First I want to mention that Justin’s communication while I was figuring out measurements was amazing and made it less stressful for sure, and the hoodie itself is perfect for what I need!
I just took it up to 11,000 ft, 46 degrees and up to 20 mph gusts. I had my puffy just in case but never needed it. I layered a windbreaker over it when needed but often found that I needed to dump heat while active, which is does efficiently when you unclamp the buttons. I run very cold and would have my puffy as an active layer in those conditions in the past, so I’m really happy to have found this system that’s easier to modify.
I’m excited to take this out into more shoulder season conditions, but it’s already been useful in high altitude Colorado summers. Less important for survival, but the way the neckline layers is really cute and stands out from other alpha hoodies! Highly recommend!
Thanks so much for the epic review—and pics! I’m really glad the hoodie kept you warm and adaptable up high. Sounds like it’s fitting right into your system nicely. Appreciate you sharing! – Justin
Owner very responsive and helpful. Product is top notch. Pride in workmanship is evident. Two thumbs way up!
Thanks so much! Really glad you’re happy with it—and I appreciate the kind words! – Justin
The fit is perfect, and the material is so lightweight, breathable, and warm. Perfect mid-layer, but doesn’t need to be removed during activities since it is so breathable. Dries super quickly as well. Very much appreciate the attention to detail and the overall quality of the construction. Thanks!
Thanks so much! Sounds like it’s doing exactly what it was built for, and I’m really glad the fit and function are working out for you. Appreciate you noticing the details—enjoy out there! – Justin
I bought this for my CT thru this summer. I can’t wait to get out there and use it for real. Obviously the fabric is super soft. I upgraded to add thumb holes and a kangaroo pocket. Both were solid choices. I’m 5’ 6” and 155 lbs, and I ordered a small. For me, it’s perfect. It has just enough room for a base layer underneath, and fits with no bulk under my windbreaker. The snap collar is a nice touch. The hood fits over my giant hair without being constricting. Bonus… picking your own snap color! Buy with confidence. Happy trails!
Thanks so much—stoked to hear the fit and features worked out just right! Sounds like it’s trail-ready and dialed in for your CT thru hike. Appreciate you taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review—happy trails out there! – Justin
Great Quality & functional! Highly recommend!!
Glad to hear it—thanks for the kind words and the recommendation! Hope the mitts serve you well out there. – Justin
Is it possible to have a sweater that's "too warm?" I don't think so, but the moment I put on my 190 gm Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie there was warmth, warmth, warmth! Light, fuzzy, cuddly... and so wonderfully warm! Sleeve lengths were perfect for me (get the thumbholes), the neck opening was perfect, and the hood cradles your head in sweet, sweet fuzzy insulation. If you really "run cold" the 190 weight should banish any chill.
This is my second Rip-Back (the other is a lighter weight), and I can't wait to use this heavier one around camp (it's probably too warm to use while hiking in anything but the coldest weather, honestly... but we'll see!).
A note about Jason--he's great at communicating, responsive, wonderful with answering questions, and I have no qualms about the quality of work he does. These garments should be considered "technical" and demand some good attention to detail so they don't fray, come undone in the field--and I think he's putting effort into making sure his garments are "quality" products. Thanks to him for great warm gear!
This one made my day—thank you! I’m really glad the 190 is delivering that big warmth you were looking for. Sounds like it’s going to be a perfect layer for cold nights around camp. Hope it serves you well out there! – Justin
Naked alpha by cottage industries can take a lot of turns, this fit and finish of this piece is excellent. Built with the features I was looking for on long ascents with a heavy pack. Other Alpha pieces I own, with a face fabric, are too loud for bowhunting! This will hoodie will always be on my back in the woods.
Really appreciate that—and I’m glad it hits the mark for those long climbs and quiet hunts. Sounds like it’s right at home in your kit! Thanks again! – Justin
Well worth the wait! This is my new favorite hoodie! Super soft and sizing was perfect. Such an amazing piece of gear... You can really tell this was made by someone who actually cares about quality over quantity ! Loved being able to customize & make my hoodie even more unique! Cant thank you enough, cheers from SoCal
Thank you so much! I'm really glad to hear it’s your new favorite—and that the fit, feel, and custom touches all hit the mark. It means a lot to hear the care comes through. Enjoy that hoodie out in the SoCal sun! – Justin
Custom sizing. Love it!!
Thanks so much! I'm really glad the custom sizing worked out — always happy to get the fit just right for you.
— Justin
I had one of Justin's hoodies for hiking the Appalachian Trail and it was perfect! Kept me warm when I needed it, but allowed some airflow for those days that tended to be a bit warmer, or struggling up the side of a mountain. I had someone comment on my hoodie almost every single day! They were impressed with the colours, the workmanship and material! Just waiting for them to become available again to order another one - mine is still in good shape - but I want another colour!
Thanks so much for the awesome review! It means a lot knowing the hoodie held up for you on the Appalachian Trail — that’s exactly the kind of use it’s built for. I’m really glad to hear it balanced warmth and breathability on those climbs. And that daily trail admiration? That’s a huge compliment!
— Justin
