What are the Alpha SV Bib's?
The Alpha SV Bib is the toughest, most technically advanced trouser in the Arc'teryx range and is aimed squarely at alpine climbers, mountaineers and those venturing out on expeditions.
What are they made of?
They're made from a mixture of ultra-tough nylon fabrics — a breathable 80D in the main body of the trousers and a bombproof 155D nylon in high-wear areas. Keprotec patches on the instep increase the durability even further. All of these fabrics feature durable water repellent coatings to ensure light rain and snow beads off the surface. For foolproof protection, a Gore-Tex Pro Most Rugged membrane sits underneath and provides total wind and waterproofing.
What are their features?
Zips down the side of both legs allow you to easily get in and out of the trousers — they also allow you to drop the seat when you've got to do your business. An elasticated waist keeps the cold and snow out, while adjustable suspenders provide extra security. Two zipped pockets in the bib store essentials that you need quick to hand. A zip on the lower leg allows you to use a bulky ski boot as well as a lightweight mountaineering boot without excess fabric flapping about.
Hidden inside the Alpha SV's is a Recco reflector — this tiny safety device can be scanned by rescuers if the worst should happen. A brilliant feature that you'll never notice until you may need it.
- Gore-Tex Pro membrane
- Water and windproof
- Ultra-tough nylon fabrics
- Reinforced sections
- Keprotec insteps
- Two side zips
- Drop seat functionality
- Elasticated waist
- Adjustable suspenders
- Cordura PowderCuff keeps snow out
- Recco reflector
Care and maintenance
To keep your outdoor clothing and equipment in tip top condition and performing to its maximum we recommend the use of Nikwax products. We have been using Nikwax products since day one (26th March 1986) and have found them to be totally reliable, dependable and effective. Today’s Nikwax treatments contain environmentally friendly elastic water-repellent polymers that bond to fabric fibres, leaving the spaces between open and breathable. These stretchy polymers are able to stretch and move with the fabric so they stay put for longer and work better.
Nikwax treatments will not change the look or feel of the fabric and they are all water based, environmentally safe, non-flammable and contain no nasty Fluorocarbons. Nikwax products can be used to clean, re-proof and revitalise all your outdoor technical clothing and equipment.
Waterproof breathable clothing has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish applied to the face fabric during the manufacturing process. The DWR forces water to bead up and roll off the surface therefore preventing the fabric from absorbing moisture. If the outside of your jacket is soaked in a layer of cold water, the warm damp air within can’t escape and will condense on the inside. This makes the jacket feel cold clammy and can make you think that it’s leaking. The DWR finish is not permanent and needs to be maintained and revitalised to optimise performance.
This three layer waterproof jacket should be cleaned regularly with Nikwax Tech Wash; I wash my jacket about once a month, or more often if it gets really filthy. Regular washing with Tech Wash will maintain the DWR for longer and remove salts and oils that can contaminate the fabric, and it will keep your lovely jacket clean and smelling fresh. Washing can be done in a machine according to the manufacturers care guidelines (on the internal label). First clean out any detergent and conditioner residue from the machine dispenser and then add the required amount of Tech Wash and away you go. Hand washing is also suitable but be sure to rinse the garment well.
When you notice that rain/water is no longer beading up and rolling off it’s time to re-proof. Nikwax TX Direct will re-instate a long lasting DWR to completely rejuvenate your jacket. Re-proofing can also be done in the machine once a garment has been washed. Just add the TX-Direct and use the same programme you used for washing. You can also use the spray-on product on a damp garment that has just been washed.
You wouldn’t buy a Ferrari and never have it serviced, so make sure you regularly wash and re-proof your quality kit.