We continue our coverage of WL Gore’s various technologies and their military applications with the Swoop Mitt from Outdoor Research. While we are all familiar with the popular GORE-TEX brand, many do not know that WL Gore has worked extensively with the military since the mid-1980s to develop specific fabrics for various purposes.
Developed for pilots and aviation crews operating in extremely cold conditions at high altitudes, the shell of the Swoop Mitt provides waterproof and breathable protection via a Gore membrane. The water resistant goat-leather palm provides a solid grip. The Swoop is a trigger finger mitt design which accommodates all fingers in the mitt cavity for greater warmth and dexterity. What makes it unique is that the mitt cavity can be peeled back and the entire hand can be pushed through the mitt when required. It is insulated with EnduraLoft, a high-loft insulation that springs back after compression. Used in conjunction with an FR liner glove such as a flight glove, the Swoop works as a full system.
Here is a video featuring OR’s Mike Christian that describes the Swoop Mitt.
Tags: Outdoor Research, WL Gore
Cool idea Not worth $369, most I would pay would be $39.99 there has to be other options out there back in 2003 at fort knox i had a set of finger mittens issued to me. I thought they were a great invention
Seriously? $39.99? Please don’t tell me that you want to buy US made goods or that you even want a quality product.
Any idea when the OR GhostRing gloves will be out?
I would love a set of these. Way more useful then the gloves I am used to. Being able to push your hand through for detail work is awesome.