Aqualung Aleutian Gloves (5mm) Review
Last updated: July 2025
- Reliable warmth: Stayed comfortable in low-50°F quarry dives
- Early seam wear: Threads unraveled after a few uses
- Bulky build: Reduces dexterity for gear handling
- Weak grip: Slippery when handling gear or accessories
- Short lifespan: Needed wetsuit glue repairs within first season
Overall Score: 4.9 / 10 (Weak)
Warm but poorly built, the Aqualung Aleutian 5mm gloves handled cold water well but fell short in durability and dexterity. Seams started unraveling after just a few dives, and the bulky fit made gear handling difficult.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Warm in cold water | Seams unravel quickly |
| Fit true to size | Poor grip and dexterity |
| Available at many dive shops | Bulky feel in the water |
| Requires repair to stay functional | |
Why I Chose Aqualung Aleutian Gloves (5mm)
I didn’t choose them because they were the best option. I needed gloves immediately, and these were what the dive shop had. I hoped they’d be good enough, but after the first few dives, I knew I’d need to replace them soon. This was a lesson in not buying gear just because it’s convenient.
Verdict
The Aleutian gloves did one job well: they kept my hands warm. But they underperformed in nearly every other area. I no longer use them and have since replaced them with something more durable and easier to work in.
Would I buy it again? No. Even at a discount, I would not repurchase these gloves.
Who Aqualung Aleutian Gloves (5mm) Is Best For
This item is best suited for:
- Divers who prioritize warmth above all else
- Short-term rental or backup use
- Divers in mild current where dexterity isn’t critical
It may not be ideal for:
- Divers who regularly use bolt snaps, reels, or cameras
- Anyone needing gear that lasts more than 10–15 dives
Deep Dive into the Score
Scoring System: Each category is scored out of 10 and weighted by importance. This model is used consistently across all gear reviews for transparency.
| Category | Score | Raw Score | Weight | Weighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Function & Performance | Good | 7.0 | 30% | 2.10 |
| Ease of Use | Weak | 4.0 | 20% | 0.80 |
| Versatility | Weak | 4.0 | 15% | 0.60 |
| Durability & Build Quality | Weak | 3.0 | 15% | 0.45 |
| Value | Weak | 3.0 | 10% | 0.30 |
| Brand Trust & Transparency | Fair | 6.0 | 10% | 0.60 |
| Total | 4.85 / 10 | |||
Rounded Display Score: 4.9 / 10 — Weak
Deep Dive Score Explanations
- Function & Performance – 7: The gloves worked well in terms of thermal protection, which is their core function.
- Ease of Use – 4: Dexterity was limited and clip manipulation was frustrating.
- Versatility – 4: Usable in cold water, but not great for camera work or gear-intensive dives.
- Durability & Build Quality – 3: Seams failed quickly. Needed wetsuit glue to remain usable.
- Value – 3: Not a good return on cost due to short lifespan and limited functionality.
- Brand Trust & Transparency – 6: Aqualung is well-known, but these gloves don't reflect their usual quality.
Performance in the Water
- Thermal protection: Excellent warmth even on long, cold dives.
- Dexterity: Below average. Hard to operate bolt snaps or camera housings.
- Grip: Slippery when wet. Dropped small accessories more than once.
- Bulk: Bulky compared to similar 5mm options. Feels like a downgrade in precision.