Men's Alpha SV Jacket
4.8
5
46
46
Instantly buy it!
This jacket is made by GORE-TEX pro shell! This represents the jacket will have very good quality. Alpha sv is the best hardshell. Once you have it, the other waterproof jackets will be overshadowed. It is a work of art!
January 21, 2012
Worth the price
This jacket is the best hard shell I have owned. I am an avide hiker and backpacker. I have purchased other hard shells over the years that just were not waterproof. This jacket I can say is that. I hesitated to make this purchase because of the cost. To me it was worth it because I feel this jacket could ultimately save your life. It will keep you dry. I am 6'3" tall and 205 lbs. I have an XL and it is slightly big to wear on its own but over other clothing e.g. baselayer, mid-weight and a micro-fleece it is perfect. You can use the draw cords to improve the fit if you are not layered. I am very happy with the size becasue I have options. The only thing negative is the jacket is a little stiff. It will probably soften up after being stuffed in my pack serveral more times. This is my GO TO piece of gear now!!
December 21, 2011
Wonderful jacket
Perfect for the alpine environment. Simple has all that you need for protection against the elements. Very tough material great sizing. I am 6 ft 180lbs and the large fits perfectly. Just enough room for layering. Highly recomended.
November 20, 2011
One dimensional....but top notch
Great Shell. Awesome construction- superb shoulder fit and arm articulation. well thought out hood and adjusters. Front of collar is extremely high with a slightly shorter cut in front. My only gripe is the pockets- or lack there-of. 2 front pockets work well when using a pack, they are large and easily accessible. This is perfect for ice climbing/mountaineering but not great for skiing and other winter activities,or even walking around town/rain jacket. I find the pockets a pain to stash stuff- and stuff sits inside the pockets funny when wearing the jacket. Its still a great piece- just a little one dimensional. So if you are looking at an all around jacket look to the Theta SV (personal fave) or Theta AR and save a few bucks.
November 18, 2011
Great Jacket
This jacket is as good as money can buy. It is easy to see research the performance of the jacket; however, I was mostly concerned with spending this much money on a jacket that I haven't tried on for size. I am 6'2" and 225lbs with fairly broad shoulders and a lengthy torso. I found the XL to be slightly big but would not have been happy with a Large. I have already been putting this jacket to the test in the backcountry of Montana and have found it to be worth every cent!
October 30, 2011
Nice jacket
Jacket is technical and wind/rain/snow resistant. Hood is a little bit big and hard to shape into a comfortable shape. I am 5' 9 i bought the XL size as it was the only one left. It ran a bit big but nonetheless it gives room for layering of sweaters and shirts underneath so I feel it is right for my needs. There are no pockets on the front side which I feel would make this jacket more complete. Overall I like and would recommend this jacket.
October 25, 2011
the best active layering shell, less casual wear
Excellent in every way but could have been stellar with more outer pockets. This is professional gear optimized for activities such as mountaineering or the backcountry wilderness where you've got access to your gear in your packs, on your outer belts, etc. Don't think you'll have lot's of room to stuff your hands, and other casual access kit. [The Altrec description leaves you with the impression there are 2 outer hand pockets. Nope just the 2 chest pockets plus shoulder]. I am sure the designers rationale was more pockets= more opportunity for penetration of elements, and straps and other gear harnesses would block access, but having more (how about external ones that don't compromise the shell) would've taken this jacket ove the top - and of course they want to sell you others (Theta). Go in knowing this, and you'll be happy. Everrything else is excellent, typifying Arc'teryx high build quality and attention to detail. Fit and finish, cut and drape, all works for me... I am 6'3" with a large build and XXL suits me well with room for layering and helmet. You have to know how to adjust the hood to fit your head sans helmet to keep it from obstructing, but that's just know-how. The 480 fabric all around is serious stuff, Gore-Tex Pro means never having to worry about weather, and venting + Gore = breathability. All zippers and draw cords perform well and top-notch. Light weight but stiff reflecting the toughness of the fabric. I can't see this wearing or tearing. Totally impervious to the elements, and built to last. The crinkle factor isn't as pronounced as other reviewers claim, it's more like a rustle. You know there's high quality technology in there! Everything else has been said in other reviews or in the description/specs. Just know this is serious hardshell kit for layering, with active tech, and no nonsense for having packs and harnesses, not safari pocket access -- although 2 more hand pockets would be nice.
