LEVE Alpha 90 Hoody Review
Ultralight minimalism with Alpha Direct performance
September 13, 2023 – The LEVE Alpha 90 Hoody is your quintessential 90 gsm Alpha Direct layer, minimalist in design, with high warmth-to-weight, exceptional breathability, and maximum quick dry at the expense of zero wind resistance and low durability. Shop now.
This is a shortform review focusing on design specifics of this particular Alpha Direct hoodie. For significantly more info about the pros, cons, and performance of Alpha Direct fabric in general, and pro tips for using these garments, please refer to our buyer’s guide for Alpha Direct Hoodies, where you can also compare this to many similar offerings.
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Stats, Features, Fit
We’ve tested and reviewed a number of Alpha Direct hoodies, and found LEVE’s version to be on the true minimalist end of the spectrum. Its only notable feature is a shock cord hood cinch, placed on the wearer’s left side of the hood hem. And that’s totally fine by us!
Beyond that, it’s your standard model with static/non-elastic trim around the cuffs, hem, and hood. One possible consideration to improve the design would have been under arm gussets for easier reaching. Nonetheless, it’s sufficient as is, and the craftsmanship is good and all of the serger stitches have held up after the first few uses. Alpha Direct is difficult to work with and we commend them on a job well done.
A notable stand out is that among all ten of the Alpha Direct hoodies that we’ve covered, this had the lightest list weight in size medium at four ounces on the dot. Likely this is due to the trim fit, which saves a fraction of an ounce compared with other minimalist models that land in the 4.5 ounce range.
Key Stats
- Weight: 4.0 oz
- Price: $90
- Hood: Standard with cinch
- Bonus Features: None
- Sizing: Unisex
- Made To Order: No
- Notables: Lightest list weight. Minimalist. Slim fit, size up if in between
Fit
In our experience, this hoody runs trim relative to men’s sizing, but still true to size in general. This holds throughout the shoulders and torso. If you have wide shoulders or a larger torso, or simply prefer a looser fit, we recommend sizing up. If you are in between sizes, we also recommend sizing up.
LEVE Alpha 90 Hoody Review Verdict
While nothing in particular differentiates this hoody from any other Alpha Direct models (they’re mostly all quite homogenous), the backcountry performance, quality craftmanship, and minimalist design philosophy LEVE’s model are all excellent. We recommend checking out LEVE Outdoor Co. and definitely recommend their Alpha 90 Hoody to ultralight hikers and backpackers.
