First Impressions of Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless gloves come and go. Many promise the world, but few truly deliver in demanding conditions. The Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove immediately caught my eye with its claims of waterproof construction, Thinsulate insulation, and dexterity.
I was looking for a glove that could keep my hands warm and dry while maintaining the tactile feel needed for tasks like rigging fishing lines or handling tools in cold, wet environments. Too many insulated gloves sacrifice dexterity for warmth, leaving you fumbling and frustrated. Could the Fish Monkey strike the right balance?
Upon unboxing, the gloves feel lightweight, which is a good sign for dexterity. The grey color is understated and practical. The materials feel high-quality, and the silicone non-slip palm inspires confidence. Comparing these to my older neoprene fishing gloves and some bulky ski gloves, the Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove immediately feel more versatile. I chose these over other options because of the promise of waterproof performance without the bulk. My initial impression is one of cautious optimism – excited to put them to the test, but wary of marketing hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove was on a late-season steelhead fishing trip in the Pacific Northwest. The conditions were classic: cold rain, slick rocks, and numb fingers were the norm. I wore these gloves while setting up my rod, tying knots with cold fingers, and casting for hours.
The gloves performed admirably. They kept my hands dry even after repeated submersion while releasing fish. I was surprised that it still allowed me to feel the line and reel smoothly. There was no need for a prolonged adjustment period. The pre-curved fingers felt natural, and I didn’t experience any immediate discomfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a few more fishing trips and some cold-weather hikes, the Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove are holding up well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even with abrasion from fishing line and contact with rough surfaces.
The gloves clean easily with a damp cloth, and the silicone palm hasn’t shown any signs of peeling or cracking. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper insulated gloves, these are definitely a step up in terms of durability and performance. These gloves definitely out-perform my expectations in that they are still dry and warm in the cold PNW!
Breaking Down the Features of Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove
Specifications
The Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove boasts several key specifications:
- Manufacturer: Fish Monkey. This indicates a company focused on fishing-specific gear, which often translates to thoughtful design for on-the-water needs.
- Application: Casual. While marketed as casual, the features suggest suitability for more than just everyday wear, extending into various outdoor activities.
- Fabric/Material: Hipora. Hipora is a waterproof and breathable membrane, crucial for keeping hands dry and comfortable in wet conditions.
- Gender: Unisex & Age Group: Adults. These gloves are designed to fit a wide range of users.
- Color: Grey. The neutral color is practical and doesn’t easily show dirt.
- Palm Material: Silicone Non-Slip. This ensures a secure grip, even when wet, which is essential for fishing, boating, or any activity requiring hand dexterity.
- Quantity: 1 Pair. Standard offering.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the glove’s performance in real-world situations. The Hipora membrane is key to the waterproof claim, and the silicone palm is vital for maintaining grip and control. The 40g Thinsulate insulation provides warmth without excessive bulk.
Performance & Functionality
The Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove performs its intended job admirably. It keeps hands dry and warm while allowing for a surprising degree of dexterity. The non-slip palm is a standout feature, providing a secure grip even when wet.
The gloves are not bulky, which makes them ideal for activities that require manual dexterity, such as tying fishing knots. The major weakness is that the 40g Thinsulate insulation may not be sufficient for extremely cold conditions. Overall, they meet and even exceed my expectations for a lightweight, waterproof insulated glove.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-stitched, giving the impression of a product built to last. The gloves are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The pre-curved finger design adds to the overall comfort and natural feel. There’s virtually no learning curve – they feel good from the moment you put them on.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing so far, these gloves should last for several seasons of regular use. The materials are resistant to abrasion, and the stitching appears to be robust.
Maintenance is simple: just wipe them down with a damp cloth after use. I haven’t needed to repair anything so far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove doesn’t come with any specific accessories. The neoprene cuff with Velcro adjustable closure provides a secure and customizable fit.
These gloves are compatible with various fishing-related accessories, such as line clippers and pliers, thanks to their non-slip grip and dexterity. These gloves are not very customizable due to their form-fitting style.
Pros and Cons of Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated GlovePros
- 100% waterproof construction: Keeps hands dry in wet conditions.
- Excellent dexterity: Allows for precise movements and tactile feel.
- Non-slip silicone palm: Provides a secure grip, even when wet.
- Lightweight and comfortable: Can be worn for extended periods without fatigue.
- Touchscreen compatibility: Allows the use of smartphones without removing the gloves.
Cons
- Insulation may not be sufficient for extremely cold temperatures.
- The grey color might not be ideal for all users who prefer brighter or more visible options.
Who Should Buy Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove?
Pros
- 100% waterproof construction: Keeps hands dry in wet conditions.
- Excellent dexterity: Allows for precise movements and tactile feel.
- Non-slip silicone palm: Provides a secure grip, even when wet.
- Lightweight and comfortable: Can be worn for extended periods without fatigue.
- Touchscreen compatibility: Allows the use of smartphones without removing the gloves.
Cons
- Insulation may not be sufficient for extremely cold temperatures.
- The grey color might not be ideal for all users who prefer brighter or more visible options.
The Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove is perfect for anglers, hunters, hikers, and anyone who needs a waterproof, insulated glove with excellent dexterity. Pro anglers will appreciate the non-slip grip and touchscreen compatibility.
Those who work in cold, wet environments will find these gloves to be a valuable asset. This glove is not ideal for activities in extremely cold conditions (below freezing for extended periods). Users who prioritize maximum warmth over dexterity may want to consider heavier insulated gloves. A must-have modification would be to include a wrist tether loop to secure the glove from falling into the water or snow.
Conclusion on Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove
Overall, the Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove is an excellent product that delivers on its promises. It offers a rare combination of waterproof protection, insulation, and dexterity, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of outdoor activities.
The price of $59.95 is justified given the quality of materials and the performance of the glove. I would highly recommend the Fish Monkey Stealth Dry-Tech Insulated Glove to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile glove for cold, wet conditions. If you need a glove that keeps your hands dry and warm without sacrificing dexterity, then look no further.