Best Arc’teryx Jackets: Buyer’s Guide & Details [2024 Review]

TL;DR: The best Arc’teryx jacket is the Women’s and Men’s Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket because it’s a versatile and durable Gore-Tex waterproof jacket perfect for alpine climates. Weighing 13.8 oz, it features a helmet-compatible hood and regular fit for freedom of movement during outdoor activities like hiking and climbing.

Perhaps you’ve heard of Arc’teryx–these jackets have taken outdoor adventure apparel by storm. 

An Arc’teryx hardshell jacket is a hybrid of high-alpine clothing and minimalist-styled fashion. As a company, they want to make venturing into the mountains more accessible. 

If you’re reading this article, you might wonder why they’re so expensive or confused by the layout of their website. Either way, I’m here to help you with that! 

No matter what jacket you choose, you’ll know that you’re getting something that moves with you and looks great. 

If you’re looking for specific Arc’teryx jackets for specific needs, this article is for you. I’ve picked out the best Arc’teryx designs for every situation.

These are my picks for the best Arc’teryx jacket no matter if it’s raining, snowing, or up 5,000 meters in the mountains.

What is Arc’teryx?

The Arc’teryx motto is “There is always a better way.”

The brand uses designers for their hardshell jackets who have experience in the specific activities you’re buying them for. 

Arc’teryx jackets are built to protect you from all types of weather and in many situations without limiting your mobility. 

To make an Arc’teryx jacket work with the elements, they manufacture in these environments. 

Mountaineering can be complex, but Arc’teryx finds simple solutions to complex problems. 

Their minimalist designs safeguard you against all that Mother Nature has to throw at you. These jackets look good enough to wear out to dinner or any event!

A Quick Look at Arc’teryx as a Company

Let’s dive into what makes Arc’teryx the company they are today. 

Arc’teryx is a company for climbers by climbers. They launched in 1989 out of North Vancouver, right outside the North Shore Mountains. This city helped breed the type of gear Arc’teryx designs. 

Creating the best products for these types of activities is what Arc’teryx does best. And the price tag reflects this. 

Arc’teryx hardshell jackets are for much more than simple weather protection on a casual trip to your supermarket (although you won’t necessarily stick out).

With multiple designs spanning their entire website, each jacket caters to a specific need. If something isn’t on the market currently, Arc’teryx creates it. 

To create the type of products you see on their website, they use only the best materials and a unique, proprietary construction process. 

They do all that while keeping a fine eye on the details. The people on their team are obsessed with the process and the product they put out. This is the Arc’teryx way.

Arc’teryx Jackets Review & How to Select the Right Jacket for You

What Type of Activity Will You Be Doing?

Are you an avid trail runner? Then you’ll want something lightweight and breathable that can keep up with your fast-paced movement. You don’t want to trap that body heat.

Figuring out which Arc’teryx jacket is best for you can be overwhelming. First, you must figure out what type of activity you’ ll be using this jacket for. 

Looking for that perfect jacket for high-altitude trekking and the cold weather? Then, choosing an insulated jacket with a helmet-compatible hood might be your best option. 

What if you’re an avid hiker in a more rainy environment? Then you’ll want something water-resistant but also breathable. Arc’teryx has you covered! 

All of their jackets are priced according to how they’re built. Most of the Gore-tex jackets you’ll see on this list start at $120, but they’ll be some of the best jackets you’ve ever owned.

Beta AR Jacket

Most Versatile

Temp: Most Alpine Climates
Fit: Regular
Waterproof: Yes

The Beta AR Jacket by Arc’teryx is a work of art. This jacket is perfect for every type of situation you throw at it, and it’s the most versatile jacket they sell. 

From technical climbing in the mountains to hiking in temperate forests, the Arc’teryx Beta AR jacket will protect you against everything. It’s waterproof, windproof, and breathable! 

I love how I don’t have to think about whether I should bring it with me on my next adventure or not, I just do. The price tag is worth the use you’ll get out of it.

