Bight Gear Women's Alpha Ascender Vest
Our Take
The ladies over at Bight Gear liked their Alpha Ascender hoody so much, we decided to hack the sleeves off and turn it into one of those technical vests everybody’s wearing these days.
But this is way more than technical “looking.” This vest is the product of 100,000+ vertical feet of testing by the world’s greatest mountain guides. Made with military-spec Polartec Alpha active insulation, and strategically located stretch panels, the Ascender has alpine credibility both on and off the mountain.
Women’s Size Chart
XS 2 | S 4 TO 6 | M 6 TO 8 | L 10 TO 12 | XL 14 TO 16 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bust | 32-33 | 33-35 | 35-37 | 37-40 | 40-43 |
Waist | 24-25 | 25-27 | 27-29 | 29-32 | 32-35 |
Hip/Seat | 35-36 | 36-38 | 38-40 | 40-43 | 43-46 |
Sleeve | 29 | 29.5 | 29.75 | 30 | 30.5 |
Inseam | 29 | 30 | 30 | 30.5 | 31 |
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
General care for all garments: Machine wash cold with mild detergent, tumble dry medium, do not bleach, do not dry clean,
and do not use fabric softener.
Additional care for waterproof garments: Machine wash cold with detergent formulated for technical clothing. Tumble dry medium, do not bleach, do not dry clean, and do not use fabric softener. As needed, tumble dry medium to refresh DWR or treat with spray application such as ReviveX. Ensure down insulation is completely dry before removing from the dryer. If needed, tumble dry down garments with clean tennis balls to restore loft.
FIT PHILOSOPHY
Our products have been designed for climbers and outdoor users to be worn as a system of layering, and each piece has been fit for optimal performance. In general, our products have a slim, athletic cut and a little extra length. Our layers intentionally fit over each other. If you are between sizes, or prefer more room in your garment, we recommend you choose the larger size.
FIT GUIDE
Athletic Fit: A slimmer fit designed for functional movement, and can be layered over base layers and light midlayers.
Relaxed Fit: The roomiest of our fit styles that allows for layering of multiple/heavier technical layers underneath.
- Function: Active insulation vest that keeps your core temp stable, but breathes when you’re on the move.
- Layering: Throw it on over a baselayer or a fleece when you’re on the mountain. Wear over a button down, or t-shirt when you’re in the office.
- Insulation Type: Synthetic (Polartec® Alpha® 80gm)
- Fit: Athletic
- Weather resistant and breathable stretch ripstop fabric
- Stretch smooth faced fleece side panels
- Stretch woven mesh lining for superior breathability
- Seaming strategically engineered to provide stretch where necessary
- Zippered chest pocket
- Zippered hand warmer pockets
- Internal stash pockets
- Athletic fit
STATS:
- FABRICS: 15D nylon/spandex ripstop with DWR finish; Nylon/poly/spandex smooth faced fleece stretch panels
- INSULATION: Polartec® Alpha (80gm)
- WEIGHT: 8.9oz (size M)
COUNTRYOF ORIGIN: China
Easy Returns
For all eligible items, we will gladly accept the return or exchange of new items within 30 days of the original shipment date of product for a full refund.
Free Shipping
Free shipping on orders over $150! We use UPS and USPS, and send tracking info as soon as your order is shipped.
Here to Help
Have a question about this product? Feel free to use the chat icon to your right, or reach out to us at info@whittakermountaineering.com

Women's Alpha Ascender Vest
I have this in both the black and magenta, and absolutely love it! This vest is so lightweight and versatile! It’s a great layering piece for my many hikes, runs, and dog walks. I have also been known to wear it out and about when meeting up with friends, as well as over my scrubs during my 12-hour shifts at work. With the exception of fancy occasions, it’s difficult to find a reason to leave this vest at home.
Wearing it every day! Wish there were more color options.
I love this vest! It’s a fabulous layering piece while outdoors, keeping in just enough heat to keep you comfortable while providing excellent breathability. I have also worn it out and about for Sunday brunches and walks with the pup. This vest has quickly become one of my favorite go-to pieces.