I have the Alpha SL jacket but I can't say its one of my favourite Arc jackets. Being honest it went back to them for a warranty repair within a few weeks of purchase.
I'd say as long as you aren't expecting too much in terms of durability it is Pac-lite after all then the jacket is fine and will give you years of service under the conditions it was designed for
Have NO experience of Active-Shell and non of the Velum. Your mate needs to look at the specifications and compare them to what he/she wants to do i.e. do they need a helmet compatible hood?
