2014 Answer Alpha Jersey and Pants

What it is

The 2014 Alpha gear is Answer's semi-vented line-up that has multiple performance fabrics and claimed to provide ventilation and moisture wicking, is lightweight yet still durable with good looks. The material used for the jersey is a lightweight, breathable mesh that is still durable. The pants also feature a durable nylon/polyester lightweight mesh that has a line of spandex all along the back side of the pants.

The Alpha gear is designed to be a somewhat snug fit to enhance the lightweight, comfortable feel. The pants have pre-shaped knees to make braces fit and use real leather for durability. Ranging from sizes S to 2XL in the jersey and sizes 28-38 for the pant it is available in two color schemes.

How it works

I bought the Alpha gear mostly for all the good things I’d heard about it. I was a fan of the design and color schemes. It wasn’t until after I bought it that I was told the Alpha was supposed to have some ventilation. For the jersey, you only really feel it when it’s about 60 degrees or cooler, compared to more vented offerings. So for cooler conditions this might work for you. But for guys like me living in the desert, or if you ride in a dry region, the venting properties of this jersey don't live up to the hype. The pants don’t really breath very much either. The knee venting breathes a little, bringing the sweat factor down marginally, but there are much better ventilated pants out there.

The sizing is just on the smaller scale for gear compared to most I've worn. And the cut is tight. Luckily I was able to wear size 34 with the waist-adjust closures pulled tight and it fit perfect with the elasticized fabric doing its job.

When it comes to the longevity and durability of this gear, it’s awesome. Taking multiple hits from tree’s at 30+ mph, the jersey only had two small quarter inch holes after a year of use. For being a lightweight mesh gear, that’s pretty good. Despite being constantly in contact with a 2-stroke pipe, and being torn at like it’s a steak in a lions den by trees, I am yet to find a hole or any other problem on the pants. The stitching is all intact and nothing tore.

Remember snug fitting gear? The sleeves in the jersey have minimal room for elbow guards, so if you ride with elbow guards, I wouldn't recommend this jersey. Around the chest the jersey fits perfect, it only has somewhat of a snug feel making it possible run a chest protector under the jersey all day without stretching it out.

The Alpha pants makes you wonder, “Why can’t every pair of pants fit like this?” While also having a somewhat snug feel, like the jersey, this is one comfortable pair of pants. With these pants being made with spandex along the whole backside and the crotch region the fit is conforming and comfortable adding to the lightweight feel. They are extremely flexible and move with your body without any constriction whatsoever. The shaped knees have a wide fit which is designed and fits knees braces under them comfortably with no binding or any problem whatsoever.

So if you’re looking for a good set of vented gear, this probably shouldn't be your first choice. While it’s better than non-vented gear, there are better selections with more holes in them out there. But if you’re looking for a quality set of gear that looks good, feels good, semi-vented and can last you a long time, this would be something to consider.  The price was high when I bought it new but I've seen it for a lot less lately, if they still have your size.