The key to this piece is the fabric. This fabric was developed for use by U.S. Special Forces with a simple objective: eliminate the need of adding or dropping layers during dynamic and static activities.
The fabric technology also allows for the transport of moisture without getting cold; so, unlike your puffy down jacket, this jacket will keep you warm when moisture is involved... or inevitable.
For this version, we gave the exterior a C6 DWR water resistant treatment. This allows water to bead up and keeps the surface of the piece from becoming saturated with moisture.
"A nice, classically-styled shirt jacket that’s as technical as it gets thanks to Polartec’s new Alpha insulation that’s capable of handling large variances in ambient temperature or body heat, so you can wear this single item from a chilly afternoon to a frigid night and simply be comfortable the whole while. "
"The lightweight nature of this jacket makes it feel great on, but don’t let that fool you into thinking this is only for warmer weather. Its polartec interior is designed to handle the drastic temperature changes of the fall and its tailored fit will have you looking good on the bike trails or strolling through the city."
"I’ve actually ridden a mountain bike in this midweight on a cold morning in November, but the Snap Jacket is more of a café cruiser item: It’s technical, but casual. The Polartech Alpha breathable insulation keeps you warm without overheating. The jacket/shirt styling means I wear it-probably too much. "
I really like this updated version. It feels more durable with the new outer-shell and the fit is looks better making it a staple for the bike trail to a casual outing. The updated new pockets are perfect, especially the one on the back. Overall, very happy with this purchase and it'll probably be my go to jacket for everything. The only minor issue I have is that it doesn't quite have the stretch as the previous one.
This is the kind of wardrobe piece that when you see it you ask yourself “what would I use that for?” But once u own it, if you find you can’t live without it. My husband lost his and could think of little else until he knew another one would be coming under the Christmas tree. There are two classes of down shirt- style jackets on the market: expensive and not so expensive. In case you were wondering what the difference is, it’s durability. The less expensive brands do not have the Same quality outer fabric. They are easily torn and down leaks out more readily. I can’t say that we are fans of the recent modifications. We preferred the prior styling, without the contrast fabric on the lower arms. But even with that, and the higher price point, it’s my husband’s favorite down shirt on the market.
The new Alpha Jacket is my go too alone over t shirt or as a full on jacket. New sleeves keep warmth in and still hidden so it looks like a typical shirt sleeve. Kitsbow makes the highest quality products period.
I've never had a garment that fits into more spaces and does so with style. From the trailhead to date night I literally wear this thing everywhere. The fit is perfect for an lean active body, slender waist and long slim sleeves but still gives you room to layer. You also can't beat the fact that every time I wear this jacket someone compliments me or asks where I got it.
Fit is a little more trim than the first generation and is great. Temps dropped to freezing the night it arrived and have been wearing it ever since. Regulation works great and haven’t overheated when indoors. The construction and attention to detail is everything I expect from Kitsbow and will wear my first gen on the bike and this one for casual days off the bike, has looked great with everything so far.