Mountain Hardwear Men's Alchemy Jacket
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Description
110 Reviews
Sizing ChartFit Tip: This jacket fits true to size. I am 6'3" with a medium to large build. The XL fits with plenty of length in the arms, and it feels great throughout the shoulders and back. There is enough room for a light layer.
Mountain Hardwear Men's Alchemy Jacket
Two-way stretch, WINDSTOPPER® Soft Shell, a warm fleece liner and durable DWR finish give the fully windproof Alchemy excellent water resistance and warmth for climbing and high-altitude sports.
- WINDSTOPPER®
- Air permeable, four-way stretch, side and arm panels
- Drawcord at neck
- Hidden PowerStretch? cuff
- Interior zip pocket
- One handed hem drawcords
- This product is a ""Top Pick"" by Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.
- Updated with new, supple softshell
- Welded chest pocket with water-resistant zip
- Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zips
- Zip hand pockets
- Weight: 22 oz. / 632 grams"
110 Reviews - Mountain Hardwear: Men's Alchemy Jacket
Write your own Review
the-Cycling Hippie - 2008-12-20Great Jacket
The Jacket is fantastic I have read a lot of the reviews on different sites that say order 1 size up and I thought the Jacket was going to be to small I’m 6ft -170lbs long arms, and I ordered a med. I got it in the mail the other day and I love the way it fits I do a lot of cross country
Skiing and I can get 2 layers underneath easily and it still fits great
Anonymous - 2008-04-16Great Jacket!
It was lighter than I expected but still proved to be very warm. I use it for skiing and have been comfortable to about 32 degrees with some wind and clouds. I haven't used it in conditions any cooler than this though. Great customer service form Altrec too!
Anonymous - 2007-11-10Amazing all around jacket!
I bought my MH alchemy over 2 years ago now. Before that I loved my hard shell/fleece combos, but I wanted a simpler all around layer. I decided to try out this new softshell fad and it was well worth it.
It stops all wind, is comfortable and can be used in cold, windy conditions (with the proper insulation) due to the windstopper. The quality is excellent, made in the usa. comfortable, it has rapidly become the most used jacket in my inventory, deals more than adequately with rain and snow. Obviously the seams aren't sealed and there is no hood, but thats what your goretex hard shells are for.
It excels around town and on the trail, again I must emphasize it is very comfortable. It is cut trim and even looks good aesthetically.
Order a size up.
Only con is the lack of pit zips, but that can defeat the wind proofness, but leaving the jacket open with the slash pockets open help somewhat. I hate sweat and despise overheating (would rather be cold) but this hasn't been a problem too much with this jacket.
Write Your Own Review
110 Reviews - Mountain Hardwear: Men's Alchemy Jacket
Our Latest 75 Reviews
the-Cycling Hippie - 2008-12-20Great Jacket
The Jacket is fantastic I have read a lot of the reviews on different sites that say order 1 size up and I thought the Jacket was going to be to small I’m 6ft -170lbs long arms, and I ordered a med. I got it in the mail the other day and I love the way it fits I do a lot of cross country
Skiing and I can get 2 layers underneath easily and it still fits great
Anonymous - 2008-04-16Great Jacket!
It was lighter than I expected but still proved to be very warm. I use it for skiing and have been comfortable to about 32 degrees with some wind and clouds. I haven't used it in conditions any cooler than this though. Great customer service form Altrec too!
Anonymous - 2007-11-10Amazing all around jacket!
I bought my MH alchemy over 2 years ago now. Before that I loved my hard shell/fleece combos, but I wanted a simpler all around layer. I decided to try out this new softshell fad and it was well worth it.
It stops all wind, is comfortable and can be used in cold, windy conditions (with the proper insulation) due to the windstopper. The quality is excellent, made in the usa. comfortable, it has rapidly become the most used jacket in my inventory, deals more than adequately with rain and snow. Obviously the seams aren't sealed and there is no hood, but thats what your goretex hard shells are for.
It excels around town and on the trail, again I must emphasize it is very comfortable. It is cut trim and even looks good aesthetically.
