Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s Review

Let’s Talk About Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s

The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s are designed as a versatile tactical glove that aims to provide both protection and dexterity in a variety of environments. Crafted by Oakley SI, these gloves blend goatskin leather with synthetic materials to create a durable and comfortable solution for shooting, tactical operations, or general outdoor use.

I was seeking a glove that could withstand the rigors of range use while still allowing for precise weapon manipulation. My old gloves were either too bulky, hindering my trigger feel, or too flimsy, offering inadequate protection against heat and abrasion.

Upon unboxing, the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s immediately impressed me with their supple leather and thoughtful design. They felt substantial yet flexible, a promising combination for serious use.

Compared to my Mechanix Wear Original gloves, the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s appeared to offer superior abrasion resistance and a more refined fit. I also considered the Outdoor Research Ironsight Sensor Gloves, but I ultimately chose the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s for their perceived balance of durability and dexterity.

My initial impression was one of excitement; these seemed like a step up in quality and performance. I was eager to see how they would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on pistol and rifle drills. The weather was warm and dry, perfect for evaluating the gloves’ grip and comfort.

The gloves provided an excellent grip on both my pistol and rifle, even with sweaty hands. I found the articulated fingers allowed for a natural and unhindered trigger pull, enhancing my accuracy.

The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s required virtually no break-in period. I experienced no discomfort or hot spots, even after several hours of continuous use.

There were no immediate issues during the first range session; they performed exactly as I hoped. The enhanced grip and dexterity were noticeable improvements over my previous gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a few weekend camping trips, the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s have held up remarkably well. The goatskin leather has shown minimal wear, and the stitching remains intact.

Despite repeated exposure to sun, sweat, and abrasion, the gloves have retained their shape and flexibility. I did notice some slight darkening of the leather in high-wear areas, but this is purely cosmetic.

Cleaning is simple; I usually wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally treat them with leather conditioner. Maintaining the leather keeps them supple and prevents cracking.

Compared to other gloves I’ve owned, the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s have significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and comfort. They have become my go-to gloves for shooting and other outdoor activities.

Breaking Down the Features of Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s

Specifications

• The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s are composed of 70% Goat Skin, 10% Elastane, 8% Nylon, 6% Chloroprene Rubber, and 3% Carbon. This material blend provides a balance of durability, flexibility, and grip.
• These gloves are designed specifically for adult men and are available in Coyote color. This color blends well in various tactical and outdoor environments.
• The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s incorporate Oakley’s patented FN Dry system. This system uses strategically placed neoprene rubber to maintain flexibility in frigid conditions while protecting hands from harsh weather.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the gloves’ performance in various conditions. The goatskin provides abrasion resistance, while the elastane and nylon offer flexibility and a snug fit. The neoprene provides protection against the elements.

Performance & Functionality

The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s excel at providing a secure grip and excellent dexterity. They allow for precise manipulation of firearms and other tools, making them ideal for tactical applications.

The gloves’ main strengths are their comfortable fit, durability, and enhanced grip. A minor weakness is the lack of touchscreen compatibility, which could be a convenience for some users.

The gloves definitely meet my expectations; they provide the protection and dexterity I need for range use and other outdoor activities. They are a significant improvement over my previous gloves.

Design & Ergonomics

The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s are well-designed and constructed with high-quality materials. The articulated fingers and redesigned thumb-cradle promote a better fit.

The gloves are comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the fit is true to size based on Oakley’s size chart. There is no significant learning curve; they feel natural and intuitive from the first use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given their robust construction and quality materials, the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s should last for several years with proper care. The goatskin leather is resistant to abrasion and tearing.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning to maintain the leather’s suppleness. Minor repairs, such as re-stitching a seam, can be easily performed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s do not come with any specific accessories, but they are compatible with various aftermarket glove liners for added warmth in cold weather. The simple design and muted color allow them to pair well with a wide variety of tactical and outdoor gear.

While there aren’t many direct customization options, the gloves’ high-quality construction makes them a solid base for adding aftermarket treatments, like waterproofing sprays or enhanced grip coatings. Some users may also choose to modify the cuff length to better suit their individual preferences and gear.

Pros and Cons of Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s

Who Should Buy Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s?

• Perfect for: Tactical professionals, law enforcement, military personnel, shooting enthusiasts, and anyone needing durable gloves with excellent dexterity.
• Who should skip this product? Those looking for inexpensive gloves for light-duty tasks, or those who require touchscreen compatibility.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider a glove liner for cold weather use. Leather conditioner for long-term maintenance.

Conclusion on Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s

The Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s are a high-quality tactical glove that delivers on its promises of durability, dexterity, and comfort. While they come with a higher price tag than some alternatives, the superior materials and thoughtful design justify the investment.

The value proposition is strong; these gloves are built to last and will provide years of reliable service. I believe the price is justified considering the quality and performance.

I would definitely recommend the Oakley SI Factory Pilot 2.0 Gloves – Men’s to anyone looking for a top-tier tactical glove. If you need gloves that can withstand the rigors of serious use while providing excellent dexterity, these are an excellent choice. Invest in your performance and get yourself a pair!