Main Story. 10. 08.

Where The Climb Begins <br> Polartec X NW Alpine</br>

The story of NW Alpine has been carved out of epic ascents and gnarly alpine experiences. Think impromptu bivies in ice caves and “don’t fall” pitches that make your palms sweat. Driven by a need for top-tier gear that can handle serious exposure, NW Alpine has been cranking out hardcore climbing apparel ever since. Polartec has been by their side the whole time, providing the NW Alpine team wither best-in-class textile technologies ranging from Polartec® Alpha™ active insulation to the gold standard in grid fleece, Polartec® Power Grid™.

Committed to keeping American manufacturing in the USA, all NW Alpine products are designed, sourced and sewn domestically. Which is yet another reason the collaboration with Polartec runs deep. Like NW Alpine, Polartec fabrics are formed in Hudson, New Hampshire, and finished at Polartec Tennessee Manufacturing (PTM) in Cleveland, continuing the tradition born from its origins at Malden Mills over a century ago. So, in addition to investing in the climbing community, NW Alpine and Polartec are supporting the territory at large.

“Forged from our mission to create responsible goods that are sustainable, durable and made domestically, we’re committed to crafting iconic alpine gear that is as comfortable as it is functional. Great products with all the right features and no fluff; proudly made in the USA,” – Bill Amos, Founder and CEO.

The Legendary Black Spider Hoody

NW Alpine has been pushing the limits of what’s possible in harsh conditions for more than a decade. With input from Oregon-based makers and top-tier crushers, they’re constantly tweaking and refining their layers. Each prototype is put through the wringer by world-class athletes, so when a piece makes the final cut, you know it’s legit for whatever insanity you’re about to tackle.

One of the most iconic pieces in the lineup is its Black Spider Hoody – a mid-layer that’s been sending it hard since 2010. This trusty partner in crime is crafted from Polartec® Power Grid™ and has seen action on peaks from Antarctica to the Alaska Range. Renowned for combining lasting durability and warmth with high breathability and next-to-skin softness, this hoodie is perfect for demanding climbs, winter runs, and skiing. So, whether you’re hucking up steep ice or ticking off multi-pitch routes, the Black Spider is what you need when things get spicy.

Transcending Boundaries

The Black Spider Hoody isn’t just another mid-layer. It’s a legacy. Climbers have been rocking this thing for over 14 years, and some are still coveting the same hoody they bought back in the day. With flatlock seams, a helmet-compatible hood, and extra-long sleeves for those reachy moves, this hoody is a certified classic that just keeps crushing. With a design that’s straight-up built for climbers, the Black Spider Hoody has plenty of crossover appeal. It’s equally at home on a backcountry ski tour or a dawn patrol trail run. From cragging days to cold-weather missions, it effortlessly transitions between activities, making it a jack-of-all-trades in your layering system.

Field-Tested, Climber-Approved

The Black Spider Hoody has seen it all – from first ascent champions to weekend warriors – amassing a global fan base of climbers who demand a kit that can keep up with their high-stakes adventures. We’re talking premium gear that’s been tested in the alpine trenches and comes out on the other side just as strong. Some of these dirtbags are still rocking their OG hoodies from fourteen years back. We tapped into NW Alpine’s crew of crushers to see what makes the Spider Hoody so special, and the hype ranges from “It’s my must-have layer,” to “Nothing else even comes close.” Not to forget, “I’ve worn, washed, and re-worn it more times than I can count and it’s still the first piece I grab when heading out the door.” Oh, and there’s also “It’s flattering, soft, doesn’t pill and the women’s version is actually tailored for a female body.” Need we say more?

Gear That Works – No Extras, No Excuses

At NW Alpine, the objective is simple: keep it functional, keep it dialed. As a result, the gear is all about letting you focus on your climb, not your layers. Which means no unnecessary fluff, just solid performance that works when you’re gunning for the top. And Polartec® Power Grid™ is a key part of making this happen. Its innovative grid construction breathes hard when you’re moving fast but keeps you toasty when you’re waiting or on a ledge. The micro-grid pattern also helps dump excess heat and moisture from start to finish.

You see NW Alpine is as homegrown as it gets. Everything is made in the USA with fabric knit in Tennessee and sewn in Maryland. Their commitment to keeping it local not only ensures top-notch quality but also supports the community and planet with sustainable manufacturing practices. And when you throw on the Black Spider Hoody, or complete your kit with the brand’s exclusive new Power Grid™ beanie, you’re not just gearing up – you’re backing a brand that stands by its roots and values. Speaking of that beanie, it’s a rad addition to the NW Alpine lineup. Crafted from Polartec® Power Grid™ fleece, this super-soft, lightweight skull cap is built to handle wicked gusts on the ridge and wick sweat like a pro. It slides perfectly under your helmet, keeping your ears toasty whether you’re pulling crux moves on a windy summit or just cruising the streets for that post-climb power snack.

So, if you’re looking for a kit that will stand the test of time, and a company that stands behind everything it makes, check out Polartec x NW Alpine. Because at the end of the day, you’re not only buying a piece of gear, you’re investing in a legacy of climbing innovation and resilience.