If you are a frequent climber, you must be aware that when you go up, you must frequently come down. Rappelling is a technique for descending a cliff using climbing equipment. This can be difficult on your hands if you don’t have the proper gloves to protect them.
The main question for many newcomers is, “What are Rappel Gloves?” Rappelling gloves are made of thick, high-quality materials. These gloves are used to protect your hands while descending by navigating the rope. They are more durable than most gloves, and if you don’t want rope burn, you can protect your hands with some of these gloves.
Key Features To Remark in Rappelling Gloves
When it comes to rappelling gloves, these are the most important features to consider. When researching or purchasing these gloves, keep the following features in mind:
Materials
One of the first considerations should be the gloves’ materials. In general, leather is the best option, but many people prefer polyester. However, when it comes to the palm section, you must use something durable, such as leather. Leather can withstand a lot of abuse, ensuring a long-lasting glove.
On a related note, we should mention the double padding. There are additional types of padding to consider, and the palm is generally reinforced. If you choose something less expensive, such as polyester, we recommend leather or, at the very least, synthetic leather for the palm section.
Sizing
One of the most important decisions you can make is the size of the gloves. Each glove and brand has a different size, so use the chart to find the correct size. You don’t want too big of a glove for rappelling, or your hands will slip. If the gloves are too tight, blood flow may be restricted.
Ventilation
Because you will be wearing these gloves for an extended time you will need to provide some form of ventilation for your hands. These gloves typically have ventilation ports along the upper part of the glove. It should allow more air to pass through and allow you to wear the gloves for a little longer.
Grip
Finally, the most important part of the glove is the palm side. While there may be some padding, there are usually riffles that mesh with the rope. It should allow you to maintain a firm grip on the rope. When rappelling, the last thing you want is for your gloves to slip and cause you to lose control.
Why Do You Need Rappel Gloves?
It’s easy to overlook the importance of gloves in ensuring your safety when compared to all of the other equipment you’ll need when rappelling, such as your rope and harness. Rappel gloves are an important piece of equipment that will be useful in a variety of situations.
Rappel gloves improve your grip and control of a rope, making it safer for you to perform your rappel. When your entire body is supported by a single strand of rope and your brake hand is the only thing keeping you from falling, you want that hand to have as much control as possible.
The grippy fabric of rappel gloves makes it easier to control the speed of your descent and reduces the likelihood of your hand slipping.
Rappel gloves can also aid in the prevention and treatment of injuries. If you descend too quickly, the fabric will protect you from rope burn. Some gloves have extra padding in key areas, such as the knuckle, to protect your hands from rubbing against sharp rocks or other objects.
Rappel gloves are extremely useful for lowering yourself quickly. They not only keep the rope from flaying your skin, but they also make it easier to stop your momentum before you hit the ground.
When Should You Carry Rappel Gloves?
If you’re going rappelling, you should definitely bring a pair of gloves with you. They are lightweight, packable, and provide excellent safety benefits. Similarly, if you know you’re going on a long climbing expedition, like a multi-pitch route, it never hurts to strap a pair of gloves (rappel, belay, or all-around) to your harness. Your hands will inevitably become sore after a long day of climbing, and gloves will ensure that both you and your partner descend safely.
If you’re planning a day of crag climbing and know that the majority of your rappelling will be short, controlled descents from the top of a sports route, rappel gloves may not be necessary.
Finally, gloves are an essential piece of equipment for ensuring your comfort and safety while rappelling. A good rappelling glove should be tough but flexible, and it should provide adequate grip on the rope. It should also be breathable to some extent, especially if it is a full-finger glove rather than a half-finger glove. Choosing the right glove is an important step in ensuring that you have all of the necessary equipment to rappel.