Order a size up.
Only con is the lack of pit zips, but that can defeat the wind proofness, but leaving the jacket open with the slash pockets open help somewhat. I hate sweat and despise overheating (would rather be cold) but this hasn't been a problem too much with this jacket.
Anonymous - 2007-11-10Amazing all around jacket!
I bought my MH alchemy over 2 years ago now. Before that I loved my hard shell/fleece combos, but I wanted a simpler all around layer. I decided to try out this new softshell fad and it was well worth it.
It stops all wind, is comfortable and can be used in cold, windy conditions (with the proper insulation) due to the windstopper. The quality is excellent, made in the usa. comfortable, it has rapidly become the most used jacket in my inventory, deals more than adequately with rain and snow. Obviously the seams aren't sealed and there is no hood, but thats what your goretex hard shells are for.
It excels around town and on the trail, again I must emphasize it is very comfortable. It is cut trim and even looks good aesthetically.
Order a size up.
Only con is the lack of pit zips, but that can defeat the wind proofness, but leaving the jacket open with the slash pockets open help somewhat. I hate sweat and despise overheating (would rather be cold) but this hasn't been a problem too much with this jacket.
Neil B - 2007-10-30Sweet jacket
I sized up like other people have recommended and now I can also recommend sizing up. I usually wear a medium across all brands but I crossed my fingers and ordered a large and it fits perfectly. I recently tried on a medium and it's a bit tight and awkward. The jacket looks sharp, it keeps me warm, and it barely lets any wind in. I am very happy with the purchase.
Anonymous - 2007-08-29NICE!
Not sure yet as I just gave it to my husband as a gift. Looks fabulous though and fits great!!! We love Mountain Hardware, so hopefully this jacket will do its job.
Anonymous - 2007-08-29NICE!
Not sure yet as I just gave it to my husband as a gift. Looks fabulous though and fits great!!! We love Mountain Hardware, so hopefully this jacket will do its job.
Archie Ofenstein - 2007-07-23the best jacket money can buy
I bought this jacket for motorcycle riding? general outdoor activities... it has excelled in every usage I have thrown at it.
Archie Ofenstein - 2007-07-23the best jacket money can buy
I bought this jacket for motorcycle riding? general outdoor activities... it has excelled in every usage I have thrown at it.
Anonymous - 2007-06-02Great Jacket
The reviews are accurate: size up, incredibly functional, wind & waterproof with great attention to detail. If your looking for a versatile all season jacket, this is the one. Highly recommended!
Anonymous - 2007-06-02Great Jacket
The reviews are accurate: size up, incredibly functional, wind & waterproof with great attention to detail. If your looking for a versatile all season jacket, this is the one. Highly recommended!
Indyclmbr - 2007-03-02Hard wearing jacket for the mountains!
I have had this jacket for several years now (Mine is the older version that's tighter in the chest). I love it! It's my favorite jacket. I'm 5'10" and 175 lbs. The Large fits me perfectly. I can fit a base layer and a light midlayer underneath, and as long as I'm moving, that's all I need. Climbed Mt. Adams in WA in July several years ago wearing this and a long-sleeve zip neck base layer underneath. Clear day, but the winds were ripping. Above 12,000 feet, it was a perfect combo while I was moving. When I stopped, I got chilly and had to throw on the puffy J. You can size up if you want to, but it was designed to fit snug. If you're going to wear it bombing around town, sizing up may be a good idea b/c you probably want the extra room as it will not be warm enough in cold, wintry weather by itself. At 35-40 degrees or above, should be fine by itself.
Indyclmbr - 2007-03-02Hard wearing jacket for the mountains!
I have had this jacket for several years now (Mine is the older version that's tighter in the chest). I love it! It's my favorite jacket. I'm 5'10" and 175 lbs. The Large fits me perfectly. I can fit a base layer and a light midlayer underneath, and as long as I'm moving, that's all I need. Climbed Mt. Adams in WA in July several years ago wearing this and a long-sleeve zip neck base layer underneath. Clear day, but the winds were ripping. Above 12,000 feet, it was a perfect combo while I was moving. When I stopped, I got chilly and had to throw on the puffy J. You can size up if you want to, but it was designed to fit snug. If you're going to wear it bombing around town, sizing up may be a good idea b/c you probably want the extra room as it will not be warm enough in cold, wintry weather by itself. At 35-40 degrees or above, should be fine by itself.
Jung Lee - 2007-01-25good price
Comfortable, looks cool, love the color
Jung Lee - 2007-01-25good price
Comfortable, looks cool, love the color
ALEX LOPEZ - 2006-08-25men alchemy jacket
como les mando el dinero de mi compra que no sea internet
ALEX LOPEZ - 2006-08-25men alchemy jacket
como les mando el dinero de mi compra que no sea internet
Anonymous - 2006-05-10Absolutely worth the price
I was looking for a softshell for quite a while, but the price has always put me off. Finally, I broke down and ordered an alchemy. Great breathability, bombproof feeling, great cut. Not to mention its warmth and windproofing. Only downside is no pit zips, but the breathability is very adequate. Excellent multiuse jacket. Stylish enough for town, rugged enough for the backcountry, and overall perfect for packing, mountaineering, and climbing.
I agree, order a size up. I normally wear a small (all my EMS gear, my old school TNF mountain light, marmot precip, etc) and wanted a nice tight athletic fit. I generally wear trim shirts and I ordered a medium. THe arm length is great with my broader shoulders and fits great. Its also got enough room to layer a denali underneath.
And...its made in the USA (the funny part is the paper MHW tag is printed in HK lol). Nice to see nowadays.
Anonymous - 2006-05-10Absolutely worth the price
I was looking for a softshell for quite a while, but the price has always put me off. Finally, I broke down and ordered an alchemy. Great breathability, bombproof feeling, great cut. Not to mention its warmth and windproofing. Only downside is no pit zips, but the breathability is very adequate. Excellent multiuse jacket. Stylish enough for town, rugged enough for the backcountry, and overall perfect for packing, mountaineering, and climbing.
I agree, order a size up. I normally wear a small (all my EMS gear, my old school TNF mountain light, marmot precip, etc) and wanted a nice tight athletic fit. I generally wear trim shirts and I ordered a medium. THe arm length is great with my broader shoulders and fits great. Its also got enough room to layer a denali underneath.
And...its made in the USA (the funny part is the paper MHW tag is printed in HK lol). Nice to see nowadays.
Darell - 2006-05-03Currently my favorite jacket
Insanely durable for a "soft shell." It has become my favorite bicycle jacket for many reasons. The articulated, and long-enough sleeves are fantastic. That they have a draft-stopper at the wrist, and the sleeves are cut close are also great benefits. It is waterproof enough to get home dry when the rain comes, and it is totally wind-proof. I'm amazed at what extreme cold I can wear this in and be happy. The pockets are huge and in the perfect place. I really, really like this jacket!
Darell - 2006-05-03Currently my favorite jacket
Insanely durable for a "soft shell." It has become my favorite bicycle jacket for many reasons. The articulated, and long-enough sleeves are fantastic. That they have a draft-stopper at the wrist, and the sleeves are cut close are also great benefits. It is waterproof enough to get home dry when the rain comes, and it is totally wind-proof. I'm amazed at what extreme cold I can wear this in and be happy. The pockets are huge and in the perfect place. I really, really like this jacket!
chipkilpatrick - 2006-03-14YESSSSSSSSSSSS
this jacket rules. i recieved mine about 3 weeks ago and within a week i bought one for my fiance. very comfortable, slept outside in a hammock with it on in the deep woods of alabama. repels water with ease. i amazed all my friends at dinner by pouring a cup of water over the sleeve, they oood and ahhhd as the water hit the floor while the jacket stayed totaly dry. buy this jacket. you won't regret it. scouts honor.
chipkilpatrick - 2006-03-14YESSSSSSSSSSSS
this jacket rules. i recieved mine about 3 weeks ago and within a week i bought one for my fiance. very comfortable, slept outside in a hammock with it on in the deep woods of alabama. repels water with ease. i amazed all my friends at dinner by pouring a cup of water over the sleeve, they oood and ahhhd as the water hit the floor while the jacket stayed totaly dry. buy this jacket. you won't regret it. scouts honor.
Erick Catron - 2006-02-28Best jacket ever.
I have an embarrassingly large number of sport jackets for various events: road biking, hiking, moutain climbing, snow boarding, shopping on cold days w/ the g-friend, etc. and this is hands down the best jacket I've ever warn. I was turned onto it by my guides on a six day trek I had on Mt. Rainier a couple years ago. The guides almost never took the jacket off...it was warm enough for colder temps, breathed well enough for warmer times, was stretchy enough to be warn in technical spots, and kept the water out. I've only had this jacket for two weeks, but for all the reasons mentioned previously I never take it off. The only peice of advice I would have w/ this jacket is be sure to get the right size. It seems to run a bit smaller than even other Mt. Hardwear jackets - so I'd advize ordering a size up from what you normally wear. I'm not one to typically take the time out to write reviews on anything...but Mt. Hardwear deserves the thumbs up for the Alchemy Jacket.
Erick Catron - 2006-02-28Best jacket ever.
I have an embarrassingly large number of sport jackets for various events: road biking, hiking, moutain climbing, snow boarding, shopping on cold days w/ the g-friend, etc. and this is hands down the best jacket I've ever warn. I was turned onto it by my guides on a six day trek I had on Mt. Rainier a couple years ago. The guides almost never took the jacket off...it was warm enough for colder temps, breathed well enough for warmer times, was stretchy enough to be warn in technical spots, and kept the water out. I've only had this jacket for two weeks, but for all the reasons mentioned previously I never take it off. The only peice of advice I would have w/ this jacket is be sure to get the right size. It seems to run a bit smaller than even other Mt. Hardwear jackets - so I'd advize ordering a size up from what you normally wear. I'm not one to typically take the time out to write reviews on anything...but Mt. Hardwear deserves the thumbs up for the Alchemy Jacket.
Murri - 2006-02-22best all-weather/purpose jacket so far!
It's hard to add anything to the other reviews, this is a great softshell jacket for any for demanding purpose. Unlike some other reviewers I would still recommend that you stick with your normal MHW sizing; after wearing this jacket few times it sort of breaks in and fits perfectly! Also, I have heard (but not been able to verify) that 2006 models are slightly larger sizes than previous models?
Murri - 2006-02-22best all-weather/purpose jacket so far!
It's hard to add anything to the other reviews, this is a great softshell jacket for any for demanding purpose. Unlike some other reviewers I would still recommend that you stick with your normal MHW sizing; after wearing this jacket few times it sort of breaks in and fits perfectly! Also, I have heard (but not been able to verify) that 2006 models are slightly larger sizes than previous models?
mike tuggle - 2006-02-08Great jacket... just what I wanted
I had been looking for a good looking everyday jacket that could block the wind and stop the rain. I found it. This is a great jacket. It fits tight. I got a Large and wear a 42 in a sportcoat. It looks great. I love the high pockets and the color. Shark looks great.
mike tuggle - 2006-02-08Great jacket... just what I wanted
I had been looking for a good looking everyday jacket that could block the wind and stop the rain. I found it. This is a great jacket. It fits tight. I got a Large and wear a 42 in a sportcoat. It looks great. I love the high pockets and the color. Shark looks great.
Eric - 2006-02-06Does what it says
The jacket is as advertised. I agree, you have to order a size up. The jacket in my opinion is actually pretty breatheable, and it does everything that you would want a softshell to do. It is slightly heavier than other soft shells but it is also much warmer. It is in the a softshell and do not buy it if you are going to be in heavy rain as it will definitely eventually soak through
Eric - 2006-02-06Does what it says
The jacket is as advertised. I agree, you have to order a size up. The jacket in my opinion is actually pretty breatheable, and it does everything that you would want a softshell to do. It is slightly heavier than other soft shells but it is also much warmer. It is in the a softshell and do not buy it if you are going to be in heavy rain as it will definitely eventually soak through
Kuang-Hai Yang - 2006-01-08Great jacket
Keep you warm and windproof, also waterproof! I like it.
Kuang-Hai Yang - 2006-01-08Great jacket
Keep you warm and windproof, also waterproof! I like it.
Anonymous - 2006-01-06EXCELLENT JACKET FOR 20 to 50 Degree
This jacket is one of the best jacket to keep your warm. This jacket is very slim fit, and I suggest you to go for one size big. If you are planning to use this jacket as your second layer, I would suggest you to go for North Face Denali.
Anonymous - 2006-01-06EXCELLENT JACKET FOR 20 to 50 Degree
This jacket is one of the best jacket to keep your warm. This jacket is very slim fit, and I suggest you to go for one size big. If you are planning to use this jacket as your second layer, I would suggest you to go for North Face Denali.
Anonymous - 2005-12-17Excellent fit / warmth
You had better be in some very cold conditions when wearing this jacket - especially if you are doing any thing of significant exercise. When running / skiinng in single digits, you will have no problem keeping wind and cold out.
Anonymous - 2005-12-17Excellent fit / warmth
You had better be in some very cold conditions when wearing this jacket - especially if you are doing any thing of significant exercise. When running / skiinng in single digits, you will have no problem keeping wind and cold out.
Anonymous - 2005-11-30Love the jacket
This is easily my favorite jacket of all time--it ought to be for how much it costs. It's not as warm as I would like, but is as warm as can be expected with its extremely low weight. The jacket lived up to my expectations with regard to wind and water resistance. I always wear a large and did not order a size up because I wanted it to be form fitting. However, I would advise you order a size larger if you would like to layer underneath. Overall, the jacket offers great performance and is very good looking if you can find a color you like.
Anonymous - 2005-11-30Love the jacket
This is easily my favorite jacket of all time--it ought to be for how much it costs. It's not as warm as I would like, but is as warm as can be expected with its extremely low weight. The jacket lived up to my expectations with regard to wind and water resistance. I always wear a large and did not order a size up because I wanted it to be form fitting. However, I would advise you order a size larger if you would like to layer underneath. Overall, the jacket offers great performance and is very good looking if you can find a color you like.
Anonymous - 2005-10-28Excellent Jacket
I have worn this in 30 degree weather in Colorado with no layers underneath and felt comfy. 70 mile an hour motorcycle rides in 50 degrees or so were no problem barely felt any wind at all. First rate, I always trust Mountain Hardwear
Anonymous - 2005-10-28Excellent Jacket
I have worn this in 30 degree weather in Colorado with no layers underneath and felt comfy. 70 mile an hour motorcycle rides in 50 degrees or so were no problem barely felt any wind at all. First rate, I always trust Mountain Hardwear
Kin Cosner - 2005-09-21Great Purchase
A grest trekking jacket!
Kin Cosner - 2005-09-21Great Purchase
A grest trekking jacket!
Mike Sullivan - 2005-06-22Great jacket
I'm a big guy (6'4") with long arms, yet this jacket fits well. It does a great job keeping me warm, though it only allows two thin layers of insulation. Nice water resistance.
Mike Sullivan - 2005-06-22Great jacket
I'm a big guy (6'4") with long arms, yet this jacket fits well. It does a great job keeping me warm, though it only allows two thin layers of insulation. Nice water resistance.
Chris Milonas - 2005-06-01Awesome jacket!
Be sure to size up when ordering.
Chris Milonas - 2005-06-01Awesome jacket!
Be sure to size up when ordering.
Kevin - 2005-05-30Quality Made in the USA product!!!
Most major brands are outsourcing jobs to china and india. So it is refreshing to see quality products manufacture in our country. This is a one of the finest soft shell in the market. ALTREC custormer service is also great.
Kevin - 2005-05-30Quality Made in the USA product!!!
Most major brands are outsourcing jobs to china and india. So it is refreshing to see quality products manufacture in our country. This is a one of the finest soft shell in the market. ALTREC custormer service is also great.
soo kim - 2005-04-22VERY GOOD!Great!
VERY GOOD!Great!
soo kim - 2005-04-22VERY GOOD!Great!
VERY GOOD!Great!
Anonymous - 2005-01-31Very good Jacket!
Great material, lightweight, warm and well-constructed jacket. The lower body could be a little bit tighter for the athletic fit they sell for.
Anonymous - 2005-01-31Very good Jacket!
Great material, lightweight, warm and well-constructed jacket. The lower body could be a little bit tighter for the athletic fit they sell for.
Anonymous - 2005-01-30Great Jacket!
It's really a nice jacket!This jacket is really the best softshell!
Anonymous - 2005-01-30Great Jacket!
It's really a nice jacket!This jacket is really the best softshell!
Travis Sydney - 2005-01-29Excellent
Bought this jacket after seaching high and low for a good soft shell. Jacket is quite warm by itself. If you wear a fleece under it, you will be absolutely warm in very cold conditions. I have yet to go climbing in it, but so far it seems breathable. I'd suggest getting a size up from what you usually do. I have a very medium build and frame but sent back the medium in place for a large. Having a large will allow you get a few layers underneath. So order one size up from whatever you normally do
Travis Sydney - 2005-01-29Excellent
Bought this jacket after seaching high and low for a good soft shell. Jacket is quite warm by itself. If you wear a fleece under it, you will be absolutely warm in very cold conditions. I have yet to go climbing in it, but so far it seems breathable. I'd suggest getting a size up from what you usually do. I have a very medium build and frame but sent back the medium in place for a large. Having a large will allow you get a few layers underneath. So order one size up from whatever you normally do
Matt - 2005-01-26Great Jacket
This jacket rocks. It does extremely well blocking wind and water, as I have had mine in some pretty good rain and it shed it fine. Even when the fabric wet-out I still stayed dry. For colder days I will layer a power-stretch underneath and be just fine, even for less active pursuits. It can be cinched shut at the collar and hem for playing in the snow. I have heard complaints about no pit zips, but I find the stretch panels on the sides work just fine. If you are really hot you can unzip the pockets and it will vent pretty fast. Overall, I wouldn't trade this jacket in for any other softshell, it totally rocks.
Matt - 2005-01-26Great Jacket
This jacket rocks. It does extremely well blocking wind and water, as I have had mine in some pretty good rain and it shed it fine. Even when the fabric wet-out I still stayed dry. For colder days I will layer a power-stretch underneath and be just fine, even for less active pursuits. It can be cinched shut at the collar and hem for playing in the snow. I have heard complaints about no pit zips, but I find the stretch panels on the sides work just fine. If you are really hot you can unzip the pockets and it will vent pretty fast. Overall, I wouldn't trade this jacket in for any other softshell, it totally rocks.
Anonymous - 2005-01-24Great jacket!
Roomy enough to layer under, yet sleek enough to fit under a shell in very cold weather. This has been a great ski and hiking jacket this winter. In cold weather I can wear it alone and when it is very cold and snowy it is a perfect insulating layer.
Anonymous - 2005-01-24Great jacket!
Roomy enough to layer under, yet sleek enough to fit under a shell in very cold weather. This has been a great ski and hiking jacket this winter. In cold weather I can wear it alone and when it is very cold and snowy it is a perfect insulating layer.
Nick - 2005-01-23Comfortable, warm, lightweight
This jacket has excellent windproofness and breathability. It incorporates two different technologies; WINDSTOPPER and Polartec Power Shield.
The rating for the WINDSTOPPER fabric is <2 CFM (cubic feet of air that can pass thru a square foot of fabric in one minute at a pressure differential equal to 30 miles per hour wind speed), which is the best windproofness rating in the market. Polartec Power Shield blocks 98% of the wind to prevent wind chill, but allows some air to circulate to keep you from overheating.
The jacket is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, hiking and climbing in cold and dry weather. It fits very nicely and allows for light layering.
