Therm-ic Grip Shield+ Review

The Therm-ic Grip Shield+ was created with the aim of designing a technical mountaineering and ice climbing glove focused on fit, precision, and water repellency. In a field where it is difficult to combine protection, sensitivity, and warmth in a single product, the design choice is clear: prioritize control over equipment and performance during active phases.

Those who practice ice climbing or mixed climbing know how difficult it is to find a balance between insulation, comfort, and maneuverability. In this case, the scales tip toward operational precision, with adequate thermal insulation when moving but not designed for long stops in extreme conditions.

Technical features of Therm-ic Grip Shield+

• Primaloft padding
• HDry 20K/20K membrane and microfiber lining for optimal flexibility and warmth
• Velcro closure
• Polyamide outer shell
• Elasticized cuff with laces
• Touchscreen palm
• Weight: 160 grams per pair (size 8.5)
• Made in China
• List price: €149,95

Test mode

I tested two versions of the model: the first Grip Shield Gloves and the subsequent Grip Shield+, the definitive evolution of the project.

Both were used during the winter season in contexts of ice climbing, high-altitude mountaineering, and some ski mountaineering outings. Conditions were highly variable, with temperatures ranging from +5°C to -20°C, including cold and wet environments in Norway.

Water repellency was tested both on fresh snow and in more critical situations, such as dripping waterfalls and wet ice, contexts in which moisture management becomes crucial.

Therm-ic Grip Shield+ on-site test

How they look

At first glance, the Therm-ic Grip Shield+ gloves impress with their lightweight design and attention to detail. The rough texture of the palm immediately provides a feeling of high grip on tools, while the back appears to be made of a durable and well-reinforced material. Once worn, you will appreciate the snug fit which, together with good freedom of movement, leads to very high precision when climbing.

It should be noted that the first version of the glove had a goatskin palm: very grippy, but less resistant to wear than the new model.

Details and materials

Therm-ic Grip Shield+ gloves combine three main elements: a contoured microfiber palm for increased grip, an HDry inner membrane, and Primaloft padding. The combination works well: it gives you confidence when handling equipment and provides decent thermal insulation for an ultralight glove.

The padding is light and soft, helping to keep weight and bulk down, while the HDry membrane helps keep your hands dry even in critical conditions.

Closure is provided by Velcro on the back that extends almost to the forearm: precise adjustment and a good feeling of security, reducing the impression that the glove might slip off.

They also feature a fabric loop that makes them easy to put on and an elastic wrist strap to secure the gloves when they are removed. The strap has two loops of different widths, designed to fit different wrist sizes.

Thermal insulation

The Primaloft padding is deliberately reduced to the essentials so as not to negatively affect dexterity. The glove has a good balance between thermal capacity and dexterity. However, when ice climbing on the coldest days, it was necessary to pair them with a warmer glove for prolonged stops.

In non-extreme temperatures, however, they retain heat well and remain comfortable even as ski gloves.

Waterproofnees

Waterproofing is one of the strengths of Therm-ic Grip Shield+, further improved compared to the previous model.

The HDry membrane is laminated directly onto the inside of the glove’s outer shell, creating no space between the fabric and the waterproof barrier. This prevents water from collecting between the layers—avoiding weight gain and cooling—and allows the glove to maintain its lightness, insulation, and performance for longer, even in wet snow or dripping waterfalls.

Wind protection

Effective wind protection thanks to the extended fit beyond the wrist, which effectively seals out air.

Sensitivity and handling

The most impressive feature of the Therm-ic Grip Shield+ is its sensitivity. The palm provides excellent grip and allows you to handle equipment with good precision, including ice screws.

Tapered fingers and internal seams allow for natural movement: although this design sacrifices some “pure” warmth, the balance between control and protection remains very good for a technical glove.

Fit

Precision depends greatly on the correct size: we recommend referring to the manufacturer’s size guide. Although snug on the fingers and palm, the glove is easy to put on: the elastic fabric at the wrist makes it quick and comfortable to wear. Theextended fit beyond the wrist is very protective and helps to limit snow and water infiltration.

The only drawback is the lack of a loop on the finger for attaching them to the harness. In some situations (e.g., when belaying in spindrift), attaching them to the wrist side can allow snow to enter the glove. It’s a small detail, but in the field it can make a difference.

Recommended for

Therm-ic Grip Shield+ gloves are designed for mountaineering and ice climbing, offering maximum control and precision during ascents. The HDry membrane provides essential protection from water and snow, which is crucial when climbing on ice and mixed terrain.

They are therefore ideal for handling tools and ropes, and can be worn with a second pair of warmer gloves for use at lower temperatures when resting.

While they perform best in technical climbing situations, they can also be useful for classic mountaineering and ski mountaineering.