Let’s Talk About C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove
Winter’s icy grip demands gear that can withstand the harshest conditions, and for years, I’ve sought the perfect glove – one that balances dexterity, warmth, and unwavering grip. My search led me to the C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove, a name synonymous with technical ice climbing and demanding mixed terrain. C.A.M.P. promises a revolutionary glove, and I’m here to dissect whether it lives up to the hype.
I was tired of gloves that either left my fingers numb or felt like bulky oven mitts, rendering me useless on delicate ice features. I needed a glove that could offer both the sensitivity to feel the nuances of the ice and the insulation to keep me moving for hours in sub-zero temperatures.
Upon unboxing the C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove, I immediately noticed the supple feel of the Pittards leather and the meticulous stitching. The gloves felt lightweight yet substantial, inspiring confidence in their ability to perform.
I considered the Black Diamond Torque Glove and the Outdoor Research Alti Glove, but the Geko Ice Pro’s emphasis on dexterity and its unique leather treatment ultimately won me over. The promise of a ‘No Slip technology’ grip was especially alluring, as was the anatomical fit.
My initial impression was excitement tempered by cautious optimism. These gloves looked the part of a high-performance piece of equipment, but the real test would be on the ice.
Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove during a multi-pitch ice climb in the Canadian Rockies, where temperatures hovered around -15°C. The route involved a mix of steep ice, delicate traverses, and some dry tooling sections.
The gloves performed admirably in the frigid conditions, keeping my hands warm even after hours of exposure. The Pittards Pearl Atomic Oiltac goatskin provided an exceptional grip on my ice tools, feeling secure and confident even on overhanging sections.
Initially, the anatomical fit felt snug, but quickly molded to my hand providing great dexterity right away. There were no cold spots or areas of discomfort, which is a testament to the well-designed construction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a season of use, the C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The leather shows minimal wear, with only slight scuffing on the fingertips.
Maintenance has been simple: occasional wiping down with a damp cloth and leather conditioner has kept them in excellent condition. They are not overly difficult to clean and maintain.
Compared to previous experiences with other climbing gloves, the Geko Ice Pro excels in both warmth and dexterity. These gloves perform far better than older pairs of gloves I’ve used.
Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove
Specifications
- The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove features a DRYZONE waterproof/breathable membrane ensuring hands stay dry in wet conditions. This membrane is critical for maintaining warmth and preventing moisture buildup during strenuous activity.
- The palm is constructed from Pittards Pearl Atomic Oiltac goatskin, known for its exceptional grip and durability. This leather is treated to optimize grip in all conditions, providing a secure hold on ice tools and ropes.
- PrimaLoft Gold 60g/m2 insulation is used on the main body of the glove, offering excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. This insulation provides sufficient warmth without sacrificing dexterity.
- The shell material is elastic, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit. This enhances mobility and reduces bulk.
- The gloves weigh approximately 5.3 oz, making them lightweight and easy to pack. This is an important consideration for long approaches and multi-day climbs.
Performance & Functionality
The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove excels in its intended purpose: providing a secure grip, warmth, and dexterity for technical ice climbing. Its performance is exceptional.
The Pittards Oiltac leather delivers a confidence-inspiring grip on ice tools, even when wet. This enhances safety and efficiency on challenging climbs.
The DRYZONE membrane effectively keeps hands dry, preventing the debilitating effects of moisture buildup. The combination of the membrane and insulation provides exceptional warmth.
While the gloves offer excellent dexterity, manipulating small items like carabiners can still be challenging. This is a common limitation of most insulated climbing gloves.
Design & Ergonomics
The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove is meticulously designed with an anatomical fit and pre-shaped fingers. This allows for natural hand movement and reduces fatigue.
The build quality is superb, with durable materials and reinforced stitching. The gloves feel well-constructed and capable of withstanding the rigors of ice climbing.
The velcro closure on the wrist is easy to adjust and stays securely fastened, without interfering with jackets. The cuff loops and clippable hanging loops are also convenient features, providing easy storage and attachment options.
Durability & Maintenance
The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. With proper care, they should provide several seasons of reliable use.
Maintenance is straightforward: regular cleaning and conditioning of the leather will extend the glove’s lifespan. Occasional treatment with a waterproofing agent can also help maintain the DRYZONE membrane’s performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove comes with elastic wrist leashes, preventing accidental drops. There are not many customization options available for this glove.
The low-profile buckles for clipping the gloves together are a handy feature. While there are no specific C.A.M.P. branded accessories, the gloves are compatible with standard climbing accessories.
Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove
Pros
- Exceptional Grip: The Pittards Pearl Atomic Oiltac leather provides an unparalleled grip on ice tools, even in wet conditions.
- Warmth and Waterproofing: The DRYZONE membrane and PrimaLoft Gold insulation combine to offer excellent protection from the elements.
- Dexterity: The anatomical fit and pre-shaped fingers allow for surprisingly good dexterity for an insulated glove.
- Durability: High-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-lasting performance.
- Thoughtful Design: Features like wrist leashes, cuff loops, and clippable hanging loops enhance usability and convenience.
Cons
- Sizing can run small, so trying before buying is recommended or order a size up.
- Dexterity, while good for an insulated glove, is still less than a dedicated uninsulated glove.
Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove?
The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove is perfect for serious ice climbers, mixed climbers, and mountaineers who demand a high-performance glove that offers both warmth and dexterity. Anyone who enjoys the thrill of climbing frozen waterfalls will appreciate these gloves.
These gloves are also well-suited for winter alpinists tackling challenging routes in cold environments. The robust construction and excellent weather protection make them a valuable asset in the mountains.
If you are just starting ice climbing or only climb a few times a year, these gloves may be overkill. Anyone looking for a general-purpose winter glove might find these gloves too specialized.
A must-have accessory is a good leather conditioner to maintain the Pittards leather. It is also a good idea to have a backup pair of gloves for multi-day trips.
Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove
The C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove is a top-tier choice for serious ice and mixed climbers. It provides an exceptional blend of grip, warmth, dexterity, and durability.
At $82.00, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. If you value performance and reliability in challenging conditions, then these gloves are worth the investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend the C.A.M.P. Geko Ice Pro Glove to anyone seeking a high-performance ice climbing glove. Don’t let cold hands hold you back; invest in the Geko Ice Pro and conquer the ice with confidence.