Gloves are one of the the most important, yet least talked about pieces of gear for ice climbing.  You need a pair of gloves that will keep your hands warm and still offer good dexterity.  Normally I climb with a really light pair of gloves and carry a warmer pair for the belays.  This year I have done a lot of days on the ice in temps hovering in the single digits and my normal lightweight gloves (OR Stormtracker) were just not cutting it!  I started climbing with the Warrant and after they broke in they became my go to glove.  Warm, but not too bulky, which really helps in keeping from getting pumped, and made with good quality leather so they will last more than one rappel.  So, if you’re in the market for some new ice climbing gloves these are worth considering.  Make sure to size them small to allow for some stretch during the break in.

Petzl’s latest “coup” is a big orange light one, in the form of helmet! It’s so light (165gr) that it’s half the weight of standard helmets. The foam Petzl decided to use is so resistant that adding the standard shell became superfluous. As a result, the helmet is so extremely light with great ventilation that you forget you’re even wearing one, even on overhanging routes where your neck would otherwise hurt from the added weight. The textile adjustment is simple all the while providing the most stability I’ve experienced with a helmet. Last but not least, there is a magnet to make buckling the chin strap with one hand possible. The Sirocco is no less than revolutionary!