First Impressions of Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove
The Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove enters a crowded market, promising a blend of dexterity and protection for upland hunters. It’s a space where thin gloves sacrifice warmth and thicker options often feel like wearing oven mitts. Fish Monkey aims to bridge this gap, and my initial impression is one of cautious optimism.
Having spent years chasing quail through briar patches and pheasants across frozen fields, finding the right glove has been a persistent challenge. I was seeking a glove that offered both protection from the elements and the necessary tactile sensitivity to safely operate a shotgun. The promise of a goatskin leather palm coupled with canvas backing immediately caught my attention, suggesting a good balance.
Upon unboxing, the gloves felt well-constructed. The goatskin leather palm was supple to the touch, while the canvas backing felt durable, seemingly capable of withstanding the rigors of the field. The stitching appeared clean and robust, and the overall weight felt appropriate.
Compared to my old faithful, a pair of basic leather work gloves, the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove offered a more refined feel and dedicated features. Against a high-end, insulated shooting glove from another brand, the Fish Monkey gloves seemed less bulky and more focused on dexterity. I ultimately chose the Fish Monkey gloves because of their advertised blend of protection and dexterity, crucial for safe gun handling and effective hunting.
My initial reaction was positive – these gloves seemed to strike a promising balance between protection, warmth, and dexterity. Whether they could truly deliver in the field remained to be seen, but I was eager to put them to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove was a pheasant hunt in South Dakota. The weather was crisp, with temperatures hovering around freezing and a light wind.
The gloves performed admirably, providing ample warmth without sacrificing dexterity. I could easily load and unload my shotgun, manipulate the safety, and feel the trigger without any fumbling. There were no issues with loss of grip due to the cold weather.
Initially, I was slightly concerned about the fit around the wrist, but the Velcro closure allowed for a secure, customizable fit. After a few hours of walking through fields and handling my firearm, the gloves remained comfortable and did not cause any irritation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove continues to impress. They’ve been through multiple upland hunts, a dove shoot, and even a chilly morning of duck hunting.
The gloves have proven durable, with no signs of significant wear and tear. The goatskin leather remains supple, and the canvas backing shows no signs of fraying or tearing.
Cleaning has been straightforward; a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and mud. Compared to my previous experiences with other hunting gloves that quickly deteriorated, the Fish Monkey gloves have held up remarkably well, outperforming my expectations for their price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove
Specifications
The Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. The palm is crafted from premium goat leather, known for its durability and tactile sensitivity.
The back of the hand utilizes a rugged canvas material, designed to withstand abrasion from brush and thorns. 40g of Thinsulate insulation provides warmth without excessive bulk.
DWR Water-Shed Technology helps to repel water and keep the gloves dry. The gloves also feature a comfortable microfleece lining and touch screen compatible index fingers. Velcro wrist closures allow for a secure and adjustable fit.
These specifications translate into a glove that is both protective and functional, allowing hunters to maintain dexterity and comfort in a variety of conditions. The combination of durable materials, insulation, and water resistance makes the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove a versatile option for various hunting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove excels in its intended purpose: providing protection and dexterity for upland hunters. The goat leather palm allows for excellent feel and control when handling firearms.
The insulated back of the hand shields against cold winds and thorny vegetation. The touch screen compatibility is a welcome addition, allowing for quick phone use without removing the gloves.
The gloves meet my expectations for warmth and dexterity. The only area for improvement would be enhanced water resistance for heavier rain.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove is evident in its materials and construction. The combination of leather and canvas creates a durable yet comfortable design.
The gloves are relatively lightweight and conform well to the hand, allowing for a natural feel. The learning curve is minimal; they are easy to put on, take off, and use from the first wear.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove appears built to last. The materials are high-quality, and the stitching is robust.
Maintenance is simple: wipe clean with a damp cloth and allow to air dry. With proper care, these gloves should provide several seasons of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove does not come with additional accessories. However, the Velcro wrist closure allows for adjusting the fit to accommodate different layering options.
The design is compatible with typical hunting apparel and gear. Customization is limited, but the gloves are intended for standalone use in their current configuration.
Pros and Cons of Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove
Pros
- Premium Goat Leather Palm: Offers superb comfort, dexterity, and firearm control.
- Rugged Canvas Back-of-Hand: Provides excellent protection from burrs and thorns.
- 40g Thinsulate Insulation: Keeps hands warm in cool to cold conditions without being too bulky.
- DWR Water-Shed Technology: Provides basic water resistance for light rain or snow.
- Touch Screen Compatible: Allows for smartphone use without removing gloves.
Cons
- Limited Water Resistance: Not ideal for heavy rain or prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Insulation may be too warm for mild weather conditions.
Who Should Buy Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove?
Perfect for upland bird hunters, small game hunters, and anyone needing dexterity and protection in cool weather. These gloves also suit clay target shooters looking for a comfortable and functional option.
Those who regularly hunt in heavy rain or extremely cold climates might need more specialized gloves. Individuals prioritizing maximum warmth over dexterity might also prefer a different product.
A must-have accessory would be a quality leather conditioner to maintain the suppleness of the goatskin palm. No other modifications are necessary for typical use.
Conclusion on Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove
The Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove offers an excellent balance of dexterity, protection, and warmth for upland hunters. The premium goat leather palm and rugged canvas back provide a comfortable and durable combination, while the Thinsulate insulation keeps hands warm in cool conditions.
At a price of $55.95, the value proposition is strong. These gloves deliver performance and features comparable to more expensive options.
I would confidently recommend the Fish Monkey Upland Fieldmaster Hunting Glove to any hunter seeking a reliable and functional glove for upland pursuits. Consider adding these gloves to your kit for a more comfortable and successful hunting experience.