- Don't miss out on REI's current sale - shop now and save on all your outdoor gear needs!
Beta LT's latest Fall & Winter 2023 version (X000007061) does offer pit zips now: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-lt-jacket
Not offering pit zips was my main gripe with Beta LT. Great move from Arc'teryx.
- Arc'teryx Jacket Finder: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder
If you're a regular reader of this site, then you know that pit zips are a big deal, as almost always more than half of total breathability comes from mechanical venting (pit zips (both Beta AR and LT have) and two-way front zippers (neither one of them have)).
If you're looking at Beta AR vs LT, by the way, then you might also want to check out my article on Beta AR vs SV. But first, let's look at how the Beta AR and Beta LT compare.
Arc'teryx's Beta line is focused on versatility and all-round use, as you can also see in Arc'teryx's Naming Scheme Page in here (arcteryx.com).
The Beta AR is the closest in design to a traditional hardshell jacket, while the Beta LT should offer around 10% less breathability, 40% less weather & abrasion resistance, 10% lighter weight and 25% more packability in comparison.
An important distinction to note when comparing the Beta LT and Beta AR is that the Beta AR includes a DropHood, while the Beta LT comes with a StormHood. For more information on the differences between these hood types, see my article on StormHood vs DropHood.
Also make sure to see Arc'teryx's very own Beta AR vs LT comparison: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007339-black/X000007061-phenom
Now different people want different things. So only you can decide what to get and whether Beta AR would worth it or not. But the points I've made above should be the things that you should primarily base your decision on.
Arc'teryx Beta AR.
One is not better than the other, and only you can decide what to get. Both Beta LT and AR are fantastic pieces and neither are going to disappoint.
I personally find Beta AR more suitable for high output activities than the LT because of its DropHood (more comfort than StormHood when the hood is down) and superior abrasion resistance.
Links:
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-lt-jacket
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-ar-jacket
- https://www.rei.com/product/185629/arcteryx-beta-lt-jacket-mens
- https://www.rei.com/product/175306/arcteryx-beta-ar-jacket-mens
- Beta AR vs LT comparison chart: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007339-black/X000007061-phenom
- Arc'teryx Jacket Finder: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder
Poll results: Best colorways of Beta Series
Upvote your favorites.
Stormhood Kingfisher
Jungle
Velvet Sand/Phenom
Bitters
Black
Heritage
Kingfisher
Quick links:
Phenom
Sprint
Black Sapphire
Solace
Black
Forage
Wicker
Phenom
Sprint
Black
Solace
Cloud
Jungle
Black Sapphire
Daze
Black/Multi
Quick links:
Jungle Maze
Wicker Sapphire
Serene
Black
Phenom
Black
Phenom
Moonlit
Sprint
Moonlit
Retreat
Fika
Solasta
Black Sapphire
Bitters
Black
Atmos
Black Sapphire
Black
Fika
Serene/Solace
Wicker/Sprint
Quick links:
Black
Solace
Sky Groover
Groovie
Forage
Fika/Bliss
Solitude
Black
Black Sapphire
Serene
Moonlit
Serene
Black
Bliss
Retreat
Quick links:
N40p 3L Gore-Tex (Beta LT) vs N40r & N80r Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex PRO (Beta AR)
Let me clear this first: N40d & N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex PRO of Beta AR are not used together throughout the entire facet of the jacket.
Instead, the N80d is used in high wear areas that are better reinforced: Shoulders, back, forearms and top of the hood.
Updated almost daily for Fall 2023 - Winter 2024 season.
| Name | Activity | Breathability | Weather Res. | Durability | Packability | Temp (F/C) | Bottom line | Review | Pit zips? | Two way zipper? | Stuffs into itself? | Hood? | Face Fabric | Fit | Weight | Length | Status | Discontinued? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha FL (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 4/10 | 5/10 | 6/10 | 10/10 | N/A | No | No | Yes | Hadron 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 209 g / 7.4 oz | 76.5 cm / 30 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Alpha SL (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 3/10 | 4/10 | 6/10 | 9/10 | N/A | No | No | Yes | N40p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 326 g / 11.5 oz | 77.5 cm / 30.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Alpha (aka AR) (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 4/10 | N/A | Go-to climbing harshell. | Review | Yes | No | No | N40d & N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 430 g / 15.2 oz | 79.5 cm / 31.25 in | Revised | No | |
| Alpha SV (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Strongest climbing hardshell. | Review | Yes | No | No | N100d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 510 g / 1 lb 2 oz | 78 cm / 30.75 in | Revised | No | |
| Alpha IS (Men's) | Climbing | 7/10 | 5/10 | 5/10 | 8/10 | 23/-5 | No | Yes | Yes | N40p-X 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz | 78 cm / 30.75 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Beta (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 5/10 | 5/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | N/A | No | No | No | N30p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Fitted | 300 g / 10.6 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | None | No | |||
| Beta Long | All Round | 5/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 441 g / 15.6 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Beta Coat (Women's) | All Round | 7/10 | 5/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | N/A | No | Yes | No | 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 320 g / 11.3 oz | ? | None | No | |||
