Mountaineering Equipment

Figure 3-3. Three types of gaiters.

HAND WEAR
3-9. During operations in mountainous terrain the use of hand wear is extremely important. Even during
the best climatic conditions, temperatures in the mountains will dip below the freezing point. While mittens
are always warmer than gloves, the finger dexterity needed to do most tasks makes gloves the primary cold
weather hand wear (Figure 3-4).

The principals that apply to clothing also apply to gloves and mittens. They should provide
moisture transfer from the skin to the outer layers―the insulating layer must insulate the hand
from the cold and move moisture to the outer layer. The outer layer must be weather resistant
and breathable. Both gloves and mittens should be required for all Soldiers during mountain
operations, as well as replacement liners for both. This will provide enough flexibility to
accomplish all tasks and keep the users’ hands warm and dry.

Just as the clothing system is worn in layers, gloves and mittens work best using the same
principle. Retention cords that loop over the wrist work extremely well when the wearer needs to
remove the outer layer to accomplish a task that requires fine finger dexterity. Leaving the glove
or mitten dangling from the wrist ensures the wearer knows where it is at all times.

26 July 2012

TC 3-97.61

3-5