BLACK DIAMOND Mercury Mitts Waterproof Ski Mittens - Warm, Durable

Our review of the BLACK DIAMOND Mercury Mitts finds them best suited to winter climbers, skiers and snowboarders who need a reliable, insulated waterproof mitten that stands up to mountain use. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a true BD.dry waterproof insert and a removable PrimaLoft Gold insulated liner that insulates even when wet, making these mitts a practical choice for cold, wet conditions where warmth and weather protection matter most.

Key Features

• Waterproof system: The built-in BD.dry insert keeps hands dry and prevents water penetration during extended exposure to snow and spindrift.
• PFC-free DWR: GTT Empel DWRA finish sheds moisture from the shell with strong, durable water repellency without PFCs.
• Removable insulated liner: The 340 g PrimaLoft Gold with Cross Core on the back of the hand provides high warmth-to-weight and continues to insulate when damp.
• Durable palm: Goat leather palm and reinforcement patch resist abrasion from rope, ski edges and rocky terrain for longer life.
• Freedom of movement: Recycled four-way stretch shell fabric keeps the mitt light and flexible for gripping poles and tools.
• Long gauntlet cuff: Extended cuff seals out snow and adds compatibility with jacket sleeves for mountaineering and skiing.

Who It's For

The Mercury Mitts are aimed at men who spend long days in cold, wet mountain environments: alpine climbers, backcountry skiers and season-long snowboarders who need a robust, serviceable mitten with a reliable waterproof liner and a warm removable insert. The mitt design favors warmth over finger-level dexterity, so they excel where core hand warmth and protection from the elements are the priority.

Those who need fingertip precision for fiddly tasks, or want a minimalist, lightweight glove for mild conditions, should look elsewhere. Also, if you rarely encounter wet conditions, a breathable glove without a full waterproof insert may be lighter and more breathable for extended aerobic outings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent weather protection from the combination of BD.dry waterproof insert and durable Empel DWR on the shell.
• High warmth from the removable 340 g PrimaLoft Gold Cross Core liner that dries quickly compared with bulkier down.
• Hard-wearing goat leather palm and reinforcement patch hold up to rope handling and abrasive use.
• Stretch recycled shell fabric provides comfort and freedom of movement during technical activity.

Cons

• As mittens, they limit individual finger dexterity compared with gloves, which can be restrictive for fine tasks.
• The heavier insulated liner adds bulk that may be more than needed for short, high-output laps in mild weather.

Specifications

Brand	BLACK DIAMOND
Waterproof insert	BD.dry waterproof insert
Shell treatment	GTT Empel DWRA PFC-free DWR
Insulation	Removable 340 g PrimaLoft Gold with Cross Core
Palm material	Goat leather with reinforcement patch
Shell fabric	100% recycled stretch fabric
Cuff	Long gauntlet cuff

Our Verdict

The BLACK DIAMOND Mercury Mitts are a strong choice for mountaineers and winter riders who prioritize dependable waterproofing and high, reliable warmth in wet conditions. Their removable, quick-drying PrimaLoft liner and rugged leather palm make them good value for serious users who need a mitten built for repeated mountain use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these mitts fully waterproof?
Yes, they include a BD.dry waterproof insert and a durable Empel DWRA shell finish to keep water out.

Can the liner be removed and dried separately?
Yes, the insulated liner is removable and dries faster than many traditional liners, making it practical for multi-day use.

Are these good for technical climbing?
They are suitable for alpine routes where warmth and protection are required, though the mitten format reduces fine finger dexterity needed for very technical handwork.