The AR jacket is simply a next-generation style, and the Gore-tex pro material makes it super durable. 

Plus, the Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket for Women gives you the perfect amount of colors to choose from, including Bitters (purple), Sprint (green), and Moonlight (blue). 

I’m impressed with the classic fit and level of mobility without being bulky in the chest, waist, or thighs. 

Lastly, the Arc’teryx Beta AR jacket also comes with a helmet-compatible hood for all your climbing needs. 

The classic fit allows for the most movement while keeping you insulated and comfortable. The Beta AR is one of the best Arc’teryx jackets.

Alpha SV Jacket

Most Durable

Temp: For Severe Weather 
Fit: Regular
Waterproof: Yes

I need a jacket that’s great for weather protection. In general, all Arc’teryx jackets are durable. But some hold up to even the most extreme weather.

That’s where the Alpha SV comes in.

The Alpha SV  jacket is my choice for high-altitude climbing. If you don’t want to keep trying out other jackets, simply buy this and never look back. 

Considering the price of the Alpha SV jacket, you’d hope it’s durable. But you can be confident in its ability to stand up to tough environments and heavy use. 

The Alpha SV jacket also comes with a helpful tool: the embedded RECCO® reflector helps with searchability if you find yourself lost or stranded. 

Need more movement along the side of a mountain? No problem. The Alpha SV jacket also has pit zips to help you move across tough terrain.

While some consumers report the Alpha SV jacket seals breaking, these instances are normally after years and years (sometimes 10+), which is reasonable.

Alpha Parka

Best for Women

Temp: Windy and Cold Climates
Fit: Regular 
Waterproof: Yes

The Alpha Parka is a down jacket by Arc’teryx that’ll keep you warm no matter the temperature. Its 850 fill-goose downs are responsible for this outstanding layer of warmth. 

Not only does this jacket keep you warm, but the material keeps you light too. The ratio of weight to warmth is like nothing I’ve felt before.

What really makes this jacket impressive is its wind protection. The Alpha Parka has a “Storm Hood” that protects you from the strongest winds without sacrificing your line of sight. 

This jacket is even exceptional in more damp climates. The 2L Gore-tex Infinium material is ultralightweight and breathable for these specific conditions. No more trapped body heat!

I love a good Gore-tex jacket, and the Alpha Parka is at the top of that list. There aren’t many bad things you can say about this jacket. 

The Alpha Parka did seem like it could be stiff in certain situations after trying it on. But I think after some time in it, the stiffness would go away.

Atom Hoody

Best for Summer

Temp: Cooler Climates
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: Yes

The Atom Hoody’s breathable fabric makes it perfect for everything from a backcountry trip to a simple walk in the park. 

If you already have the old Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody, this is the ideal time to update your wardrobe. 

The Atom LT jacket dropped the “LT” but is just as light and uses the newest generation of materials.

There aren’t layers of Gore-tex material like you’re used to seeing with the most popular Arc’teryx jackets. Instead, the Atom jacket uses Coreloft compact insulation.

The Coreloft insulation helps keep this jacket warm, even if it’s wet! I love bringing this jacket when hiking in the Shenandoah and near waterfalls because I know it’ll protect me. 

Most of the best Arc’teryx styles are synthetic jackets thanks to state-of-the-art materials. 

You get increased durability and lower dry times because of the synthetic insulation. That’s a waterproof jacket I can stand by. 

However, as a fitted jacket, the cuffs around the wrist can be too tight for some, and you should test them out for yourself before committing. 

This jacket’s lower price makes it a great first Arc’teyrx jacket to choose while you’re still deciding if a Beta jacket is worth it.

Norvan LT Hoody

Best for Trail Running

Temp: All Year Round
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: Yes

If you’re an avid trail runner– listen up. The Norvan LT Hoody should be your go-to jacket when heading out on the trail. No matter the weather conditions, this jacket has you covered.

Trailrunning has its demands, and this jacket meets them all. Arc’teryx combined their famous Gore-tex fabric with Gore C-knit backer technology. 

