Striker Stealth Glove Review

First Impressions of Striker Stealth Glove

The Striker Stealth Glove promises a blend of waterproof protection and impressive dexterity, a rare combination often sought but seldom truly achieved in the world of tactical and outdoor gloves. Manufactured by Striker, these gloves aim to provide the all-weather performance of bulkier insulated models without sacrificing the tactile feel needed for demanding tasks. Could this be the holy grail of gloves: waterproof, breathable, and dexterous?

Having spent over a decade field-testing gloves in conditions ranging from frigid Alaskan fishing trips to sweltering desert tactical training exercises, I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t. My primary need is a glove that can keep my hands dry and functional in unpredictable weather, without hindering my ability to manipulate gear, tie knots, or handle firearms. I needed something that felt more like a second skin than a bulky oven mitt.

Upon receiving the Striker Stealth Glove, my initial impression was one of understated quality. The seamless 4-way stretch fabric felt remarkably supple, and the lightweight construction was immediately noticeable. It reminded me of high-end athletic wear more than traditional outdoor gear. The silicone print palm looked promising for grip, and the tech-touch fingertips hinted at modern functionality.

Compared to my existing go-to gloves – a bulky, insulated waterproof glove from Outdoor Research and a pair of form-fitting but non-waterproof tactical gloves from Mechanix Wear – the Striker Stealth Glove occupied an interesting middle ground. The Outdoor Research gloves were superb in truly harsh conditions but lacked dexterity. The Mechanix gloves offered excellent feel but were useless in the rain. I chose the Striker Stealth Glove hoping to find a single solution that could bridge the gap.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The weight, materials, and apparent design suggested a product with real potential, but the true test would be in the field. I was both excited and slightly skeptical, knowing that many gloves make grand claims but fall short when faced with real-world challenges.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Striker Stealth Glove to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Striker Stealth Glove to the test during a weekend steelhead fishing trip in the Pacific Northwest. This involved prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions, requiring constant manipulation of fishing rods, reels, and tackle. The gloves were subjected to rain, river spray, and the slimy residue of handling fish.

The performance was surprisingly good. The waterproof/breathable construction did indeed keep my hands dry and reasonably warm, even when submerged briefly while releasing fish. The silicone print palm provided a secure grip on my rod, even when wet, and I could easily tie knots and adjust my gear without removing the gloves. There was a brief adjustment period to the thickness (or lack thereof), but soon I was reeling fish in.

After a few hours, I did notice a slight clamminess inside the gloves, a common issue with waterproof/breathable membranes when subjected to prolonged exertion. However, this was far less pronounced than with other waterproof gloves I’ve used. The biggest surprise was how well the tech-touch fingertips worked; I could actually take pictures of my catches with my phone without exposing my hands to the elements.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Striker Stealth Glove has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of gear. I’ve used them extensively for hiking, kayaking, and even some light-duty tasks around the campsite. They’ve held up remarkably well.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The 4-way stretch fabric shows no signs of fraying or stretching out, and the silicone print on the palm remains intact. I did notice that the water-resistant coating on the outer fabric seems to have diminished slightly after repeated exposure to water and abrasion, requiring more frequent treatment with a waterproofing spray.

Maintenance is simple; I typically just rinse them with fresh water and hang them to dry. On a couple of occasions, I’ve washed them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with a technical fabric wash, and they’ve come out looking as good as new. Compared to my previous experiences with other “waterproof” gloves, the Striker Stealth Glove has significantly outperformed them in terms of dexterity and overall comfort. I have found a pair of gloves that meet most of my needs.

Breaking Down the Features of Striker Stealth Glove

Specifications

The Striker Stealth Glove boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Seamless 4-Way Stretch Fabric: This provides a snug, comfortable fit and allows for a full range of motion.
• Waterproof/Breathable Construction: Keeps hands dry from external moisture while allowing sweat vapor to escape.
• Silicone Print Palm: Enhances grip in wet or dry conditions.
• Tech-Touch Fingertips: Enables use of touchscreen devices without removing gloves.
• Water-Resistant Coating: Provides an initial layer of protection against moisture.

