BIG PROTECTION
The anorak is back (also see the Triumph, below)—and we like it. When a group of testers got stuck in a downpour on a mountain-bike tour in Utah’s Abajo Mountains, the only guy who stayed bone-dry was the one in the Alpha SL anorak. Credit the material, Gore’s revamped Paclite, which, although not as beefy (or durable) as Gore’s heavier-weight fabrics, is still every bit as waterproof. And breathable: Thanks to ample, easy-to-open pit zips, it didn’t get too clammy inside on a rainy two-week trip to Hawaii. Got a bum shoulder? Or just don’t like anoraks? It’s also available with a full front zip as the Alpha SL Jacket ($300). 11 oz; arcteryx.com