Gear Review
Yowza
By debidoson646529
Ranked #60 - Men's Technical Shells
December 6, 2011
An Arc tech shell in tall? Yahoo! Fits just like my old Alpha, except now my gorilla arms and belly button stay covered. Don't know where BC.com got these, but I'm pretty sure Arc doesn't make talls for the regular US retail market. Plus it's fabrique au Canada. What's not to like? (except that I'm out another 6 bills). If you're a bean pole like me, get yours while you can. You might not see these again.
View Details: Arc'teryx Alpha SV Tall Jacket - Men's
Helpful Votes: 1 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Material:
- Gore-Tex Pro Shell (3-layer)
- Fabric Waterproof Rating:
- guaranteed waterproof
- Fabric Breathability Rating:
- guaranteed breathable
- Hood:
- yes
- Venting:
- underarm zips
- Powder Skirt:
- yes
- Pockets:
- (external) 2 chest zip, 1 shoulder, (internal) 2 laminated
- Seams:
- fully taped
- Wrist Gaiters:
- yes
- Weight:
- 541 g
- Recommended Use:
- alpinism
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- lifetime
Change me.



3 Comments Last Reply: January 3, 2012 By: debidoson646529
Chest is ample for an "athletic fit" on both the Alpha and the Trollveggen--both seem to have very similar dimensions as both are targeted for the same application. The Alpha is actually a little narrower at the waist/hem giving the body a slight V shape, which I like because it keeps out the elements better, and powder skirt not really missed. The kicker for me is the sleeves. I hate having my wrists exposed when reaching. My sleeve length is 37. I'm a (less fit) 195 lbs, 6'4". The tall Alpha is much better for me in the sleeves than the regular Alpha or Trollveggen. As for body length, I like the slightly longer front on the tall Alpha, as I don't spend much time in a harness. The drop back is pretty long, but fine. On the whole, for my shape, tall Alpha in large is as close to perfect as I have found. I expect it would work well for you in that size. The main thing I wish Arcteryx would borrow from Norrona is the design of the sleeve cuffs.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
I have been loyal to arcteryx for a long time and their soft shells are just long enough but their pro shells have always been a bit short in the sleeve so this tall edition got me excited, except for the plain design, hence looking at the Trollveggen. I saw you commented on the Norrøna Trollveggen as well and although you are not as tall as I am, you definitely need a bit of extra length in the sleeve. I'm 6'6" with a 37-38 sleeve, a fit 200lbs. How do the two compare in arm length? Chest? etc? I tend to get XL for the extra length in the sleeve but really wear a L in most instances. Think I could get away with a L on this or the Trollveggen or would it be to tight/short in the sleeve. Thanks!
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
This is a special edition, available only on Backcountry.com.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes