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Outdoor Research Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves
#3 — Best for High-Output Hiking

Outdoor Research Vigor Midweight Sensor Gloves Review (2026)

ActiveTemp treatment that vents harder as you work harder

★★★★★
8.8/10
Reviewed by William • Updated August 2026 $45

The Vigor's ActiveTemp treatment increases vapor transfer as your hands heat up, which sounds like marketing and turns out to be noticeable on sustained climbs. If you are the kind of hiker whose gloves are soaked by the top of a two-mile ascent, this is the liner that fixes it. Warmth is comparable to the Black Diamond Midweight, dexterity is slightly better, and the fit runs closer to the hand. It costs $5 more and is marginally less durable at the seams.

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$45 retail
TrailCraft Score

What Works

  • ActiveTemp finish genuinely reduces sweat buildup on climbs
  • Close athletic fit with excellent dexterity
  • Touchscreen on thumb and index
  • Nose wipe panel on the thumb
  • Good under-shell layering profile

Limitations

  • Seams show wear before the fabric does
  • Runs small — size up if between sizes
  • No wind or water resistance

At a Glance

TypeMidweight fleece liner
MaterialActiveTemp-treated polyester
Weight2.2oz / 62g pair
TouchscreenThumb and index
FitAthletic / close
Temp range30-50°F moving
WarrantyOR Infinite Guarantee

Score Breakdown

Value for Money
8.6
Dexterity
9.5
Warmth
8.2
Durability
8.0
Weather Protection
7.6

What Sets It Apart

Tested on repeated Shenandoah climbs in the 35-45°F range, which is exactly the condition that soaks a normal fleece liner. The difference is not dramatic but it is real — hands stayed workable rather than clammy. The Infinite Guarantee also means a seam failure gets replaced, which changes the durability math.

ActiveTemp treatment that vents harder as you work harder

Who This Is For

Fast hikers and trail runners, anyone whose gloves end up soaked on climbs, and hikers who want the closest-fitting liner available.

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

What does ActiveTemp actually do?
It is a finish that increases the fabric's vapor permeability as temperature rises, so the glove breathes more when your hands are working hard. The effect is modest but noticeable on sustained output.
How does the sizing run?
Small. Most people who wear a medium in Black Diamond want a large here.