Gear Review

Black Diamond System Shell GTX

1. versatility
2. waterproof
3. only 6.1oz/pair
4. (discontinued)

Black Diamond's System Shell GTX glove is a waterproof (via Gore-Tex insert) shell intended to be paired with liner gloves.

The System GTX thus directly addresses one of the more vexing dilemmas of overnight backcountry travel: the need to bring a waterproof glove versus the desire to carry as little weight and bulk as possible.

Typically, winter campers need a pair of heavy insulated waterproof gloves—if only for insurance.

The System GTX can do the duty of a heavy glove (paired with a liner), while remaining useful in warm weather, as if it were a light spring glove.

Weighing only 6.1 ounces per pair (men's medium, measured), the System GTX is wonderfully light, yet robust enough to keep your hands warm and dry through tough tasks like digging a snow cave or climbing an icefall.

The System GTX will get you through a wide range of temperatures and situations.

Climbing a steep chute in spring when the snow is wet?

Wear the System alone, and enjoy the tacky Pitard's leather palm for a firm grip on your ice axe shaft. Facing unexpectedly cold weather? Pair your System Shells with a warm fleece liner glove, and you've got a system that'll get you nearly all the way down to mitten temperatures.

Versatility is the name of the game here, making this an ideal choice for the backcountry skier or winter camper. As well, day trippers can toss the six-ounce System Shell in their packs to protect against unexpected bad weather.

Downside? When paired with a liner, the System GTX is slightly more cumbersome than an integrated insulated glove. It can also be tedious to put on and take off a liner/shell pair if you have to do it repeatedly—because the fingers can get out of alignment. If you know you will be needing the shell and liner continuously, ie because of cold temperatures, you may find it more convenient to bring a traditional winter glove.

Unfortunately, Black Diamond has discontinued the System GTX Shell. However, many of the current gloves in the Black Diamond lineup employ this shell/removable liner design. If you want to expand your glove system's versatility, try giving a shell/liner system a try.

» Bottom Line: The System GTX has been replaced by the Glissade.

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