I got the new SHOWA 3416s loaded onto a set of Ultimas today. I won't get to dive them today, but here's some pictures. Boy are they sweet!
Especially loaded onto the rings, they seem remarkably 720-ish in terms of fit and style. I suppose that shouldn't be a surprise... But the similarities are shocking, and it's a wonderful, wonderful thing.
They are slightly thicker than the 720s, and a lot stretchier... Kinda "gummy" by comparison of the 720s - which is a good thing. They are the easiest glove to load yet, save for latex/butyl rubber gloves - which aren't a player due to their fragility. These 3416s stretch and stretch and stretch and definitely make loading a super simple affair... Even easier than the 720s, which are easier than the PVC "smurf" gloves that everyone knows (660, 490 495, 620).
Good, good things to say about this new glove for sure!
I'll put a few dives on them in the morning and report back on their durability. According to the numbers, they should be more puncture and tear resistant than the 720s, and a whopping FIVE TIMES more cut resistant... Without losing any of that wonderful feel and function that the 720s are known for.
...And just check out all of that badass blackness...