October 2, 2011
Awesome construction- great shoulder fit and arm articulation. well thought out hood and adjusters. Front of collar is very high with a slightly shorter cut in front. My gripe is the pockets- or lack there-of. 2 front pockets work well when using a pack, they are large and easily accessible. This is perfect for ice climbing/mountaineering but not great for skiing and other winter activities, or even walking around town/rain jacket. I find the pockets a pain to stash stuff- and stuff sits inside the pockets funny when wearing the jacket. So if you are looking at an all around jacket look to the Theta SV or Theta AR and save a few dollars.
September 23, 2011
one of the finest hardshells available
This jacket is as tough as they say. I haven't scratched it with anything sharp, but it looks and feels like it will withstand a lot of abuse. But who would abuse such an expensive jacket? Its design is great--- comfortable and totally waterproof and windproof, wrists seal up tight by velcro fasteners that don't irritate like some do. This shell feels a lot like my favorite, Theta AR but the Theta is made of 380 and 480 fabrics; the Alpha SV is all 480, so it weighs more. Note also, the Theta AR is longer and gives better leg coverage and has more conventional pockets. Both are rather inflexible and noisy fabrics, but soften up after some use. Not for minimalists, or thin wallets!
August 25, 2011
The Best Gore-tex Jacket I've Owned
I've owned Marmot, TNF and Early Winters Gore-tex jackets. This Arc'teryx Alpha SV is by far the best one I've owned. I use it for alpine skiing, hiking and walking the dog on cold, wet PacNW nights.
It has never let me down. It does not wet out like the other jackets did, probably because it is not lined. Some people don't like that feature, but the jacket is very light as a result.
I'm 6'5" and 205 lbs. The XL fits me. I am usually wearing it over a fleece or sweater. It might not fit you if you expect to wear it over a t-shirt.
August 4, 2011
Totally impervious to the elements...
This jacket is the toughest thing I have ever owned. Pulling it out of the package was like handling a piece of construction material for the first time - it was stiff and relatively inflexible at first. After a few weeks it relaxed and has served me on the slopes like no other jacket I have owned. Water-proof, wind-proof, snow-proof, and I bet it's fire-proof too. Tough as nails.
The downside is the price, but I figure (based on its appearance after one winter of daily usage) it will last at least 5-10 years of heavy wear and not falter. It's a heavy duty jacket, so if you are a minimalist, this jacket may be too much for you. Me, I like to be warm and protected when I am out in the elements. I'd rather sprout a few beads of sweat on the slopes than shiver.
June 9, 2011
Boom proof
I recently took this jacket to colorado on a hiking trip and was very impressed on the protection and durability it provided. Needless to say it is completely waterproof and quite warm with a base layer.
January 24, 2011
Men's Alpha SV Jacket
This is my first piece of arc terx but it will not be the last. Quality construction and good looks in a high performance shell. This jacket is lightweight and rugged. The price is acceptable for the value received, buying cheap gear is never a good idea. I will enjoy this garment each and every time I wear it.
January 13, 2011
Excellent Quality Jacket
I may have gone a little too far when I, New York City dweller, ordered a jacket designed for alpine expeditions. Yes, overkill, and I know I could have bought a much cheaper down jacket. Yet the Arcteryx is a thing of beauty, paper-thin, and incredibly durable. I had the chance to test it during the December 2010 blizzard and was absolutely impressed. The jacket repelled wet snow and 10 degree windchills, leaving me completely dry underneath. Be aware that this is a shell, and requires a midweight layer underneath (such as a wool sweater or fleece) to really keep from feeling the elements. I was also pleased by the fit of the jacket -- I'm 6'1 and 220lbs -- size large fit perfectly and looked nearly tailored, as opposed to the bulky down jackets that add heft. I actually enjoy going outside in the winter now.
All in all, very satisfied.
January 5, 2011
Without any doubt, it is the best hardshell I owned. Thanks to its Gore-tex Pro shell materials, It could protect me from any hurricane, heavy rain and other bad weather, Moreover, it is very breathable. It's made in Canada, so it has a high quality, But it does fit me larger than I thought.
December 27, 2010
Doesn't get any better than this!
I'm really enjoying my new jacket. It makes you feel bullet-proof. I'm 6 foot and 210 lbs. and the large fits well. It is on the pricey end but you'll never have to second guess it on the mountain.
December 12, 2010
So far, so good
I just got this jacket a few days ago, and the timing couldn't have been any better. We had a nice snowing the day after the jacket arrived and it had no problem dealing with the snow. Of course I am not even close to utilizing the jacket to its intended capabilities, but from everything I've thrown at it, its held up quite well.
The real test will be on a planned trip to Patagonia (Torres del Paine) with the volatile weather (rain/snow/wind) that you get in their summer. I have a feeling the jacket will do just fine.
The only downside is the cost, but I guess in this case you get what you pay for.
December 6, 2010
The best jacket you can gain
Undoubtedly, the best jacket you can buy. The protection from water and wind under extreme weather is excellent. Only leaf arcteryx alpha jacket for us troops can beat this one.
December 2, 2010
Freakin Awesome!
This jacket rocks. It is my first Gore-tex jacket and man, have I been missing out for all these years. It really does breath better than all the rest! I have only had this jacket out for a handful of splitboard tours, though I can already tell that it breaths much better than my old jacket. It seems like it keeps me a whole lot warmer as well for just a shell. After finally splurging for this jacket I feel like I won't be buying a new jacket for many years to come.
The bottom draw cord works well for holding the skins while ripping down and the two large chest pockets keep my camera handy and warm so the batteries don't die so quickly. The pockets are even easily accessible when my hip-belt is on
Buy it and you wont regret it!
November 24, 2010
Great Shell!
Extremely waterproof and just as windproof as my MH windstopper soft shell. I have warn this in the heaviest rain fishing and not a drip got in. The Blue is very blue, but not a baby blue color. Would recommend this shell to anyone who wants a jacket that you wont have to worry about replacing for a very long time!
November 5, 2010
good~
like the colors.
Disappointed that it is to your pocket
Light, very good
I will buy another color later on
October 12, 2010
i'm stoked!
nicest shell i have ever owned..period! full face coverage on the lift chair. tough as nails.
October 8, 2010
Everyone knows it is a perfect jacket
Arcterxy is the best brand of all gear brands.Alpha sv is the best jacket of Arcterxy.It is made in Canada.The hood is work great in high winds. The cut fits really well.Breathes exceptionally well.A bit expensive, but worth the money.
October 7, 2010
This jacket is one of the best jackets
The Alpha SV is the best jacket! I bought 480N MG GORE-TEX 3-layer Pro Shell. The coffee bean is my love.
August 30, 2010
This jacket is incredible
don't care what anyone says - this is the ultimate mountaineering/skiing/climbing jacket on the market today. The construction, fit, and finish of this Jacket is the finest I've seen. it has everything you need, and nothing that you don't. It has a comfortable, athletic fit that drops below the waist for good coverage, excellent zippers and beautiful stitching
August 13, 2010
Great jacet
The highest shell jacket Design size performance and all perfect This jacket is the highest jacket that meets in my life. This jacket is recommended.
August 12, 2010
great
I received this shell as a birthday gift and love it! Extremely waterproof and just as windproof as my MH windstopper soft shell. I have worn this in the heaviest rain fishing and not a drip got in. The Blue is very blue, but not a baby blue color. Would recommend this shell to anyone who wants a jacket that you wont have to worry about replacing for a very long time!
July 5, 2010
Awesome shell
Absolutely it 's the most perfect shell I met, It can overcome any bad weather, at the same time, it is so breathable. Preventing rain and wind is very easy for it. Although it is a little expensive, it is worth with its price.