Compared with pure Gore-tex, this combination creates a quiet yet breathable jacket that you can take on any trail with confidence!

The Norvan LT Hoody has a fitted style to keep it close to your body while you’re moving on the trail. 

I sometimes forget that I still have the Norvan LT on when I’m running because it’s such a light jacket. 

One issue I have with this jacket is its hood not staying waterproof, which isn’t a massive deal, but it’s something to consider.

Proton Jacket

Best for Spring

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: Yes

Looking for a breathable jacket that won’t make you hot in Spring weather? Previously known as the Proton “LT” jacket, the Proton is my primary jacket for this time of the year!  

This jacket is great for Spring thanks to its mid-layer insulation. This insulation is air-permeable and also has a weather-resistant outer surface. 

The mid-layer keeps moisture from staying trapped inside the jacket, which is essential during the Spring months. 

While the Proton Jacket isn’t made from Arc’teyrx’s Gore-tex material, that won’t undermine the jacket’s durability. Instead, this jacket is crafted from Octa Loft and Fortius Air20. 

The combination of Octa Loft and Fortius creates durability while keeping it lightweight and breathable, making it a fantastic rain jacket. 

The Proton Jacket fits perfectly to the body with some great attachments, like its zippered chest pocket. Stay hip while also feeling comfortable in this jacket by Arc’teyrx.

Cerium Hoody

Best Arc’teryx Down Jacket

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: No

Down jackets have grown in popularity in recent years because they’re lightweight and functional. Everyone should have a down jacket in their closet, so don’t sleep on the Cerium Hoody.

The Cerium Hoody isn’t made from Gore-tex material, but–hear me out– it’s still a fantastic product. 

Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody’s lightweight design makes it easy to pack for any trip. 

You may have seen this jacket’s predecessor, the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody.

Arc’teryx remodeled the Cerium LT with more sustainable materials and added a full-coverage storm hood.

While it’s not water-resistant, its highly efficient insulation makes up for that. 

That said, it keeps moisture at bay surprisingly well despite not being waterproof. Coreloft material is fantastic at keeping out moisture. 

I’ve never had a jacket that packs as nicely as the Cerium Hoody does. 

Unfortunately, the jacket has durability issues. Feathers might start to poke out from the seams. 

Also, the outer layer is thin and just doesn’t hold up under the friction of backpack straps all day or if your dogs like to jump up. 

The Cerium Hoody works best as a mid-layer, where it’s protected from the elements and abrasions.

Squamish Hoody

Best for Mountain Biking

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: No

If you like to do extreme activities in the mountains, then the Squamish Hoody is for you. This jacket is lightweight and breathable, perfect for winter sports.

Gore-tex jackets help in the wind but are quite heavy. For this jacket, Arc’teyrx uses Tyono30 Nylon instead of Gore-tex because it works well against the wind. 

I barely felt the cold breeze on me while mountain biking in the Squamish Hoody Jacket – even when I gained speed. 

Another thing I love about the Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody is its price. It’s only $160, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally destroying a $400 jacket while mountain biking. 

Unfortunately, there are no side pockets available on the Squamish. Not having those pockets might not be a huge deal for some, but they’re still nice to have.

Therme SV Parka

Best for Cold Weather

Temp: Very Cold
Fit: Regular
Waterproof: Yes

The Therme SV Parka Jacket keeps you so warm that I suggest wearing it only in EXTREMELY cold weather. The Gore-tex pro fabric on this one is no joke.

It’ll protect you in snow, sleet, light rain, heavy rain, or wind. 

The Therme SV parka is 2l Gore-tex instead of 3l Gore-tex. In 2l jackets, the Gore-tex membrane is laminated to the outer shell but not laminated with the inner lining of the jacket. But that doesn’t mean it’s not fantastic!

Its thick build packs up nicely, and the natural insulation helps keep a great warmth-to-weight ratio.

When walking around some of the coldest parts of the world, I was excited to use the incredible hand pockets. 

