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Mountain Hardwear Alchemy Softshell Jacket - Men's

Item #MHW0678 | 69 in Stock

How warm will this keep you? I have a MHW down jacket but hate...

By Ranked #29 - Men's Softshell Jackets October 6, 2009

How warm will this keep you? I have a MHW down jacket but hate lugging it around once I get inside. I'm looking for a jacket I can wear and still have it on when I'm in the mall. Also looking for a softshell I can use on fall/winter runs. How breathable is this? Will this be too much of a jacket for running in the cold?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

By Ranked #104 - Men's Softshell Jackets October 13, 2009

This is a great jacket, but just like anything, it depends on what you're doing. I've worn it running with temps in the twenties and it was a little too much after warming up. It might be fine for you though if you're running for ~30 min or less. For running/biking see my review on the MHW Transition jacket...I just ran the Chicago marathon in it where temps started at 35F and finished around 48F.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

By Ranked #211 - Men's Softshell Jackets October 12, 2009

I live in Anchorage and wear this thing in the dead of winter. When I'm moving, this thing is all I need. Obviously when I stop moving, I'll put a down jacket over it (for belaying or when winter camping, etc.). I ice climb in this thing as well as ski. It's insanely versatile, extremely comfortable and very durable. I'm 5'7" and 160 lbs., but I got the large so I'd have the option to layer underneath it. Even without layers, the large fits great, though the sleeves are slightly on the long side, but I think I might run into trouble with a medium because I have a larger chest and back from lifting.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

By Ranked #234 - Men's Softshell Jackets October 7, 2009

This jacket can replace your down jacket, I have the warmer & less technical version "MHW Paldor" that has slightly higher loft fleece. But, the alchemy should be good for ~50 degree weather with T-shirt on, and down to the teens with a light fleece layered. You'll be fine doing aerobic activities below 50 degrees wearing t-shirt underneath. Totally windproof, tested in 40 degree weather with car windows down, 80mph winds never got through.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

Tech Specs:

Material:
[Shell] Gore-Tex Windstopper Softshell and Alchemy Stretch Softshell (91%) nylon and 9% Lycra; [Lining]: Fleece 
Waterproof Rating:
Water-resistant 
Breathable Rating:
Not specified 
Center Back Length:
28.5in [M] (72.4cm) 
Core Venting:
No, naturally breathable throughout 
Pockets:
2 Hand zip, 1 welded chest, 1 interior zip 
Seam Taped:
No, welded seams 
Powder Skirt:
No 
Hood:
No 
Zip-in Compatibility:
No 
Weight:
[Lrg] 1lb 6oz. (632g) 
Recommended Use:
Ice / alpine climbing, backcountry skiing 
Manufacturer Warranty:
Lifetime 
Country of Origin:
China 

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