It seems that techwear, gorp-core, or whatever you want to call it, is here to stay in the fashion world, but even the most die-hard fans know that a handful of labels dominate the scene when it comes to both style and durability. Arc’teryx is among these brands, with over three decades of experience crafting reliable alpine gear, and continues to innovate (especially with the Veilance sublabel). It’s been 25 years since the label’s first jacket was released, and Arc’teryx is celebrating that with a sustainable redesign of the Alpha SV.

The big difference between this new Alpha SV and the OG is the material makeup, which is a result of Arc’teryx working with GORE-TEX on a more sustainable version of the flagship material. The jacket is made with a 100D face fabric composed entirely of post-consumer material, combined with three layers of Most Rugged GORE-TEX PRO for lightweight breathability (230 grams lighter than the ‘98 jacket). Arc’teryx also designed it to be more durable and easily repaired, and you get the same waterproof, abrasion-resistant utility that the original jacket had. 

The story of the Alpha SV is one of innovation; it was Arc’teryx’s first jacket when initially launched back in 1998, and a bit of a hail mary for the young team (composed of both designers and ice climbers). But when it finally dropped, the jacket completely changed the game, weighing lighter than any other alpine shell at the time. Now, the Alpha SV is up there with Air Jordans in the sportswear hall of fame, and continues to inspire other labels and designers.

The renewed Arc’teryx Alpha SV jacket is available in five colorways for $900, which have been dope dyed (a more sustainable process of dying that requires less water and chemicals) to further reduce environmental impact.