Outdoor Research Men's Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

• Which Outdoor Research men's gloves and mittens are best for wet, cold alpine conditions?

  Choose pieces with waterproof/breathable membranes like GORE-TEX® or AscentShell™ Dry and insulated options such as the Mt. Baker Mitts™ for sustained cold; Arete GORE-TEX gloves offer waterproof protection with better finger dexterity for active use. Look for removable liners, durable nylon or silicone-coated shells, and gauntlet cuffs to seal out snow and moisture.
• How do the Arete GORE-TEX gloves compare to the Mt. Baker Mitts for ski touring?

  Arete GORE-TEX gloves prioritize waterproof/breathable protection and finger dexterity for rope work, skinning, and touchscreen use, while Mt. Baker Mitts™ use a wool-blend removable liner and more bulked insulation for superior warmth during long stops. Choose Arete for high-output touring where dexterity matters and Mt. Baker for colder summit days or extended belays when warmth is the priority.
• What features should I prioritize in hats, balaclavas, and neck gaiters for high-output activities like trail running?

  Prioritize lightweight, stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics—merino wool or synthetic blends—for odor control and rapid drying, along with thin fleece liners or breathable knit constructions to move moisture efficiently. Also look for UPF sun protection on hats, low-profile designs that layer under helmets, and quick-dry, packable shapes that won’t flap at speed.
• How does fit—like gauntlet cuffs and stretchy constructions—affect glove performance for alpine climbing and skiing?

  A taller gauntlet cuff integrates with shell jackets to keep out snow and wind and allows room for thicker insulation when needed, while stretchy, form-fitting constructions improve dexterity for tool handling and rope work. Modular designs with removable liners let you adjust warmth and packability across changing alpine conditions.
• How do materials such as Pertex® Shield Air, Ventia™, and merino wool change the performance of Outdoor Research accessories?

  Pertex® Shield Air offers a very lightweight, packable waterproof/breathable shell suited to low-weight setups, Ventia™ and GORE-TEX® membranes deliver robust waterproof/breathable protection for prolonged wet-weather use, and merino wool provides natural odor resistance and next-to-skin temperature regulation in liners and balaclavas. Combining a weatherproof outer membrane with merino or stretch fleece next to the skin balances weather protection, breathability, and comfort.