As a writer for Gadizmo I get the opportunity to check out lots of new gadgets and this week I had the chance to try out the DarkFin gloves from Black Lagoon Products. I contacted the company to let them know I was interested in reviewing their gloves and they replied to me within 2 hours. Then I got an email with my tracking number letting me know that the gloves were in the mail by the end of the day. I was very impressed with how quickly they responded to my request and would assume that you can expect the same level of service from them as well.
The gloves showed up in my mailbox about 3 days later and I was excited to try them out. They come in a reusable amber UV protect-ant bag that is used for storing the gloves when you’re not using them. Upon opening the bag I found an instruction sheet with easy to follow instructions accompanied with photos. You’re probably wondering why you would need instructions for a pair of gloves, these gloves have a few special instructions to follow. They need to be dried out in a certain way and stored in the bag they come with to extend their life.
The website advertises these gloves as perfect for sky diving, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing and swimming. They have a non slip surface and webbing that increases your surface area or resistance by up to 70%. I can tell you that the added resistance is real. I go to the gym on a regular basis and I swim laps about once a week. I got through half of my normal laps and my arms and chest were burning from the extra effort required when using DarkFin. These are a great tool to help improve your workout or cut your workout time down while getting the same results.
My kids, 2 and 4 years old, love the gloves too. They call them my “Batman” gloves and they have a fun time playing with them around the house. The gloves are cool looking but I have to admit that I did feel a little awkward wearing them at the gym. I felt a little like that one guy that is always wearing the lifting belt, gloves and cutoff sleeve sweat shirt but never actually lifts a weight. Maybe I’m too self conscious but in trying to be completely honest in my review I thought you should know. I put the gloves in my pockets and put them on after getting in the water so it really wasn’t that bad, I’m just worried about looking uncool.
While I was swimming a lady in the lane next to me actually said something about the gloves and told me she had a pair at home that she likes to use sometimes. The gloves are pretty cool and would make a good Christmas gift for anyone you know who is into water sports. I had a great experience with the gloves and the company and would recommend them. You can find out more about them and order a pair for yourself at the DarkFin Gloves website.
