Therminal™ Alpha Jacket

before this jacket,I had a short sleeve base layer, long sleeve base layer, and either a down vest, down jacket or soft shell, as well as two gaiters, one for neck and one for the ears depending on the temperature . I was really interested in polartec and goretex and reviews showed great promises from these fabrics. with this jacket on sale I decided to take the plunge . Well, after testing the jacket in various temperatures , it definitely replaced a lot of layers. I never thought the hood would be as useful as it is; it covers my neck and ears and essentially I don't need the gaiters anymore . I have tested this jacket from temperatures -2 to 12c in zone2 rides with just a single short sleeve base layer and was comfortable; with the jacket running a bit hot towards 10c and up so I ran it half zipped. the best thing is you don't get that clammy feeling as the sweat doesn't stick around for hard efforts. I estimate I can use this jacket in even colder weather with a winter based base layer. this jacket is probably too warm for max effort says; I would rather take a vest if you're going super hard. the fit is snug but not compressive, so you can probably fit a jersey or extra base layer on the bottom, or throw a softshell on top. for record I am 5'10 165ish and bought a large and fit was perfect. I was not initially a fan of the colour but the hi viz green zipper helps on cloudy days, I wish there was just a bit more reflectiveness. the jacket only comes with 2 side pockets , but the zippers feel fragile. I carry light on equipment , so I don't need the traditional 3 rear pockets or jersey access, but perhaps it would be a nice feature for those that do . overall, highly recommend for people who hate layering, need something in 10c and below, and great for all types of efforts. the material is amazing, I hope it lasts through many more seasons.

Was stuck between super-packable windbreaker and full winter riding jacket so I started looking for the happy place. This is it - Goldilocks in terms of thickness and warmth for the edge season. First ride out was cold and rainy Alaska commute and I was immediately satisfied with the rider-first cut and it's ability to keep me warm at the core. The added bonuses are the hood is designed to stay tight against the neckline so it's not out there catching wind all the time and the liner pockets are designed for what we probably all use them for which is a smart phone and ear buds. Fleece liner is perfect feeling - no itch or bulk. Lastly the cut is ideal but I'm glad I sized up. I recommended only getting the true to size of you plan on wearing silk-weight base layers underneath. Went with green - glad I did it. Overall the awesome - no regrets or compromises.