Mountain Equipment Alpamayo & Switch Pro Hooded Jacket Review – By Lindsay Fixmer

 

Alpamayo Women’s Jacket: Your Ultimate Companion for Extreme Conditions

The Alpamayo Women’s Jacket is your ultimate companion. Crafted to withstand the most hostile environments and ever-changing weather conditions, this jacket seamlessly blends performance and functionality. So, gear up, embrace the elements, and let the Alpamayo be your steadfast ally on your next adventure!

Key Features:
  1. Weather Resistance:
    The Alpamayo jacket boasts a GORE-TEX WINDSTOPPERⓇ shell, providing unparalleled protection against wind, rain, and snow. Whether you’re battling icy gusts on a mountain face or navigating through a blizzard, this jacket keeps you shielded.
  2. PrimaloftⓇ High Loft Insulation:
    When the mercury drops, you need reliable warmth. The Alpamayo features PrimaLoftⓇ Gold Hi-Loft Ultra insulation with Cross Core™ technology, which offers exceptional heat retention without adding bulk. Say goodbye to bulky layers; this jacket keeps you toasty without compromising mobility.
  3. Versatility:
    The Alpamayo is a versatile piece of gear. Use it as a belay jacket for climbing, providing essential warmth during those precarious moments when you’re hanging on a rope. Alternatively, it serves as an overlayer on remote ski tours, ensuring comfort and protection as you carve through pristine. powder.
  4. Packability:
    One of the standout features is its impressively small pack-size. When space is limited, the Alpamayo folds down neatly, ready to be stashed in your backpack. It’s a game-changer for minimalist adventurers who demand high performance without sacrificing convenience.

Lindsay’s take…

Warm, wicking, and waterproof. Big but not bulky. If it’s cold, I can still stuff it under my harness and climb in it. Whether I’m in wet, Spring snowfall or a watery ice hose, this jacket withstands, wicks away, and keeps me warm and dry.

Ideal for single pitch ice cragging in temperatures down to 5 F / -15 C (because I bring two puff jackets once it’s colder than that!) as well as a multi-pitch belay jacket. You can pack this into a little 12L pack with your thermos and first aid kit: super stuffable!  I love this thing!

Fit: Torso and sleeve lengths are perfect. Mountain Equipment always runs a little wide in the torso, but that’s fine for puff jackets. The hood can go over a helmet and other hoods (if you’re into multiple hoods up with cold or wet weather).

Switch Pro Hooded Women’s Jacket: Your Ultimate Cold-Weather Companion

Cold weather? Bring it on. The Switch Pro Hooded Women’s Jacket empowers you to move fast, stay warm, and embrace every frosty moment. A game-changing midlayer designed for those who demand both performance and comfort.

Key Features:
  1. High-Loft Octayarn Warp-Knit Insulation:
    The Switch Pro Hooded Jacket boasts super-fast drying high loft Octayarn Warp-knit insulation. What does that mean for you? Exceptional warmth without the bulk. Whether you’re tackling a frosty trail run or embarking on a snow-covered adventure, this jacket keeps you cozy and agile.
  2. Zoned Pontetorto® Tecnostretch Fleece:
    Say goodbye to restrictive layers. The Switch Pro features zoned Pontetorto® Tecnostretch fleece, strategically placed to ensure an athletic fit. Not only does it move with your body, but it also enhances moisture transfer, keeping you dry even during intense activities. Plus, the stretchy hood accommodates both helmet wearers and those without headgear.
  3. Versatility:
    Whether you’re conquering a mountain peak or navigating city streets, the Switch Pro Hooded Jacket delivers. Its sleek design seamlessly transitions from outdoor adventures to urban escapades. You’ll look as good as you feel.
  4. Lightweight and Packable:
    Don’t let heavy gear weigh you down. The Switch Pro is lightweight and packs down easily, making it an ideal choice for travelers and minimalists. Slip it into your backpack, and you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Lindsay’s take…
Breathable and soft. It’s perfect to hike in cold temperatures for breathability as any wind cuts through decently to keep you cool and not sweaty. Once at your destination, stack the layers under and over it to stay warm while climbing or belaying. The Octayarn Warp-knit inner lining is lovingly soft, like cuddling into a warm, woolly blanket.

Ideal as a second layer for winter excursions or an extra layer for. spring or fall-time rock climbing when the clouds roll in or the wind picks up.

Fit: The torso is cut a little wide and short, so it won’t stay under your harness while climbing, unless you can cleverly climb with your arms down.

Lindsay Fixmer is an AMGA Certified CWI Provider Trainer, Rock Guide, Alpine Guide and Instructor Team Member based in Bozeman, Montana.