The 9 Best Gloves for Every Type of Climbing

Ice, mixed, cracks, or cragging—no matter the terrain, a good pair of climbing gloves is key to making the most of your day. Ice and mixed climbers prioritize waterproofness as well as warmth, while rock climbers focus on durability while belaying and rappelling. Crack climbers benefit from specialty gloves, too.

Over the years, I’ve become something of a glove fanatic—especially in alpine terrain, where you may call on the same pair to crimp rocky edges, pull through dripping ice pillars, and rappel through the night.