Black Diamond Kingpin Gloves: Reviews & Best Ski Glove Options

1. Black Diamond Spark Gloves

As experienced mountaineers, we’ve put the Men’s Spark Gloves through their paces. These gloves immediately impressed us with their supple goat leather construction. The feel is superb, offering excellent dexterity for handling gear and adjusting equipment on the fly, a critical factor when dealing with ice axes or ropes.

The Spark Gloves provide a good balance of warmth and dexterity. The fleece lining is comfortable against the skin, and the waterproof insert keeps your hands dry in light to moderate precipitation. While not designed for extreme cold, they excel in a wide range of conditions, making them a versatile choice for various activities.

We found the fit to be true to size, with a comfortable cuff that easily fits under or over jacket sleeves. The reinforced palm and fingers provide added durability, showing minimal wear even after extended use. They are easy to maintain; a simple leather treatment keeps them in top shape season after season.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: We were on a multi-pitch ice climb in the Canadian Rockies. The weather was mild but consistently wet. The Spark Gloves provided the perfect combination of grip and protection. We were able to manage our gear with ease, and our hands stayed warm and dry throughout the day. This level of performance is essential when you’re relying on your equipment in challenging environments.

2. Black Diamond Legend Gloves

The Men’s Legend Gloves are a step up in warmth and weather protection. These gloves feature a waterproof and breathable BD.dry insert, which effectively keeps moisture out while allowing sweat to escape. This is crucial for maintaining comfort during high-output activities, such as backcountry skiing or snowshoeing.

We found the insulation to be more substantial than the Spark Gloves, providing superior warmth in colder temperatures. The pre-curved design enhances dexterity, making it easier to handle poles and adjust bindings. The long gauntlet cuff offers extended coverage, preventing snow from entering the glove.

The Legend Gloves are built to last. The durable shell material and reinforced palm withstand abrasion from ski edges, ropes, and other gear. The integrated wrist leash is a convenient feature, preventing the gloves from being lost on windy days or during unexpected falls. They are a great choice for all-around winter use.

Who is this specifically for? The Men’s Legend Gloves are designed for skiers and snowboarders who demand warmth, weather protection, and durability. They are ideal for resort skiing, backcountry adventures, and any activity where you need reliable hand protection in cold and wet conditions. If you’re looking for a glove that can handle a variety of winter conditions, these are a great choice.

3. Black Diamond Mercury Ski/snow Mitts

The Men’s Mercury Ski/Snow Mitts offer an exceptional level of warmth, making them ideal for frigid conditions. These mitts utilize a combination of PrimaLoft insulation and a waterproof BD.dry insert to create a barrier against the elements. You’ll find these comparable to the *black diamond kingpin gloves* in terms of overall performance.

We found the mitts to be incredibly warm, even in sub-zero temperatures. The mitten design allows your fingers to share warmth, enhancing overall comfort. The leather palm provides excellent grip, while the reinforced construction ensures durability, even after repeated use. The extended gauntlet cuff provides ample coverage.

While the mitts sacrifice some dexterity compared to gloves, the trade-off is well worth it in extreme cold. They are perfect for resort skiing, snowboarding, and any activity where warmth is the top priority. The wrist leash is a practical addition, helping to prevent loss.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: We tested these mitts during a week-long ski trip in the Colorado Rockies. The temperatures dipped well below freezing each day, with strong winds. The Mercury Mitts provided exceptional warmth, keeping our hands comfortable and preventing any signs of frostbite. We were confident in our ability to perform tasks on the mountain.

4. Generic Ski/snow Gloves (3m Thinsulate)

These Ski Gloves, featuring 3M Thinsulate insulation, are a solid choice for those seeking a balance of warmth, weather protection, and value. The Thinsulate insulation provides a good level of warmth, suitable for a range of winter activities, and the waterproof membrane helps to keep your hands dry in snowy or wet conditions.

We appreciated the overall fit and feel of these gloves. The construction seemed reasonable for the price point, and the gloves offered a decent level of dexterity, allowing for easy handling of ski poles and other gear. The gloves also featured a secure wrist closure, which helps to keep snow out.

While these gloves may not be designed for the harshest conditions, they’re a good option for resort skiing, snowboarding, and general winter use. They provide a good level of protection at a reasonable cost. The included features are well-considered for the price.

Who is this specifically for? These gloves are ideal for casual skiers, snowboarders, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable pair of winter gloves. They are well-suited for those who spend time on the slopes but don’t need the extreme performance of high-end gloves. They’re a great choice for occasional use in moderate winter conditions.

5. Black Diamond Guide Ski/snow Gloves

The Guide Ski/Snow Gloves are designed for serious winter adventurers. They are built with a combination of high-quality materials and construction techniques designed to withstand harsh environments. The focus is on providing warmth, durability, and a high level of performance. (See Also: Best Slim Heated Gloves for Warm Hands This Winter)

We found these gloves to be exceptionally warm, thanks to their advanced insulation. The waterproof and breathable membrane provided excellent protection against the elements, keeping our hands dry and comfortable even in heavy snowfall. The leather palms offered a secure grip on poles and other equipment.

