The new Alchemy jacket from Rab introduces a full-zip-non-hood option to their Polartec Power Grid range of base and midlayers. This incredibly warm fleece jacket uses two different weights of fabric to optimise warmth, wicking and weight making it the perfect midlayer for active mountain sports.
Polartec Power Grid, as the name implies, is made up of a symmetrical grid pattern with blocks of "fleece" and open air channels. The fleece blocks use a bi-component construction with different length yarns on each side of the fabric to optimise the wicking and evaporation of sweat away from the body. Basically the inside fibres pull the sweat away from your skin whilst the outside fibres spread the moisture out for rapid drying; this process leaves you drier and therefore warmer. Open air channels around each block allow the release of excess heat during activity and also allow for greater compression when you need to stuff the jacket away in your pack.
Rab have used two different weight of fabric to really get the best performance from the Alchemy Jacket, mid weight 197g/m² throught the main body and a lighter weight 132g/m² under the arms to maximise wicking and breathability. The fabrics are also treated with Polygiene to help reduce the build-up of bacterial odour; Polygiene is a naturally occurring antimicrobial agent that lasts for the life of the garment and is completely safe next to the skin and completely environmentally friendly.
Designed with a Slim Fit to fully maximise the performance of the fabric and to allow for easy layering the Alchemy moves with you thanks to the Spandex element of the fabric so it doesn't feel tight or restrictive. This is definitely a performance garment but don't let that stop you from using it as a cosy everyday fleece jacket.
Features wise the Alchemy is pretty basic, you get two zipped handwarmer pockets, a reliable YKK VISLON main zip and a snug collar to seal out the drafts.
-
Zoned Polartec Power grid fabrics
-
Polygiene odour control technology
-
YKK VISLON front zip with internal baffle and chin guard
-
YKK zipped hand pockets
-
Flatlock low bulk seams
-
Slim fit