Gear Review
Arc'teryx Alpha LT Jacket - Men's
Can't wait to get it out in the elements
By Eric McCammond
Ranked #565 - Men's Technical Shells
September 2, 2009
I just got mine in the mail. While it was enroute, I kept wondering if I should have spent the extra $$$ for the Alpha SV. Based on the reviews, I was worried about the length, the room for layering underneath, and the percieved durability of the material (would I be confident in it?). After receiving the LT, my initial impression is pure awe. The jacket is uber-light. While I don't have a scale, I can't tell any weight difference between it and my Patagonia Rain Shadow. But, despite the light weight, the material seems bomber. The clean construction definitely inspires confidence. The fit is perfect. Being 6'3", the back of the large jacket comes down to the center of my butt and the sleeves reach the base of my thumbs, just like a well-fitted suit jacket:) With an R2 fleece and a Patagonia Micropuff vest underneath it, I still had comfortable body and arm movement. The hood adjustments are a work of art. It just sucks down around your head perfectly.
With the bomber construction and light weight, I'm going to have a hard time justifying the use of any of my older lightweight rainshells. This could be the perfect, allaround shell. More to come as (bad) weather permits.
View Details: Arc'teryx Alpha LT Jacket - Men's
Helpful Votes: 3 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Material:
- [shell] Gore-Tex 3-layer Pro Shell
- Fabric Waterproof Rating:
- guaranteed waterproof
- Fabric Breathability Rating:
- guaranteed breathable
- Fit:
- athletic fit
- Center Back Length:
- (M) 27 in
- Pockets:
- 2 front
- Seams:
- fully taped
- Hood:
- yes
- Liner-Compatible:
- no
- Weight:
- 12.9 oz
- Recommended Use:
- Alpine climbing, ice climbing, skiing, snowboarding
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- lifetime
Change me.
2 Comments Last Reply: April 15, 2011 By: raymonddez100136526
Tnx for this review. IN the market for the Alpha LT now. Too bad they stopped making it in rich gold. BTW, a well-fitted suit jacket ends at your wrist, not at base of your thumbs ;) The latter is for little boys whose moms are afraid would outgrow their suits too soon. :) http://www.gq.com/style/style-guy/suitin
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
After writing my review, I found myself contemplating why Arcteryx products tend to be worth the extra money. I sort of relate it to European automobile engineering. A Ford Taurus and a BMW 330 will both get you from point A to point B. But the BMW feels like it was built just for you. Every knob, adjustment, and handle seem to be right where they need to be. Extra gadgets on a fine European automobile tend to be well-thought and useful while gadgets on cheaper cars are often goofy and cumbersome. While interiors tend to be made of plastic nowadays, well-engineered cockpits have tough, clean designs. I would call Arcteryx the BMW, Audi, or Mercedes of outdoor gear manufacturers. Other products will get you to the summit, but I think Arcteryx products may get you there with alot more comfort and convenience.
Helpful Votes: 4 Yes