Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody

A nice balance of breathability, wind resistance and precip resistance — more durable than your average windshirt (but heavier too).

This isn't your average ultralightweight windshirt, for one it comes in at 8.2 oz in XL, about double what my other (Patagonia Houdini) windshirt is. But there are some advantages.  

The Schoeller material has a nice stretch to it and is definitely going to be more durable than any of the real lightweight windshirts. It strikes a nice balance of wind resistance, breathability (~ 40 cfms) and sports a very good DWR; the HH on this shirt (from Black Diamond) is 500mm (my Houdini is ~ 100), so it's very water resistant.

I can back this up as I've used it on several occasions when the snow has been on the very wet end of the scale, also a few occasions with light rain. It won't replace a hardshell, but your hardshell will see less use!

I had to size up from normal Large to XL. It's definitely cut tight and as I like to layer mine sometimes over a mid or insulating layer, the Large wasn't going to cut it.

For summer use I'll probably continue to use my Houdini, but shoulder season/winter, the Alpine Start will be my go to windshirt.

Pic on a recent overnight snowshoe trip:

The best jacket I never thought I wanted…

I am an Outdoor School Instructor, and was issued this as part of our outdoor ”uniform” for work. I wasn’t sure about this jacket at first, but now I am a convert!

This jacket is very light, breathable, and packs into the chest pocket. It is perfect for a light layer and takes up almost no room on my climbing harness or pack. It says there is a DWR coating on it, but I wouldn’t count on it keeping you dry.

if you're looking for a ultra-light layer that cuts the wind and packs down small, you can’t beat it!

Background

I’ve had it for a year now, and it goes with me any time of year when I’m outdoors!