Nick - 2005-01-23Comfortable, warm, lightweight
This jacket has excellent windproofness and breathability. It incorporates two different technologies; WINDSTOPPER and Polartec Power Shield.
The rating for the WINDSTOPPER fabric is <2 CFM (cubic feet of air that can pass thru a square foot of fabric in one minute at a pressure differential equal to 30 miles per hour wind speed), which is the best windproofness rating in the market. Polartec Power Shield blocks 98% of the wind to prevent wind chill, but allows some air to circulate to keep you from overheating.
The jacket is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, hiking and climbing in cold and dry weather. It fits very nicely and allows for light layering.
Anonymous - 2005-01-21Great Jacket
Pit zips would have been nice...otherwise it is very well made and sturdy. Most importantly it is still one of the few MH products still Made in the USA. Get it while you can !
Anonymous - 2005-01-21Great Jacket
Pit zips would have been nice...otherwise it is very well made and sturdy. Most importantly it is still one of the few MH products still Made in the USA. Get it while you can !
Anonymous - 2005-01-19Great jacket!
I purchased this jacket on a lark and was pleasantly surprised with it. It is stiffer than a traditional fleece and has a closer fit as its description notes.
It is excellent at blocking wind and is fairly warm to boot, so you can replace the fleece/hardshell combo for a more compact and lighter jacket with the same functionality for most activities.
Things to note are that it is definitely not as warm (or as thick) as a traditional fleece, so don't expect it to keep you warm if it is really cold outside and you are just standing around. Also, it does not have pit zips. , but unzipping the pockets or main zipper will cool you off fast.
It's perfect for activities where you will be on the move and want wind protection and warmth, but don't want to deal with the weight and bulkiness of two jackets.
Anonymous - 2005-01-19Great jacket!
I purchased this jacket on a lark and was pleasantly surprised with it. It is stiffer than a traditional fleece and has a closer fit as its description notes.
It is excellent at blocking wind and is fairly warm to boot, so you can replace the fleece/hardshell combo for a more compact and lighter jacket with the same functionality for most activities.
Things to note are that it is definitely not as warm (or as thick) as a traditional fleece, so don't expect it to keep you warm if it is really cold outside and you are just standing around. Also, it does not have pit zips. , but unzipping the pockets or main zipper will cool you off fast.
It's perfect for activities where you will be on the move and want wind protection and warmth, but don't want to deal with the weight and bulkiness of two jackets.
Anonymous - 2005-01-19Mountain Hardwears Scores Again!
This is a great jacket to own whether hiking, climbing or just knocking around the construction site. The fit is great and you can't beat the wind blocking ability and warmth to weight ratio. If you want a jacket that is as active as your lifestyle, give this one a shot.
Anonymous - 2005-01-19Mountain Hardwears Scores Again!
This is a great jacket to own whether hiking, climbing or just knocking around the construction site. The fit is great and you can't beat the wind blocking ability and warmth to weight ratio. If you want a jacket that is as active as your lifestyle, give this one a shot.
Anonymous - 2005-01-18The
I decided to get a softshell after hearing everone extolling the virtues of this amazing product. So I went through all the product research and narrowed it down to the Arcteryx Gamma SV and the MH Alchemy. I finally settled on the Alchemy as (in my opinion) the wind resistance on the Alchemy was better, though at the cost of better breathibility of the Gamma. I also looked at some of the european gear but I was not too impressed with the performance of some of Schoeller fabrics.
Anyway after a few monthis with the Alchemy, I have come to the same conclusion that the earlier reviewer came to, namely that a softshell is indeed a compromise. For seriously hardcore situations I definitely reccommend the old staple of a hardshell and a fleece.
Now for the review: The main body's windstopper works great but the stretchability is limited. The sleeve and side stretch panels stretch well but will not block out all the wind in a howling gale. The jacket is cut beautfully and will not scrunch up under your arms or midriff. Note that it is cut for an atheletic fit so buy one size bigger for layering. The material seems quite tough and so far no pilling. The hand pockets are very large and can easily hold maps. The fleece stretch cuffs, neck cinch cord and one hand drawcords are thoghtful and all very useful details. The colours on this thing are a little too radical for my liking ...I was fortunate to be able to get a shark/shark model. The Gamma does have a better selection of colours. To summarize I am personally very satisfied with it, I feel the warmth/windproofness factor is okay for a jacket of this type but don't expect miracles. Severe conditions merit a real hardshell + insulation.
