Mountain Equipment Citadel Mitt

A dual-component mitt system with synthetic insulation, designed for high-altitude expeditions and challenging winter alpine ascents.

The Citadel Mitt has been created in collaboration with a dedicated team of climbers and alpinists, for whom it becomes an immediate essential when packing for cold, committing routes. Trusted across the globe on pioneering ascents above 7000 metres, as well as on some of the most demanding modern winter alpine climbs, this mitt system is considered indispensable for retaining warmth and functionality during belays, summit bids, or when moving over less technical ground. Expedition outfitters frequently endorse them for ascents of peaks in the 5,000 to 7,000 metre range, particularly in mountain ranges such as the Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Andes.

This two-piece design consists of both an outer and inner mitt. The outer mitt incorporates three layers of PrimaLoft® Gold insulation [170g/m²] across the back of the hand, and PrimaLoft® Gold Grip [135g/m²] over the palm to deliver optimal warmth while preserving the necessary grip for handling axes and performing essential tasks. PrimaLoft® Gold is widely regarded as the premier insulation for such applications, offering outstanding warmth even in damp conditions, while also outperforming down in terms of compression resistance. The DRILITE® Loft 20D shell is both highly water-resistant and quick drying, while the palm—constructed from a durable blend of goatskin leather and polyamide—provides excellent grip and resistance to abrasion from ropes and equipment.

The inner mitt features the same DRILITE® Loft 20D fabric, paired with EXOLITE softshell material and a leather palm panel. It is lined with a deep-pile fleece for superior warmth and a soft, skin-friendly feel, even when worn without a liner glove. Its “lobster” finger layout improves dexterity, without sacrificing as much warmth as a traditional glove.

Both components may be worn together or individually. On technical routes, many climbers from the team choose to slip the outer mitt over a climbing glove between pitches, carefully balancing the need for maximum warmth against the dexterity required for demanding crux sections.

Features

• The outer mitt is constructed using DRILITE® Loft 20D fabric, offering outstanding water resistance, windproof protection, and excellent breathability.
• The back of the hand features three layers of 100% recycled PrimaLoft® Gold insulation at 170g/m² for exceptional thermal performance.
• The palm area is insulated with a 135g/m² layer of 100% recycled PrimaLoft® Gold Grip to enhance warmth and maintain precise handling.
• A goatskin leather overlay on the palm provides water resistance, durability, and reliable grip.
• The system follows a Modular Expedition fit for adaptability and performance in extreme environments.
• The removable inner mitt combines DRILITE® Loft 20D and EXOLITE 210 softshell fabric with a leather palm overlay for enhanced protection.
• The lobster-finger design of the inner mitt, paired with a high-loft pile lining, ensures both warmth and dexterity.
• Integrated spindrift tabs can be sealed to keep the inner mitt dry when not in use.
• A single-handed drawcord system allows for quick and secure adjustment in cold conditions.
• Karabiner carry loops and detachable wrist tethers are included for convenience and security during alpine travel.
  
  

Specifications

Technology

	Drilite A lightweight, breathable and highly water resistant shell fabric used to protect insulated clothing and sleeping bags.
	Primaloft Warm, soft and lightweight microfibre insulation from the industry leaders. Engineered to provide permanent water resistance.