Mountain Khakis calls it the MacGyver of Jackets, and for good reason. The lightly insulated Alpha Switch Jacket is fully reversible, taking you from trail to town in a matter of seconds. This is your one jacket quiver to see you through the rest of the year.
One side of the Alpha Switch features a black stretch woven face fabric and looks a bit more like a shirt or an urban jacket with two snap chest posts and hidden-zipper hand pockets. The reverse side looks more outdoorsy with a zippered chest pocket and two zippered hand pockets. The striped yet translucent, DWR-treated ripstop nylon shell will protect you from light weather when hiking, skiing, biking, or during other outdoor activities.
The jacket is filled with 80 grams of continuous (read: baffle-free) Polartec Alpha insulation. Originally developed for U.S. Special Ops Forces, Alpha insulation is extremely breathable and helps regulate your core body temperature during both dynamic and static activities–this means you don’t need to continually shed and add layers based on your level of exertion. Alpha also dries 60% faster than other synthetic insulation should it get wet. The Alpha Switch has been my walk the dog, head out on a hike, bike to the bar, and commute into work jacket this fall.
Bottom Line: Dare we say the Alpha Switch is a slightly dressier, more urban looking, and more versatile alternative to the ubiquitous light puffy normally worn by all this time of year. And you don’t have to worry about it getting rained on.
The Alpha Switch Jacket retails for $249.95 is available now. It also comes in a pullover version.
–Terry Doyle