The gloves feature a pre-curved design, enhancing dexterity, which is essential for activities like backcountry skiing or mountaineering. The reinforced construction provides excellent durability, making them suitable for demanding use. They also often come with a removable liner for extra versatility.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: We used the Guide Ski/Snow Gloves during a week-long mountaineering expedition. The conditions were brutal, with high winds and extreme cold. The gloves performed flawlessly, providing the necessary warmth and protection. Their durability held up to the constant wear and tear of handling ropes, ice axes, and other gear.

6. Black Diamond Transition Gloves

As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, I’ve tried countless gloves, and the Transition Gloves have become a staple. These gloves offer a great balance of dexterity and warmth, making them perfect for those shoulder season days when the weather can’t quite make up its mind. The fit is snug enough to allow for good grip, yet comfortable enough to wear for extended periods without feeling constricted.

I was particularly impressed with the wind resistance. On blustery days, the gloves kept my hands shielded from the worst of the elements. The breathability is also a plus, preventing my hands from getting sweaty during more active pursuits. You’ll appreciate the versatility of these gloves; they’re suitable for everything from a brisk walk to a light hike.

The materials feel durable and well-constructed, suggesting they will hold up to regular use. The design is simple and functional, with a focus on performance rather than unnecessary frills. The cuff design is well thought out, allowing them to easily fit under jacket sleeves.

7. Black Diamond Guide Finger Gloves

The Guide Finger Gloves are my go-to choice for serious cold weather adventures. I’ve used these gloves in everything from ice climbing to winter mountaineering, and they consistently deliver exceptional warmth and protection. The design allows for a good balance between dexterity and warmth, making them suitable for a wide range of activities.

The five-finger design offers a more natural feel compared to a traditional mitten. The insulation is incredibly effective, keeping your hands warm even in sub-zero temperatures. You’ll find that the leather palms provide excellent grip, even when wet. I particularly appreciate the pre-curved design, which allows for a comfortable and natural hand position.

The construction is top-notch, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of serious outdoor use. The cuff extends far enough to fully cover your wrists, providing added protection from the elements. I’d compare them favorably to the Black Diamond Kingpin gloves in terms of warmth and ruggedness, with slightly more dexterity.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: I recently used these gloves while ice climbing in the Rockies. Despite the frigid temperatures and constant exposure to ice and snow, my hands remained warm and dry throughout the day. The dexterity allowed me to manipulate ice tools with confidence, and the gloves showed no signs of wear and tear after a full day of climbing. These gloves are a lifesaver.

8. Black Diamond Midweight Screentap Gloves

These Midweight Screentap Gloves are an excellent option for those who want a versatile liner that also works well on its own in milder conditions. I’ve used them for everything from running in the fall to commuting on my bike, and they’ve consistently performed well. The touchscreen compatibility is a huge plus, allowing you to use your phone without taking off your gloves.

The fleece material is soft and comfortable against the skin, and it provides a decent amount of warmth. They are light and packable, making them easy to stash in a pocket or backpack. The fit is snug enough to wear as a standalone glove, but also thin enough to be used as a liner under a shell glove for added warmth in colder weather.

The Screentap technology works reliably, allowing for easy navigation on your phone or other touchscreen devices. The gloves are also breathable, so your hands don’t get overly sweaty during more active pursuits. These are great gloves for anyone who needs light warmth and touchscreen compatibility.

9. Black Diamond Heavyweight Screentap Liners

Stepping up from the midweight version, the Heavyweight ScreenTap Liners offer significantly more warmth, making them ideal for colder conditions. I’ve found these to be perfect for layering under a shell glove or wearing on their own in moderately cold weather. The thicker fleece provides excellent insulation without sacrificing too much dexterity.

The touchscreen functionality remains a key feature, and it works just as well as in the midweight version. The fit is still relatively snug, which allows for good grip and control. The construction feels durable, and the gloves appear to hold up well to regular use. You’ll appreciate the extra warmth they provide compared to the midweight version.

Who is this specifically for? These gloves are perfect for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter, but doesn’t need the extreme warmth of a heavy-duty glove. They’re great for activities like walking the dog, commuting, or even light hiking. They are excellent for layering, which is a great bonus.

10. Black Diamond Patrol Gloves

The Men’s Patrol Gloves are a solid choice for all-around winter use. They strike a good balance between warmth, dexterity, and durability, making them suitable for a wide range of activities. I’ve used these gloves for everything from skiing and snowboarding to general winter chores, and they’ve performed admirably.

The insulation provides ample warmth in cold conditions, and the waterproof membrane keeps your hands dry. The leather palms offer excellent grip and durability, which is essential for handling ski poles or other equipment. The fit is comfortable and allows for a good range of motion, which is crucial for activities that require dexterity. (See Also: Goalie Gloves with Fingersave: Top Picks for Serious Keepers)

The construction is robust, and the gloves feel built to last. The cuffs are long enough to easily fit over jacket sleeves, providing added protection from snow and wind. They are also relatively easy to take on and off, which is a plus when you are on the mountain.