Ultralight Rain Mitts for Backpacking: Reviews & Gear Guide

[Ryan Jordan]

Companion forum thread to: Ultralight Rain Mitts for Backpacking: Reviews & Gear Guide

In this gear guide, we review 16 models of waterproof mitten shells (“rain mitts”) weighing less than 4 ounces (113 g) within the primary context of 3-season backpacking.

[David U]

This article is pure Gold!  Thank you Ryan and team.

I personally use the EE Visp version and am most impressed with performance vs weight.

[Kevin Sawchuk]

I’ve usually relied on having bought a large rainjacket (I would otherwise be a medium) and used the extra sleeve length as my overmits.  If I knew I was heading into the maelstrom I’d bring a separate pair of waterproof gloves.

[Ryan Jordan]

I size up in my rain jacket layer as well, Kevin, and pull my arms in my sleeves for incidental use. It doesn’t work so well when you need you hands for balance (talus), bushwhacking, or using trekking poles or an ice axe. So if I’m expecting to do any of those types of activities, rain mitts usually go with me.

[Brad Rogers]

<p>Interesting look at all the choices available today.   I had a pair or OR Lobstser Claw GTX mitts I used for years until I lost them, then I tried the only option I could find at the time MLD eVent mitts which I used for several years until they delaminated.  In my quest for a GTX option I ended up with the Extremities Tough Bags and they aren’t perfect, but they are still going after a decade of use.  </p><p>We really have a lot of great options nowadays on a all kind of gear that was once little to no choice on.  In addition to the rain mitts, I remember babying my BPL Pro 90 Balaclava as there was no synthetic alternative available, and having a quilt made custom because the only quilts were from Nunatak.  </p><p> </p>

[Bill F]

Great comprehensive review Ryan.  I have a pair of Showa 281 fishermen gloves that fit over a pair of polar tech liner gloves if needed.  They have great dexterity, grip, and, with the liners especially feel warm enough for extended rain and cool/cold shoulder season weather.  They appear very water proof and feel pretty breathable with their textured microporous polyurethane shell, branded as Temres.  Problem is, even though I have had them for 2 years, I have not had a chance to use them in a proper rainstorm here in the dry west.  Would love feedback from the author and/or the BP Light community on their experiences.

[Ryan Jordan]

I’ve worn the Showas bushwhacking in rain and snow in the Beartooths and Olympics. It’s pretty easy to overwhelm the breathability in sustained wet conditions while hiking. They seem ok when it’s not too cold but aren’t warm enough (even with warm liners) after several hours of near-freezing temperatures when in constant contact with snow.

However, I do like them for winter steelhead fishing!

[alan york]

I just picked up a pair on NRS Hydroskin gloves from Z Pack.At 2.3 oz in xl they will be my go to rain/cold gloves.

 

[Cody Bartz]

This is an incredibly informative and useful review. It is well written with all major considerations taken in to account. Thank you very much!

[Author]

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