June 23, 2010
Expensive but worth it!
I have only used my Alpha SV for a couple of week, but am already falling in love with the jacket. A first glance might have you think that that there are few differences, if any, with the cheaper Arc'teryx models, or other comparable brands. The problem when buying hard shells is that it's not the bells and whistles that separate good ones from bad- all have 3-layer GoreTex fabric, a hood, similar zippers, etc. No the big difference is in details and trade-offs. How well does the hood work in high winds and sleet? Does the pockets make any sense with a backpack? With a harness? Can you reach and adjust the pit zippers? Such details are very hard to assess in the store but makes a significant difference on the mountain. With Alpha SV, it feels like Arc'teryx have found a great trade-off between simplicity and functionality. The hood works great in high winds. The cut fits really well, both with a thick fleece under, and with only base layer. The pockets could be a bit bigger perhaps- you can put shell gloves there but not big mittens. This jacket should also mainly be used with Bib's if you are going for the winter mountain, while it's a bit on the short side. Most details that makes a shell a great shell are hard to describe. It's more like you put it on and you feel like you have come home. That's how the Alpha is.
June 18, 2010
The best fitting, storm-protection jacket ever!
I have an athletic build and I own the woman's version of this jacket. Even though it is originally designed for alpine climbing and mountaineering, I have been using my ALPHA SV for skiing for several years now. It's the best jacket I've ever owned for providing protection from the West Coast storms we get here on the North Shore mountains and is the most well-built technical piece I have. The cut and fit on the Alpha SV jacket (and all Arc'teryx gear really) is unlike anything else you will ever wear -- it almost feels as though it's been tailored because it fits so well! Even though the price tag might scare you away, once you try it on and see the details and finishing up close, it will just blow your mind and you will understand why they cost what they do. I also own the ALPHA LT version which I use in the summertime for hiking, biking and trail running and is my absolute favourite outdoor technical piece--I would highly recommend everyone should save up and get one of these.
June 8, 2010
perfect jacket for me
this is the second arcteryx jacket I bought, and let's just say alpha sv is the best jacket I ever had. it is expensive, but the quality and the function of this jacket is worth every penny.
May 18, 2010
Great Shell!
This shell has everything you want without any needless extras. I have never gotten soaked through with this on, everything beads off. The fit of the jacket is also better than anything else I have tried on. The price tag is through the roof though, I waited till was marked down on sale. Arc'teryx can get away with selling it at price because no one else can match it.
March 1, 2010
Bomber Jacket
Amazing craftsmanship. Went with a large and it was too big, got a medium and it fits perfectly. Enough room to put a fleece and a hoodie underneath and still have movement. I am 5'11" and 180lbs. Not baggy. Have not taken it out on the trail yet, but appears to be impervious to anything.
January 31, 2010
Great Light jacket
It is so light that you wont feel it at all. Yet it keeps me dry during this storming season and it blocks nasty wind in S.F. I am 6', 180 lbs, wearing Alha SV with a T shirt and a thermal shirt underneath is plenty warm. Size large is perfect.
January 23, 2010
awesome jackey
I have recently switched from TNF to arcteryx due to manufacturing changes of TNF. I always demand the best, and acrteryx supersedes all my expectations... BOMB PROOF!!!!
January 6, 2010
Superb Jacket!
Amazing quality and craftsmanship. I am 6'0 and 190 lbs and the medium fits perfectly. You can't go wrong with this jacket or Altrec!
December 16, 2009
Great jacket!!
The extra cost of the Arc'teryx Alpha SV is due to the face fabric. Great jacket, fast shipping and nice goods. Highly recommend.
December 2, 2009
Great Climbing Jacket
This a great mountaineering jacket. Made for severe weather climbing, NOT skiing. Although I wear it everywhere the pockets are designed for use with a harness. Considering what it is made for there is none better!
