Polartec have been teasing their new Alpha insulation all around the outdoor shows and it is finally arriving on the shelves. You can already get your hands on some of the new stuff using it, with more to come.
The new Alpha synthetic insulation is in Polartec’s own words a “puffy style” insulation garment. The accent has been put on the breathability and it looks ideal for active pursuit where you want the best insulation possible without compromising on air flow and durability.
All this is of course is marketing talk. Alpha is not the first to try to ‘revolutionise’ the insulation segment but it does look interesting nonetheless. It is worth noting that the insulation itself is not what directly improves air circulation inside the kit but more what it allows manufacturers to use with it. Because Polartec Alpha is more stable and durable, brands can pair it with more open constructions on both face and inner fabrics.
Some of the kit available or hitting the stores soon include the Montane Alpha Guide jacket with Pertex Microlight Stretch for a weight of 449g / 15.8oz (size M).
The Rab Strata Hoody using Pertex Microlight in a 430g (size L) package.
Or the Marmot Isotherm Hoody, Polartec Alpha paired with Pertex Quantum, 408.2 g / 14.4 oz (size M).
