Gear Review: AFTCO Solago Gloves

WHAT IS IT?

AFTCO Solago Gloves

WHAT SETS IT APART?

The design features open-face Sensi-Tech palm and a silicone grip pad. The fingers and thumb panels are reinforced for added durability, along with power knit mesh finger webbing. Extra short fingers for increased dexterity, especially when thumbing casting reel spools or feathering spinning line on the cast. Above all else, you get UPF 50 sun protection. Sizes: S through 2XL. Colors: Charcoal and Blue Camo. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

Hand landing fish is a given, but so is perspiration buildup on the hands in warm weather. The Solago covers both with its quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric. The open palm and short fingers provide greater sensitivity for bite detection—especially when using today’s ultra-sensitive rod blanks and handles. The same goes for the current trend of using downsized reels. The silicone grip pad adds better grip control and even more bite feel sensitivity when palming reels. 

HOW MUCH?

$29.00

MORE INFORMATION: 

AFTCO.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

You normally don’t think of wearing sun protection gloves when fishing, although you might be covered everywhere else with an AFTCO Samurai Sun Protection Hoodie and your favorite hat. Just as susceptible to harmful skin-cancer-causing sun are the hands. All it takes is one “mole” to actually be a melanoma. 

As a child of the 70s I was a late adopter to the concept of wearing sun protection clothes. I came around as more of our pros began wearing UPF sun protection. And just in time — after a dermatologist visit revealed several areas of solar keratoses on my scalp, and you guessed it, the top of my hand. It was easily treated with a chemotherapy ointment. Lesson learned. Don’t risk it.