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Mountain Hardwear Alchemy Jacket - Men's
The Alchemy Jacket is the flagship of Mountain Hardwear's softshell line, and is what hardcore climbers first donned when this whole softshell craze started. Using Gore WindStopper Trango fabric with brushed inner fleece, and stretch Polartec Power Shield panels in key areas, Alchemy has the “soft” part covered. But it's in the “shell” portion where Alchemy really kicks ass. Alchemy employs a 100%-windproof laminate (Gore WindStopper) to nix wind chill, drastically reducing heat loss. In addition, the combo of a durable, tightly woven outer surface, the WindStopper membrane, and a superior durable water-repellent finish gives the Alchemy the ability to resist water penetration unmatched by other purported softshells. These pieces will shed snow and rain in all conditions short of a downright deluge. The Alchemy has a trim fit and stretches for excellent comfort and freedom of movement—it also breaks in nicely, molding to the unique contours of your body. Loaded with technical features like welded pockets, one-hand adjustable cinch cords, and raised pockets to accommodate a climbing harness, the Alchemy answers the demands of rigorous outdoor activities like alpine/ice climbing and backcountry skiing with grace and style.
On Sale
$239.95 $215.95 
Cadillac all the way
Hands down the best coat I've ever owned. In everything from blowing snowstorms at the top of The Canyons to corn snow spring skiing this coat has made me deliriously happy. The combination of windproof and softshell breathability means the useful temperature range of this coat is immense. On top of that, it's super comfortable and has great comfort details like the inner fleece cuffs. Get this jacket, you'll never ski in anything else again.
Good stuff
Great jacket, I wear mine all the time. It was a big invesment, but well worth it. It sheds rain just as well as any waterproof shell. Warm, but it won't roast you if you leave it on while you are inside. I love it.
Sweet Jacket
I bought this jacket for late fall/early spring climbing, backpacking, and snowshoeing. Also considered the Synchro. The trim cut fits perfectly under harness and pack without bulk, yet big enough to fit a 200 fleece under without a problem. Kudos to MH for a nice design. I would wear it every day, but the style is a little too radical to wear to the office, but then again, that isn't the objective. You won't be sorry with this jacket.
looking for perfection
The softshell I needed had to have versatility. Somewhat warm, breathable and dry with a good fit. The Alchemy fit the bill for me. Marmot Sharpoint was too loose, Arcteryx SV was too cool and tight, and North Face windfall didn't seem well made. So far, I’m satisfied.
Alchemy Jacket
I bought it but realized it wasn't what I wanted because it was a little uncomfortable and stiff. The fit was not as athletic as advertised. It felt a bit bulky and I did not like the way the sleeves sealed at the wrist. I sent it back and bought an Arcteryx Gamma MX which is perfect.
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Training Tips
One of the most mentally toughening things you can do as a runner who trains daily is to add a morning run into your routine. This means you are doing two runs a day. The morning run is simply more of a mental challenge then anything else.
Have two pairs of running shoes, especially if you live in a wet climate. Consider replacing your shoes no later than 500 miles into the life of the shoes.
Proper hydration for a run includes drinking 30 - 45 minutes before you start and about a cup every 10 - 15 minutes while running.
One of the best ways to win a running race is to win it in your mind first. Visualize yourself running and winning that important race. The more often you do this, you will start to "feel" the race. Your heart will get pumping and your body will feel the effort required to get the job done.
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