Arc'teryx Men's Alpha SV Jacket

Impression
April 07, 2012

I bought this jacket for backcountry want a jacket. Was quite impossible to purchase products with high I was, would not even having to replace if you buy at a time. Usability is seen in the mountains with the actual, very lightly, I feel easy to move from hard-shell jackets from other manufacturers is excellent for draping in addition. Usability is very good for compact storage so you can even when housed in more Zach. Products are very pleased. Is now looking forward to it because it is also active in the Dongshan me now.

the best hardshell
March 31, 2012

This is the best shell i've ever owned. I'm a huge fan of this model. I like the minimalistic approach. 480N Goretex is as good as it gets. I have this in micro blue, black, and now blaze. This jacket is better than the Theta SV (I have in Tibetan red color)

Greatest Gore-Tex Jacket
March 14, 2012

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 .

Instantly buy it!
January 21, 2012

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!

Worth the price
December 21, 2011

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!!

Worth the price
December 21, 2011

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!!

Wonderful jacket
November 20, 2011

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.

One dimensional....but top notch
November 18, 2011

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.

Great Jacket
October 30, 2011

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!

Nice jacket
October 25, 2011

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.

the best active layering shell, less casual wear
October 02, 2011

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.

September 23, 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

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

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

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.

one of the finest hardshells available
August 25, 2011

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!

The Best Gore-tex Jacket I've Owned
August 04, 2011

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.

Totally impervious to the elements...
June 08, 2011

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.

Boom proof
January 24, 2011

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.

Men's Alpha SV Jacket
January 13, 2011

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.

Excellent Quality Jacket
January 05, 2011

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.

December 27, 2010

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.

Doesn't get any better than this!
December 12, 2010

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.

So far, so good
December 06, 2010

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.

The best jacket you can gain
December 02, 2010

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.

Freakin Awesome!
November 24, 2010

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!

Great Shell!
November 05, 2010

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!

good~
October 12, 2010

like the colors. Disappointed that it is to your pocket Light, very good I will buy another color later on

i'm stoked!
October 08, 2010

nicest shell i have ever owned..period! full face coverage on the lift chair. tough as nails.

Everyone knows it is a perfect jacket
October 07, 2010

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.

This jacket is one of the best jackets
August 30, 2010

The Alpha SV is the best jacket! I bought 480N MG GORE-TEX 3-layer Pro Shell. The coffee bean is my love.

This jacket is incredible
August 13, 2010

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

Great jacet
August 12, 2010

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.

great
July 05, 2010

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!

Awesome shell
June 23, 2010

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.

Expensive but worth it!
June 18, 2010

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.

The best fitting, storm-protection jacket ever!
June 08, 2010

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.

perfect jacket for me
May 18, 2010

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.

Great Shell!
February 28, 2010

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.

Bomber Jacket
January 31, 2010

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.

Great Light jacket
January 22, 2010

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.

awesome jackey
January 06, 2010

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!!!!

Superb Jacket!
December 16, 2009

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!

Great jacket!!
December 01, 2009

The extra cost of the Arc'teryx Alpha SV is due to the face fabric. Great jacket, fast shipping and nice goods. Highly recommend.