The Hoodie is a great addition to my backpacking layers. It’s very comfortable and a great fit. Love the drawstring at the base to keep the cold air out.
Great product and looking forward to using it this winter on my backpacking trips.
So happy with my new hoodie and can't wait to take it backpacking. I save 7 ounces over my regular fleece! Clearly quality construction and appropriate sizing. Hopefully I can add to my review after I use it in the field; I may even take it snow camping.
Thank you for the great review! We’re so glad you’re enjoying the lightweight warmth and quality of your new hoodie. Can’t wait to hear how it performs on your backpacking and snow camping adventures!
I didn't know anything about Polartec Alpha before I received the hoodie on my birthday, but how I wish I would've found it earlier. The hoodie is so warm and comfortable. The best active insulation I own. The fit is perfect- I am a male at 5'8" with average body size and the small fits as expected, slim fit and snug, but not too tight. With a single base layer underneath and a wind shell over the top, I stay warm in any weather. Although style and color is not as important as warm and functionality, I have had numerous people comment on the look and ask me where I got it. It is really nice looking for performance wear, which I guess is why you can wear it beyond the trailhead. I can't wait until my next birthday...hint...hint
Thank you for the fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear the hoodie is keeping you warm, comfortable, and stylish—sounds like it’s getting plenty of attention on and off the trail! Here’s hoping your family picks up on that birthday hint for next year!
I received a hoodie as a birthday gift. The hoodie was custom fit for me, as I am a bit short in the torso, but wide in the shoulders...thank you Justin...it fits perfect! While I wasn't familiar with the Alpha material, the hoodie is by far the best for keeping me comfortable across a wide range of temperatures. I hike, bike, run, climb, etc. and no matter the activity or outside temp, the hoodie seems just right. I also think it is pretty cool that it is sown right here in Chip Falls, Wisconsin, USA!
Thank you for the amazing review! We’re so glad the custom fit worked perfectly for you and that the hoodie is keeping up with all your adventures. It’s great to hear you’re enjoying the versatility of Alpha and the fact it’s handmade here in Chippewa Falls. Happy exploring!
The hoodie is my new favorite for hiking/backpacking. Lightweight yet so warm. At 5'4" and 130 lbs, the XS fits amazing. The grey/amber color duo is a great combo. I've had several compliments on looks alone. Great quality product with excellent customer service!
Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad the hoodie has become your go-to for hiking and backpacking. It’s awesome to hear the fit, warmth, and color combo are all working out for you—happy adventuring!
I own other brands of Alpha fleece, but Beyond the Trailhead is by far the best fitting and best quality. I am 5'10" about 170lbs and the medium fits not too slim and not too baggy. The quality is excellent with good stitching throughout. If you're wondering about the fit, Justin has always been available and will help with sizing. He literally cuts and sews in his living room, truly an artisan of the cottage industry. I ordered two more hoodies for my adult sons and he was able to alter the length and sleeves for a perfect fit. He also sewed a custom 120g crew neck for me, which is so warm and comfortable that I think he should tailor it for the masses. Justin provides great customer service!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re thrilled you love the fit, quality, and custom touches—it means a lot to us. Helping you and your family find the perfect gear is what we’re all about. Enjoy your hoodies and that custom crew neck!
I just received this hoodie prior to a trip to the Utah National Parks where we did lots of fall hiking. Wore it with a light weight wind shell (tyono 30 denier) and a super lightweight merino t-shirt underneath. The combo worked perfect for the cold morning temperature. when it warmed up I shed the wind shell and just the hoodie allowed me to maintain consistent body temp through sun and shade. My wife had a typical fleece jacket over a t-shirt and she was hot/cold. The features of this hoodie excel above a lot of the other Alpha options on the market. I really like the neck snaps and hood/colar design. Only small gripe, not necessarily a negative is the pics on the web site and color description are a little off than actual- Waikawa Grey and Peach amber match images on website, however upon receiving it, it appears more like slate blue and pink in actuality. I've come to like the colors. My wife refers to it as my grandma sweater.
Thank you for the detailed review! We’re thrilled the hoodie performed so well during your Utah adventure—sounds like the perfect layering system! We’ll take note of your feedback on the color descriptions for future colors and are glad you’ve come to love the shade (even with the “grandma sweater” nickname!). Happy hiking!
I didn't see the lead time on the hoodie, my mistake. Contacted Justin and he got me my hoodie in time for my trip, love the product, thanks.
Thank you for your review! I'm glad I could get your hoodie to you in time—hope it was perfect for your trip!
there are other alpha direct hoodies out there, but the little extras that beyond the trailhead has makes it all worthwhile! kangaroo pocket for all my little things, check! built in venting neck gaiter, check! customizable snap colors to match my pack, you betcha! awesome hoodie, performs great, fits me much better than other brands (slim, with long torso and arms). very happy i found this maker, highly recommend!
Thank you so much for the kind words! We’re thrilled you love the thoughtful features and fit of our hoodie—it’s exactly why we designed it this way. Happy trails!