Black Diamond - Alpenglow Pro Hoody review

Product link

I bought this hoodie 2 years ago because I like my Alpenglow Non-Pro so much. 

I thought the pocket and quarter zip would be nice. 

These two hoodies are vastly different. The main issue with the Pro version is that the fabric is extremely stretchy. I bought both in Small (I'm 5'10", slim, male) and the Pro gets so baggy it feels like I'm wearing a Large. With each wash it almost reverts to normal but overall is extremely baggy. If you put anything kinda heavy (like a phone) in the chest pocket it flops around everywhere. 

Sleeve length: With a 0" ape index the thumb loops are exactly where I want them to be. 

Torso length: Kinda long. When it's sweaty/wet it gets very long. 

Alternate recommendation: NW Alpine Fortis 150. Cheaper, made in USA. No zipper or chest pocket.

Pros: 

50+ SPF

DWR, I guess? I don't think it works well. 

Thumbloops are comfy

Cons:

Unreasonably stretchy

Expensive

Fabric pills quickly

EDIT: I now realize I posted this in Discussion rather than reviews. Oops.

Thanks for the review. I have the non-pro as well and love it, but I don't get the colors in the pro version. Who buys a dark-colored sun hoody? The chest zipper would be amazing though.    

Andy Novak wrote:

Thanks for the review. I have the non-pro as well and love it, but I don't get the colors in the pro version. Who buys a dark-colored sun hoody? The chest zipper would be amazing though.    

Light colors don’t get as high UPF ratings.

FWIW I really like the pro, especially for high mountains backpacking/fastpacking. 

Spopepro O. wrote:

Light colors don’t get as high UPF ratings

I've never heard this before. Why is that? I figured that light colors reflect more light off the wearer.

I think you need absorption for UV, not reflection. I'm no expert. But here's an OR product description:

The Astroman Air Sun Hoodie is designed for comfort and sun protection while working reachy moves at the crag, trekking deep into the mountains, or hanging with friends at camp.

Made with lightweight, stretchy, and durable recycled nylon, this shirt features a 3-panel hood and strategically positioned laser-perforated holes for airy breathability. The lighter colors feature UPF 30+ sun protection, while the darker colors feature UPF 50+ protection.

I called Outdoor Research today because I was curious about the SPF and fabric colors. A very friendly and knowledgeable fellow picked up the phone and told me the following: 

• fabric weave density affects UPF: tighter weave blocks more light, preventing sun damage
  • A tighter weave also traps more body-generated heat
• Fabric color affects UPF: dark fabrics absorb more UV rays into them, light fabrics will reflect some of the UV that gets through them back into your skin
• Material affects UPF: different materials affect the weave and UV absorption
• Garment fit affects heat: 
  • A looser worn shirt will allow more air between your skin and the material, which can trap heat
  • A tight fitting shirt does not allow as much air, which keeps you coolor

He also mentioned how people in desert climates often wear darker colors with loose fabrics because it protects them from sun damage. 

But when you search for "what to wear in the desert" there's a lot of articles saying to wear light colors.

I like the Pro enough to get another color (when on major sale of course). Does stretch out over time, but is a solid option all around. Don't pay over $70 for one and you'll be satisfied with the performance. Hood goes under the helmet for me. OR Astroman hoody goes over. Also a good option.