The Outdoor Research Lucent Heated Gloves deliver exceptional performance in cold, wet conditions, offering a compelling blend of warmth, waterproofing, and durability. This in-depth review explores the gloves' features, from their comfortable fit and robust construction to the efficient three-heat-setting system and impressively long battery life. We delve into the materials used, highlighting the Gore-Tex waterproofing and Primaloft insulation, and assess the practical design elements, including the convenient battery placement and secure wrist straps.Beyond the positives, we also address a potential point of vulnerability: the zipper on the battery compartment. This review examines the potential impact of water exposure on the electronics and provides an update on our inquiry with Outdoor Research regarding this concern. Ultimately, we determine whether the Lucent Heated Gloves are a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts seeking superior hand protection during winter activities, from everyday outings to challenging mountaineering expeditions.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The package includes two gloves, a manual, two rechargeable batteries, and a dual-port charger. The charger conveniently charges both batteries simultaneously, taking approximately four and a half hours for a full charge. This allows for overnight charging, ensuring readiness for the next day's adventure. The gloves themselves boast a neat fit with leather reinforcement on the knuckles and other high-impact areas, offering excellent protection.
The battery pack is easily integrated into a discreet pocket within the glove. While you can feel the battery slightly, it’s not overly cumbersome and doesn't hinder movement. The placement ensures the bulk is concentrated around the wrist area, a logical location that doesn't cause discomfort.
The initial impression is one of high quality and careful design. The materials feel durable and well-constructed, suggesting longevity and robustness for outdoor use.
Heating System and Controls
The heating system features three heat settings: high, medium, and low. Each setting offers a substantial amount of heat; high heat is advertised for 2 hours, medium for 5 hours, and low for 8 hours. The controls are simple and intuitive: a single button allows for easy cycling through the different heat settings and to turn the gloves on/off by holding the button for two seconds.
The heating elements are strategically positioned for maximum warmth and comfort. Even on the lowest setting, a noticeable increase in hand temperature is felt almost immediately. The long battery life is certainly a notable advantage for extended outdoor activities.
Materials and Construction
The gloves utilize Gore-Tex for waterproofing and Primaloft for insulation, ensuring your hands stay dry and warm even in challenging conditions. The inner lining is a soft, comfortable fleece material. A thick layer of insulation sits beneath this fleece for added warmth. The exterior is robust, providing a strong barrier against the elements.
The wrist straps are another standout feature, providing a secure fit and easy adjustment, even while wearing the gloves. The loop on the wrist for securing the glove is especially helpful in preventing loss during use.
Concerns and Potential Drawbacks
My main concern is the zipper near the battery compartment, which doesn't appear to be waterproof. While unlikely to cause immediate problems, prolonged exposure to water in that area could potentially damage the electronics, so it might be a point of failure. I contacted Outdoor Research about this, and will update once I receive a response.
Overall Conclusion and Recommendation
The Outdoor Research Lucent Heated Gloves offer impressive warmth, waterproofing, and durability. The heating system is effective, with three heat settings and a long battery life. The materials and construction are top-notch, providing excellent protection and comfort. The only concern lies with the non-waterproof zipper.
Despite the slight concern with the zipper, these gloves are highly recommended for outdoor enthusiasts who demand both warmth and protection in cold and wet conditions. The high-quality construction and effective heating system make them a worthwhile investment for various winter activities, ranging from casual winter walks to serious mountaineering. The thoughtful details like the wrist strap further enhance the practical usability.