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Home / Gear / Jackets / Shell Jackets / Hardshell Jackets

Arcteryx Beta vs Zeta

Last updated: May 12, 2023 by Canberk Koksal

  • This article is revised after Arc'teryx FW23 update. 
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Overview

In Fall 2021, Arc'teryx decided to bring back the once beloved Zeta AR - but only for women. Men's counterpart is still out of the catalogue for some reason. 

Also, Beta Long is introduced. 

NameActivityReviewBreathabilityWeather Res.DurabilityPackabilitybetazeta
Alpha FL (Men's - Women's)Climbing4/105/106/1010/10alpha
Alpha SL (Men's - Women's)Climbing3/104/106/109/10alpha
Alpha AR (Men's - Women's)ClimbingReview8/107/108/104/10alpha
Alpha SV (Men's - Women's)ClimbingReview8/1010/1010/103/10alpha
Alpha IS (Men's)Climbing7/105/105/108/10alpha
Beta (Men's - Women's)All Round5/105/104/105/10betazeta
Beta Long (Men's)All RoundReview5/108/108/103/10betazeta
Beta Coat (Women's)All Round7/105/104/105/10betazeta
Beta LT Hadron (Men's - Women's)All Round5/105/104/105/10betazeta
Beta LT (Men's - Women's)All RoundReview8/107/108/105/10betazeta
Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's)All Round10/104/104/102/10betazeta
Beta Insulated Coat (Women's)All Round7/104/104/102/10betazeta
Beta AR (Men's - Women's)All RoundReview8/108/108/104/10betazeta
Beta SV (Men's - Women's)All RoundReview8/1010/109/103/10betazeta
Alpine Guide (Men's - Women's)All Round8/1010/109/103/10
Gamma SL (Men's - Women's)All RoundReview7/102/106/105/10gamma
Gamma LT (Men's)All RoundReview7/103/107/103/10gamma
Gamma MX (Men's - Women's)All RoundReview6/104/108/103/10gamma
Rush (Men's - Women's)SkiingReview8/109/109/103/10
Sabre (Men's)Skiing8/108/108/102/10
Sentinel (Women's)Skiing8/108/108/102/10
Macai (Men's)SkiingReview10/108/109/101/10
Macai LT (Men's)Skiing8/107/108/101/10
Andessa (Women's)Skiing10/10TestingTesting1/10
Andessa Shell (Women's)Skiing5/10TestingTesting3/10
Theriss Down (Women's)Skiing8/106/107/102/10
Rush IS (Women's)Skiing5/10TestingTesting9/10
Sentinel IS (Women's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Ski Guide (Men's - Women's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Micon HeatherSkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Micon (Men's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Cassiar (Men's)SkiingReview8/107/108/103/10
Cassiar LT (Men's)SkiingReview6/106/106/105/10
Ravenna (Women's)SkiingReview8/107/108/103/10
Ravenna LT (Women's)SkiingReview6/106/106/105/10
Procline (Men's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Shashka Stretch (Women's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Sabre AR (Men's)SkiingReview7/108/107/107/10
Sentinel AR (Women's)SkiingReview7/108/107/107/10
Sabre LT (Men's)SkiingReview7/108/107/108/10
Sentinel LT (Women's)SkiingReview7/108/107/108/10
Incendia (Women's)SkiingReview8/109/109/103/10
Indencia ISSkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting
Norvan LT (Men's - Women's)Running5/105/108/106/10
Squamish (Men's - Women's)RunningReview5/104/107/109/10
Norvan SL Ins. (Women's)RunningTestingTestingTestingTesting
Cita (Women's)RunningReview7/104/105/1010/10
Cita SL (Women's)RunningReview7/104/104/1010/10
Incendo (Men's)RunningReview7/104/105/1010/10
Incendo SL (Men's)RunningReview7/104/104/1010/10
Incendo AirshellRunningTestingTestingTestingTesting
Norvan SL (Men's - Women's)RunningReview7/106/108/108/10
Trino SL (Men's)RunningReview8/105/107/106/10
Trino SL Anorak (Women's)RunningReview8/107/108/107/10
Nodin (Men's - Women's)Running8/105/105/1010/10
Solano (Men's - Women's)Around TownReviewTestingTestingTestingTesting
Venda Anorak (Women's)Around TownTestingTestingTestingTesting
Zeta FL (Men's - Women's)Hiking4/106/104/106/10betazeta
Zeta SL (Men's - Women's)HikingReview3/105/104/105/10betazeta
Zeta LT (Men's - Women's)Hiking5/107/108/105/10betazeta
Zeta AR (Men's)Hiking7/108/107/104/10betazeta
 


Beta AR (see image). It's my one of two favorite Arc'teryx pieces, along with Proton LT. 

