Black Diamond  Alpine Start Hoody - Men's

While this would work perfectly as an active shell climbing, hiking, or ski touring, it is a perfect biking jacket. The minimal features, increadable breathability, and most of all stellar hood make this the perfect jacket for any high output activity for which you wear a helmet. The hood is the best I've ever used, creating a warm seal that is easy to take on and off depending on conditions. The DWR may diminish a bit with time, but it's worth noting that it also kept me dry during two hours of riding in wet snow without overheating.

This jacket is made with the perfect, most breathable material. I have done full trail runs and ski tours with just this and a merino tee underneath. It’s more breathable than some other brands. A good outer layer for temp regulation if you run hot, but are in the elements. I’m 5’10 175 lbs and a M fits me well. My only complaint about the cut is the height of the zipper. The main zipper runs way high up. It’s a little awkward because if the jacket it fully zipped, but I don’t wear the hood, the zipper actually juts out with displaced fabric. It’s a minor annoyance that won’t stop me from wearing, but not ideal. Otherwise, 5 stars

Alpine Start is breathable The weight is lighter than the similar kind of jackets I have. It's easy to pack, so there's no burden to carry around. With excellent water repellency, weak rain is defensible. The downside is that it would be nice to have a wrist Velcro If you wear a t-shirt in spring and fall, it's for driving when it's chilly, I even wore a fleece in winter, but it's for driving when it's chilly, In summer, if it's cold because of the wind at the top, it's for body temperature control, It is recommended because of its high utilization, such as when it rains lightly.

not a bad article to have in stow just in case or as an extra layer. it is thin, works best with good base layer. mainly used to take the edge off. does keep in heat when active. considering its packability, it’s harmless to take along when in doubt. I’m 5’10” at 145#s and the small fits great. I can still layer under or over.

This clothing is very windproof and moisture-permeable compared to other clothes, making it very suitable for most situations when hiking. In addition, it is light and small in volume, so I am very satisfied.

Have been looking long and hard for a lightweight and compact (soft) shell to always have with me for inevitable mountain weather. The Alpine Start hoody is a legit piece of kit. I had it on within 42 minutes of our first adventure together. The Alpine Start handled wind driven graupel easily while still allowing sufficient moisture transfer wearing two lightweight Capilene base layers. Instant favorite. Will keep in my rucksack. Probably should buy several more to keep in car and brief case. Very impressive.

I bring this jacket with me on nearly every excursion. It compresses as small as an apple and can be easily stored in my pack or clipped onto a harness. It breathes very well, so it can be employed both as an outer layer in clear conditions, or as a mid-piece under a shell. I haven't been in many situations to test it's resistance to precipitation, but it's proven adept at protecting against light snow. It's the perfect piece for me to pull out of my pack for 3-season treks at high PNW elevations. The lack of hand pockets (this jacket only has a chest pocket) will definitely limit it's usability in urban areas, but the pocket is large enough for my phone and wallet. I'm 5'11, with 6'4 wingspan and 32'' waist, and I fit well into the Medium. The version I have (S22) is a bit snug in the waist, but I have plenty of room in the chest, which does benefit that the jacket won't move if I'm climbing. The updated (S23) version seems to have a bit bigger of a fit - but I'd definitely consult the size charts or try it on in store.

This is one of BD's best products - excellent application of the lightest Schoeller fabric. It's primary downside is that it's a few ounces heavier than most lightweight windshells. However, it is far more breathable than most windshells while still being protective, and has significant stretch and comfort (it's really an ultralight softshell). I use it for almost everything, summer and winter. It's versatility shines most when paired with an ultralight fleece (alpha or similar) - this allows for an adaptable layering system that can function as an insulated softshell, a minimally insulated softshell (fleece on top), or the two pieces can be used alone. This system is approximately the same weight as a lightly insulated softshell, but eliminates the need for additional layers to serve duplicate purposes.

I'm 6'-4" and large framed and this fits great (XXL). i can wear it over a hoodie, if needed, but it isn't too baggy to wear over a t shirt. This jacket is insanely light - I can't tell when it's in my bag or even my pocket. It rolls/packs up very small and is essentially invisible in my bag until I need it. I wouldn't replace a puffer or heavy insulated jacket, but that's not the intended use of this. It's water-tight, breathes very well, and it allows full range of motion.

Purchased for some summer mountaineering missions this year. I am impressed with the build, and fit of the jacket. I’m 5’10” 190 and the medium will be a great fit, with plenty of room for layers. The construction looks like it will hold up to strong winds and modest rain/snow before having to break out the hard shell. It’s light, packs down small and will be a nice compromise when it’s too hot for the 3L and too cold for just the polar tech.