When to Pack Overmitts
In general, we view rain mittens as synergistic with, and supplementary to, a pair of fleece or wool gloves. Gloves come with us on all trips, and are the first line of defense against cold hands. Overmitts only come along some of the time, and there are virtually no scenarios where we would pack shell mitts without gloves.
For fair weather summer hiking and backpacking, when temps are most likely warm and dry, simple gloves are sufficient – you don’t need rain mittens. For a mixed forecast, so long as temps won’t be dropping to below the mid 40s (F), gloves alone should still be enough. But once forecasts are expected to be wet with temps into the low 40s (F) or lower, that’s when overmitts come into play.
It doesn’t need to be rainy to justify rain mitts. They’re also windproof, and are great for layering over gloves in cold and breezy conditions. If the forecast is dry but temps will be at or below freezing, overmitts are likely worth it.
For thru-hikes and trips long enough that you have to pack gear without knowing the entire forecast, rain mittens are likely worthwhile if there is a possibility that you will be hiking cold wet weather. Considering the ultralight rain mitts weigh only 1 oz, it’s a very safe way to hedge against discomfort.