First thing you should know about these jackets is that Beta Long does NOT come with a two-way zipper. 

On Arcteryx.com's Beta Long product page, there's misinformation about this, so I wanted to clear this out of the way ASAP. I'm sure they'll also correct it there soon. 

As you can also see in Arc'teryx's Naming Scheme Page here as well - "Beta" and "Zeta" lines translate to All Round and Hiking/Trekking specific pieces in Arc'teryx terminology. 

  • Latest on the blog:
  • 13 Mar 2023: I've been to Pfander and floodplain forests with my Nuclei SV
  • 13 Dec 2022: Arc'teryx Alpha Parka Review: The most impressive jacket of all time
  • 8 Dec 2022: Arc'teryx ReGEAR: OutdoorCrunch exclusive promo code!
  • 7 Nov 2022: 2023 Thorium Hoody is in - as well as the new Thorium Parka (yes, parka)
  • 2 Nov 2022: Beta Insulated Jacket: Pit zips AND two way zipper!
  • 7 October 2022: Proton Hybrid Hoody is live! The ultimate do it all?
  • 5 October 2022: DropHood vs StormHood: Pros/cons and best uses
  • 5 September 2022: Reviewing Arc'teryx Fall Winter 22/23 Gear
  • 5 August 2022: 5 things all Arc'teryx newbies should know
  • #A sidenote here: Arc'teryx's PDF guide to jackets is GOOOLLLLDDDDD. Absolutely check that out too if you're interested in buying one. 
 

REI blog also published a great article about the comparison of Beta and Zeta jackets here: https://www.rei.com/blog/hike/comparing-arcteryx-beta-zeta-jackets

Now, before I get to the typical buyer profiles, let me tell you that you must have a good reason to get a Zeta SL, and a very good reason to get a Beta Long. 

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

Because, Zeta SL is an emergency shell, and Beta Long somehow feels misplaced in the entire Arc'teryx line. 

  • Cheatsheet: Arc'teryx Jackets

Use this chart to compare Arc'teryx shells to one another. 

