Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models Review

Let’s Dive into Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models

The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series in Coyote, size 2X Large, is a tactical glove designed for military and law enforcement professionals, offering flame resistance and enhanced grip. Wiley X has a reputation for producing durable and functional eyewear and gloves, and the Orion series aims to extend that legacy to hand protection in demanding environments. This particular model prioritizes protection against heat and abrasion without sacrificing dexterity.

I’ve been searching for a reliable pair of gloves that can withstand the rigors of range work and outdoor tactical training scenarios. My current gloves offer either decent dexterity or adequate protection, but not both; I needed a pair that could handle hot firearms, rough handling of equipment, and potential exposure to flames. The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series seemed to strike the right balance.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the feel of the Nomex knit. The sheepskin leather reinforcements in key areas also felt durable and well-placed. The gloves felt surprisingly lightweight despite the materials, and the stitching appeared to be of high quality.

Compared to my Mechanix Wear M-Pact gloves and my older, heavier leather flight gloves, the Wiley X gloves seemed to offer a better compromise. The M-Pacts are great for impact protection but lack flame resistance, while the flight gloves are bulky and limit dexterity. The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series looked to be a sweet spot between protection and usability.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the flame-resistant properties and the promise of a custom fit thanks to the adjustable cuff. But, I remained slightly skeptical about the Touchtec compatibility, as many tactical gloves struggle with touchscreen responsiveness.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the Wiley X Orion Glove T Series at an outdoor shooting range during a two-day tactical carbine course. The course involved a lot of movement, weapon manipulation, and exposure to the elements. Temperatures ranged from 65°F to 80°F with moderate humidity.

The gloves performed admirably in both dry and slightly sweaty conditions. The sheepskin leather provided a secure grip on the rifle, even during rapid firing drills. The Nomex knit kept my hands relatively cool, and the adjustable cuff ensured a snug fit that didn’t interfere with my movements.

The gloves required minimal break-in time; they felt comfortable from the start. The Touchtec compatibility, however, was a bit hit-or-miss. It worked sporadically on my smartphone but was unreliable with my rangefinder’s touchscreen.

Extended Use & Reliability

After two months of regular use – including several range trips, a weekend camping trip, and some light yard work – the Wiley X Orion Glove T Series has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear on the Nomex knit or the leather reinforcements. The stitching remains intact, and the adjustable cuffs still provide a secure fit.

I’ve noticed some minor discoloration on the palm of the gloves from handling firearms and other equipment. However, this is purely cosmetic and does not affect performance. Cleaning the gloves is relatively easy; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For more stubborn dirt, a mild detergent works well.

Compared to my previous tactical gloves, the Wiley X Orion Glove T Series offers superior flame resistance and a more comfortable fit. They are also more durable than I initially expected, considering their relatively lightweight construction. They have exceeded my expectations in terms of overall performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models

Specifications

• The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series features 100% Nomex Knit construction. This ensures excellent flame resistance, a critical feature for military and law enforcement personnel.
• Reinforcements consist of sheepskin leather in high-wear areas. These include the palm, fingers, and knuckles to enhance durability and grip.
• The gloves offer an adjustable cuff for a custom fit. This helps to keep debris out and ensures a secure and comfortable feel.
• They are specifically designed to match US Military Uniforms. The Coyote color provides camouflage and a professional appearance.
• A clip strap allows for easy storage and portability. This feature is Navair approved.
• They are Navair Approved and US Army Aviation Approved. These approvals validate their suitability for use in aviation environments.
• The gloves feature Touchtec compatibility. This is designed to allow the use of touchscreen devices while wearing the gloves.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the glove’s performance in demanding environments. The flame resistance protects the wearer from burns, while the leather reinforcements enhance durability and grip. The adjustable cuff ensures a secure fit, and the approvals validate their suitability for military and aviation use.

Performance & Functionality

The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series performs its job exceptionally well, offering a balance of protection, dexterity, and comfort. The flame resistance is reassuring, and the leather reinforcements provide excellent grip and durability. However, the Touchtec functionality could be improved.

The glove’s strengths lie in its protective qualities and comfortable fit. The main weakness is the inconsistent Touchtec performance. It meets my expectations for flame resistance and durability, but the touchscreen compatibility is less reliable than advertised.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and precise stitching. The gloves are surprisingly lightweight, considering the level of protection they offer. They are comfortable to wear for extended periods, with minimal restriction of movement.

The design is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive adjustable cuff. There is a slight learning curve in getting used to the Touchtec functionality, but overall, the gloves are easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series does not come with any specific accessories. Customization options are limited, as the gloves are designed to meet specific military standards. However, the gloves are compatible with various tactical accessories, such as weapon-mounted lights and laser aiming devices.

Pros and Cons of Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models

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Who Should Buy Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models?

The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series is perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and range enthusiasts who require flame-resistant hand protection. They are also suitable for anyone working in environments where exposure to heat or abrasion is a concern. This would also include aviation technicians.

Anyone primarily concerned with touchscreen usability should probably skip these gloves, or at least not rely on that feature. Someone requiring heavy-duty impact protection may also want to consider alternatives with more robust padding.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality glove cleaning solution to maintain the leather. A small carabiner to clip the gloves to a MOLLE system using the clip strap would also be handy.

Conclusion on Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models

The Wiley X Orion Glove T Series, Coyote, 2X Large, – 1 out of 9 models is a well-designed and durable tactical glove that offers excellent flame resistance and a comfortable fit. While the Touchtec functionality could be improved, the glove’s overall performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone needing reliable hand protection in demanding environments.

The price of $112 is justified, considering the quality of materials and the level of protection offered. I would personally recommend the Wiley X Orion Glove T Series to anyone looking for a reliable and durable tactical glove with flame-resistant properties. If you need gloves that can handle the heat and provide a secure grip, give these a try; you won’t be disappointed.