| Beta LT Hadron | All Round | 5/10 | 5/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | N/A | No | No | No | Hadron 3L Gore-Tex | Fitted | 255g / 9 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Beta LT (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 5/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N40d 3L Gore-Tex | Fitted | 395 g / 13.9 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | None | No | ||
| Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 10/10 | 4/10 | 4/10 | 2/10 | 21/-6 | Go-to hybrid jacket. | Review | Yes | Yes | No | N40d 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 680 g / 1 lb 8 oz | 78.5 cm / 31 in | None | No | |
| Beta Insulated Coat (Women's) | All Round | 7/10 | 4/10 | 4/10 | 2/10 | 16/-9 | No | Yes | No | N40d 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz | ? | None | No | |||
| Beta AR (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 4/10 | N/A | Go-to all-round harshell. | Review | Yes | No | No | N40d & N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 460 g / 1 lb | 76 cm / 30 in | Revised | No | |
| Beta AR StormHood (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 4/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N40d & N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 460 g / 1 lb | 76 cm / 30 in | None | No | ||
| Beta SV (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 10/10 | 9/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Strongest all-round harshell. | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 495 g / 1 lb 1.5 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | None | No | |
| Gamma Lw. (aka SL) (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 7/10 | 2/10 | 6/10 | 5/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | No | Fortius 1.0 | Trim | 310 g / 10.9 oz | 74 cm / 29.1 in | Revised | No | ||
| Gamma (aka LT) (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 7/10 | 3/10 | 7/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Go-to softshell. | Review | No | No | No | Wee Burly | Regular | 545 g / 1 lb 3.2 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | Revised | No | |
| Gamma MX (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 6/10 | 4/10 | 8/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Strongest softshell. | Review | No | No | No | Fortius 2.0 | Regular | 555 g / 1 lb 3.6 oz | 74 cm / 29.1 in | None | No | |
| Rush (Men's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Go-to ski jacket. | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p-X & N100p-X 3L Most Rugged Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 590 g / 1 lb 4.8 oz | 79.5 cm / 31.25 in | None | No | |
| Rush Insulated (Men's - Women's) | Skiing | 4/10 | No data | No data | 9/10 | 16/-9 | No | No | Yes | Hadron 2L Gore-Tex Infinium | Regular | 515 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | None | No | |||
| Sabre (Men's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 2/10 | N/A | Yes | No | No | N80p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 705 g / 1 lb 8.9 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | Revised | No | |||
| Sabre SV (Men's) | Skiing | 10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 1/10 | N/A | Strongest ski jacket. | Yes | Yes | No | N100d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 595 g / 1 lb 5 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | New | No | ||
| Sabre Insulated (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | Testing | 6/10 | Testing | Testing | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 815 g / 1 lb 12.7 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | New | No | |||
| Macai (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 7/10 | 6/10 | 1/10 | 5/-15 | Review | Yes | No | No | N40p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 990 g / 2 lb 2.9 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | Revised | No | ||
| Macai Lightweight (aka LT) (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 6/10 | 6/10 | 2/10 | 8/-13 | Yes | No | No | N40p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 855 g / 1 lb 14.2 oz | ? | Revised | No | |||
| Theriss Down (Women's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 6/10 | 5/10 | 2/10 | Testing | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 709 g / 1 lb 9 oz | 63 cm / 24.8 in | None | No | |||
| Sentinel (Women's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 2/10 | N/A | Go-to ski jacket. | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 370 g / 13.1 oz | 73.7 cm / 29 in | None | No | ||
| Sentinel Insulated (Women's) | Skiing | 7/10 | Testing | Testing | Testing | 21/-6 | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz | 79.8 cm / 31.5 in | None | No | |||
| Andessa (Women's) | Skiing | 10/10 | Testing | Testing | 1/10 | 8/-13 | Yes | No | No | N40d 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 869 g / 1 lb 14.7 oz | 67 cm / 26.4 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Andessa Shell (Women's) | Skiing | 5/10 | Testing | Testing | 3/10 | N/A | No | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 560 g / 1 lb 3.8 oz | ? | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Micon Heather | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Yes | No | No | NP100-d 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 685 g / 1 lb 8.2 oz | 83 cm / 32.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Micon (Men's) | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Yes | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 685 g / 1 lb 8.2 oz | 83 cm / 32.