Polartec PowerGrid/PowerStretch/Alpha (still on midlayer)

[lorcar]

hi everyone.
Trying to buy the old classic Patagonia R1 full-zip, however it seems not available anywhere, so tried to focus on the fabric (Polartec Powergrid) rather than the specific model/brand.
the Idea is an additional layer for skitouring (to either wear above the first layer or to put on during a pause) providing warmth and leaving me dry.

So i found these:

https://www.mountainhardwear.com/p/m...y-1985311.html

https://www.millet-mountain.com/fusi...st-saphir.html

https://www.millet-mountain.com/tri-...r-rouge-1.html

this below looks very similar, even if Polartec PowerDry instead of PowerGrid (I ignore the difference)
https://www.blackdiamondequipment.co.../?colorid=2818

Then looking at other fabrics, I am enticed by these two:
https://www.haglofs.com/en/men/tops-...-men-6050534QP
a bit scared by the back panel, would it breathe as well as the front?

Alpha:
https://rab.equipment/eu/alpha-flash-jacket

and this one in Pontetorto, I have no idea how this compare to Polartec

https://www.haglofs.com/en/men/tops-...-men-6052544QN

any experience? any material better than other? please consider I am in Europe, so not all the brands you guys have in US area available over here.

[Cruiser]

Just to complicate things a little further for you, check out polartec power wool also. And it's worth being reminded that all these fabrics from polartec come in multiple weights. I love alpha 120 but I find the 60 and 90 weight stuff to be too thin to give me the insulating value I'm looking for in a mid.

These guys probably don't ship to Europe but their website is a good resource for looking at swatches of different polartec fabrics to see the thickness of the material. Posted their fabric weight chart below...

https://superiorfleece.com/

[Kevo]

Norrona has a few offerings for polartec alpha in both a bonded and unbounded jacket. I have the unbounded norrona polartec alpha hoodie. It's great for aerobic activities like ski touring. I love it.

[Cruiser]

That's a great piece and prolly exactly what the op is looking for as it's made of the 120 weight alpha. I bought one last year and my only complaint is that the alpha is interspersed with power grid fleece and I'd have preferred if it were all alpha.

[sk8rat6587]

Subscribe to the freeride systems thread and jump on whatever they decide to do this year. Both bross and baselayers in polartec power grid have been amazing quality at great prices.

Ah didn't see the Europe part, might not be doable with FRS.

Sent from my Pixel 6 using Tapatalk

[skuff]

What size are you looking for? The used stuff they sell has few options to choose from


https://wornwear.patagonia.com/shop/...t=Men%27s&q=r1

[PNB]

ME Eclipse could be what you look for (it's on the light side)
Both RAB and Montane make some fleece jackets with grid backer at reasonable price, 60-70 Euro. Look for the ones around 400g/garment.
I used one from RAB the last season and, while not fancy, it works just fine for me.
The one I have from Montane is still unused and a bit lighter.
You could also look to second hand markets like ebay-kleinanzeigen or Willhaben or Vinted, depending on where you are located.

With Polartec fabrics I had a few odd experiences.
Once I ordered a Powerstretch jacket from Marmot. The hanging label did read Powerstretch, but it was most definitely Powergrid. I returned it.
Another time I ordered a Powerstretch jacket from Dynafit, which it was what I expected, but on the label was Power grid.

[lorcar]

Thank you everyone.
I was thorn between the ME eclipse and the Norrona Alpha 120 then this morning I received an outlet invitation from Norrona and I pulled the trigger.
The Eclipse looks more versatile and casual use as well, however Alpha seems the best material.
Thanks again.