These hand pockets have a brushed mesh interior lining. My hands stayed warm as if I had mittens on. 

There have been some durability issues over the years, such as feathers popping out. While this isn’t a common problem, it can happen to a jacket of this size.

If you don’t need the extra length of this parka-style jacket, Arc’teryx also makes a slightly shorter version.

Beta LT Jacket

Best Waterproof Arc’teryx Jacket

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: Yes

Arc’teryx has done a great job at producing the Beta Series jackets. You can tell just by looking at it that the Beta LT jacket is waterproof. 

The Beta jackets are so good that they keep you just as dry as if you stayed home. But I’m not telling you to hide from the elements. After all, we all love adventure here!

Most waterproof jackets aren’t breathable and make me sweat. Not this one, thanks to the Gore-tex material. 

Saying that the Beta LT jacket is water-resistant is an understatement. The Beta LT jacket also comes with pit zips and a storm hood. The storm hood in particular makes you look like you’re ready for a hurricane! 

Be sure to read the sizing guide if you order the Women’s Beta LT hardshell jacket. It has a specific fit that some say is too tight. 

It’s a good idea to test it out before keeping it. Once you find the right fit, this should be your go-to rain jacket.

Incendro Airshell Hoody

Best for Everyday Use

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Regular
Waterproof: Yes

If you don’t do high-alpine climbing but still want to get in on the Arc’teryx hype, listen up. The Incendro Airshell Hoody is the best everyday jacket.

Not only is this jacket great for everyday use, but it’s perfect for the minimalist traveler. The Incendro Airshell weighs a whopping 3.7 ounces. Yup, you heard that right.

The small size might fool you, but the Incendro is a synthetic insulated jacket that’s great for trail running and hiking in the mountains. 

I love the Incendro Airshell’s elastic cuffs; they’re great when hiking and trail running because they don’t impede your movement. 

When I tried the new Incendro on, it did feel a bit too loose compared to their previous models. It’s a regular fit but doesn’t feel as good as the older ones, which have a more trim fit.

Gamma LT Hoody

Best Arc’teryx Hiking Jacket

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Regular
Waterproof: Yes

The Gamma LT Hoody is my go-to jacket for hiking through places like Peru and Argentina.

With the abrupt weather change in the Andes mountains, you need something capable of handling all types of weather. It’s even suitable for hikes through forests!

Because the Gamma LT Hoody is abrasion-resistant, I wasn’t nervous about it ripping. 

While it isn’t a Gore-tex jacket, what makes this softshell jacket so great is its four-way stretch-woven textiles, which helped me stay ready for warm and cold days. 

I love how free I felt in the Gamma LT hoody when hiking. Softshell jackets are a game changer if you want this type of mobility.  

One issue with the newer version of the Gamma LT is that it felt like the sleeves were longer than normal. The longer sleeves were still okay for me, but it might not be ideal for others.

Looking for more heavy-duty waterproof options? Read our guide to the best backpacking rain ponchos.

Rush Jacket

Best for Skiing

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Regular
Waterproof: Yes

The Rush Jacket by Arc’teryx Men’s was built for the mountains and skiing. Arc’teryx really outdid themselves with this one. 

Rush is the lightest Gore-tex pro shell on the market today. That shell is specifically for large descents down the mountain, resistant to even the strongest winds. 

I’m terrible at skiing, but the Rush hardshell jacket material prevented me from getting wet from the snow because of my repeated falls. 

Even the storm hood on the Rush Jacket is a helmet-compatible hood. 

One drawback is that for a hardshell Gore-tex jacket at this price point, the durability that I expect just isn’t there.

I feel like it could tear if I hit hard surfaces enough–which is likely in my case!

Interested in more snow gear? Read our guides to the best snowboard gloves, women’s snowboard pants, and heated gloves.

Kyanite LT Jacket

Best for Men

Temp: Mild to Cold
Fit: Fitted
Waterproof: Yes

The Kyanite LT Jacket combines an affordable price with a minimalist design suitable for multiple occasions.

