We all have our own physical quirks that make shopping for gear
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Also an expert on using things ALL the way up |
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Miss you button: GET IT?!! |
In a much MUCH rarer, but much more important scenario, I recently had to dial 911 when I witnessed a nasty fall. I was sitting on Solo & I was the only person who had my phone strapped to me (I use a calf holster, so that if I fall, the phone doesn't contribute to a back or pelvis injury the way it might on a belt). Those seconds to pull off a glove felt really really long when I wasn't entirely certain whether the fallen rider was (a) alive or (b) suffering spinal or brain injuries (she wore a helmet, got a concussion, but was fortunately otherwise ok). This wasn't an experience I'd thought much about before, but I sure do now.
I didn't need anything super insulated since I already have the SSG 10 Below (also wonderful & durable). And I categorically refuse to pay $40+ for a pair of hand covers for horsey riding. I set out on my quest.
Contestant #1: Noble Outfitters Perfect Fit 3 Season Glove
Pros: Technically less than $20 ($19-something at SmartPak). Claimed to be "cell phone compatible."
Cons: NOT touchscreen compatible. I suppose technically you can still sort of use a cell phone while wearing these gloves. I mean, they don't cover your mouth. :/ But you certainly can't operate the screen; I even tried using my off-hand, just in case they were designed by some thoughtless person who assumed everyone was right-handed. Nope, the right one was just as ineffective as the left.
I was also mildly irritated that the published size chart showed how to use a dollar bill to measure your hand. It's 2019, people: I'm not a millennial, but I still have fully embraced electronic payments & I would guess I'm in the majority of people who don't carry cash anymore. After ~15 minutes of googling, I finally found a size chart with real measurements on it. The gloves still didn't fit very well though & the material felt pretty cheap.
Summary: A "meh" would be excessively generous. Returned them. Thankfully SmartPak makes that easy, although it would be even easier if there was a UPS store in my rural area.
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Excuse usage dirt |
Pros: I got these on clearance, but regular price is still less than $20 ($18.99 I think at Riding Warehouse). The XL fits my giant mitts decently. And they ARE touchscreen compatible, no misleading claims here. I was pleasantly suprised at how super-grippy they are as well, they would be great in any discipline. Material feels sturdy & I like that they extend a little farther down my wrist for more sun protection in summer/warmth in winter. They aren't insulated but my easily-frosted extremities were comfortable at 40-45 degrees.
There is a simple size chart consisting of normal measurements using a ruler. The olive green accents were on sale, but they do come with other colors. The accents are very subtle though, which I prefer. Especially when I was competing, I hardly wanted attention called to my not-always-obedient hands.
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Touch pads on thumb/touchy finger |
Summary: I love these gloves far more than I expected. I would definitely buy them again if they hold up.
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Giant awkward thumbs-up: thanks, Ovation! |