Arcteryx Alpha SL Reviewed

Everywhere you go, Alpha SL will be your buddy, even at Prague Castle

The Alpha SL by Arcteryx is quite the marvel. I got it expressively for a recent trip to Europe that included some planned hiking in Norway and the Czech Republic. It did not take much time for the jacket to impose itself as a critical element in my travel arsenal. Although I was rather lucky weather-wise, it’s so light and packs in such a compact manner that I always had it in my bag, like a safety net, just in case things got nasty. Where rain or wind showed up, I know I’d be safe in my blue cocoon.

Its versatility is enhanced by a four-way adjustable hood. It protects the head and the face all the while allowing excellent peripheral vision. Like all good jackets of this type, you can wear a helmet underneath the hood, even a bike helmet. Being a year-round cyclist, I really appreciate that, not to mention its minimal weight and compact packing. And even with the limits imposed by those two qualities, the jacket stays practical, with two respectably sized front pockets with a very respectable size, as well as pit zips.

On a more subjective level, I must admit that I really like its look and its flattering cut. The Miro Blue is brilliant and lively without being brash. Not only that, I’m so happy with it that each time I take it out I hear an imaginary sword being unsheathed *shling*, feeling like a knight getting his favourite weapon ready. So yeah, I like the cut of its jib.

Ok, with comments like that, I need to find a few problems with the jacket. I’ve tried finding some, but there aren’t any real ones. At least none that apply. For example, I could deduct a few points because there aren’t as many pockets as I would like, but that would be practically ridiculous since more pockets translate to heavier and more voluminous. SL rhymes with Super Light, not heavy and cumbersome; Arcteryx does not make an HC line. I guess its biggest drawback is that it doesn’t defy the laws of physics. You could also add that it costs a few coins, but I feel that it still represents a value buy.

In the end, because of its waterproof breathability, windstoppingness, helmet compatible hood, pit zips, easy packing and light weight, the Alpha SL is a must have for your travels, whether they be intercontinental or quotidian. It is for me.