Jack Wolfskin Prelight Alpha Jacket
The Jack Wolfskin Prelight Alpha Jacket is a good coat to throw on in moderate weather, when the temperature is in the 40s and above. The Prelight is so light I barely know I’m wearing it, and it’s easy to stuff into a pack on day hikes.
Prelight Alpha Jacket Specs
MSRP: $179.95
Weight: 7.7 ounces (220 grams)
Outer Fabric: Breathable and wind resistant Pertex Quantum Air shell
Insulation: Breathable, lightweight and fast-drying Polartec Alpha synthetic fill
About the Prelight Alpha Jacket
The Prelight Alpha has a unique insulating structure, with the Polartec fill covering the shoulders and extending about halfway down to my waist. That gives me warmth for my upper body, where I want it most. The jacket’s sides are mesh from the armpits to the waist, cooling me during strenuous activity, much like pit zips. I use this coat for moderate-temperature day hikes, adding layers underneath for cool days. This is not a jacket for cold, extreme weather.
Prelight Alpha Features
Wind Resistance: The Pertex shell breathes to shed heat, and provides good protection from a moderate wind but doesn’t stand up to a cold, biting wind.
Insulation: The breathable Polartec Alpha synthetic fill that encases the upper part of my body is lightweight and dries fast.
Breathable Side Mesh: I’ve found this feature in the Prelight and other Jack Wolfskin jackets to be good for venting heat during a strenuous hike. The mesh also stretches to make room for layers underneath.
Pockets: Generous-sized pockets with zippers.
Hood: Elastic hems on both sides of the hood snug it tight to my head, and a small visor keeps rain off my face.
Packs Small: Lightweight and small inside a pack, and can be stuffed into one of the coat’s side pockets.
Fit: I’m 5 feet, 10 inches, 160ish pounds. A large is a good fit for me.
Sustainability: 100% PFC free. Other sustainable practices that Jack Wolfskin follows are recycled components certified in accordance with the Global Recycled Standard and down that is sourced solely from ethical sources.
Manufactured: In Cambodia.
About Jack Wolfskin: Jack Wolfskin, based in Germany, develops technologies for all its gear, ranging from its Texapore breathable, waterproof fabric to its Texawarm footwear insulation.
Prelight Alpha Jacket Pros
Lightweight: Excellent ultralight layer for moderate weather.
Outer Shell: The breathable Pertex Quantum Air shell vents heat.
Insulation: The Polartec Alpha synthetic fill insulation is lightweight and fast-drying.
Side Mesh: Provides lightweight ventilation, along with the ability to accommodate layers underneath.
Hood: Elastic hems on both sides of the hood wrap comfortably around my face. A small visor keeps the rain from dripping down.
Prelight Alpha Jacket Cons
Not for Low Temperatures, High Winds: Curious about how the Prelight Alpha would handle extreme weather conditions, I wore it above treeline in 30-degree temperatures with biting, moisture-laden 20 mph winds. It didn’t keep me warm, but in all fairness the coat is not meant for those conditions.
Overall Value
The Prelight Alpha is a good moderate weather jacket that breathes well, and its light weight means I barely know I’m wearing it. The insulation is lightweight and quick-drying, and I like that the insulation wraps only my upper body for warmth. I have tested several other Jack Wolfskin jackets and found them to be well-designed and durable. I expect the same for the Prelight Alpha.
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This product was donated for purpose of review.
