Arcteryx Sabre LT vs Sabre AR

As you know, a new Arc'teryx Sabre shell scored around two years ago: Sabre AR Jacket.

Actually, it might even be a little bit inaccurate to say that Arc'teryx released a new jacket. Because, this is actually an update to the jacket previously known as Arc'teryx Sabre (without any two letter modifier) before. 

• Arc'teryx Jacket Finder: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder

With this update, Arc'teryx now decided to add the AR modifier and ultimately name it Sabre AR. 

They have 2 main differences:

• Internal flannel liner of AR: Increases comfort and warmth, but compromises breathability. LT doesn't come with one and instead is equipped with Gore C-Knit which offers a very pleasant, smooth internal surface
• AR comes with a baggier cut: More room around the torso helps with under layering and mobility

...which is why it's called the AR. Stands for All Round.

You can see this in Arc'teryx's Naming Scheme Page here as well - for both "LT" and "AR".

N70p of Sabre AR should have been less durable against the N80p of Sabre LT, but the AR comes with an internal fleece in addition, so it competes. 

Ultimately, LT is a little bit more breathable and lighter, and AR is a little bit warmer, but that's not noticeable for the vast, vast majority of us.

When you're stuck between the Sabre AR and LT, it really is a toss up, so I'd focus on their cut - the most noticeable difference between these two jackets.

• You can layer the Sabre LT with a low loft mid layer like the Proton or Atom LT.
• Whereas you can layer the AR with something loftier such as the Cerium LT, or a low loft mid layer PLUS a thick fleece.

Being able to under layer more isn't necessarily a good thing all the time. A trimmer cut like that of LT can feel better during high output activities.

Considering all these differences, I'd say the Sabre LT is more suitable for skiing & snowboarding, whereas the Sabre AR is more suitable for a more all round use such as hiking, skiing, casual outwear etc.

That said, I wouldn't recommend getting either of these jackets if you'll be using them for climbing because their sleeves are really too long for that. Instead, I'd recommend you to check out something like the Beta AR.

Lastly, both Sabre's come with a RECCO reflector. If you're unaware, it's a tiny, battery-free transmitter that helps the professional mountain rescue teams to locate your whereabouts in the event of an avalanche.

• Arc'teryx Jacket Finder: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder

Both are also DWR coated.

Customer Service's take on Sabre AR vs LT

So I also contacted Arc'teryx CS about Sabre AR vs LT, and here's what they told me: 

"The main fabric difference between the Sabre AR and Sabre LT is the backer material that is laminated to the inside of the jacket. 

The AR features a lo-loft softshell backer that is warmer and softer to the touch, while the LT used a C-Knit backer that is lighter and slightly more breathable.

Because both jackets use a 70-80 denier nylon face with a Gore Tex laminate, abrasion resistance and waterproofness will be nearly identical.

If you tend to do mostly resort skiing in mixed conditions, I would generally suggest the Sabre AR. If you venture into the backcountry or are looking for a longer jacket, the Sabre LT may be a better choice."