Backpacker Magazine – May 2009

Gear Review: ARC'TERYX Alpha SL Pullover Ultralight Shell

With a puffy insulated layer and the clean anorak design, this ultralight did the trick in wet Welsh weather.

by: Berne Broudy

Tags:
• Jackets
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• Shells
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• Ultralight
|

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"This shell kept me perfectly dry during hours of hiking through sideways rain in Wales," said one tester. The clean anorak design, full hood, hip-length cut, and immaculately stitched Gore Paclite proved impenetrable. The fabric breathes adequately, and pit zips (one runs from elbow to hem) gave our tester total ventilation when she powered up steep rock in Snowdonia National Park. The roomy cut accommodates a puffy insulated layer, and the helmet-compatible hood adjusts easily with one hand. There's just one big kangaroo pocket, but at least you'll never have to guess where you stashed your lighter or knife.

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