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Cassiar (Men's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 820 g / 1 lb 12.9 oz | 74.5 cm / 29.3 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Cassiar LT (Men's) | Skiing | 6/10 | 6/10 | 6/10 | 5/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 605 g / 1 lb 5.3 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Ravenna (Women's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N70s-4 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 725 g / 1 lb 9.6 oz | 69.5 cm / 27.4 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Ravenna LT (Women's) | Skiing | 6/10 | 6/10 | 6/10 | 5/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 540 g / 1 lb 3 oz | 69 cm / 27.2 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Procline (Men's) | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Yes | No | No | N70p Gore-Tex Infinium | Trim | 720 g / 1 lb 9.4 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Shashka Stretch (Women's) | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Yes | No | No | N70p Gore-Tex Infinium | Trim | 670 g / 1 lb 7.6 oz | 71 cm / 28 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Sabre AR (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 700 g / 1 lb 8.7 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Sentinel AR (Women's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 590 g / 1 lb 4.8 oz | 72.5 cm / 28.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Sabre LT (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 660 g / 1 lb 7.3 oz | 83 cm / 32.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Sentinel LT (Women's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 565 g / 1 lb 3.9 oz | 73.5 cm / 29 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Incendia (Women's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 3/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | NP100d 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Indencia IS | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | No data | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | ? | 78 cm / 30.75 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Squamish (Men's - Women's) | Running | 5/10 | 4/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 | N/A | Go-to running jacket. | Review | No | No | Yes | 30D Tyono | Trim | 140 g / 4.9 oz | 77.5 cm / 30.5 in | Revised | No | |
| Nodin (Men's - Women's) | Running | 8/10 | 5/10 | 5/10 | 10/10 | N/A | No | No | Yes | 20D Tyono | Trim | 155 g / 5.5 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | Revised | No | |||
| Incendo (Men's) | Running | 7/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | 10/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | Yes | Lumin | Trim | 125 g / 4.4 oz | ? | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Incendo Airshell (Women's) | Running | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | No | No | Yes | ? | ? | ? | ? | None | No | |||
| Norvan Windshell (Men's - Women's) | Running | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | No | No | Yes | Permeair 20 | Trim | 90g / 3.2 oz | 73 cm / 28.75 in | Revised | No | |||
| Norvan LT (Men's - Women's) | Running | 5/10 | 5/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 | N/A | No | No | No | N13p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 190 g / 6.7 oz | ? | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Norvan SL Ins. (Women's) | Running | No data | No data | No data | No data | 39/4 | No | No | Yes | Gore-Tex ShakeDry | Trim | 270 g / 9.5 oz | 71.5 cm / 28.1 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Cita (Women's) | Running | 7/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | 10/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | Yes | Lumin | Trim | 120 g / 4.2 oz | 67.5 cm / 26.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Cita SL (Women's) | Running | 7/10 | 4/10 | 4/10 | 10/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | Yes | Permeair 20 | Trim | 65 g / 2.3 oz | 61.5 cm / 24.2 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Incendo SL (Men's) | Running | 7/10 | 4/10 | 4/10 | 10/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | Yes | Permair 20 & Canim | Trim | 80 g / 2.8 oz | 73 cm / 28.75 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Norvan SL (Men's - Women's) | Running | 7/10 | 6/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | Yes | Gore-Tex Infinium | Trim | 120 g / 4.2 oz | 77 cm / 30.4 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Trino SL (Men's) | Running | 8/10 | 5/10 | 7/10 | 6/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | No | Gore-Tex Infinium | Trim | 340 g / 12 oz | 74 cm / 29.1 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Trino SL Anorak (Women's) | Running | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | No | Gore-Tex Infinium | Trim | 290 g / 10.2 oz | 65 cm / 25.5 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Solano (Women's) | Around Town | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Review | No | No | No | Gore-Tex Infinium | Relaxed | 355 g / 12.5 oz | 72 cm / 28.3 in | Revised | No | ||
| Venda Anorak (Women's) | Around Town | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | No | No | No | Gore-Tex | Relaxed | 255 g / 9 oz | 75.5 cm / 29.7 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Zeta FL (Men's - Women's) | Hiking | 4/10 | 6/10 | 4/10 | 6/10 | N/A | No | No | No | N20r 2L Gore-Tex | Trim | 221 g / 7.8 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Zeta SL (Men's - Women's) | Hiking | 3/10 | 5/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | No | 2L Gore-Tex | Trim | 310 g / 10.9 oz | 77.8 cm / 30.6 in | Discontinued | Yes | ||
| Zeta LT (Men's - Women's) | Hiking | 5/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 5/10 | N/A | No | No | No | N40P-X 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 335 g / 11.8 oz | 78 cm / 30.75 in | Discontinued | Yes | |||
| Zeta AR (Men's) | Hiking | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 4/10 | N/A | Yes | No | No | 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 425 g / 15 oz | 80 cm / 31.5 in | Discontinued | Yes |
Read more: https://outdoorcrunch.com/best-arcteryx-jacket/.
Confused? Try this: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder/.
