My Thoughts on the Arc’Teryx Alpha Parka Review
This coat is warm and expensive. This parka is designed for covering up in the cold while belaying a partner. It’s oversized, I’m wearing a medium in the pictures and video below. This allows for easy layering and maneuverability when wearing a harness. The parka also has added protection with Hadron™ fabric to reduce abrasions.
My favorite feature about the Alpha Parka is just how warm it is. I’ve used a half dozen warm-rated coats and parkas in the past, which has been the warmest-to-weight ratio I’ve used. If you are someone that gets cold easily and needs a way to quickly warm up this coat works well for other activities other than just belaying.
Arc’teryx using built this coat with an oversized hood, and a high collar for ultimate warmth. It’s also very breathable
Sizing and Fit of the Arc’teryx Alpha Parka
The Alpha Parka is oversized for layering and mobility. Additionally, the hood is oversized to fit over a climbing helmet. I typically fall right in between medium and large. I’m wearing a size medium below for reference I’m about 5’10” tall and about 165 lbs.
- Size XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Weight 805g / 1 lb 12.4 oz
- Fit Regular
- Color: Black or Red
Pros of the Arc’teryx Alpha Parka
- Exceptional warmth even in extremely cold conditions.
- Comfortable fit with adjustable features for customization in a variety of conditions.
- High-quality construction with durable materials.
- Effective at blocking wind and retaining warmth.
- Versatile for various outdoor activities in cold climates.
- Lightweight relative to its warmth and protection.
- Good mobility, allowing for active use.
- Packable into a small size for convenience.
Cons of the Arc’teryx Alpha Parka
- The front zipper slider is a little small, making it difficult to use with gloves.
- No internal zipped pockets for storage.
- Limited color options.
- Some might say it’s overly warm for high-intensity activities, leading to overheating.
- The price point may be high for some budgets.
Overview of the Arc’teryx Alpha Parka
The Alpha Arc’teryx Alpha retails for $1000 USD.
The Arc’teryx Alpha Parka is designed for extreme alpine conditions, featuring windproof and water-resistant technologies, combined with 850 fill European goose down and strategic synthetic insulation. It’s highly breathable, with a helmet-compatible StormHood™ and multiple pockets, ensuring functionality and protection. The parka also emphasizes sustainability with RDS-certified down and materials meeting bluesign® criteria, alongside efficient dyeing processes for environmental consideration.
Arc’teryx Alpha Parka Specification
The product features windproof, water-resistant, and highly breathable materials, including a combination of 850 fill European goose down and synthetic insulation for optimal warmth and moisture management. It incorporates durable Hadron™ and GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ fabrics for enhanced protection, helmet-compatible StormHood™, and multiple convenient pockets. It’s also designed with sustainability in mind, meeting the Responsible Down Standard and bluesign® criteria, and utilizing a water and energy-saving dope dyeing process.
Arc’teryx Alpha Parka Features
The Alpha Parka is designed for extreme cold and wind conditions and is ideal for alpine and rock climbing. It features windproof and water-resistant materials, including 2L GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ with Hadron™ face fabric for durability and weather protection. The parka uses RDS-certified 850-fill goose down with additional synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas for breathability. Dope dyeing enhances colorfastness and environmental sustainability. It includes a StormHood™ and is engineered for a comfortable fit over climbing gear, available in sizes XS to XXL.
Protection:
- Windproof and Water Resistant: Two types of seam-taped GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ fabrics provide ultimate protection.
- Highly Breathable: Advanced fabrics ensure comfort during exertion.
- Strategic Insulation: 850 fill European goose down for warmth, with synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas.
Construction:
- Durable Design: Hadron™ reinforcement on high-wear zones for ultimate toughness.
Adjustability:
- Draft Collar: Seals out drafts and retains warmth.
- Dual Hem Adjusters: Customize the fit for comfort and protection.
- Cuff Gaskets: Keep snow and wind out.
Visibility & Storage:
- Helmet-Compatible Hood: StormHood™ offers full coverage without sacrificing sight.
- Multiple Pockets: Chest, hand, and internal dump pockets for storing essentials.
Sustainability:
- RDS Certified Down: Ensures responsible sourcing.
- bluesign® Materials: Meet strict environmental standards.
- Dope Dyed Fabric: Reduces water and energy consumption.
Additional Feature:
- Two-Way Front Zipper: For easy layering and ventilation.
Conclusion of the Arc’teryx Alpha Parka
If you are looking for an extremely warm coat or parka, you need to check out the Arc’teryx Alpha. It is one of the warmest-to-weight ration coats I have ever used. It’s great for other activities not just climbing. It’s also more durable than other lightweight parkas with its construction and materials.