Fast/Light pant: Slim cut, athletic design--very nice for the movements associated with climbing ice. The fit is reminiscent of the Mammut Champ, but with a lower rise. Some people won't like the low rise, but it works for me. Not going to work if you're built square with extra butt. The fabric is great, particularly for cool-cold weather. It is a proprietary stretch woven; reminds me of Schoeller Dyanmic but with a harder face weave that should hold up well. More wind resistant too. I climbed comfortably with nothing but wool boxers underneath on a sub-zero ice day this winter. An inner nap (a la Dryskin Extreme) would be nice for warmer days, but this is an alpine pant and they breathe very well, so not really essential. Stitching and workmanship are excellent (imagine ID, but NW Alp. is better at sewing in a straight line). Good DWR and grommets for shock cord and skipping the gaiters.
So far: 9.5/10
Kept me good to go on a few snowy days out:
Black Spider Light Hoody: Earlier this year NW Alpine came out with a top called the Black Spider, similar to the R1 Hoody but with better workmanship and for about half the price. They sold out fast, but they put together a lighter weight version that is better suited to me personally. I find the R1 weight to be a little warm for my taste unless it's far below 0. This is an awesome mid-layer: versatile, breathable, and comfortable. The fit is slim on this piece as well, so if you think you might want to size up, you probably do. Cannot be beat for the price
So Far: 10/10
NW Alpine makes everything in small batches so availability is pretty limited. They are always working on new runs and new gear, so I try to pay attention to their blog for what's going on. For the record I have no personal ties with them--if it wasn't good stuff I'd have no reason to tell you it was. Give them a call or e-mail with questions or feedback.
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