Review on Rip Curl Flash 5 Finger Medium by Andres Callahan

Having been out for a full season these gloves I'm happy to review them. I've always worn ripcurl wetsuits. Until the Raptor in 2002. Now, many years later, I am still completely satisfied with the finish and quality of Ripcurl. I have nothing to do with Ripcurl. I currently live in the northern part of the mid-Atlantic region where the water temperature drops to 30 degrees in winter. I use a hooded 5/4 Flashbomb suit, 5MM Flashbomb boots and 5MM Flashbomb gloves. Up to a temperature of about 40 degrees I got very warm in it. I can only stay under it for about 30 minutes. Between 40-55 degrees I have no problem with that. To protect the glove, 5mm is not recommended for gloves under 40. I would suggest 7mm. I say if you only need 5mm gloves and you're in very cold water, get the lobster claw style. They retain heat better than single finger gloves. What I love about these 5mm gloves is the dexterity with which I wear them. They hold my board very well. The seams are also sealed. The quality lasts all season. No degradation of materials, seams or inner tape. I'm an old school surfer so if I had just one small complaint it would be the lack of a hand strap to put on a strap. I used to wear gloves over a suit for easier handling and velcro straps have worked great for this. However, modern gloves, including this one, are designed to be worn under a suit and therefore have no strap. In general, a durable glove is of great value. Enjoy the ride