Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts Review

Let’s Dive into Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts

The Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts are a no-frills, genuine U.S. Government Issue piece of kit designed for one purpose: to keep your hands warm. Offered by Military Surplus, these liners are a blend of 75% wool and 25% nylon, available in both black and olive drab. The price point is certainly appealing, but does the performance match the practicality of genuine military surplus?

My interest in these liners stems from a recurring problem: cold hands during late-season hunts and winter hikes. I’ve tried various high-tech gloves and mittens, often with limited success, and the bulky nature of some of these solutions can impede dexterity. The promise of a thin, wool-blend liner worn inside a more robust glove seemed like a viable solution.

Upon receiving the Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts, my initial impression was simple: utilitarian. These aren’t fancy, designer liners, but rather straightforward items made to fulfill a specific need. The wool/nylon blend felt reasonably soft to the touch, and the construction appeared solid, although certainly not luxurious.

Compared to a high-end merino wool liner from a brand like Smartwool (which can easily cost $25-$30), the Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts lack the refined feel and marketing hype. However, they undercut the price significantly. Against a cheaper synthetic liner, the wool blend offers a distinct advantage in terms of warmth and moisture-wicking capabilities. I picked these over some synthetic alternatives because of wool’s proven ability to insulate even when damp.

I was cautiously optimistic. I wasn’t expecting a miracle, but I hoped these liners would provide a noticeable boost in warmth without sacrificing dexterity – a goal that many expensive gloves have failed to deliver.


Real-World Testing: Putting Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts was during a late-season duck hunt in a marshy area with temperatures hovering around freezing. I wore the liners inside a pair of uninsulated leather work gloves. The combination proved surprisingly effective at maintaining warmth, even with the occasional splash of cold water.

The liners were comfortable enough to wear for extended periods, and my dexterity wasn’t noticeably impaired. Handling shotgun shells and setting decoys felt natural, unlike some bulkier glove setups I’ve used in the past. There were no immediate issues with the liners; they performed as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple hunting trips, hiking excursions, and even some casual snow shoveling, the Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts have held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite regular use and washing (on a delicate cycle, air-dried). The wool blend has retained its shape and insulating properties.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple hand wash with mild soap and air drying keeps them clean and fresh. Compared to some other glove liners I’ve used, which quickly lose their shape or become matted after washing, these have maintained their integrity. They definitely outperform some thinner synthetic liners that wear through quickly.

Breaking Down the Features of Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Military Surplus is the name on these glove liners, indicating their origin as genuine U.S. Government Issue items. This suggests a baseline level of quality and adherence to military specifications.
  • Fabric/Material: The 75% Wool / 25% Nylon blend is a key feature. Wool provides excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties, while nylon adds durability and helps the liners retain their shape.
  • Glove Type: Liners. These are intended to be worn inside other gloves or mittens, providing an extra layer of insulation.
  • Sizes: Available in Small(3), Medium(4), and Large(5). The provided sizing tip suggests using a #5 liner for a size 6 glove, indicating a slightly undersized fit, which is common for liners meant to be worn inside other gloves.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and user experience. The wool blend is crucial for warmth, while the liner design ensures compatibility with various outer gloves. The sizing information helps ensure a proper fit.

Performance & Functionality

The Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts perform their intended function admirably: providing an extra layer of insulation and improving warmth. They are especially effective when paired with uninsulated leather or shell gloves, boosting their thermal performance significantly.

Their strength lies in their simplicity and reliability. They don’t offer touchscreen compatibility or fancy features, but they provide consistent warmth and comfort in a variety of conditions. A weakness is that they don’t offer much wind protection when worn alone, so they are best suited as a liner.

They meet my expectations for a basic, no-frills glove liner.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The liners are thin and lightweight, allowing for good dexterity when worn inside other gloves. The 75% wool/25% nylon blend feels comfortable against the skin, although it might be slightly itchy for those with sensitive skin.

There’s minimal learning curve involved; you simply put them on like any other glove.

Durability & Maintenance

The Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts appear to be reasonably durable, thanks to the nylon content in the blend. They should last for several seasons with proper care.

Maintenance is easy, requiring only occasional hand washing and air drying. Avoid high heat, as this can damage the wool fibers.

Accessories and Customization Options

There are no specific accessories that come with the Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts. They are intended to be used in conjunction with other gloves or mittens. They are inherently compatible with a wide range of gloves.

Pros and Cons of Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts

Pros

  • Excellent value for the price. They offer a significant boost in warmth at a budget-friendly price point.
  • Genuine U.S. Government Issue. This indicates a baseline level of quality and reliability.
  • Effective insulation thanks to the wool blend. Wool provides warmth even when damp, making these suitable for various outdoor activities.
  • Thin and lightweight design. They don’t significantly impede dexterity when worn inside other gloves.
  • Easy to maintain. Hand washing and air drying are sufficient for cleaning.

Cons

  • Can be slightly itchy for those with sensitive skin.
  • Minimal wind protection when worn alone.


Who Should Buy Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts?

These liners are perfect for: hunters, hikers, outdoor workers, or anyone who needs an affordable and reliable way to add warmth to their existing gloves. They are especially well-suited for those who prioritize function over fashion and appreciate the value of genuine military surplus gear.

Those who prioritize high-end comfort and advanced features (such as touchscreen compatibility) should skip this product.

A must-have accessory would be a pair of durable, uninsulated leather or shell gloves to wear over the liners.

Conclusion on Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts

The Military Surplus GI Glove Liner Inserts are a solid, no-nonsense option for anyone seeking to enhance the warmth of their existing gloves without breaking the bank. They deliver on their promise of providing an extra layer of insulation, and their genuine U.S. Government Issue pedigree inspires confidence in their quality and durability.

The price is definitely justified. You get reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of more specialized glove liners.

I would personally recommend these to anyone looking for a practical and affordable solution to cold hands. If you need a simple, effective way to stay warm outdoors, give these liners a try.

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