Let’s Talk About Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt is designed to be your reliable, lightweight, and waterproof companion in harsh winter conditions. Manufactured by Mountain Equipment, these mitts promise a refuge from the cold and wet, ensuring your hands stay protected whether you’re trekking through snowy landscapes or facing a sudden downpour.
I needed a reliable pair of mitts that offered waterproof protection without adding excessive bulk to my pack. Having experienced frostnip on a winter hike due to inadequate handwear, I was searching for a solution that prioritized warmth, weather resistance, and packability.
Upon receiving the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt, my initial impression was positive. The mitts felt surprisingly lightweight and the material had a reassuringly durable feel.
Compared to other mitts I’ve used, like bulky down-filled models or less waterproof fleece gloves, the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt seemed to strike a good balance between protection and packability. I chose these over heavier, more specialized mountaineering mitts because I wanted something versatile enough for hiking and general winter use.
My first impression was excitement. I was eager to test their waterproof capabilities and overall warmth in challenging conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt during a late-season backpacking trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The conditions were typical for the area: cold, windy, and with intermittent snow flurries.
The mitts performed admirably in the damp conditions, keeping my hands dry and surprisingly warm. I didn’t need any break-in time. They were comfortable from the start.
One minor surprise was how well the Suregrip palm worked with my trekking poles. The grip felt secure even when the poles were wet.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hiking trips and general winter wear, the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The DRILITE fabric has proven to be durable and the Suregrip palm shows no signs of peeling or cracking. Maintenance is simple. I just wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use.
Compared to previous gloves and mitts that I’ve owned, the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt outperforms many in terms of waterproofness and warmth-to-weight ratio. It surpasses the packability of warmer down mitts while offering superior weather protection compared to fleece gloves.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt
Specifications
- The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt is constructed with DRILITE, a waterproof shell fabric featuring a monolithic polyurethane membrane that ensures breathability and durability. This is key for keeping hands dry and comfortable in wet environments.
- The palm is made of Suregrip, providing excellent grip on trekking poles or ice axes. This enhances safety and control during outdoor activities.
- The mitts are insulated with POLARLOFT, a synthetic insulation that offers a good warmth-to-weight ratio. This ensures hands stay warm even when wet.
- Weighing in at only 4.2 oz, the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt is extremely lightweight. This is important for minimizing pack weight on long trips.
- The lining is made of Polyester for comfortable wear. This helps wick away moisture.
Performance & Functionality
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt excels at its primary function: keeping hands warm and dry in wet and cold conditions. The waterproof shell and synthetic insulation work together to provide reliable protection.
One area for potential improvement is dexterity. As with any mitt, fine motor skills are somewhat limited. However, the warmth and weather protection provided far outweigh this minor drawback. These meet expectations and provide reliable warmth and dryness.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt features a simple, functional design. The materials are high-quality, and the mitts are surprisingly lightweight for their level of protection.
The design is user-friendly, with no complicated features or adjustments needed. They slip on easily and provide a comfortable fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt appears to be built to last. The materials feel durable, and the construction is solid.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and air dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt does not come with any specific accessories, as it is a standalone piece of equipment. There are no customization options available.
The mitts are compatible with most standard glove liners for added warmth in extreme cold conditions. These will work with most generic liners as needed.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt
Pros
- Excellent Waterproof Protection: The DRILITE fabric keeps hands dry in wet conditions.
- Lightweight and Packable: At only 4.2 oz, these mitts won’t weigh you down.
- Warm Synthetic Insulation: POLARLOFT provides warmth even when wet.
- Suregrip Palm: Offers a secure grip on trekking poles and other equipment.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand regular use in demanding environments.
Cons
- Dexterity is limited due to the mitt design. This is a common limitation of mitts in general.
- No specific customization options are available.
Who Should Buy Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt?
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt is perfect for hikers, backpackers, and anyone who needs reliable waterproof and warm hand protection in cold and wet conditions. It’s also a good choice for general winter use, such as shoveling snow or walking the dog.
Those who require maximum dexterity for tasks like operating camera equipment or tying intricate knots should consider gloves instead. People who only need gloves for light duty, such as city commuting, may not need this product.
A must-have accessory would be a pair of glove liners for added warmth in extremely cold temperatures. Consider also a carabiner to attach the mitts to your pack.
Conclusion on Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt
The Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt is a well-designed and effective piece of gear for anyone venturing into cold and wet environments. Its combination of waterproof protection, lightweight design, and warm synthetic insulation makes it a standout choice for hikers, backpackers, and general winter users.
At a price of around $33, the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt offers excellent value for its performance and durability. The price is justified for the level of protection and quality offered.
I would absolutely recommend the Mountain Equipment Mountain Mitt to anyone looking for a reliable and packable solution for keeping their hands warm and dry. Don’t let cold, wet hands ruin your next outdoor adventure – invest in a pair of these mitts and enjoy the comfort and protection they provide.