Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove Review

First Impressions of Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove

The Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove promises customization and protection for anglers and hunters who demand dexterity. Fish Monkey advertises these gloves as uniquely constructed to avoid fraying when modified, a welcome feature for anyone who’s butchered a pair of gloves trying to expose fingertips. At $35.95, they sit in a competitive price range, offering a potential sweet spot between bare hands and full-coverage gloves.

I was looking for a glove that could bridge the gap between full hand protection and the tactile sensitivity needed for intricate tasks like tying fishing knots or operating a bow release. Many full-fingered gloves feel clumsy, and fingerless gloves leave me exposed to the elements. The promise of customizable finger exposure was exactly the feature I was seeking.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the lightweight feel and the quick-dry fabric. The non-slip silicone palm print looked promising, and the overall construction seemed solid. Compared to a basic pair of fingerless fishing gloves I’ve used in the past, the Fish Monkey offering appeared much more robust and thoughtfully designed. I also considered the Simms Guide Glove, which is a top-tier option, but the Fish Monkey‘s customizable finger design and lower price point ultimately swayed me.

My initial impression was positive. The gloves seemed well-made, and the “Free Style” customization feature held a lot of promise. I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype on the water.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove on a saltwater fishing trip targeting redfish in the Louisiana marsh. The conditions were typical for that area: humid, sunny, and buggy. I primarily used the gloves while casting lures and handling fish.

The gloves performed admirably in the heat and humidity. The quick-dry fabric lived up to its name, wicking away sweat and keeping my hands relatively cool. I did cut off the tips of the index finger and thumb on both gloves before the trip, and the material did resist fraying as advertised, which was a pleasant surprise.

Ease of use was excellent from the start. The “second skin fit” felt natural, and I didn’t experience any bunching or discomfort while casting. The non-slip palm provided a secure grip, even when handling slimy fish. There were no initial issues or surprises, and the gloves immediately felt like a valuable addition to my fishing gear.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove has held up well. I’ve used them on multiple fishing trips, as well as for some light yard work and even a day at the shooting range.

Durability has been impressive. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even in the areas where I cut off the fingertips. The silicone palm print shows no signs of peeling or cracking.

Maintenance is simple. I typically rinse the gloves with fresh water after each use and allow them to air dry. They clean up easily and haven’t developed any lingering odors, unlike some other gloves I’ve owned. Compared to my old fingerless gloves, the Fish Monkey gloves offer far superior sun protection and a more secure grip. They’ve exceeded my expectations in terms of both comfort and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fish Monkey. The brand is known for its focus on fishing-specific handwear.
• Application: Casual, indicating suitability for a range of outdoor activities.
• Size: Large, which fit my hand size perfectly according to the Fish Monkey sizing chart.
• Fabric/Material: Quick Dry Fabric, designed to wick away moisture and enhance comfort.
• Gender: Unisex, making them suitable for both men and women.
• Color: Marsh, a camouflage-inspired color scheme.
• Age Group: Adults.
• Last Chance: Yes – this may indicate it’s a discontinued model, meaning stock may be limited.
• UPF 50+ Sun Protection, crucial for extended sun exposure. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
• Second Skin Fit. The snug fit allows for maximum dexterity and sensitivity.
• Non-Slip Monkey Grip Silicone Palm Print. The palm print provides excellent grip in wet or dry conditions.
• Special Wiring Pads on the Thumb/Index Fingers and Side of the glove help prevent cuts. These reinforced areas offer added protection when handling fishing line or other sharp objects.

These specifications are important because they highlight the glove’s suitability for outdoor activities, particularly fishing. The quick-dry fabric and sun protection are essential for comfort and safety, while the snug fit and non-slip grip enhance performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove performs its job exceptionally well. The gloves offer a good balance of protection and dexterity, making them ideal for various tasks.

The customizable finger design is a major strength. Being able to expose only the necessary fingertips allows for fine motor skills while keeping the rest of my hand protected. One potential weakness is that after cutting the finger tips off, there is no additional stitching to reinforce the end of the glove finger. This area could be prone to ripping after extended usage. The gloves have exceeded my expectations and become a staple in my fishing gear.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is impressive, with durable materials and reinforced stitching in key areas. The gloves are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The gloves are user-friendly, with no learning curve. The “second skin fit” feels natural, and the gloves conform well to the shape of my hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The gloves appear to be durable and well-constructed. They have withstood several weeks of use without showing any signs of significant wear and tear.

Maintenance is easy. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to keep the gloves clean and fresh.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove doesn’t come with any additional accessories. The main customization option is the ability to cut off the fingertips, tailoring the gloves to specific needs.

While the gloves are not designed to be compatible with specific accessories, their versatile design allows them to be used with a variety of fishing and hunting gear. For example, they can be paired with fishing pliers, line clippers, or other hand-held tools.

Pros and Cons of Fish Monkey Free Style Hunt Fishing Glove