Also see:
| Name | Est. Temp (F/C) | Review | Pit venting? | Two way zipper? | Stuffs into itself? | Type | Fill Power | Fill Weight (grams) | Fill Volume (FP x FW) | Synthetic Insulator (SI) | SI Amount | Face Fabric | Activity | Fit | Weight | Length (CB) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arc'teryx Alpha (Men's - Women's) | -18/-28 | Review | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 850 | 296 | 251,600 | Coreloft | 90 g/m² | N30r 2L GoreTex Infinium | Climbing | Regular | 805 g / 1 lb 12.4 oz | 86 cm / 34 in | No |
| Feathered Friends Khumbu | -17/-27 | No | No | Yes | Down | 900 | 378 | 340,200 | Primaloft Gold | 200 g | Pretex Shield XT | All Round | Regular | 960 g / 2 lb 2 oz | ? | No | |
| Arc'teryx Ceres SV (Men's - Women's) | -15/-26 | Review | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 850 | 240 | 204,000 | Coreloft | ? | Arato 30 | All Round | Regular | 880 g / 1 lb 15 oz | 86 cm / 34 in | Yes |
| Mountain Equipment K7 (Men's) | -13/-25 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 800 | 300 | 240,000 | N/A | N/A | 30D Drilite | All Round | Regular | 820 g / 1 lb 13 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | No | |
| Rab Positron Pro (Men's) | -13/-25 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 800 | 300 | 240,000 | N/A | N/A | 40D Pertex Quantum Pro | All Round | Regular | 740 g / 1 lb 10 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Therme SV (Men's) | -11/-24 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 211 | 158,250 | Coreloft | 60 g/m² | 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 1.072 kg / 2 lb 5.8 oz | 96 cm / 37.75 in | No |
| Patagonia Grade VII (Men's) | -11/-24 | No | Yes | No | Down | 800 | 335 | 268,000 | N/A | N/A | 1.2 oz 15 & 20D Perfex Quantum | Around Town | Regular | 743 g / 1 lb 10.1 oz | 83 cm / 32.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Firebee AR (Men's - Women's) | -10/-23 | Review | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 800 | 225 | 180,000 | N/A | N/A | Arato 7 & 10 | All Round | Regular | 680 g / 1 lb 8 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | Yes |
| Mountain Equipment Exo (Men's) | -10/-23 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 800 | 265 | 212,000 | N/A | N/A | Nylon | All Round | Regular | 770 g / 1 lb 11.2 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Thorsen (Men's) | -7/-22 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 192 | 144,000 | Coreloft | 60 g/m² | 90D 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 1.1 kg / 2 lb 5.4 oz | 91 cm / 36 in | Yes |
| Patagonia Frozen Range (Men's - Women's) | -6/-21 | Review | No | No | No | Parka | 700 | 268 | 187,600 | N/A | N/A | 4 oz 75-denier polyester | Around Town | Regular | 1.253 kg / 2 lb 12.2 oz | 84 cm / 33 in | No |
| Mountain Equipment Li. Ec. (Men's - Women's) | -5/-20 | No | Yes | No | Down | 700 | 295 | 206,500 | N/A | N/A | 50D Drilite | All Round | Regular | 822 g / 1 lb 13 oz | 72 cm / 28 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Thorium Parka (Women's) | -2/-19 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 209 | 156,750 | Coreloft | 80 + 140 g/m² | Arato 20 | Around Town | Regular | 610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz | 115.8 cm/ 45.6 in | No |
| Rab Neutrino Pro (Men's - Women's) | -2/-19 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 800 | 212 | 169,600 | N/A | N/A | 20D Pertex Quantum Pro | All Round | Regular | 585 g / 1 lb 8.6 oz | 77 cm / 30.3 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Patera Long (Women's) | 0/-18 | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 204 | 153,000 | Coreloft | 60 + 80 g/m² | 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 1.1 kg / 2 lb 6.8 oz | 117.5 cm / 46.25 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Beta Down Insulated (Men's) | 0/-18 | Yes | Yes | No | Parka | 850 | 126 | 107,100 | Coreloft | 80 g/m² | 2L 40D Gore-Tex | All Round | Regular | 760 g / 1 lb 10.8 oz | ? | No | |
| Arc'teryx Dually Belay (Men's) | 0/-18 | Review | No | Yes | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | ThermaTek | 92 g/m² | 30D Nylon | Around Town | Regular | 705 g / 1 lb 9 oz | 84 cm / 33 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Centrale (Women's) | 0/-18 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 157 | 117,750 | Coreloft | 60 g/m² | N90p Nylon | Around Town | Regular | 885 g / 1 lb 15.2 oz | 95 cm / 37.5 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Camosun (Men's) | 0/-18 | Review | No | No | No | Parka | 750 | 105 | 78,750 | Coreloft | 140 g/m² | N150p-X Gore-Tex | Around Town | Trim | 960 g / 2 lb 1.9 oz | 80 cm / 31.5 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Cerium SV (Men's) | 0/-18 | Review | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 162 | 137,700 | Coreloft | 80 + 140 g/m² | Arato 7 & 10 | All Round | Regular | 415 g / 14.6 oz | 69.5 cm / 27.4 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Revet (Men's) | 2/-17 | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | ? | N/A | N/A | 20d nylon/spandex double weave | Around Town | Regular | 755 g / 1 lb 10.6 oz | 91 cm / 36 in | Yes | ||