Anonymous - 2005-01-18The
I decided to get a softshell after hearing everone extolling the virtues of this amazing product. So I went through all the product research and narrowed it down to the Arcteryx Gamma SV and the MH Alchemy. I finally settled on the Alchemy as (in my opinion) the wind resistance on the Alchemy was better, though at the cost of better breathibility of the Gamma. I also looked at some of the european gear but I was not too impressed with the performance of some of Schoeller fabrics.
Anyway after a few monthis with the Alchemy, I have come to the same conclusion that the earlier reviewer came to, namely that a softshell is indeed a compromise. For seriously hardcore situations I definitely reccommend the old staple of a hardshell and a fleece.
Now for the review: The main body's windstopper works great but the stretchability is limited. The sleeve and side stretch panels stretch well but will not block out all the wind in a howling gale. The jacket is cut beautfully and will not scrunch up under your arms or midriff. Note that it is cut for an atheletic fit so buy one size bigger for layering. The material seems quite tough and so far no pilling. The hand pockets are very large and can easily hold maps. The fleece stretch cuffs, neck cinch cord and one hand drawcords are thoghtful and all very useful details. The colours on this thing are a little too radical for my liking ...I was fortunate to be able to get a shark/shark model. The Gamma does have a better selection of colours. To summarize I am personally very satisfied with it, I feel the warmth/windproofness factor is okay for a jacket of this type but don't expect miracles. Severe conditions merit a real hardshell + insulation.
Christopher Fragassi - 2005-01-18Exceptional protection
The best technical improvement in years. Extremely light, yet provides exceptional protection against the elements.
I am able to ski in windy conditions at -15C (not including windchill) with just long underwear, a mountain hardwear fleece sweater and the Alchemy jacket.
Since, I have switched all my gear to Mountain Hardwear.
Highly recommended!
Christopher Fragassi - 2005-01-18Exceptional protection
The best technical improvement in years. Extremely light, yet provides exceptional protection against the elements.
I am able to ski in windy conditions at -15C (not including windchill) with just long underwear, a mountain hardwear fleece sweater and the Alchemy jacket.
Since, I have switched all my gear to Mountain Hardwear.
Highly recommended!
Anonymous - 2004-12-06Everything I Expected
Very happy with the jacket. My goal was to buy a weather proof jacket that I could wear all season long, minimizing the bulk factor. Last weekend I skied a Stowe, VT. Temps in the teens, wind and snow guns blasting. I layered with thin poly-pro, light fleece and new Alchemy jacket. The jacket blocked out the elements and kept me nice and warm, I recommend to all.
Anonymous - 2004-12-06Everything I Expected
Very happy with the jacket. My goal was to buy a weather proof jacket that I could wear all season long, minimizing the bulk factor. Last weekend I skied a Stowe, VT. Temps in the teens, wind and snow guns blasting. I layered with thin poly-pro, light fleece and new Alchemy jacket. The jacket blocked out the elements and kept me nice and warm, I recommend to all.
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Sizing Chart
| XSmall | Small | Medium | Large | XLarge | XXLarge | |
| Chest | 33-35 | 36-38 | 39-41 | 42-45 | 46-49 | 50-53 |
| Sleeve | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 37 |
| Waist | 26-27 | 28-30 | 31-33 | 34-37 | 38-41 | 42-45 |
| Inseam | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 33 |
| Inseam (Short) | - | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | - |
| Inseam (long) | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 36 |
Offered in colors: Black/ Titanium, Pesto/ Titanium, Sapphire/ Titanium, Lava/ Titanium and Peat Moss/ Titanium. Available sizes, while supplies last, include size small, size medium, size large, size extra large and size extra extra large: s, m, l, xl, xxl.
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