Arc’teryx Alpha SV Jacket – Men’s

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Arc’teryx Alpha SV Jacket – Men’s and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 93 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.7 stars 
Expert Rating: 4.5 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 283

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • Withstands severe storms.
  • Maintains stable core temperature.
  • Pit zips for breathability.
  • Adjustable fit.
  • An ideal shell for extreme winder conditions.
  • Can wear over/under a helmet.
  • Collar is great for protection in severe weather.
  • Features chest pockets.
  • Waterproof and durable zippers.
  • Able to layer as needed and still have decent range of motion.
  • Won’t rip on rocks or any terrain due to extreme durability.
  • Expensive, but long-lasting.

Expert Reviews

  • Widely considered one of the best heavy-duty hard shell jackets on the market.
  • 80D Gore-Tex Pro throughout, which is the most protective and durable membrane in Arc’teryx jackets.
  • Hood has four draw-cord adjustment points, with two in the back, and two on the neck.
  • Lower back draw-cord is adjustable within either of the chest pockets, which helps tighten the back of the jacket.
  • Zippers on the pit zips and front of the jacket are easy to use.
  • The membrane is best for long-term trips in severe conditions.
  • The Harness HemLock foam inserts to the right and left of the bottom hem, which comfortably prevent the jacket from riding up.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Some reports of wishing the neck was not as tight when fully zipped.
  • No waist pockets.
  • High collar may be too warm in some climates.

Expert Reviews

  • Not compressible.
  • Due to extreme durability, the weight is heavy.
  • Doesn’t allow for great mobility.
  • Extremely expensive, but worth it if you need a heavy-duty jacket.

Summary:

The Arc’teryx Alpha SV for men is one of the most durable, heavy-duty, warm, and long-lasting hard shells on the market. If you are an extreme adventurer in consistently cold climates, we recommend this pricey jacket due to the protection, durability, and all-weather-proof qualities.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2, 3, 4.