Craftsman Acrylic Lined Cold Weather Glove

When you’re out in the cold, whether shoveling snow, doing some winter landscaping, or simply handling tools, finding the right pair of gloves can be a game-changer. The Acrylic Lined Cold Weather Glove from Craftsman, model CMXPGRA18CWL, claims to offer warmth, comfort, and dexterity. After putting these gloves to the test in various cold weather conditions, I’m here to share my findings.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about these gloves is their robust construction. With a 13-gauge nylon shell, they feel sturdy yet flexible. The latex waterproof coating is a standout feature, effectively keeping my hands dry even during prolonged exposure to snow and wet conditions. The sandy foam latex palm provides a surprisingly good grip, ensuring that tools and other objects don’t slip from my grasp.

The elastic cuff offers a secure and comfortable fit, which is essential when you’re working in cold weather. It prevents cold air and moisture from seeping in, and the glove stays snug without feeling restrictive.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is crucial for any glove, especially when you’re wearing them for extended periods. I was pleased to find that the thermal acrylic lining provides excellent insulation without making the glove bulky. Even in freezing temperatures, my hands remained warm and toasty. The lightweight, breathable material means your hands won’t get too sweaty, which can be a common issue with heavily insulated gloves.

The gloves come in a range of sizes—Medium, Large, and Extra Large—so it’s relatively easy to find a good fit. I opted for the Large size, and it fit my hands perfectly, providing ample room for movement without feeling too loose.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Craftsman cold weather gloves deliver on their promises. I used them for various tasks, including shoveling snow, handling small power tools, and even some basic landscaping. The grip remained reliable, and I never felt like I was losing control of my tools, even in wet conditions.

One of the more surprising tests was handling my parrot, who has a knack for being unruly. The gloves provided enough dexterity to manage the bird while keeping my hands protected from any sudden pecking. It’s a testament to their versatility and comfort.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with gloves, especially when they’re exposed to tough conditions. After several weeks of consistent use, the gloves show minimal signs of wear. The material and craftsmanship appear to be top-notch, ensuring these gloves will be a reliable companion for many cold seasons to come.

Pros

1. Waterproof Coating: The latex waterproof coating is highly effective at keeping hands dry, even in wet snow and rain.
2. Thermal Lining: The acrylic thermal lining provides excellent insulation, keeping your hands warm in cold conditions.
3. Comfortable Fit: The elastic cuff and lightweight material make these gloves comfortable for extended wear.
4. Good Grip: The sandy foam latex palm ensures a firm grip in both wet and dry conditions.
5. Durable Construction: The 13-gauge nylon shell and overall build quality suggest these gloves will last a long time.

Cons

1. Limited Dexterity for Fine Tasks: While the gloves are great for general tasks, they might be a bit cumbersome for very fine, detailed work.
2. Size Variability: Although available in multiple sizes, some might find the fit slightly off, especially if they’re between sizes.

Applications

These gloves excel in a variety of cold weather applications. Whether you’re shoveling snow, doing some winter gardening, or handling small power tools, they offer the right blend of protection, warmth, and grip. They’re also suitable for more unique tasks, like handling pets or working in a wet environment.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Acrylic Lined Cold Weather Glove is a versatile, well-constructed, and comfortable option for anyone needing reliable hand protection in cold and wet conditions. The combination of a waterproof latex coating, thermal lining, and good grip makes them suitable for a wide range of tasks. While they might not be the best choice for very fine, detailed work, they excel in most general applications.

I would recommend these gloves for anyone looking for a durable and effective solution to keep their hands warm and dry during the colder months. The comfort and performance they offer make them a valuable addition to any winter toolkit.