NameBottom lineActivityReviewBreathabilityWeather Res.DurabilityPackabilityTemp (F/C)Pit zips?Two way zipper?Stuffs into itself?Hood?Face FabricFitWeightLengthMeasurements
Alpha FL (Men's - Women's)Climbing4/105/106/1010/10N/ANoNoYesStormHoodHadron 3L Gore-TexTrim209 g / 7.4 oz76.5 cm / 30 in[Men's / Women's]
Alpha SL (Men's - Women's)Climbing3/104/106/109/10N/ANoNoYesStormHoodN40p 3L Gore-TexTrim326 g / 11.5 oz77.5 cm / 30.5 in[Men's / Women's]
Alpha AR (Men's - Women's)Go-to climbing harshell. ClimbingReview8/107/108/104/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN40d & N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex ProRegular430 g / 15.2 oz79.5 cm / 31.25 in[Men's]
Alpha SV (Men's - Women's)Strongest climbing hardshell. ClimbingReview8/1010/1010/103/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN100d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex ProRegular510 g / 1 lb 2 oz78 cm / 30.75 in[Men's]
Alpha IS (Men's)Climbing7/105/105/108/1023/-5NoYesYesStormHoodN40p-X 2L Gore-TexRegular610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz78 cm / 30.75 in
Beta (Men's - Women's)All Round5/105/104/105/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodN30p-X 3L Gore-TexFitted300 g / 10.6 oz76 cm / 30 in
Beta Long (Men's)All RoundReview5/108/108/103/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodN80p 3L Gore-TexRegular441 g / 15.6 oz85 cm / 33.5 in
Beta Coat (Women's)All Round7/105/104/105/10N/ANoYesNoStormHood3L Gore-TexRegular320 g / 11.3 oz?[Men's / Women's]
Beta LT Hadron (Men's - Women's)All Round5/105/104/105/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodHadron 3L Gore-TexFitted255g / 9 oz76 cm / 30 in
Beta LT (Men's - Women's)Beta AR alternative. All RoundReview8/107/108/105/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN40d 3L Gore-TexFitted395 g / 13.9 oz76 cm / 30 in
Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's)Best insulated shell. All Round10/104/104/102/1021/-6YesYesNoStormHoodN40d 2L Gore-TexRegular680 g / 1 lb 8 oz78.5 cm / 31 in[Men's / Women's]
Beta Insulated Coat (Women's)Beta Insulated alternative. All Round7/104/104/102/1016/-9NoYesNoStormHoodN40d 2L Gore-TexRegular600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz?[Men's / Women's]
Beta AR (Men's - Women's)Go-to all-round harshell. All RoundReview8/108/108/104/10N/AYesNoNoDropHoodN40r-X & N80p-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex ProRegular460 g / 1 lb 76 cm / 30 in
Beta SV (Men's - Women's)Strongest all-round harshell. All RoundReview8/1010/109/103/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80p-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex ProRegular495 g / 1 lb 1.5 oz79 cm / 31 in[Men's / Women's]
Alpine Guide (Men's - Women's)All Round8/1010/109/103/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80d-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex ProRegular480g / 1 lb 0.9 oz?[Men's]
Gamma SL (Men's - Women's)A trimmer Gamma LT. All RoundReview7/102/106/105/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodFortius 1.0Trim310 g / 10.9 oz74 cm / 29.1 in[Men's / Women's]
Gamma LT (Men's)A fleeceless, trimmer Gamma MX. All RoundReview7/103/107/103/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodWee BurlyRegular545 g / 1 lb 3.2 oz76 cm / 30 in[Men's / Women's]
Gamma MX (Men's - Women's)A softshell with a fleece. All RoundReview6/104/108/103/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodFortius 2.0Regular555 g / 1 lb 3.6 oz74 cm / 29.1 in[Men's / Women's]
Rush (Men's - Women's)Go-to ski jacket. SkiingReview8/109/109/103/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80p-X & N100p-X 3L Most Rugged Gore-Tex ProRegular590 g / 1 lb 4.8 oz79.5 cm / 31.25 in[Men's]
Sabre (Men's)Alternative to Rush. Skiing8/108/108/102/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80p-X 3L Gore-TexRegular705 g / 1 lb 8.9 oz79 cm / 31 in
Sentinel (Women's)Skiing8/108/108/102/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexRegular370 g / 13.1 oz?
Macai (Men's)Go-to insulated ski jacket. SkiingReview10/108/109/101/105/-15YesNoNoDropHoodN40p-X 3L Gore-TexRegular1 kg / 2 lb 3.3 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Macai LT (Men's)A lighter Macai with StormHood. Skiing8/107/108/101/108/-13YesNoNoStormHoodN40p-X 3L Gore-TexRegular855 g / 1 lb 14.2 oz?[Men's]