If you’re looking for outdoor clothing that protects you from the cold air, Arc’teryx has you covered. I bring the Kyanite everywhere from skiing to camping trips. 

The low-profile hood is stylish without being too large, making it a great winter jacket. I still needed some layering underneath, but what lightweight jacket doesn’t? 

I noticed that the sleeves felt baggy when I tried the Kyanite LT jacket for the first time. I didn’t think much of it, as I wasn’t planning to do high-alpine hikes, but it’s something to think about.

Arc’teryx Sizing Tips & Fit

When choosing your Arc’teryx Gore-tex jacket, there will be four style types: fitted, regular, relaxed, and oversized. 

The styles in this blog were either fitted or regular, but it’s good to know them all! Below I’ll go over how to choose the best size Gore-tex jacket for Men’s and Women’s styles. 

Men’s

These jackets aren’t cheap, so make sure they fit properly. After all, you want them to last years. 

Many Arc’teyrx Gore-tex pro jackets have a trim fit to them. 

The first thing to do when figuring out the correct size for an insulated jacket is to measure different body parts. Then, it’s time to check the Arc’teryx sizing guide. 

Measuring yourself might be tricky to do alone. The best way to measure your sleeve is by starting at the center of your neck and going down to your wrist.

Make sure to keep your arm by your side and your elbow slightly bent when measuring your sleeve. 

Women’s

The same goes for women when choosing the perfect Arc’teryx jacket size. Measure the sleeve, bust, waist, and hip. After that, visit the Arc’teryx sizing guide. 

Make sure to measure your waist around the narrowest part. 

You’ll want to stand with your feet hip-width apart when measuring your hip. Then measure the widest part and write it down. 

How is the Quality of Arc’teryx Clothing?

Arc’teryx prides itself on creating the best insulated jackets on the planet. If you’re looking for top-of-the-line outdoor gear, then look no further.  

Arc’teryx only uses premium materials for all of its products. The fabric you might hear the most about is the Gore-tex pro. An Arc’teryx jacket can either be a 2L or 3L Gore-tex. 

A 2L Gore-tex hardshell jacket is the industry standard for outer shell jackets. The “L” in 2L stands for layers. The 2L refers to the inner and outer layers. 

The outer layer is normally either polyester or nylon fabric. This tightly woven fabric helps repel water. 

The inner layer of Gore-tex pro jackets is called the membrane, and it’s what makes them waterproof. 

3L Gore-tex has a third layer that sandwiches the membrane and the outer layer. 3L Gore-tex ensures the membrane’s protection to keep your jacket waterproof. 

Laminating all three layers together makes the Gore-tex pro material special.

Quality Control

Arc’teryx puts the fabric through a quality control system to ensure each shipment is up to its standards. The quality control process goes as follows:

1. Arc’teryx randomly inspects ⅓ of the rolls for fabric flaws and color inconsistencies. 
2. The fabric is then inspected again once in the cutting room.
3. All of the fabrics that have been cut are inspected again at the workstations.
4. The jackets are then crafted and taped seams are added after every piece of fabric has been inspected.

Arc’teryx Return & Exchange Policy

What is Arc’teryx Return/Exchange Policy

With such a large price tag, you’d want Arc’teryx to have a return/exchange policy to mitigate risk. And they do. Their return policy is as follows:

• Items can be returned up to 30 days after delivery (this doesn’t include underwear and climbing harnesses).
• If the item is returned at the correct time, you’ll be eligible for a full refund. 
• The items must be in new condition to receive a full refund.

Arc’teryx Shipping

Arc’teryx offers free shipping for all ground shipping options. The estimated delivery time for ground shipping is between five and ten days. 

Express shipping is faster and has an estimated delivery time of three and five days. 

You’ll receive an email once your product they’ve processed and shipped your product. 

Arc’teryx Discounts & Coupons

There aren’t many ways to get discounts or coupons for an Arc’teyrx jacket. You can find some deals on CapitalOne shopping if you’re a member. 

