Castelli Alpha RoS 2 Jacket

The Castelli Alpha RoS 2 jacket is exactly what we think the perfect winter jacket should be. Castelli started with a list of things they didn't like about the current jackets and set out to solve them-and in the process make our best jacket ever. The first issue to resolve related to moisture management. Even the best of the currently available fabrics provide a good level of breathability but can't keep up with the sweat generated during high-intensity riding. So they invented a double-layer construction that allows you to open an outer wind-protection layer while keeping the insulation layer closed and thereby allowing airflow inside the jacket to evacuate moisture while avoiding direct contact with the skin. On a long climb you can completely open the outer layer to allow moisture to escape, and when you start the descent you close the outer layer and are completely dry inside. It works so well that sometimes it feels like magic. New for this year is a softer, warmer 3D insulation-layer fabric that provides better warmth, moisture management and fit. Next Castelli focused on the openings: neck, waist and, most of all, wrists. The neck comes up high and is shaped to move with you, whether you're standing or in an aero position being a January hero and attacking your mates. For(more...)