In reply to TobyA:
alphas strengths are in its hydro-phobic insulation properties. it dries really fast and evacuates sweat really fast. so windproof outer facings really only inhibit this if too impermeable.
i think of it as being like those high loft poodle or monkey fabrics, but at half the weight and retaining far less moisture. really, its a midlayer, or outer layer when weather proofing isnt the priority.
i also think of it as an insulating layer that i can lock off with a superlight pertex shell. imagine wearing primaloft, but it breathes much better (and doesnt shed water), then you can throw a 110g shell over it if the weather demands.
when i wear it its been over a very light wicking base (brynje or HE), then with a windshirt if its not too cold, or a primaloft outer if i want protection in deep cold (where primas properties to deflect moisture are utilized).
also, because its so conductive, under a prima layer it keeps the prima drier and therefore even better at repelling moisture.
its perfect for high output stuff where you can sweat like mad but not then have all that condense into trapped moisture when you stop. part of its insulating properties is that it simply lets little moisture get stuck in it (bearing in mind that heat is lost to moisture much faster than to air, and so even a small amount of trapped sweat compromises insulation).
its great stuff, but needs a rethink. will be interesting to see what people come up with. it works best i think when systemized smartly. also, it doesnt really compete with prima, it complements it.
how the market will accept it i dont know - it really needs a shift in other factors to really see the benefits.
i will be interested to see how it goes in the uk where humid winters may be a good niche for it - or not.
its worth noting that because it doesnt need down proof or fibre proof facing, much more permeable fabrics can be used.