Black Diamond Alpine Start Softshell Jacket - Men's

On a crisp alpine morning, as you rack up at the base of a granite spire, the Black Diamond Alpine Start Softshell Jacket is the layer you reach for. Built with Schoeller® stretch-woven softshell fabric, it moves with you through every high reach and stem, while the Eco-Repel Bio® PFC-free DWR finish sheds light precipitation and spindrift. Weighing just 210 g (7.4 oz), it disappears into its own chest pocket, ready to clip to your harness with the integrated carabiner loop.

Key specifications

• Material: 93% Nylon, 7% Elastane
• Fabric technology: Schoeller® stretch-woven softshell, 80 gsm
• DWR treatment: Eco-Repel Bio® PFC-free durable water repellent
• Weight: 210 g (7.4 oz) for Men's Medium
• Fit: Slim / Climbing Fit
• Hood: Adjustable, helmet-compatible
• Pockets: Single zippered chest pocket (doubles as stuff sack)
• Cuffs: Elasticized
• Hem: Drawcord adjustable
• Front zipper: YKK Vislon
• Weather protection: Wind-resistant, water-resistant
• Breathability: High
• Stretch: Four-way stretch
• Packability: Self-stowing into chest pocket
• Carabiner loop: Integrated clip loop
• Intended use: Alpine climbing, rock climbing, hiking, trekking
• Gender: Men's
• Season: 3-season (Spring, Summer, Fall)

Why choose it

The Alpine Start is the ultimate "just in case" layer for weight-conscious climbers and hikers. Its four-way stretch and slim fit allow unrestricted movement, while the breathable fabric prevents overheating during high-output approaches. The PFC-free DWR is better for the environment without compromising performance.

Ideal use cases

• Alpine climbing and mountaineering
• Rock climbing and bouldering
• Hiking and fastpacking
• Trekking and backpacking
• Everyday outdoor activities in variable weather

Good to know

The jacket packs into its own chest pocket and features a carabiner loop for easy attachment to a harness or pack. The Eco-Repel Bio® DWR is PFC-free, making it a more sustainable choice without sacrificing weather resistance.