User Review: Outdoor Research Meteor Mitts

This mitten "system" (outer shell + removable liner) by OR has been a hand saver in many cold conditions in which I've used them.

The overall quality and build of the finished product is excellent - I found no stitching errors, loose threads, etc.

The ergonomics of the design are exemplary - I have no problems operating the wrist lanyards and cinch straps (tightening or loosening) once my hands have become "crab claws". Additionally, it is very easy to maintain grip on standard trekking pole handles wearing these mittens.

The inner mittens are fleece, and feature fold back finger and thumb covers which lock into place by two pairs of small but powerful magnets. To remove your right hand with the liner on it from the outer shell, simply grab the tip of the outer shell with your left hand and pull your right hand out (the liner is held in by two short sections of hook-and-loop material). After choosing your position for camp and clearing away the snow, this fast access to your fingers is absolutely critical to get the 4 season tent up quickly.

The liner feature is also very helpful in maintaining the correct body temperature - as you heat up, shed the outer shell, fold back the liner flaps and expose your hot skin for a little bit. The outer shell is very heavy duty and appears to be made of heavy coated oxford cloth (typical pack material) and thick rubberized cloth over the palms, inner fingers and inner thumb area.

I have never had any issues with my hands getting wet from external water sources in these mittens (I have even tested the waterproof design in the kitchen sink and have found no leaks whatsoever). As far as warmth is concerned, OR's Meteor Mitts have never let me down. My latest venture included exposure to about -45 F temps with wind chill, and my hands remained very warm even while standing around for a bit. I should add that I have notoriously cold hands, so I actually need more than the average person to keep my hands warm.

I broke a half a star short of the full five star mark for these only because the fleece liners appear to be getting a bit nappy with age (I think this is due to the position of the hook-and-loop tabs that mate the liners to the shells - basically taking you hands in and out eventually "scuffs" the fleece). Note this hasn't detracted from the functionality of the system, just bugs me a bit.

Overall a fantastic set of winter hand protection! I would absolutely recommend these to anyone, and I am satisfied that there is nothing better for the money out there!