Both Outdoor Vitals and I have our roots in Utah. For me, that means memories of long, unforgiving winters where snowbanks towered over our cars on the walk to school (I’m only 41, so I swear I’m not trying to sound like a “back in my day” grandpa here).
I also remember the Wasatch Mountains—beautiful and intimidating—and while I wasn’t exactly an outdoor enthusiast back then, I knew one thing: gear matters. Hiking in basketball shoes and an old cotton hoodie might make for a good story, but it’s not exactly a recipe for comfort.
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That lesson has stuck with me. Whether it’s running or hiking, there’s a baseline investment in the right gear that can make or break your enjoyment. For runners, it’s shoes—no question. For outdoor explorers, it’s performance apparel that keeps you comfortable, dry, and moving freely.
Outdoor Vitals seems to get this, and their Mountain Pursuit Line is a prime example. It’s a system of elite-grade layers designed for high-exertion movement in the outdoors. I recently tested two pieces from the line: the Pursuit Hybrid Fleece and Altura Dynamic Pants.
Pursuit Hybrid Fleece
At first glance, the Pursuit Hybrid Fleece is understated—available in black, olive, and grey with just a small chest logo. But the tech behind it is anything but simple. Outdoor Vitals claims it’s their most advanced breathable fleece, and I’ll let them back that up.
What I can say is that it’s incredibly versatile—thin enough to layer under something heavier, but substantial enough to wear on its own thanks to its balance of warmth, moisture control, and breathability.
It’s made for those high-output activities in colder weather—think backcountry hikes in late fall or early spring—but I can also see it being perfect for a brisk, windy run along the coast. I’m picturing Cascade Head in Lincoln City on one of those beautiful yet miserable days when the wind cuts sideways.
The fabric mix is where the magic happens:
- Core: Primaloft Evolve active insulation with stretch-woven nylon
- High-mobility zones: Grid fleece for breathability and freedom of movement
At under 10 ounces, it’s incredibly light, yet the airflow is dialed in so moisture doesn’t hang around and chill you.
Other smart touches include:
- A snug, non-floppy hood
- Thumb loops for layering ease
- A slightly dropped back hem for better coverage on the move
It’s the kind of layer that’s always going to find its way into my pack this fall.
Altura Dynamic Pants
The Altura Dynamic Pants are all about that sweet spot between durability and mobility. Available in olive, grey, and brown, they’re slim-cut but not restrictive, thanks to an articulated knee design, gusseted crotch, and a 4-way stretch double-weave nylon. The fit is more “modern trail-ready” than baggy old-school hiking pants.
They’re built for movement—whether you’re scrambling over rocks, knocking out switchbacks, or tackling something as big as a Mt. St. Helens summit push. Nothing will have you turning back quicker than being tired and your pants working against every step you are taking.
Vent zippers at the hips help dump heat, and the internal Cam-Lock belt keeps everything secure without adding bulk. The zippered cargo-style pocket (with a built-in phone sleeve) is perfect for keeping your camera at the ready for those “worth the climb” shots. At about 12 ounces, they’re light enough to take on big mileage days without feeling weighed down, but sturdy enough to handle rougher terrain.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor Vitals clearly understands the needs of active outdoorspeople—gear that works with you, not against you. These items nail that formula. They’re built for movement, protect you from the elements, and stay comfortable when the effort level ramps up. Whether you’re more at home in the Cascades backcountry, along the Oregon Coast, or somewhere in between, this combo is a solid investment.
