Outdoor Research Arete II Gore Tex Gloves - Best All-Around Versatile Winter Glove
Versatile three-in-one glove setup featuring detachable liners that adjusts to varied winter pursuits from skiing to snowshoeing, backed by dependable Gore-Tex protection.
- +Removable merino wool liners with heat pack pocket provide adaptable warmth
- +Three-in-one system works as liner-only, shell-only, or combined for varying conditions
- +Durable leather palm construction improves grip and long-term wear resistance
- -Bulkier than single-layer gloves when liners are installed
- -Leather palm requires periodic waterproofing treatment to maintain performance
- -Slightly reduced dexterity compared to thinner technical gloves
The Outdoor Research Arete II Gore Tex Gloves excel as a comprehensive all-around winter solution, combining versatility with reliable performance across multiple activities. The removable merino wool liners feature a strategically placed pocket for heat packs, providing crucial warmth during extreme cold while allowing the liners to function independently in milder conditions. This three-in-one system enables users to wear just the liners for temperatures around 40°F, the waterproof Gore-Tex shells alone for wet conditions, or the complete combination for maximum protection in severe weather. The durable leather palm construction offers superior grip for handling equipment, ski poles, or tools while resisting abrasion from repeated use.
Touchscreen-compatible fingertips maintain device functionality without removing gloves, and features like the nose wipe on the thumb, removable leash, and carabiner loop enhance practicality during extended outdoor excursions. The cinch-able cuff creates a secure seal against snow and wind intrusion, while the glove clip ensures pairs stay together during storage. Though slightly bulkier than specialized single-purpose gloves when fully assembled, the Arete II system eliminates the need for multiple glove pairs by adapting to changing conditions throughout winter activities from backcountry skiing to winter hiking and everyday use.