Arc’teyrx rarely has any sales. If they do have a sale, it’s usually at the end of the winter season. 

Signing up for the Arc’teryx email is the best way to know when they’re having a sale. There’s also a chance they’ll email out discount codes!

Other Arc’teryx Products

Pants

Arc’teryx isn’t solely a jacket company. They sell many other products like hiking pants and snow pants.

These pants stand up to the Arc’teyrx name and are great for different weather conditions. 

Shirts and Tops

Wearing a shirt underneath your winter jacket is the best way to keep warm this winter. Arc’teyrx sells a multitude of shirts that’ll satisfy any style. 

Shorts

Need to get ready for a summer filled with hiking? Arc’teyrx has some great shorts to choose from. I like their athletic shorts for running because they’re breathable. 

Daypacks/backpacks

There’s no better combination than an Arc’teyrx jacket and a new hiking backpack. They come in many styles, like daypacks, multi-day packs, running vests, and waist packs. 

Boots/Shoes

Arc’teyrx does sell boots/shoes, but they aren’t as popular as their insulated jackets. There’s a large variety of styles, so I suggest you take a look.

Water Repellent Spray

Maintain your Arc’teryx jacket with a water-repellent spray, which you’ll use on the face fabric. 

Face fabric is the side that faces out. So, when you use a waterproof spray, make sure to face fabric out the way you’d wear it.

FAQs About Arc’teryx Jackets

What brands are better than Arc’teryx?

This question will be different from person to person. Arc’teryx is known as the most luxurious brand in this niche, and rightfully so. 

Some other popular brands that are similar to Arc’teryx are Patagonia, KUHL, Klattermusen, Norrona, and Vollebak, to name a few. 

Is Arc’teryx a good jacket?

Most people agree that Arc’teryx makes a great jacket. In fact, they make some of the best jackets for severe weather. 

Gore-tex material helps this notion. Arc’teryx appeals to the masses with its minimalist style.

Is Arc’teryx worth it over Patagonia?

It depends on your situation. Arc’teryx specializes in insulated jackets that prepare you for high-alpine climbing. 

Patagonia specializes more in regular day-to-day hiking as well as some cold environments.

Is Arc’teryx a high-end brand?

Arc’teryx is a high-end brand made with Gore-tex fabric and is considered by some to be the most luxurious brand in the niche.

What’s so good about Arc’teryx coats?

The material that Arc’teryx uses sets them apart from most other companies. Gore-tex and other high-end materials, combined with their manufacturing practices, make them top-notch.

Who wears Arc’teryx?

Every day, many types of people, from commuters to hikers, trail runners, and mountaineers, wear Arc’teryx. 

What is the best Arc’teryx jacket alternative?

The best Arc’teryx jacket alternative will vary from person to person. For me, I believe Patagonia is the best alternative. 

Patagonia has some of the highest quality products on the market today, and their line of products is larger than Arc’teryx. 

Both the Patagonia and Arc’teryx jackets are outstanding in many different weather conditions, but Arc’teryx still offers the best in weather protection. 

Conclusion: So, are Arc’teryx Jackets Worth it?

Arc’teryx justifies its price tag with the quality of its products and by creating new and innovative jacket designs.

There might be cheaper alternatives, but none match the Arc’teryx quality. 

The price might scare you, but the best Arcteryx jackets are the pricier ones. Arc’teryx’s Beta AR Jacket alone will outperform most of its competitors for the foreseeable future. 

Arc’teryx’s Beta AR Jacket stands apart from other Arc’teryx jackets because of its versatility. This jacket is waterproof, windproof, and made to be rugged enough for back-country adventures.

The classic fit and supple material also make it suitable for walks on rainy days and wearing to the grocery store.

I feel good packing this jacket for a trip because it’ll cover all of my bases.

If you’re thinking of buying a new winter jacket but aren’t sure which one to get, the Arc’teryx Beta AR is a great option that’ll last for years. 

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