Review: Outdoor Research Vigor Fleece

When it comes to cold-weather layers, there are two you’ll see in every Bozeman closet: a down puffy and a synthetic fleece. Outdoor Research makes both, but they do the latter especially well with their Vigor Grid series—which comes in a whole array of options with features like hoods, neck gaiters, thumb holes, and varying zipper lengths. This summer, I tested out the Vigor Grid Fleece Half Zip—a simple, hoodless jacket. The grid-style insulation breathes while exercising, but retains heat when stopped, making the jacket a good companion for crisp days on the trail or chilly mornings in camp. Additionally, the material stretches with movement so it’s not constricting, and is soft enough that I can wear the fleece shirtless without having to worry about chaffing. Finally, thumb holes add a little bit of hand protection, and a zippered chest pocket is big enough for a phone, wallet, granola bar, or set of keys; so I can bring the essentials with me on the trail. Outdoor Research nailed it with their Vigor Grid series, and this half-zip hoody is no exception. Available at outdoorresearch.com; $99.