What is the Fortrez Hoody?
The Fortrez lies somewhere between a standard fleece and a softshell. It features the breathability, stretchiness and comfort of a fleece with the weather-resistance of a softshell, making it ideal for high-output mountain activities such as alpine climbing and mountaineering.
What is it made of?
The key to its versatile performance is the use of Polartec Power Stretch with Hardface technology. Polartec Power Stretch is a densely-woven, super-warm yet breathable fleece designed to offer bucket loads of warmth and stretch for cold-weather activities. Usually, water would soak straight into this fabric and pass through, however with Hardface technology, the fabric has been given a polymer treatment which increases water-resistance and abrasion-resistance. A DWR (durable water repellent) coating has then been added for further protection against light moisture and snow. This by no means makes it a 'waterproof fleece', but it does mean it's more versatile in changeable conditions and will resist abrasion far better than untreated alternatives. As this treatment is applied to each individual fibre, breathability isn't sacrificed.
What are its features?
A lightweight ScubaHood fits easily underneath a climbing helmet and offers additional warmth, while a piece of stretchy fabric integrated within the hood can be pulled forward to act as a balaclava or neck gaiter. Storage-wise, there are two zipped hand pockets and one zipped chest pocket, all of which are positioned away from the harness line.
The last thing you want while climbing is for the zip to make its way loose, so Arc'teryx have incorporated 'braking bumps' into the zip, meaning it can't undo by itself.
How does it fit?
It features a trim fit with an average length which is aimed at those tackling technical climbs and enduring expeditions. We wouldn't advise wearing anything but a baselayer underneath, however, it does layer extremely well with items over the top. For reference on length, the centre back length is 75.5cm.
Where does it fit in the layering system?
Thanks to its incredible breathability and weather-resistant treatment, it can either be used as a warm, stretchy midlayer or as a lightweight breathable outer layer.
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Polartec Power Stretch fabric
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Hardface technology
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Water-resistant
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Highly breathable
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Increased durability over standard fleece
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ScubaHood fits under a climbing helmet
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Three zipped pockets
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Trim fit