are hundreds of these gloves on the market today, but you need to be careful when selecting them, There are plenty of knock-offs that are far cheaper than some on this list. However, these will give you all the durability to ensure your hands are protected.
Need Gear for Your Rock Climbing Trip?
If you are planning a rock climbing adventure, you want to make sure that you have the right gear. Check out our beginners guide for rock climbing equipment.
