Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s Review

Let’s Talk About Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s are designed for women who demand warmth, dexterity, and tech-compatibility in their cold-weather handwear. Outdoor Research has packed their ActiveTemp “smart fleece” technology into a double-layered construction, aiming to create a glove that regulates temperature while allowing touchscreen use and providing a secure grip. I needed a reliable pair of gloves for winter hiking and snowshoeing, something that could handle the varying temperatures and allow me to use my phone for navigation and photography without exposing my bare hands to the elements.

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s arrived in simple, eco-friendly packaging. My initial impression was that they felt surprisingly lightweight considering the “heavyweight” designation. The fleece material seemed soft and comfortable, and I appreciated the understated design with the Outdoor Research logo subtly placed.

Compared to my older fleece gloves from Marmot and Patagonia, the Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves seemed to offer a more tailored fit. The touch-screen compatibility was also a key differentiator. I was choosing between these gloves and the Smartwool Liner Gloves, ultimately opting for the Outdoor Research due to the enhanced grip and heavier weight for colder conditions. My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the ActiveTemp technology would live up to the hype and that the touchscreen compatibility would be reliable.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s was on a brisk morning hike in the foothills near my home. Temperatures hovered around 35°F with a slight wind chill. The gloves provided immediate warmth, and I was impressed by how well they insulated against the wind.

I also tested their touchscreen compatibility while taking photos with my smartphone. The touchscreen fingertips worked flawlessly, allowing me to adjust settings and capture shots without any frustrating delays. After about an hour of hiking, my hands started to sweat slightly, but the ActiveTemp fleece seemed to wick away moisture effectively, preventing them from becoming clammy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including snowshoeing trips and daily commutes, the Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s have proven to be reliable performers. The gloves have shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use with trekking poles. Cleaning them is a breeze; a simple hand wash with mild soap and air drying restores them to their original condition.

Compared to my previous gloves, these outperform in both warmth and touchscreen functionality. While my old gloves often left my fingertips numb in colder conditions, the Outdoor Research gloves maintain a comfortable temperature. I’ve also noticed less odor buildup thanks to the wicking properties of the ActiveTemp fleece.

Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s

Specifications

• The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s are constructed from a Polyester/Spandex blend, providing a comfortable and flexible fit. This blend ensures both warmth and freedom of movement.
• These gloves feature ActiveTemp Fleece insulation, a “smart fleece” technology designed to regulate body temperature. This insulation helps to keep your hands warm and dry during high-exertion activities.
• They also feature Touchscreen compatible fingertips, allowing you to use your smartphone or other devices without removing your gloves. This is a crucial feature for anyone who relies on technology in the outdoors.
• The Anti-slip silicone pads on the palm and fingers offer enhanced grip and dexterity. This feature is especially useful when handling equipment or tools in cold conditions.
• The weight of the gloves is approximately 3.5 oz, making them lightweight and easy to pack. Their light weight ensures they don’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear.

The Polyester/Spandex blend ensures a comfortable, snug fit while the ActiveTemp Fleece provides crucial warmth. The inclusion of Touchscreen compatible fingertips and Anti-slip silicone pads elevates these gloves beyond basic fleece gloves, making them a versatile tool for outdoor enthusiasts.

Performance & Functionality

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s excel at providing warmth and dexterity in cold conditions. They strike a good balance between insulation and breathability. The touchscreen compatibility is reliable and responsive, making it easy to use smartphones and other devices.

One minor weakness is that the gloves aren’t waterproof. Prolonged exposure to heavy rain or wet snow will eventually soak through the fleece. They meet my expectations for a mid-weight fleece glove designed for active use.

Design & Ergonomics

The gloves have a streamlined and ergonomic design, fitting snugly without feeling constricting. The double-layer fleece construction adds warmth without excessive bulk. The gloves are very user-friendly; no special instructions are needed.

Durability & Maintenance

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s appear to be durable and well-constructed. After several weeks of use, there are no signs of stitching coming undone or the fabric wearing thin. Simple hand washing with mild soap is all that’s needed to keep them clean and fresh.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s do not come with any specific accessories, but they are designed to be compatible with layering systems. They can be worn as a liner inside heavier, waterproof gloves or mittens for added protection in extreme conditions. The simple design allows for easy integration with other Outdoor Research products or similar items from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s

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Who Should Buy Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s?

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s are perfect for female hikers, trail runners, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a warm and dexterous glove for moderate conditions. They are also ideal for anyone who frequently uses touchscreen devices in cold weather. Anyone working in outdoor photography or wildlife observation would also benefit from the tactile control that these gloves offer.

These gloves might not be suitable for those who need waterproof protection or for use in extremely cold conditions without layering. Someone requiring heavy-duty work gloves should also look elsewhere. Potential users may want to consider purchasing a waterproof over-glove for wet conditions.

Conclusion on Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s

The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s are a well-designed and versatile option for anyone seeking warmth, dexterity, and touchscreen compatibility in a fleece glove. The ActiveTemp technology is effective at regulating temperature, and the anti-slip silicone pads provide excellent grip. While not waterproof, they offer a good balance of features and performance for moderate conditions.

At $45.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the thoughtful design. I would highly recommend these gloves to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable option for their outdoor adventures. Grab a pair of Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves – Women’s today and experience the difference for yourself!