Last updated: 17-Aug-18
The Salewa Pedroc PTC Alpha jacket includes Polartec Alpha technology, which is a synthetic insulation that is said to regulate core body temperatures “during both dynamic and static activities”.
It’s also claimed that Polartec Alpha is the “latest advancement in adaptable breathability to help to eliminate the need for shedding or adding layers while on the move”.
There are various versions of the Salewa Pedroc Polartec Alpha jackets. The men’s jacket is the original design, while the women’s is a branded Red Bull X-Alps Pedroc Polartec Alpha jacket. It is still possible to buy the original non-branded women’s design on some websites.
There is also a new Salewa Pedroc Polartec Alpha Hoody for women.
The Pedroc Polartc jacket was tested in a range of weather conditions while running and fast-hiking in Scottish hills and mountains.
Features
- Body-mapped design to offer a combination of weather-resistance and breathability
- Water-resistant shoulders, front and back areas
- Stretchy inserts for ease of movement
- Ergonomic sleeves and shoulders for a good fit
- Breathable side and back panels
- Soft breathable mesh lining
- Wide stretchy cuffs with thumb loops
- Front zip with internal windproof flap
- Two zipped outer pockets
- Weight: 271g (men’s large.)
Photo credit: Salewa.com.
Pros: What’s good about the Salewa Pedroc PTC Alpha jacket
Salewa fit is long and slim so if that is your shape it’s ideal. It’s meant to be athletic and close-fitting and the torso length is good. It does not create a gap at the back between the jacket and your shorts or running tights.
The main interest of this product is the Polartec Alpha. The insulation was originally developed for the US Special Forces when they required a more advanced insulating material in their combat uniforms.
Salewa say: “It’s a synthetic insulation that offers a rare combination of lightweight warmth and true breathability thanks to its ability to work with more open-construction face and back fabrics, which allow a small amount of airflow into the garment to rapidly draw moisture away from the body.”
I found that when working hard, especially when fast-hiking uphill on trails, my temperature was kept nicely controlled. I felt neither too hot not too cold and sweat was kept to a minimum. I was very impressed by this performance aspect of the jacket.
Photo credit: Salewa.com.
When I stopped, as you inevitably do to enjoy a view or have a snack while hill or mountain running the fabric dried quickly so I did not end up cold and chilly. This is a great bonus.
The front panels are nicely windproof, while the sides and back allow sweat to evaporate. This is a good combination.
The jacket also did well in light rain thanks to the water-resistant areas. When the rain becomes heavier you need to add a waterproof jacket over the top.
There are some other good features, such as the wide, stretchy arm cuffs with thumb loops. The longer-than-average arm length means the thumb loops are a comfortable fit.
Photo credit: Fiona Outdoors.
The jacket feels stretchy in all the right places. The arms are a soft fabric and they fit snugly, but not annoyingly, because the fabric is so stretchy. It’s the same around the sides. It feels like there is a lot of freedom of movement in the jacket.
The high neck collar offers extra protection from the weather and there are two zipped pockets to keep hands warm in cool weather.
It is also easily washed in a machine and I added DWR washing liquid to give it an extra water-repelling boost.
Photo credit. Salewa.com.
Cons: What’s not so good about the Salewa Pedroc Polartec Alpha jacket
If you do not have a long and slim physique, you might want to look at other wider and shorter jackets, or go up a size! The fit of the Pedroc is meant to be close-fitting but this will not suit everyone.
I would also like to have the addition of a stretch fabric hood on the jacket for extra protection in inclement weather.
The jacket is not cheap at £150 but it is versatile and could be worn for other activities such as running, cycling and skiing to make it worth the money.
Photo credit: Salewa.com.
It’s annoying that the original women’s version of the Salewa jacket is now a branded Red Bull X-Alps version. However, there is a hoody style that looks interesting.
Conclusion
The jacket is cleverly designed and versatile. It is a useful outer layer or could be worn as a mid-layer on very cold or wet days. The Polartec Alpha insulation works very well and the close-fit is good for those who like a neat fit. The price is a little high but you could wear the jacket for other sports, too.
| Score | |
| Design | 9/10 |
| Features | 9/10 |
| Performance | 9/10 |
| Value | 8/10 |
| Total | 8.75/10 |
Other jackets you may want to consider:
Salewa Pedroc Polartec Alpha Hoody
Rab Alpha Flux Jacket
Adidas Terrex Agravic Alpha Hooded Shield Jacket
Dynafit Elevation Polartec Alpha Jacket
About the writer: Fiona is a keen runner, preferring off-road and hilly to flat and road. She lives in Scotland where the weather is fickle so needs to be prepared for all conditions.
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