Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves Review

First Impressions of Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve handled countless gloves, from bombproof mountaineering mitts to delicate surgical gloves. But until recently, I’d overlooked the importance of specialized hand protection for fishing. When I first heard about the Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves, designed specifically for anglers, I was intrigued, especially given the relentless sun and the constant battle against line cuts and fish spines that are part and parcel of my saltwater fishing adventures.

I’d been using repurposed work gloves for fishing, which were bulky, lacked dexterity, and offered zero sun protection, which is a critical oversight when you are facing hours reflected off the water. The promise of 360-degree protection, coupled with unimpaired mobility, sold me on giving these gloves a try.

Opening the package, I immediately noticed the lightweight feel of the material and the reinforced palm. The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves had a surprisingly tactile feel that gave the impression that you would actually be able to still perform intricate knot tying while wearing them. Compared to heavier-duty fishing gloves I’d seen, these seemed almost like a second skin.

Initially, I’d considered other, similar fishing gloves from brands like Simms and AFTCO. Simms offers high-end, durable options but at a significantly higher price point and AFTCO’s focus is more on offshore big game fishing, which, while applicable to my skillset, it is an overkill for most of my inshore fishing scenarios. I chose the Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves for its balance of features, price, and purported dexterity. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if these gloves could live up to their promises on the water.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves was a full-day inshore fishing trip targeting snook and redfish in the mangrove-lined backwaters of Florida. The conditions were typical for a late summer day: hot, humid, and sunny, and that provided a perfect stage to put these gloves through their paces. I immediately appreciated the full finger coverage, which provided welcome relief from the scorching sun, and I noticed that the UPF 50 rating was doing its job effectively as I fished from dawn to dusk.

Initially, I was a bit clumsy tying knots with the gloves on, but I quickly adapted. I appreciated the tactile feel of the gloves when handling fishing line because I was able to still feel the intricacies of what I was doing. The gloves allowed me to maintain a secure grip on the rod even when my hands were wet with sweat and spray.

One initial surprise was how breathable the material actually was. I anticipated a sweaty, uncomfortable experience in the Florida heat, but the lightweight fabric wicked away moisture surprisingly well, keeping my hands relatively dry and comfortable throughout the day.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves have become an indispensable part of my fishing gear. The gloves have proven to be more durable than I initially anticipated, with no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to abrasive fishing line, sharp gill plates, and the occasional encounter with barnacle-encrusted docks. Cleaning the gloves is a breeze; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all that’s needed to remove salt and grime.

Compared to my previous experiences using repurposed work gloves, the Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves are a revelation. They offer far superior sun protection, dexterity, and grip, allowing me to fish more comfortably and effectively. They outperform expectations and provide peace of mind knowing my hands are protected.

Breaking Down the Features of Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves

Specifications

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves are designed specifically for fishing, offering several key features that enhance performance and protection.

• The gloves are constructed from a lightweight, breathable fabric that provides UPF 50 sun protection, shielding hands from harmful UV rays. This is crucial for long days on the water, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
• Reinforced palm and side hand panels enhance durability and provide added grip, protecting hands from line cuts, blisters, and abrasion. This helps with line handling and preventing injuries.
• The full-finger design offers 360-degree protection, minimizing the risk of cuts and punctures from fish fins, teeth, and knives. This is essential when handling fish, especially larger or toothy species.
• Designed for unisex adult use. This is a benefit for couples or fishing teams who share gear.
• Designed to be lightweight and breathable, which is key for all-day comfort.

These specifications are not just numbers; they translate directly into a safer, more comfortable, and more productive fishing experience. The sun protection keeps me comfortable, the reinforcement prevents injury, and the breathability keeps my hands from becoming a sweaty mess.

Performance & Functionality

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves excel at their primary purpose: protecting and enhancing hand performance while fishing. The tactile feedback is excellent, allowing me to feel the line, tie knots, and handle tackle with precision.

The gloves offer excellent grip, even when wet, providing a secure hold on the rod and reel. There are few weaknesses of these gloves: The light color of some models might stain easily with fish slime and dirt, and the seams, while durable, could potentially be a point of failure over extended use. They definitely meet my expectations and enhance my overall fishing experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves strike a good balance between protection and dexterity. The material is lightweight and flexible, allowing for a full range of motion without feeling bulky or restrictive.

The gloves are generally user-friendly, with a comfortable fit and no significant learning curve. The sizes are accurate, and the stretchy material conforms well to different hand shapes.

Durability & Maintenance

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves appear to be well-constructed and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The reinforced palm and side panels are particularly durable, showing no signs of wear after several months of fishing.

Maintaining the gloves is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient. If they get particularly dirty, they can be hand-washed with mild soap and air-dried.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves are fairly basic in terms of accessories. These gloves are designed to be functional right out of the box.

These are not highly customizable gloves, but they are often compatible with aftermarket grip enhancers that can be applied to the palms for even better grip in extreme conditions.

Pros and Cons of Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves

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Who Should Buy Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves?

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves are perfect for:

• Anglers who spend extended periods of time on the water and need reliable sun protection.
• Fishermen who handle a lot of fish and want to avoid cuts and punctures.
• Individuals who prioritize dexterity and tactile feedback while fishing.
• Budget-conscious shoppers looking for a great value.

Someone who fishes infrequently or primarily fishes in cooler climates might not find these gloves necessary. Anglers who require extreme durability for heavy-duty offshore fishing might prefer heavier, more robust gloves. There are no must-have accessories, but adding a lanyard to clip them to your gear is an easy way to not lose them when taking them off.

Conclusion on Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves

The Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves are a well-designed and functional piece of fishing gear that offers excellent sun protection, grip, and durability. At a price of $22.22, they represent an outstanding value for the money, offering features and performance that rival much more expensive gloves.

I would definitely recommend the Dakine Fish Full Finger Gloves to any angler looking for reliable hand protection without sacrificing dexterity or comfort. Give them a try; your hands will thank you.