These specifications are crucial for a glove designed for active use in varied conditions. The stretch fabric enhances dexterity, the waterproof/breathable membrane ensures comfort, and the silicone palm provides a secure grip. The tech-touch fingertips are a welcome addition in our increasingly digital world.

Performance & Functionality

The Striker Stealth Glove performs admirably in its intended role. It provides a good balance of protection, dexterity, and comfort.

The waterproof/breathable membrane effectively keeps hands dry in wet conditions, although prolonged exposure to heavy rain can overwhelm the membrane’s ability to vent moisture. The silicone palm offers excellent grip on tools, firearms, and other equipment. Dexterity is surprisingly good for a waterproof glove, allowing for relatively precise movements. The tech-touch fingertips work reliably, although larger fingers might find them a bit cumbersome.

One potential weakness is the lack of insulation; these gloves are not designed for extreme cold. While they provide some warmth, they are best suited for moderate temperatures or layering with a liner glove in colder conditions. Overall, the Striker Stealth Glove largely meets expectations, providing a versatile solution for a wide range of outdoor activities.

Design & Ergonomics

The Striker Stealth Glove features a streamlined design that prioritizes fit and function. The 4-way stretch fabric conforms to the hand, providing a snug and comfortable fit.

The seamless construction eliminates pressure points and minimizes bulk. The gloves are lightweight and unobtrusive, making them easy to wear for extended periods. The tech-touch fingertips are well-integrated and don’t interfere with overall dexterity.

There is no significant learning curve; the gloves are intuitive and easy to use right out of the box. The build quality feels solid, and the materials appear to be durable and long-lasting.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Striker Stealth Glove is a durable piece of gear that should last for several seasons of regular use. The 4-way stretch fabric is resistant to abrasion and tearing, and the silicone print on the palm is holding up well.

As mentioned earlier, the water-resistant coating on the outer fabric may require periodic re-treatment with a waterproofing spray. Maintenance is simple; the gloves can be easily washed and dried.

Proper care will extend the lifespan of the gloves and ensure optimal performance. With reasonable care, these gloves should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Striker Stealth Glove does not come with any specific accessories. Given the nature of gloves, customization options are limited.

However, the gloves can be easily paired with liner gloves for added warmth in colder conditions. They are also compatible with most touchscreen devices. The minimalist design also allows for good compatibility with various tactical and outdoor apparel systems.

Pros and Cons of Striker Stealth Glove

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Who Should Buy Striker Stealth Glove?

The Striker Stealth Glove is perfect for:

• Pro Anglers: The waterproof protection, excellent grip, and dexterity make these gloves ideal for fishing in wet conditions.
• Hunters: The form-fitting design and tech-touch capabilities enable manipulation of weapons, optics and electronics.
• Hikers and Backpackers: The lightweight construction and waterproof/breathable membrane are well-suited for hiking in variable weather conditions.
• Tactical Professionals: Provides excellent dexterity and water resistance in tactical settings.

Who should skip this product? Anyone requiring heavy insulation for extreme cold-weather activities.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A lightweight liner glove for added warmth in colder conditions and a waterproofing spray to maintain water repellency.

Conclusion on Striker Stealth Glove

The Striker Stealth Glove is a well-designed and versatile piece of gear that delivers on its promise of providing waterproof protection and impressive dexterity. While not ideal for extreme cold, it excels in a wide range of outdoor activities where a balance of protection, comfort, and functionality is essential.

At $55.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and overall performance. The Striker Stealth Glove offers excellent value for money compared to other gloves in its class.

I would personally recommend the Striker Stealth Glove to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile solution for keeping their hands dry and functional in variable weather conditions. Don’t let wet hands compromise your mission. Get your Striker Stealth Glove today and experience the difference.