| Arc'teryx Piedmont (Men's) | 3/-16 | No | Yes | Yes | Parka | 750 | 218 | 163,500 | N/A | N/A | Arato 10 | Around Town | Regular | 515 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz | 82 cm / 32.25 in | Yes | |
| Arc'teryx Fission SV (Men's - Women's) | 3/-16 | Review | No | Yes | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 90 + 65 g/m² | N80p-X Gore-Tex 2L | All Round | Regular | 890 g / 1 lb 15.4 oz | 81 cm / 31.8 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Alpha Lightweight (Men's) | 3/-16 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 850 | 117 | 99,450 | Coreloft Compact | 40 g/m² | Hadron 2L Gore-Tex Infinium | Climbing | Regular | 540 g / 1 lb 3 oz | ? | No | |
| Outdoor Research Sup. Alp. (Men's - Women's) | 3/-16 | No | Yes | No | Down | 800 | 182 | 145,600 | N/A | N/A | 30D Pertex Quantum Pro | All Round | Regular | 825 g / 1 lb 13.1 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Alessa Long (Women's) | 3/-16 | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 80 + 120 g/m² | N90p 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 1.015 kg / 2 lb 3.8 oz | 123 cm / 48.5 in | Yes | |
| Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 (Men's - Women's) | 3/-16 | Review | No | No | No | Parka | 700 | 118 | 82,600 | N/A | N/A | 5.5 oz polyester | Around Town | Regular | 1.307 kg / 2 lb 14.1 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Radsten Parka (Men's) | 3/-16 | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 120 g/m² | NP100d Gore-Tex 2L | Around Town | Regular | 745 g / 1 lb 10.3 oz | 82 cm / 32.25 in | Yes | |
| Rab Electron Pro (Men's - Women's) | 5/-15 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 800 | 180 | 144,000 | N/A | N/A | 20D Pertex Quantum Pro | All Round | Regular | 525 g / 1 lb 2.5 oz | 74 cm / 29 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Therme Parka (Men's) | 5/-15 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 120 | 90,000 | Coreloft | 60 + 80 g/m² | P75d Polyester | Around Town | Regular | 991 g / 2 lb 3 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Macai (Men's) | 5/-15 | Review | Yes, zips | No | No | Down | 750 | 69 | 51,750 | Coreloft Compact | 60 + 100 g/m² | N40p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Ski/Snowboard | Regular | 1 kg / 2 lb 4 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Nuclei SV (Men's) | 5/-15 | Review | No | Yes | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 180 g/m2 + 90 g/m2 | Arato 15 | Climbing | Regular | 600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz | 81 cm / 31.8 in | No |
| Patagonia DAS Parka (Men's) | 5/-15 | No | Yes | Yes | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco | 133 + 40 g | Pertex Quantum Pro | Around Town | Regular | 555 g / 1lb 3.6 oz | 84 cm / 33 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Patera (Women's) | 5/-15 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 58 | 43,500 | Coreloft | 60 + 80 g/m² | 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Trim | 867 g / 1 lb 14.6 oz | 99 cm / 39 in | No |
| Black Diamond Access Down (Men's - Women's) | 7/-14 | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 700 | 155 | 108,500 | N/A | N/A | 30D ripstop nylon | All Round | Regular | 442 g / 15.6 oz | 76 cm / 29.75 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Kappa (Men's) | 7/-14 | Review | No | Yes | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 140 g/m² | N70p Gore Thermium | All Round | Regular | 755 g / 1 lb 10.6 oz | 80 cm / 31.5 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Prema Down Coat (Women's) | 7/-14 | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 92 | 69,000 | N/A | N/A | Nylon | Around Town | Regular | 794 g / 1 lb 12 oz | 117 cm / 46.1 in | Yes | |
| Arc'teryx Radsten Insulated (Men's) | 7/-14 | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 120 g/m² | NP100d Gore-Tex 2L | Around Town | Regular | 715 g / 1 lb 9.2 oz | 73 cm / 28.75 in | Yes | |
| Rab Microlight Alpine (Men's - Women's) | 7/-14 | No | No | Yes | Down | 700 | 153 | 107,100 | N/A | N/A | 30D Pertex Quantum | All Round | Regular | 466 g / 1 lb 0.5 oz | 72 cm / 28.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Thorium (Men's - Women's) | 7/-14 | Review | No | Yes | Yes | Down | 750 | 140 | 105,000 | Coreloft | 80 + 140 g/m² | Arato 30 | All Round | Regular | 517 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz | 71.5 cm / 28.1 in | No |
| Feathered Friends Eos | 8/-13 | No | No | Yes | Down | 900 | 105 | 94,500 | N/A | N/A | Pertex Quantum | All Round | Regular | 306 g / 10.8 oz | ? | No | |
| Arc'teryx Thorium AR 2020 (Men's - Women's) | 8/-13 | Review | No | No | Yes | Down | 750 | 130 | 97,500 | Coreloft | 80 + 140 g/m² | Arato 30 | All Round | Regular | 490 g / 1 lb 1.3 oz | 72 cm / 28.3 in | Yes |
