We’ve enhanced our simple Only Hood design by incorporating the lightweight, warm, yet highly breathable Polartec Alpha Direct, which is a fabric that is superior at preventing water retention and maintaining its loft when wet.

At only 51 grams, it is lighter than most knit caps, but warmer, and can be used as a neck gaiter or a balaclava. Making it great for light snow situations.

For optimal layering, we recommend pairing the Light Alpha Only Hood with jackets that do not have hoods, such as our: Light Alpha Vest/Jacket, Merino Coach Jacketor the 100% Merino Pullover

Combine with a non-hooded jacket or middle layer such as the Light Alpha Vest/Jacket, Merino Coach Jacket or the100% Merino Pullover.

Transforms to a simple balaclava that can completely cover the nose, a great feature for when in harsh cold conditions.
*Does not have the elastic fitting feel like most balaclava’s do.

Although it’s not as warm as 1000-fill-power down, the Polartec Alpha Direct (85g/m²) used in the Light Alpha Only Hood is one of the best insulators available—arguably even warmer than wool. Its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, combined with superior breathability and water resistance, makes it an excellent choice for active use in varying conditions.

The below chart compares the 1000 fill power down and other insulators used in thermal clothes on the market.

• Heat retention is measured by JIS L 1096 A method, in Yamatomichi in-house test. The heat insulation property is measured from the amount of energy consumed by the heat-generating element to maintain its temperature. The maximum value is 100%.
• The values of Polartec and Primaloft fabrics are the manufacturers’ catalog specs. Other fabrics’ values are measured by Yamatomichi. 1000 fill power down includes its 7 denier nylon outer and lining.

Dries quickly even when wet with sweat.

The below chart compares the fast-drying performance of middle layer products. You can see that the Alpha Direct is not as fast-drying as the extremely fast-drying Shadow Rip (UL Shirt), but the moisture content after spin-dry is much lower than that of wool and other fabrics, and even when wet, it dries quickly if lightly wrung out or worn for some time.

*A proprietary test: We looked into the difference of the water content after a 15 minute spin-dry. The larger the value, the higher the moisture content, meaning slower-drying.

Conventional natural down and synthetic insulators tend to contain body moisture within the clothes and as a result, can be quite stuffy. Polartec Alpha Direct, on the other hand, is so air-permeable that it can be worn even during a high level of physical activity.

Alpha Direct is also treated by Polygiene odor control which safely reduces the microorganisms and bacteria by small amounts of silver ions, achieving antibacterial and deodorizing function that well exceeds the lifespan of ordinary garments.

Polartec Alpha Direct

To maximize the superior air-permeability of Polartec Alpha Direct, the shell material of the Light Alpha Only Hood uses Pertex Quantum Air, an ultralight and breathable nylon fabric with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish.

The Pertex Quantum Air has many variations in terms of fabric thickness, finish, etc., and we chose one with a matte texture that is pleasant to the skin.

To achieve superior breathability of approximately 70cc/(cm²･s), Pertex Quantum Air is woven as loose as possible, made of less frictional low-count yarns, accelerating the excellent durability against abrasion with coarse materials such as Velcro. Also, the yarn is “temporarily twisted”, twisted and heat-treated to provide moderate stretch for better flexibility.

The back of the fabric is treated with our unique titanium-coating, in which the titanium adheres to the surface of the fabric at the molecular level. The coating enhances heat retention, while preventing body heat from radiating out, without compromising the texture and air-permeability.

Pertex Quantum Air

• Due to sewing tolerances, actual dimensions may slightly differ from the listed measurements.
• Fabric may shrink over time due to wear and washing, causing changes in dimensions.

The titanium coating on the back of the fabric can gradually wear off due to friction caused by daily washing. The proper care with the right washing method can help maintain the titanium coating.*

*The amount of titanium particles washed away is minimal and considered to be harmless for the environment.

• When machine washing, set to gentle or delicate, avoid damage caused by contact with other laundry by washing separately or using a laundry net.
• Avoid bleach or detergent that contains enzymes as they might discolor the fabric due to the chemical reaction with the metal. Use neutral detergent.
• Do not soak in detergent for a long period of time as it can accelerate the delamination of the titanium coating.
• Wring gently after washing and line dry in the shade.
• Do not iron. Do not dry-clean.
• If necessary, wash to remove fuzz from the fabric before first use.