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Outdoor Research Gripper Sensor Gloves
#6 — Best Softshell Glove

Outdoor Research Gripper Sensor Gloves Review (2026)

Wind resistance and grip without the bulk of insulation

★★★★★
8.5/10
Reviewed by William • Updated August 2026 $45

The Gripper fills the gap between a fleece liner and a full insulated glove. The softshell face blocks wind, which is usually what makes a 35°F day feel like 20°F, while the goat leather palm handles pole straps, rock, and camp chores without wearing through. It is not waterproof and it is not warm enough for standing around below freezing, but for active use in wind it hits a range nothing else here covers as cleanly.

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$45 retail
TrailCraft Score

What Works

  • Genuinely wind resistant
  • Goat leather palm survives abrasion
  • Good dexterity for a shell-weight glove
  • Touchscreen compatible
  • OR Infinite Guarantee

Limitations

  • Not waterproof — wets out in sustained rain
  • Thin insulation limits it below 25°F
  • Leather palm stiffens when it dries after soaking

At a Glance

TypeSoftshell glove
MaterialWindproof softshell, goat leather palm
Weight3.4oz / 96g pair
InsulationMinimal fleece backer
TouchscreenYes
Temp range25-45°F moving
WarrantyOR Infinite Guarantee

Score Breakdown

Value for Money
8.6
Dexterity
8.8
Warmth
7.8
Durability
9.0
Weather Protection
8.4

What Sets It Apart

Ridge walking in wind is the specific use case. A fleece liner is useless at 30°F in a 20mph wind and an insulated glove is too warm while climbing — the Gripper sits exactly between. The leather palm is the durability story: after two seasons of pole use the palms show almost nothing.

Wind resistance and grip without the bulk of insulation

Who This Is For

Hikers in exposed windy terrain, scramblers who need palm durability, and anyone who finds insulated gloves too warm while moving.

Note: Prices are current as of August 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

Also Consider

See the full comparison

All 15 options in this category ranked side by side.

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Common Questions

Are these waterproof?
No. The softshell sheds light precipitation and wets out in sustained rain. Pair with a shell mitt if rain is likely.
How do they compare to the Midweight Screentap?
Warmer in wind, more durable, less dexterous, and $5 more. If your cold days are windy, the Gripper. If they are still, the fleece.