| Patagonia Macro Puff (Men's - Women's) | 8/-13 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | PlumaFill | 135 + 90 g | 10D Recycled nylon ripstop | All Round | Regular | 435 g / 15.3 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Macai LT (Men's) | 8/-13 | Yes, zips | No | No | Down | 750 | 49 | 36,750 | Coreloft Compact | 60 g/m² | N40p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Ski/Snowboard | Regular | 855 g / 1 lb 14.2 oz | 74 cm / 29.1 in | Yes | |
| Arc'teryx Seyla (Women's) | 8/-13 | No | Yes | No | Parka | 750 | 92 | 69,000 | N/A | N/A | Arato 10 | Around Town | Regular | 507 g / 1 lb. 1.9 oz. | 87 cm / 34.4 in | Yes | |
| Patagonia Fitz Roy (Men's - Women's) | 8/-13 | No | No | Yes | Down | 800 | 128 | 102,400 | N/A | N/A | 20D Nylon | All Round | Regular | 632 g / 1lb 6.3 oz | 74 cm / 29 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Koda (Men's) | 8/-13 | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 80 + 140 g/m² | N80p-X Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 720 g / 1 lb 9.4 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | Yes | |
| Patagonia Vosque 3-in-1 (Women's) | 10/-12 | Review | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | ThermoLite | 100 g | 65% nylon, 35% polyester | Around Town | Regular | 1.360 kg / 3 lb | 90 cm / 35.5 in | No |
| Patagonia City Storm Down (Men's - Women's) | 12/-11 | No | No | Yes | Parka | 700 | 191 | 133,700 | N/A | N/A | 4.2 oz polyester | All Round | Regular | 468 g / 16.5 oz | 91 cm / 36 in | No | |
| Patagonia Jackson Glacier (Men's - Women's) | 12/-11 | Review | No | Yes | No | Parka | 700 | 141 | 98,700 | N/A | N/A | 3.6 oz 50D polyester | Around Town | Regular | 880 g / 1 lb 15 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Sensa (Women's) | 14/-10 | No | Yes | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 120 g/m² | NP100d Gore-Tex 2L | Around Town | Relaxed | 785 g / 1 lb 11.7 oz | 86 cm / 34 in | Yes | |
| Patagonia Hi Loft Down (Men's - Women's) | 14/-10 | Review | No | No | Yes | Down | 600 | 177 | 106,200 | N/A | N/A | 1.4 oz 30D polyester | All Round | Regular | 540 g / 1 lb 3 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | No |
| REI Magma 850 Hoodie 2.0 (Men's - Women's) | 14/-10 | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 120 | 102,000 | N/A | N/A | Pertex mini ripstop nylon | All Round | Regular | 340 g / 13.75 oz | 74 cm / 29.25 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Beta Insulated Coat (Women's) | 16/-9 | Review | No | Yes | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 80 g/m² + 120 g/m² | 2L 40D Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz | ? | No |
| Arc'teryx Atom Hw. (aka AR) (Men's - Women's) | 18/-8 | Review | Yes, mesh | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 120 g/m2 + 80 g/m2 + 60 g/m2 | 30D Tyono | All Round | Regular | 475 g / 1 lb | 74 cm / 29.1 in | No |
| Patagonia Downdrift (Men's - Women's) | 18/-8 | No | No | No | Down | 600 | 279 | 167,400 | N/A | N/A | 4.2 oz polyester | Around Town | Regular | 1.014 kg / 2 lb 3.8 oz | ? | No | |
| Arc'teryx Magnus (Men's) | 19/-7 | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 80 g | N60p Gore-Tex 2L | Around Town | Regular | 690 g / 1 lb 8.3 oz | 83 cm / 32.5 in | Yes | |
| Arc'teryx Proton Hw. (Men's - Women's) | 21/-6 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 100 g/m2 + 60 g/m2 | Fortius Air 50 | Climbing | Regular | 540 g / 1 lb 3 oz | 77 cm / 30.5 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Agrium (Men's - Women's) | 21/-6 | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 117 | 99,450 | N/A | N/A | Arato | All Round | Regular | 365 g / 12.9 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | Yes | |
| Patagonia AlpLight Down (Men's - Women's) | 21/-6 | No | No | Yes | Down | 800 | 100 | 80,000 | N/A | N/A | 0.8 oz 10D polyester | All Round | Slim | 270 g / 9.5 oz | 74 cm / 29 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's) | 21/-6 | Review | Yes, zips | Yes | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 80 g/m² | 2L 40D Gore-Tex | All Round | Regular | 680 g / 1 lb 8 oz | 78.5 cm / 31 in | No |
| Patagonia Topley (Men's) | 23/-5 | No | Yes | No | Down | 700 | 172 | 120,400 | N/A | N/A | 6 oz polyester | All Round | Regular | 1.133 kg / 2 lb 8 oz | 77 cm / 30.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Alpha IS (Men's) | 23/-5 | No | Yes | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 65 g/m² | N40p-X 2L Gore-Tex | Climbing | Regular | 610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz | 78 cm / 30.75 in | Yes | |
| Rab Xenon 2.0 (Men's - Women's) | 23/-5 | No | Yes | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | PrimaLoft Silver | 60 g | 30D Pertex Quantum | All Round | Regular | 385 g / 13.6 oz | 71.5 cm / 28.1 in | No | |
| Patagonia Down Sweater (Men's - Women's) | 23/-5 | Review | No | No | Yes | Down | 800 | 150 | 120,000 | N/A | N/A | 1.4 oz 20x30D polyester | All Round | Regular | 428 g / 15.1 oz | 67 cm / 26.25 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Ralle Parka (Men's) | 25/-4 | No | Yes | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 80 g/m² | 2L 40D Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 735 g / 1 lb 9.9 oz | 83 cm / 32.5 in | No | |
