What is the Alpha SV Jacket?The Alpha SV sits at the top of the pile when it comes to ultra-tough, breathable, feature-packed hardshells. It's the toughest in the Arc'teryx range and is designed for climbing and mountaineering in harsh, unforgiving environments.
What is it made of?The Alpha SV uses a brand new Gore-Tex Pro Most Rugged membrane to provide uncompromising waterproof and windproof protection. This new variant of Gore-Tex Pro, as the name suggests, is their most durable to date without sacrificing breathability and comfort. Surrounding this protective membrane is a 100D nylon, an ultra-tough, weather-resistant yet pliable fabric designed to fend off the worst you can throw at it. A durable water repellent coating has been added to this fabric for extra water resistance. All fabrics are held together with minimal amounts of seam taping (1.6mm) to reduce bulk and weight whilst increasing breathability.
What are its features?Starting at the top, Arc'teryx supply the Alpha with a helmet-compatible StormHood which can be easily adjusted with bulky gloves or mitts. When the hood is down, a tall collar still provides protection. Pockets wise, there are two large chest pockets which sit out the way of a climbing harness, a bicep pocket, an internal chest pocket and an internal dump pocket. All zips are highly water-resistant but not waterproof, so always keep valuables inside the jacket. Under the arms, you'll find more zips which allow you to ventilate effectively when working hard. Die-cut velcro cuffs reduce the chance of them ripping off if caught. Down at the hem, the adjustment via Cohaesive adjusters serves two purposes — one is to obviously adjust the hem, but the other is to fit underneath a climbing harness to stop the jacket rising during use.
How does it fit?The Alpha fits into their 'regular' fit block, meaning it's not incredibly slim, nor is it loose. It has enough room underneath for additional layers and features plenty of articulation in the arms and back when reaching above your head. A dropped hem ensures you've still got loads of coverage when climbing. For reference, the centre back length is 78cm.
- Drop back hem
- Cohaesive hem adjusters function as Hemlock to prevent the jacket from slipping out from under a climbing harness
- Internal chest pocket with zip
- One internal dump pocket
- Left bicep pocket with WaterTight zip
- Two high, crossover hand pockets with WaterTight zips
- WaterTight external zippers
- Pit zippers for easy venting
- WaterTight Vislon front zip
- Micro corded zipper pulls
- Die-cut Velcro cuff adjusters reduce bulk, and won't catch or tear off
- Tall collar
- Laminated chin guard with brushed microsuede facing for added comfort
- Helmet compatible StormHood
- Laminated brim
- Cohaesive hood adjustments for ease of use with mittens or gloves
- Anatomical shaping for fit and comfort
- Articulated patterning for unrestricted mobility
- No-lift gusseted underarms
- GORE-TEX Pro three-layer construction delivers complete weather protection