Should I wear gloves on Mt. Rinjani?

Yes, wearing gloves on Rinjani is highly recommended, particularly for the summit push that starts in the early hours when temperatures at 3,726 meters can drop to near freezing. The cold itself is reason enough, because exposed hands gripping trekking poles or resting on rocks become numb fast, reducing your dexterity and comfort. Cold fingers make everything harder.

Beyond warmth, gloves serve a practical protective purpose on the steep upper slopes, where you’ll often use your hands to brace against sharp volcanic rocks and loose scree. The abrasive surface can cut or abrade bare skin in minutes, especially during that two-steps-forward, one-step-back struggle of the final summit climb. Your hands will be on the ground more than you expect.

Lightweight liner gloves or thin trekking gloves are usually sufficient, though a pair of windproof outer gloves is ideal for the coldest moments just before dawn. At Lombok-Indonesia.org, guides often remind trekkers that the summit isn’t just a physical test but an environmental one, and protecting extremities like hands and fingers is part of passing that test comfortably.

If you don’t own dedicated hiking gloves, a cheap pair of work gloves or even warm running gloves is better than nothing. Stash them in an accessible pocket so you can put them on during the first rest stop when the cold becomes apparent, rather than fumbling through your pack with already-chilled fingers. You’ll be glad you have them.