#7 on this list
Splitter II Gloves
Outdoor Research
The Outdoor Research Splitter II is not a belay glove; it is a purpose-built crack climbing glove engineered to replace disposable tape gloves. Using an open-palm, open-finger architecture, the Splitter II covers only the back of the hand and the knuckles, providing a durable friction barrier when jamming your hands into rough granite, sandstone, or basalt splitters. Reviewers consistently rate the Splitter II as an essential tool for dedicated crack climbers. The outer layer utilizes a thin, ultra-durable synthetic suede and polyurethane film that mimics the feel of athletic tape without the waste or adhesive mess. Because the palm and inner fingers remain completely bare, you maintain 100% skin-to-rock contact for face holds, crimps, and palming maneuvers, switching between crack jams and face moves seamlessly. The trade-offs are strictly related to its specialized nature. It offers zero protection for rope handling, belaying, or rappelling, meaning you still need a separate pair of belay gloves on your harness. Furthermore, the minimalist finger loops rely on thin elastic bands that can pinch or tear over time if improperly sized or subjected to violent flaring jams. **Highlights** * Minimalist open-palm architecture leaves skin free for face climbing and smearing. * High-friction synthetic overlay shields the back of the hand from painful rock abrasion. * Ultra-thin profile fits smoothly inside narrow hand cracks without adding excessive bulk. * Hook-and-loop wrist closure features an angled design to stay out of the way of jams. * Reusable design significantly reduces the cost and waste of disposable climbing tape. **Watch-outs** * Zero utility for belaying, rappelling, or standard rope friction management. * Elastic finger loops can feel tight or wear out after sustained abuse in coarse rock.
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#8 on this list
Climbing Glove
Metolius
The Metolius Climbing Glove is built specifically with aid climbers and big wall enthusiasts in mind. Featuring a three-quarter finger design, it provides coverage down past the second knuckle, leaving only the very tips of the fingers exposed. This configuration shields the hand joints from aggressive hardware and tight cam placements while still allowing the climber to clip biners and organize aid ladders. Outdoor testing outlets single out this model for its reinforced synthetic construction and targeted padding. The palm incorporates a split cowhide reinforcement layer over a durable synthetic base, giving it the muscle needed to handle days of jugging fixed lines, yarding on haul ropes, and working through mechanical ascenders. The 3/4-finger cut offers considerably more knuckle protection than typical half-finger crag gloves. The main compromise sits in its distinct aid-specific profile. For everyday sport climbing or simple single-pitch trad, the heavy synthetic leather and extended finger cut can feel excessively stiff and warm. It is overbuilt for casual belay duty and can feel slightly clumsy if you are trying to execute quick, delicate rope feeds with dynamic belay devices. **Highlights** * Three-quarter finger length protects vital knuckle joints while keeping tips free for dexterity. * Rugged synthetic leather body reinforced with durable split cowhide on the palm. * Tailored specifically to endure the abrasion of mechanical ascenders and aid ladders. * Integrated carabiner clip-in loop for simple storage on gear loops. * Secure hook-and-loop wrist strap prevents shifting during strenuous pulling. **Watch-outs** * Overly bulky and stiff for standard, lightweight sport climbing belays. * Runs warm due to heavy reinforcement and limited backhand ventilation.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Splitter II Gloves | Climbing Glove |
|---|---|---|
| Design Type | Open-palm crack glove | — |
| Shell Fabric | 80% polyester, 20% polyurethane | — |
| Overlay Material | 55% polyurethane, 45% nylon | — |
| Closure | Angled hook-and-loop wrist strap | — |
| Typical Price | Around $45 | Around $45 |
| Finger Cut | — | 3/4 length |
| Body Material | — | Synthetic leather |
| Palm Reinforcement | — | Split cowhide leather |
| Wrist Closure | — | Hook-and-loop strap |
| Harness Attachment | — | Integrated carabiner clip-in loop |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Splitter II Gloves
- Ultra-thin profile preserves natural hand dimensions in tight cracks
- Open palm leaves skin completely free for face climbing and smearing
- Reusable design eliminates ongoing expense and waste of tape wraps
- Angled wrist strap stays clear of rock contact during deep jams
- Provides zero rope protection and cannot be used for belaying
- Elastic finger loops can pinch webbing or wear down over time
Climbing Glove
- Extended 3/4 finger cut protects vulnerable knuckles while maintaining fingertip control
- Reinforced split cowhide palm resists high abrasion from ascenders and haul lines
- Synthetic chassis resists stretching and holds up well to heavy moisture
- Sturdy integrated carabiner loop makes harness racking easy and secure
- Heavy, stiff construction lacks dexterity for delicate sport belaying
- Dense materials trap heat, running warm in midsummer conditions
- Requires a noticeable break-in period before the palm softens
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.