I recently had the chance to test the Black Diamond Tour Gloves - An outstanding choice for ski touring enthusiasts looking to hit the backcountry this winter..

Coming in three classic colors: Ash (grey), Beeswax (yellow), and Black these minimalist and traditionally-inspired gloves give great breathability, versatility and protection for your hands on mixed weather days in the Alps, and beyond.

Design and Comfort

These gloves strike a nice balance between functionality and design - reminiscent of the gear that old-school ski tourers would have relied on. The soft yet durable materials provide a comfortable fit that promotes excellent dexterity, essential for adjusting bindings or managing gear on-the-go. The adjustable cuff helps keep snow out, ensuring your hands stay warm and dry during long ascents.

Performance

Designed specifically for touring, weighing 105g, and with a temperature range of -9 - 0C, these Tour Gloves really excel in the field. The fleece insulation is top-notch; my hands remained warm even on chillier ascents. The premium goatskin leather outer needs some maintenance to perform at its best, but that’s the price we pay for using oldschool gear we love. Designed for moving fast on the mountain, I found my dexterity was maintained when switching gear, or accessing my backpack.

Breathability

I rated the breathability of these Tour Gloves. My hands didn’t overheat, or get too sweaty on the uphills - a real asset for touring, where you may be repeatedly switching between climbing and descending.

Materials

Black Diamond’s Tour Gloves are crafted from a combination of high-quality materials designed to enhance performance. The outer shell is made of premium goatskin leather, providing both flexibility and insulation against the elements. Lined with a lightweight soft fleece interior, these gloves have warmth and comfort. The Pertex Shield® cuff helps keep the inner section of the glove dry, complete with a hook and loop so you can sport them as you desire.

Durability

After several outings, the gloves have held up well. The quality stitching and robust materials inspire confidence that they’ll last through many seasons of backcountry adventures, much like the trusted gear used by pioneers who blazed the trails we enjoy today.

Overall, the Black Diamond Tour Gloves are a superb investment for ski touring aficionados. They combine warmth, dexterity, and durability in a stylish package that honors the spirit of traditional touring. Whether you’re climbing, descending, or navigating the backcountry, these gloves will keep your hands comfortable and protected — Highly recommended for anyone serious about their ski touring experience!

Tour Gloves are available here from Black Diamond.

Hero image credit: 8a.de

5 Reasons to add Black Diamond Tour Gloves to Your Gear