April 10, 2009
It's arcteryx
I have the Theta AR and so satisfied so I decided to give this higher model as a birthday gift for my dad. He got extremely happy. Looking at the quality of this one and comparing it w/ my Theta, I'm seriously thinking about buying one for me :)
July 2, 2008
Great skiing jacket
Perfect jacket for severe weather protection during epic climbs. The drop back hem has rear coverage while allowing front-point visibility. GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric and a Storm Hood seal out moisture and wind, while the harness HemLock keeps the jacket from lifting out of the harness while climbing.
February 14, 2008
You don't get what you pay for
I had this jacket and returned it to a local dealer because I just couldn't live with the amount of money it cost. I struggled even before buying it and got caught up in my impulsiveness and just bit the bullet. It's a great jacket with out a doubt,but a poor value. It is not worth the money! The quality is unmatched, but I'm sorry..., it's not worth the price.
January 31, 2008
Good, but not
Ok, here's your wake up call, clothes-tech geeks: the term "bombproof" doesn't really mean bomb-proof. This jacket is as durable as they come, but its not bulletproof. It is nothing but thin nylon with a coating of teflon underneath. DO NOT shoot it with a shotgun like the previous reviewer did, or you will have a shredded, worthless chunk of textile. Also, when it rains, get that hood on fast, or it will fill with water and soak you from the top down. Zippers are tiny and difficult to manuever with gloves, and they are quite stiff, at least for the first few months of regular wear. If you don't like crossing your arms into pockets then you will hate the these outside pockets. Inside pockets are tiny. Keeps you dry and stops the wind, though. Overall, I'd rate an 8 out of 10. My 2 cents.
January 3, 2003
evolution not innovation
arc is evolving not inovating. what the body needs it delivers, it knows what you need. it is in sync with nature and the elements. my sv is a secound skin. structered hood fits my helmet or my bare head. it is pricy but paying a cheap price for this jacket is an insult to the people that make it. the xcr is stormproof. i took an sv demo jacket from the stor and literaly shot it with a shot gun and it caused minimal damge to the 70 $ a sq foot face fabric. when i die im getting buried in my sv. acrteryx dident make me a jacket they made me a new love.
October 30, 2002
ARC'TERYX Alpha SV Jacket Is Quality!!
Great Lightweight durable and somewhat unique jacket. After one season of Skiing I'm in love.. I'm in love with the quality craftsmanship that is very apparent on the jacket. You do get what you pay for.
May 14, 2001
Exeptionally good feel - just buy it!
You bearly notice it is there. Every detail is well designed and it is so functional that compared with other jackets it is highly 'visible' and 'feelable' that something is "missing". The bulk and lack of movement. It is not there. Put on an ordinary jacket after using the Alpha SV for a while, and you will really feel the difference and go back to wearing Arc'teryx on your next trip.
October 25, 2000
The best jacket I've ever owned!
The Arc'Teryx Alpha SV is one great jacket. I used it recreationally for the first time night skiing last week, and it performed just as I thought it would - with comfort, functionality, and style. This is, by far and away, the lightest jacket I have ever worn. Once you put it on, you will know what I'm talking about. But even though it's light, that doesn't mean the Alpha SV skimps out on toughness. The ripstop nylon, and 3-layer Gore-Tex not only provide an excellent shell, but a waterproof one as well (note: after a full night of skiing in light to moderate snow shower conditions, not a single part of my torso was wet...something I have never witnessed with a ski parka). The cut of the jacket (my size is a mens' medium) was perfect on me (5'8", 160lbs), with a snug fit, yet roomy enough to allow several layers underneath. You will have to layer with this jacket. It is still only a shell, and while the Gore-Tex keeps you dry, it alone will not keep you absolutely toasty. It was 25 degrees (F) when I went night skiing, and I was fine with a fleece vest layer and the Arc'Teryx shell. Additional touches to the jacket include a great structured collar, a powder skirt with in-pocket drawstrings, and very well engineered waterproof zippers (which, next to the weight, are another great design achievement). Overall, a rock solid performer, with unmatched weight, quality, toughness, and design features.
January 19, 2000
