The Sealskinz Harling hiking glove has a reassuringly rugged feel to it, with a quite rigid structure and tough materials throughout. The suede palm is similar to those found on some gardening gloves, and during my testing this stood up well to scrambling on rough rock types. There is limited stretch given by the materials, apart from in the semi-elasticated cuff. A nose-wipe is included on the thumb of both gloves, and this is soft and effective.
James Roddie’s verdict
Overall the Sealskinz Harling is a well-made, durable glove. It is highly windproof, but I might look elsewhere for keeping moisture out in sustained wet conditions.- Rugged construction
- Wind resistant
- Tight fit
- waterproofing could be better
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £50 Weight: 100g (size Medium pair) Materials: 52% Polyester, 27% Nylon, 18% Polyurethane, 3% Elastane. Aquasealz waterproof membrane. Sizes: S-XL Women’s version: No (Unisex). URL: sealskinz.com |
The rolled fingertip construction helps with overall dexterity. Touch-screen compatible zones are included on the forefinger and thumb, and these work quite well. Pull tabs make it easy to pull the gloves on, and a substantial velcro strap helps you to secure the glove at the cuff. The fit is tight enough that it will take some people by surprise, so it is wise to choose a size up from normal.
I was really happy with how windproof these gloves are. They coped well even in biting Easterly winds, and I found myself choosing these gloves for cycling as well as hiking on blustery days. For quite a lightweight glove I was pleased with how warm they kept my hands in autumn/spring conditions. However, the waterproofing is perhaps not as robust as some people might expect.
This product is described as an “all weather glove”, but I’d say this is a little optimistic. They performed well on days of heavy showers and changeable weather without letting any water in. However in sustained moderate rain or wet snow I found they let in water after approximately 1 hour, and by the end of wet days on the hill they were often saturated enough so I had to ring the water out of them. Other waterproof gloves I have tried have kept out moisture for longer in similar conditions.
Overall the Sealskinz Harling is a well-made, durable glove. It is highly windproof, but I might look elsewhere for keeping moisture out in sustained wet conditions.
