Aqualung Aleutian Gloves (5mm) Review
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.
Overall Score: 4.9 / 10 (Weak)
Last updated: July 2025
I’ve used the Aqualung Aleutian 5mm gloves for about 20 cold-water wet dives, mostly in quarries. I bought them on short notice when I needed gloves fast, and the dive shop had limited options. These gloves kept me warm, but they’ve had several issues that would prevent me from recommending them to most divers.
Yes. I never had a thermal issue while using them. They provided solid warmth even during long quarry dives in the low 50s Fahrenheit.
They fit true to size, but they’re bulkier than the Bare 5mm gloves. The extra bulk makes them feel clumsy in the water.
Not great. The seams started unraveling after just a couple of dives. I had to use wetsuit glue to keep them from falling apart completely.
With difficulty. I had a hard time manipulating bolt snaps and camera controls. Grip was below average for a 5mm glove.
Honestly, because they were the only option in stock at the dive shop when I needed gloves fast. I should have done more research.
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.