| Patagonia Silent Down (Men's - Women's) | 26/-3 | Review | No | No | No | Down | 700 | 109 | 76,300 | N/A | N/A | 2.2 oz polyester | Around Town | Regular | 585 g / 1 lb 4.7 oz | 74 cm / 29 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Therme Insulated (Men's) | 26/-3 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 40 g/m² | 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 960 g / 2 lb 1.9 oz | 73 cm / 28.75 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Cerium (aka LT) (Men's - Women's) | 26/-3 | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 113 | 96,050 | Coreloft | 80 + 100 g/m² | Arato 15 | All Round | Trim | 335 g / 11.8 oz | 72 cm / 28.3 in | No | |
| Mountain Hardwear GW/2 (Men's - Women's) | 28/-2 | No | No | Yes | Down | 800 | 85 | 68,000 | N/A | N/A | 10D Ripstop Nylon | All Round | Trim | 250 g / 8.8 oz | 70 cm / 27.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Cerium LT 2020 (Men's - Women's) | 28/-2 | Review | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 102 | 86,700 | Coreloft | 80 + 100 g/m² | Arato 10 | All Round | Trim | 305 g / 10.8 oz | 72 cm / 28.3 in | Yes |
| Arc'teryx Nuclei (aka FL) (Men's - Women's) | 32/0 | Review | No | No | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 65 g/m² | Arato 10r | Climbing | Trim | 325 g / 11.5 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | No |
| Patagonia DAS Light (Men's - Women's) | 34/1 | No | Yes | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | PlumaFill | 65 g | 0.8-oz 10-denier Pertex Quantum Pro | Climbing | Regular | 320 g / 11.3 oz | 77 cm / 30.5 in | No | |
| Patagonia Isthmus (Men's) | 36/2 | No | No | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | ThermoGreen | 60 g | 4.2 oz polyester | Around Town | Regular | 895 g / 1 lb 15.6 oz | 70 cm / 27.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Proton (aka LT) (Men's - Women's) | 37/3 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 80 g/m2 + 60 g/m2 | Fortius Air 20 | Climbing | Trim | 375 g / 13.2 oz | 75 cm / 29.4 in | No |
| Patagonia Nano Puff (Men's - Women's) | 37/3 | Review | No | No | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco | 60 g | 22D Polyester | All Round | Regular | 363 g / 12.8 oz | 71.5 cm / 28 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Norvan SL Ins. (Men's - Women's) | 39/4 | No | No | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 40 g/m² | Gore-Tex ShakeDry | Running | Trim | 270 g / 9.5 oz | 71.5 cm / 28.1 in | Yes | |
| Patagonia Micro Puff (Men's - Women's) | 41/5 | Review | No | No | Yes | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | PlumaFill | 65 g | Pertex Quantum | All Round | Regular | 298 g / 10.5 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | No |
| Patagonia Nano Air (Men's - Women's) | 41/5 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | FullRange | 60 g | 33D Nylon ripstop | All Round | Trim | 318 g / 11.2 oz | ? | No |
| Arc'teryx Atom (aka LT) (Men's - Women's) | 43/6 | Review | Yes, mesh | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Continuous | 60 g/m² | 20D Tyono | All Round | Trim | 375 g / 13.2 oz | 74 cm / 29.1 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Cerium Lw. (aka SL) (Men's - Women's) | 43/6 | Review | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 58 | 49,300 | Coreloft | 40 + 100 g/m² | Arato 7 | All Round | Trim | 215 g / 7.6 oz | 69 cm / 27.2 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Cerium Hybrid (Men's) | 44/7 | No | No | Yes | Down | 850 | 44 | 37,400 | Coreloft | 40 + 100 g/m² | Arato 15 + Fortius Air 50 | All Round | Trim | 260 g / 9.2 oz | 70 cm / 27.5 in | No | |
| Arc'teryx Proton Hybrid (Men's - Women's) | 46/8 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 40 g/m² | Fortius Air 50 | All Round | Trim | 365 g / 12.9 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Proton Lw. (aka FL) (Men's - Women's) | 48/9 | Review | No | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Octa Loft | 94 g/m² | Fortius Air 20 | Climbing | Trim | 343 g / 12.1 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | No |
| Arc'teryx Atom Lw. (aka SL) (Men's - Women's) | 52/11 | Review | Yes, mesh | No | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft Compact | 40 g/m² | 20D Tyono | All Round | Trim | 270 g / 9.5 oz | 72 cm / 28.3 in | No |
| REI Stormhenge Hybrid (Men's - Women's) | Testing | Yes, zips | No | No | Down | 850 | ? | N/A | N/A | 40D + 80D | All Round | Regular | 900 g / 1 lb 15.75 oz | 80 cm / 31.5 in | No | ||
| Arc'teryx Coelle Parka (Women's) | Testing | No | Yes | No | Parka | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 80 + 140 g/m² | 40D 2L Gore-Tex | Around Town | Regular | 460 g / 1 lb 0.2 oz | 95 cm / 37.4 in | No | |
| Sabre Insulated (Men's) | Testing | Yes, zips | Yes | No | Synthetic | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Coreloft | 60 + 80 g/m² | Fortius Air 50 | Regular | 535g / 1 lb 2.9 oz | ? | No |
In order to reduce manufacturing costs (and hence the price tag) of Beta AR N40d is used throughout other areas where less durability is more acceptable.
