The **Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves** Review No One Else Gives You
When the spring turkey season rolls around, being prepared means having the right gear, and for me, that starts with my hands. I was in the market for a new pair of gloves that could handle the rigors of early mornings in the woods, keeping my hands warm, protected, and functional. The Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves caught my eye with their promise of versatility and comfort for hunters. My previous gloves were showing their age, with worn palms and a general lack of features, prompting this search for a capable replacement. My first impression upon unboxing these gloves was positive; they felt lightweight yet sturdy, with a surprisingly well-finished look for their price point. I briefly considered some heavier-duty, insulated hunting gloves from other brands, but the appeal of these lighter, more feature-rich options was stronger for spring conditions. A quick shake of the hands, and I felt a sense of readiness, eager to see if they’d live up to their promises in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for the Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves were the pre-dawn woods during a mid-spring turkey hunt. I specifically chose a scenario that involved sitting for extended periods in damp conditions, with the need to handle calls and my phone. The gloves performed admirably in maintaining a comfortable warmth against the cool, damp air, and their lightweight nature prevented any feeling of bulk or restriction.
The easy-to-reach pockets designed for mouth calls proved to be a game-changer, allowing for quick access without fumbling. I also appreciated the touchscreen fingertips for checking my GPS in low light without removing the gloves, a feature that worked surprisingly well.
My only minor surprise was that while they kept out the chill, they weren’t designed for significant warmth, which is expected given their lightweight construction. This is a minor point, as they are clearly intended for cooler, but not freezing, conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of outings – including a multi-day hunting trip and some general yard work where I kept them on for convenience – the Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves have proven to be surprisingly resilient. The silicone grip on the palm has held up exceptionally well, showing minimal signs of wear despite frequent use on rough surfaces.
The lightweight breathable stretch fabric has maintained its elasticity, and the gloves still offer a comfortable, snug fit. I haven’t noticed any premature fraying or stitching issues, which is a testament to their construction.
Maintenance has been a breeze; a simple rinse with cool water and air drying is all they require. Compared to other lightweight hunting gloves I’ve used, these offer a superior balance of dexterity and protective features without sacrificing comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of **Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves**
Specifications
The Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves boast a practical set of specifications designed for the active hunter. They feature a One-Size-Fits-Most design, which is convenient for quick purchases or gifting, though it might not be ideal for those with exceptionally large or small hands. The gloves include easy-to-reach pockets specifically for storing mouth calls, a thoughtful addition for turkey hunters who rely on multiple calls.
A unique feature is the built-in spur ruler, offering a quick way to measure a gobbler’s spurs in the field. The silicone grip on the palm is strategically placed to enhance handling of firearms, calls, or other gear. An extended cuff is designed to keep out bugs and debris, an invaluable feature during long sits in the field.
Finally, the touchscreen fingertips allow for seamless use of smartphones or GPS devices without needing to remove the gloves. The material is described as lightweight breathable stretch fabric, prioritizing comfort for all-day wear.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core functionality, the Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves excel at providing dexterity while offering essential protection. The silicone grip is effective, providing confidence when handling gear in variable conditions. The ease of access to calls from the dedicated pockets significantly streamlines the hunting process, reducing distractions and fumbling.
The touchscreen compatibility is a definite plus, making it simple to navigate digital devices without compromising your coverage. The extended cuff also serves its purpose well, offering a good barrier against insects and light underbrush.
A minor point of consideration is that while breathable, these gloves are not insulated, meaning they are best suited for moderate to cool temperatures rather than deep winter conditions. Their primary job is protection and utility, which they do very well.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves is pragmatic and hunter-focused. The one-size-fits-most approach, while convenient, means that achieving a perfectly tailored fit might be a compromise for some. However, the lightweight breathable stretch fabric does a good job of conforming to a variety of hand shapes.
The touchscreen fingertips are well-integrated, not adding bulk and allowing for precise interaction with screens. The silicone grip pattern is evenly distributed on the palm for maximum contact and utility. The extended cuff is comfortable and unobtrusive, easily tucking into sleeves or accommodating jacket cuffs.
Overall, the ergonomics are geared towards mobility and quick actions, which is precisely what a turkey hunter needs. The materials feel durable enough for their intended purpose without being stiff or limiting movement.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves appears to be good for their intended use case as lightweight hunting gloves. The stretch fabric has shown resilience against minor snags and abrasions encountered in the field. The silicone grip remains firmly attached, with no signs of peeling or excessive wear after multiple uses.
Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A simple hand wash with mild soap and water, followed by air drying, is sufficient to keep them clean and fresh. There are no complex parts or materials that require special care, making them an easy addition to any hunting gear routine.
While they are not designed for heavy-duty work, for their purpose of providing dexterity, grip, and basic protection in a hunting environment, they should hold up well over multiple seasons.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves come with a few integrated features that act as built-in accessories. The easy-to-reach pockets for mouth calls are a prime example, enhancing their utility directly out of the box. The convenient spur ruler is another such feature, eliminating the need to carry a separate measuring tool for this specific task.
There are no external customization options for these gloves in terms of interchangeable parts. However, their design is intended to work seamlessly with other hunting gear. The touchscreen finger tips ensure compatibility with modern electronic devices, and the overall fit is designed to be compatible with standard hunting apparel.
The built-in features are well-executed and contribute directly to the gloves’ functionality for turkey hunters.
Pros and Cons of **Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves**
Pros
- Easy-to-reach pockets for convenient mouth call storage.
- Built-in spur ruler for quick field measurements.
- Silicone grip on palm provides excellent handling of gear.
- Touchscreen fingertips allow for smartphone and GPS use without removal.
- Lightweight breathable stretch fabric ensures all-day comfort.
- Extended cuff helps keep out bugs and debris.
Cons
- One Size Fits Most design may not provide a perfect fit for all hand sizes.
- Primarily designed for moderate conditions; limited insulation for extreme cold.
Who Should Buy **Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves**?
The Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves are an ideal choice for turkey hunters who prioritize dexterity, convenience, and basic protection in moderate weather conditions. They are perfect for those who frequently use mouth calls and want quick access to them, as well as hunters who appreciate the utility of using their electronic devices in the field without removing their gloves. These gloves are also well-suited for individuals who value comfort and breathability during long sits or active hunts in spring or early fall.
Anyone requiring heavy insulation for frigid weather, or those who need extreme durability for rugged labor, might need to look elsewhere. However, for their intended purpose of enhancing a hunter’s capabilities and comfort, these gloves are a strong contender. Consider pairing them with a warmer glove option if hunting in colder climates, or rely on them as your go-to for milder hunting days.
Conclusion on **Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves**
The Allen Shocker Turkey Gloves deliver a compelling package of practical features for the dedicated turkey hunter. Their thoughtful design, incorporating easy-access call pockets, touchscreen compatibility, and a reliable grip, significantly enhances the hunting experience. The comfort provided by the lightweight, breathable fabric makes them suitable for extended wear throughout a long day in the field.
For their modest price point of $11.49, the value offered is exceptional, especially considering the integrated spur ruler and effective silicone palm grip. While the one-size-fits-most sizing might require some adjustment for a perfect fit, the overall performance and utility of these gloves make them a highly recommendable piece of gear. I would certainly recommend these gloves to any turkey hunter looking for an affordable, functional, and comfortable addition to their kit for mild to moderate conditions.