[Review] The Diablo Softshell Gloves by Outdoor Designs

If you’re looking for a glove that is reliable, warm, and keeps your fingers mobile, look no further than the Diablo Softshell by Outdoor Designs. Not only is the Diablo Softshell made to give you ultimate dexterity on any adventure, but they’re also extremely affordable. While they’re not waterproof, they are the perfect glove for ice climbing adventures, sunny ski days, or even winter work days on the ranch.

The most notable feature to me of the Diablo Softshell Gloves is the fact that immediately out of the box, there is no break-in period. They are comfortable and easy to wear instantaneously which is key for someone like myself who is often horrible at planning ahead.

The combination of goatskin leather and 4-way stretch softshell material creates the perfect balance between durability, mobility, and warmth. The Polyester Fleece 100 insulation is a nice amount of warmth for your hands without being extremely bulky feeling. I’ve always really liked goatskin leather because of how soft and supple it is. Not only do these feel great because of that leather, that is also what helps to give your hands ultimate agility while wearing the Diablo SS. The roll-over goatskin fingertips add a bit of reinforcement where you need it most.

The gauntlet style of gloves is ideal in many situations and personally, if you’re not a gauntlet person you may never be a gauntlet person. For ice-climbing, it is truly the way to go. However, if the gauntlet isn’t for you, be sure to check out the many different styles of gloves Outdoor Designs offers. The design of this gauntlet is very easy to use with gloves on and even includes a durable leather pull tab that won’t blow apart on day 2.

Not only does Outdoor Designs have an impressive line of gloves to choose from, but they also offer high quality yet affordable designs for any activity. If you’re using a glove in a relatively dry environment, it would be unnecessary to have your glove protected by an expensive and overkill waterproof layer. While I truly believe there is a time and place for entirely waterproof gloves, I also think there’s a time and a place for gloves that are water resistant and warm and you shouldn’t have to spend a ton of extra money for something that you may not really need.

As far as sizing goes, be sure to check out their size chart. I really wish they offered the Diablo Softshells in a size XS because I think that would be the perfect fit. The small is an ok fit but there are times when I can feel that they are obviously too large.

If you’re looking for a pair of ice-climbing, skiing, ranch duty, or anything outdoors gauntlet style gloves, look no further than the Diablo Softshell by Outdoor Designs. Everything that you need and nothing that you don’t.