Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove Review

First Impressions of Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove

The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove promises warmth, dexterity, and waterproof protection for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Fish Monkey aims to deliver a glove that cuts the cold without sacrificing the ability to feel your surroundings and operate your gear. I was immediately intrigued, especially since I’ve struggled to find gloves that balance these features effectively, and I’m always searching for an edge when out in the field.

I’ve spent years searching for the perfect hunting glove; one that offers superior dexterity, keeps my hands dry and warm, yet doesn’t hinder my ability to feel and operate my rifle. Too often, gloves either provide warmth at the expense of dexterity, or offer excellent feel but fail to keep my hands dry and protected from the elements. My hope was the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove would be the solution to this persistent problem.

Unboxing the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove, I immediately noticed the slim profile and soft microfleece lining. The synthetic leather palm felt grippy, and the overall construction seemed solid and well-thought-out, a promise of durable quality. It felt lighter than other insulated waterproof gloves I’ve used, raising my hopes for the promised dexterity.

Compared to my old standby, a bulky, heavily insulated glove from Cabela’s, the Fish Monkey offered a noticeably slimmer profile. Another glove I’ve used, the Sitka Traverse, offered better dexterity, but was not waterproof. The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove appeared to strike a balance between these two, which is exactly what I was seeking.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The glove felt comfortable and well-made, and the features seemed well-suited to the needs of a hunter who demands both protection and performance. I was eager to put them to the test in the field.


Real-World Testing: Putting Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove on a late-season deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The conditions were challenging: temperatures hovered around freezing, and a persistent drizzle threatened to soak everything. The hunt involved hiking through dense woods, glassing from exposed ridges, and sitting for extended periods in a tree stand.

The gloves performed admirably in the wet and cold conditions. My hands remained dry throughout the hunt, and the 40g Thinsulate provided enough insulation to keep them warm without feeling bulky. I was pleasantly surprised by the dexterity I maintained, allowing me to easily handle my rifle, binoculars, and rangefinder without fumbling.

Initially, I noticed a slight stiffness in the fingers, but this quickly dissipated as the gloves warmed up and conformed to my hands. The touch screen compatibility on the index finger proved useful for checking my phone and GPS without removing the gloves. There were no issues with the velcro closure around my wrist.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple hunts and a few outings at the range, the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove continues to impress. The gloves have held up well to the rigors of hunting in dense cover, showing no signs of significant wear and tear. The synthetic leather palm still provides excellent grip, and the waterproof membrane continues to perform flawlessly.

So far, the only wear is some slight pilling of the microfleece lining around the wrist, but this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect performance. Cleaning is easy; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The gloves have maintained their shape and performance after multiple uses.

Compared to other hunting gloves I’ve used, the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove has exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort, dexterity, and weather protection. They offer a significant improvement over my previous gloves, allowing me to focus on the hunt without worrying about cold, wet hands hindering my performance. It’s become my new go-to glove for colder weather hunts.

Breaking Down the Features of Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove

Specifications

  • Dry-Tec Waterproof Construction: This is the cornerstone of the glove, utilizing a HIPORA 100% waterproof breathable membrane to keep hands dry in wet conditions. This ensures comfort and performance in inclement weather.

  • 40g Thinsulate Insulation: Provides warmth without bulk, maintaining dexterity. It’s a great balance for active hunters.

  • DWR Water-Shed Technology: The exterior material is treated with a Durable Water Repellent finish. This causes water to bead up and roll off, preventing the gloves from becoming waterlogged and heavy.

  • Slim-Cut Index Finger and Thumb: Designed for precise shooting function and reloading. This allows for greater control and accuracy when handling firearms.

  • Non-Slip Monkey Grip Synthetic Leather Palm: Offers excellent grip and durability in all conditions. Ensures a secure hold on your firearm or other gear.

  • Pre-Curved Fingers: Provides all-day comfort and maximum control. Reduces hand fatigue during extended periods of use.

  • Comfort Microfleece Lining: Adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort. Feels soft against the skin and wicks away moisture.

  • Touch Screen Index Finger: Allows you to use your smartphone or other touchscreen devices without removing your gloves. Enhances convenience and efficiency in the field.

  • Neoprene Cuff with Velcro Adjustable Closure: Provides a secure and comfortable fit around the wrist. Keeps out water and debris.

