Polartec Alpha Direct hoodies have gained a following for their ultralight weight and breathability, making them a solid choice for certain applications—like active insulation under a shell in cold conditions or a light layer in warmer temps. But if you've worn one, you know they come with serious trade-offs: poor wind resistance, fragile fabric, and limited versatility outside of specific use cases.
That’s where SkyGOAT’s 115gsm GOATgrid Half Zip comes in. Launching in early April, this piece is designed to give you all the lightweight performance you need—without the drawbacks of Alpha Direct.
Why GOATgrid 115gsm is the Superior All-Around Layer
1. Lightweight—but Durable
One of the biggest knocks against Alpha Direct? It snags and tears far too easily. The open-weave structure might be great for breathability, but it’s also delicate, catching on branches, Velcro, and rough surfaces with little resistance.
GOATgrid, on the other hand, is built for real adventure. Its microgrid fleece design holds up to abrasion, backpack straps, and rugged conditions without compromising comfort. Whether you're bushwhacking, scrambling over rocks, or stuffing it in and out of your pack, the 115gsm GOATgrid Half Zip won’t fall apart on you.
2. Better Wind Resistance = More Versatile
Alpha Direct is so porous that wind cuts right through it, which means you must pair it with a shell in anything but calm conditions. The GOATgrid 115gsm fabric strikes the perfect balance between breathability and wind resistance.
With a tighter weave and microgrid construction, the 115gsm Half Zip blocks just enough wind to keep you warm while still venting excess heat. No shell required—making it more versatile for everything from cool-weather hikes to alpine starts.
3. Lightweight & Packable—But Actually Functional
At 115gsm, this Half Zip is ultralight but still provides real warmth and moisture control. While Alpha Direct might weigh slightly less, it doesn’t trap heat efficiently, especially in colder temps.
GOATgrid’s strategic grid pattern creates air pockets that help insulate while actively wicking moisture away, so you stay warm and dry—without overheating.
4. Stays Warm Even When Damp
GOATgrid is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water instead of soaking it up. Alpha Direct, while quick-drying, absorbs moisture more easily and can lose insulating properties when damp—especially under a shell where condensation can build up.
With GOATgrid, whether you're sweating on an uphill push or caught in a light drizzle, the 115gsm Half Zip stays comfortable and performs.
5. A True Everyday Layer
Alpha Direct hoodies feel more like a specialty piece—great in some conditions, but not something you’d throw on for daily wear.
The GOATgrid Half Zip? It’s built to handle anything:
✔ Hiking a ridge at sunrise
✔ Layering under a shell on a ski tour
✔ Lounging by the campfire
✔ Running errands in town
This isn’t just a technical piece—it’s a lifestyle piece.
Final Verdict: GOATgrid Wins Where It Counts
Alpha Direct is ultralight and breathable, but at the cost of durability, wind resistance, and all-around usability. If you want a real midlayer—one that’s lightweight but not fragile, breathable but not drafty, warm but not stuffy, and versatile enough to wear every day—the 115gsm GOATgrid Half Zip is your new go-to.
Launching early April. Don’t miss out.