This is also why Beta AR is the most well-balanced of all Beta jackets because Beta LT is 40D and Beta SV is 80D everywhere (they aren't balanced but rather intended for more niche uses).
 |  | |
MSRP | 525 USD | 575 USD |
Breathability Packability Weather Resistance Durability Length Bagginess | ||
Beta LT | Beta AR | |
Weight | 345 grams (12.2 oz) | 455 grams (16 oz) |
Gore-Tex | N40p-X GORE-TEX Pro 3L | N40r-X GORE-TEX Pro 3L N80p-X GORE-TEX Pro 3L |
Cell | #Note: All face fabrics are DWR (durable water repellent) applied. DWR is a coating. It's basically sprayed on to the surface of these jackets as a finish. It stands for Durable Water Repellent - which means that water will be repelled under wet conditions instead of soaking into the fabric. DWR also decreases dry time. It's a good thing these jackets are coated in DWR, but pay attention to the fact that DWR is a coating - meaning that it will wear off over time. Which is why you might want to invest in a DWR spray such as this one for after treatment. | |
Arc'teryx Beta LT.
So what do the numbers 40 and 80 exactly mean?
If you're unaware, the number after the first letter represents the denier (weight) of the fabric. It's usually referred to as 40D and 80D (denier), etc.
As the denier increases (which is 40 vs 80, in this case) the durability and weather resistance will increase, but the jacket will also end up being heavier, louder, stiffer and bulkier. You get the picture.
You can now see the main difference between Beta LT and AR - but let's continue, more to come.
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- #A sidenote here: Arc'teryx's PDF guide to jackets is GOOOLLLLDDDDD. Absolutely check that out too if you're interested in buying one.
The letter (p or r) that comes right after this number in the notation represents the fabric weave. R of Beta AR stands for ripstop, which, unlike plain weave (P) of Beta LT, is woven following a grid texture.
Grid texture of the ripstop weave of Beta AR.
As a result:
- Ripstop weave (Beta AR) is expected to prevent the potential tears from propagating considerably less than the plain weave by blocking their paths with elevated fabrics.
- Whereas the plain weave (Beta LT) is expected to bead the water droplets better than the ripstop because unlike the ripstop, the pathway of droplets won't be crossed by elevated fabrics.
I hope that makes sense.
Links:
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-lt-jacket
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-ar-jacket
- https://www.rei.com/product/185629/arcteryx-beta-lt-jacket-mens
- https://www.rei.com/product/175306/arcteryx-beta-ar-jacket-mens
- Beta AR vs LT comparison chart: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007339-black/X000007061-phenom
Having said all that...
These differences might not be all that noticeable in practice to most of you. Because:
- Gore-Tex 3L Pro is already very high quality by itself, so ripstop doesn't really add much to Beta AR's durability in practice.
- Both jackets are already DWR coated, so the plain weave of Beta LT doesn't really cause a noticeable difference in water beading.
So, as you can guess now; the vast, vast majority of the extra %10-15 weather resistance & %25 durability of Beta AR and more packable & lighter structure of Beta LT result from the denier difference (40D vs 80D) - NOT the weave difference (ripstop vs plain).
Lastly, both are covered with a DWR coating.
DWR is a coating.
It's basically sprayed on to the surface of these jackets as a finish. It stands for Durable Water Repellent - which means that water will be repelled under wet conditions instead of soaking into the fabric.
DWR also decreases dry time.
It's a good thing these jackets are coated in DWR, but pay attention to the fact that DWR is a coating - meaning that it will wear off over time.
Which is why you might want to invest in a DWR spray such as this one for after treatment.
As you see, there's a strong correlation between FP x FW and temperature ratings, but not more than, say, 80%. I explained why this happens here in this post of mine.
But what about the %10-15 breathability difference?
Pit zips
Before the FW 2023 updates, Beta LT didn't offer pit zips. This was one of my main gripes about Beta LT.
Mechanical venting is a huge deal and will bring about no less than 50% of total breathability a jacket will offer.
Pit zips.
If you haven't used them before, you'll quickly realize that the pit zips are a godsend especially during high output activities since they keep you from overheating very well.
By the way, two way front main zippers are also designed to help with this, but unfortunately, no Arc'teryx hardshell offer one, except the Alpha IS, which was discontinued.
Fit
Beta AR is slightly baggier than the LT, so it might allow for a wider variety of under layering options which, in the end, could ultimately makes it more versatile.
But I haven't seen anyone complain about this. The difference really shouldn't be all that noticeable.
- Arc'teryx Jacket Finder: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder
Lastly, I wouldn't recommend sizing up or down with either one of them. Both run true to size.
Hoods
Read more about StormHood of Beta LT and DropHood of Beta AR in this post: https://outdoorcrunch.com/stormhood-vs-drophood/
Conclusion
I personally find Beta AR more suitable for high output activities because of the DropHood, which offers more comfort than a StormHood when the hood is down.
Links:
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-lt-jacket
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/beta-ar-jacket
- https://www.rei.com/product/185629/arcteryx-beta-lt-jacket-mens
- https://www.rei.com/product/175306/arcteryx-beta-ar-jacket-mens
- Beta AR vs LT comparison chart: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007339-black/X000007061-phenom
I hope this post was helpful for you to learn more about the jacket(s) in your mind.
Feel free to ask me any questions or provide feedback and I'll be happy to respond in the comment section below.
Guide: Insulated & Shell Jackets
Start here:
Complete list:
Also see:
Thank you for reading!
Hello Canberk,
Thank you for sharing these awesome reviews. Really helpful for me.
For the current Beta LT (2021 New), Do you have any thoughts on that? I’m considering buying it but would like to hear your thought. Is Beta AR still a go-to compares to the latest Beta LT update?