Performance & Functionality

The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove performs exceptionally well in its intended role: providing warmth, dexterity, and waterproof protection for hunters. The Dry-Tec construction effectively keeps hands dry, even in prolonged exposure to rain or snow. The 40g Thinsulate insulation provides sufficient warmth for temperatures down to around freezing, while the slim-cut design and pre-curved fingers maintain excellent dexterity for handling firearms and other gear.

The main strength of this glove is its balance. It isn’t the warmest glove on the market, nor is it the most dexterous, but it combines these features in a way that makes it ideal for active hunting. The touch screen compatibility is a welcome addition, allowing for easy use of smartphones and GPS devices. I found myself using my phone more often and with less hesitation as I didn’t need to remove my gloves and expose my skin to the elements.

Design & Ergonomics

The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The use of high-quality materials, such as the synthetic leather palm and microfleece lining, contributes to a comfortable and durable feel. The pre-curved fingers and slim-cut design provide a snug and ergonomic fit, while the neoprene cuff with Velcro closure ensures a secure and adjustable fit around the wrist.

The gloves are lightweight and easy to wear for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve associated with the touch screen compatibility, but it quickly becomes intuitive. The overall design is practical and functional, with no unnecessary bells and whistles.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove appears to be quite durable. The synthetic leather palm has held up well to abrasion, and the waterproof membrane has shown no signs of leakage. The gloves are easy to maintain; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

With proper care, these gloves should last for several seasons of hunting and outdoor use. The quality of materials and construction suggests a long lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment for serious hunters. I’d expect at least three years of consistent use before any serious degradation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove doesn’t come with any specific accessories. There are no customization options available for this particular model, as it’s designed as a complete and ready-to-use product. However, the neutral color and design make it compatible with a wide range of hunting and outdoor gear.

The glove is designed to work seamlessly with various firearms and accessories. The slim-cut fingers and non-slip palm allow for a secure and comfortable grip, even when wearing gloves. Overall, the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove is a well-designed and functional product that doesn’t require any additional accessories or modifications.

Pros and Cons of Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove

Pros

  • Excellent waterproof protection: Keeps hands dry in wet conditions, ensuring comfort and performance.
  • Good dexterity: Slim-cut design and pre-curved fingers allow for easy handling of firearms and gear.
  • Comfortable fit: Microfleece lining and neoprene cuff provide a snug and comfortable feel.
  • Touch screen compatibility: Allows for easy use of smartphones and GPS devices without removing gloves.
  • Durable construction: High-quality materials and construction ensure long-lasting performance.

Cons

  • 40g Thinsulate insulation might not be sufficient for extremely cold temperatures.
  • Limited customization options.


Who Should Buy Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove?

The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove is perfect for hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who need a combination of warmth, dexterity, and waterproof protection. It is especially well-suited for those who hunt in wet or cold conditions and need to be able to handle firearms and gear with precision. The gloves are also a great choice for anyone who wants to be able to use their smartphone or GPS device without removing their gloves.

Those who primarily hunt in extremely cold temperatures may want to consider a glove with more insulation. Anyone seeking highly customizable gear may also find the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove limiting.

A must-have accessory for these gloves is a good pair of glove liners for colder conditions. This will extend the comfort range of the gloves and provide additional warmth when needed. A small clip to attach them to your jacket can also be handy to prevent losing them.

Conclusion on Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove

The Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove is a well-designed and functional product that delivers on its promises. It provides excellent waterproof protection, good dexterity, and a comfortable fit, making it an ideal choice for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts. While it may not be the warmest glove on the market, the 40g Thinsulate insulation provides sufficient warmth for most conditions, and the slim-cut design allows for easy handling of firearms and gear.

At a price of $59.95, the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove offers excellent value for the money. The quality of materials and construction, combined with the performance and functionality of the glove, make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile pair of hunting gloves.

I would personally recommend the Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Glove to anyone looking for a balance of warmth, dexterity, and waterproof protection. It has become my go-to glove for colder weather hunts, and I am confident that it will serve me well for many seasons to come. Don’t let cold, wet hands ruin your next hunt – invest in a pair of Fish Monkey Stealth Hunt Dry-Tec Gloves and experience the difference.

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