Andessa (Women's)Go-to insulated ski jacket. Skiing10/10TestingTesting1/108/-13YesNoNoDropHoodN40d 3L Gore-TexTrim869 g / 1 lb 14.7 oz?
Andessa Shell (Women's)Non-insulated Andessa. Skiing5/10TestingTesting3/10N/ANoNoNoDropHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexTrim560 g / 1 lb 3.8 oz?
Theriss Down (Women's)Skiing8/106/107/102/10TestingYesNoNoStormHoodN80p 2L Gore-TexRegular709 g / 1 lb 9 oz?
Rush IS (Women's)An insulated Rush. Skiing5/10TestingTesting9/1016/-9NoNoYesStormHoodGore-Tex InfiniumRegular515 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz?
Sentinel IS (Women's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTesting21/-6YesNoNoStormHoodN80p 2L Gore-TexRegular600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz?[Women's]
Ski Guide (Men's - Women's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTestingN/AYesNoNoDropHoodN80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex ProRegular570 g / 1 lb 4.1 oz?
Micon HeatherSkiingTestingTestingTestingTestingN/AYesNoNoStormHoodNP100-d 3L Gore-TexRegular685 g / 1 lb 8.2 oz83 cm / 32.5 in[Men's]
Micon (Men's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTestingN/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80p 3L Gore-TexRegular685 g / 1 lb 8.2 oz83 cm / 32.5 in[Men's]
Cassiar (Men's)SkiingReview8/107/108/103/10N/AYesNoNoDropHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexTrim820 g / 1 lb 12.9 oz74.5 cm / 29.3 in[Women's]
Cassiar LT (Men's)SkiingReview6/106/106/105/10N/AYesNoNoDropHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexTrim605 g / 1 lb 5.3 oz75 cm / 29.5 in[Women's]
Ravenna (Women's)SkiingReview8/107/108/103/10N/AYesNoNoDropHoodN70s-4 3L Gore-TexTrim725 g / 1 lb 9.6 oz69.5 cm / 27.4 in[Men's]
Ravenna LT (Women's)SkiingReview6/106/106/105/10N/AYesNoNoDropHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexTrim540 g / 1 lb 3 oz69 cm / 27.2 in[Men's]
Procline (Men's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTestingN/AYesNoNoStormHoodN70p Gore-Tex InfiniumTrim720 g / 1 lb 9.4 oz76 cm / 30 in[Women's]
Shashka Stretch (Women's)SkiingTestingTestingTestingTestingN/AYesNoNoStormHoodN70p Gore-Tex InfiniumTrim670 g / 1 lb 7.6 oz71 cm / 28 in[Women's]
Sabre AR (Men's)SkiingReview7/108/107/107/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexRegular700 g / 1 lb 8.7 oz79 cm / 31 in[Men's]
Sentinel AR (Women's)SkiingReview7/108/107/107/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN70p 3L Gore-TexRegular590 g / 1 lb 4.8 oz72.5 cm / 28.5 in[Women's]
Sabre LT (Men's)SkiingReview7/108/107/108/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80p 3L Gore-TexRegular660 g / 1 lb 7.3 oz83 cm / 32.5 in
Sentinel LT (Women's)SkiingReview7/108/107/108/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodN80p 3L Gore-TexRegular565 g / 1 lb 3.9 oz73.5 cm / 29 in
Incendia (Women's)SkiingReview8/109/109/103/10N/AYesNoNoStormHoodNP100d 3L Gore-TexTrim610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz79 cm / 31 in[Women's]
Indencia ISSkiingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingYesNoNoStormHoodN80p 2L Gore-TexRegular?78 cm / 30.75 in[Men's / Women's]
Norvan LT (Men's - Women's)Go-to running jacket. Running5/105/108/106/10N/ANoNoNoStandardN13p 3L Gore-TexFitted190 g / 6.7 oz?[Women's]
Squamish (Men's - Women's)Trimmer, lighter, packable running jacket. RunningReview5/104/107/109/10N/ANoNoYesStormHood30D TyonoTrim140 g / 4.9 oz77.5 cm / 30.5 in[Women's]
Norvan SL Ins. (Women's)RunningTestingTestingTestingTesting39/4NoNoYesStandardGore-Tex ShakeDryTrim270 g / 9.5 oz71.5 cm / 28.1 in[Women's]
Cita (Women's)RunningReview7/104/105/1010/10N/ANoNoYesStandardLuminTrim120 g / 4.2 oz67.5 cm / 26.5 in[Men's]
Cita SL (Women's)RunningReview7/104/104/1010/10N/AYesNoYesStandardPermeair 20Trim65 g / 2.3 oz61.5 cm / 24.2 in[Men's]
Incendo (Men's)RunningReview7/104/105/1010/10N/ANoNoYesStandardLuminTrim125 g / 4.4 oz?
Incendo SL (Men's)RunningReview7/104/104/1010/10N/ANoNoYesStandardPermair 20 & CanimTrim80 g / 2.8 oz73 cm / 28.75 in[Men's / Women's]
Incendo AirshellRunningTestingTestingTestingTestingN/ANoNoYesStandard????[Men's]
Norvan SL (Men's - Women's)RunningReview7/106/108/108/10N/ANoNoYesStandardGore-Tex InfiniumTrim120 g / 4.2 oz77 cm / 30.4 in[Women's]
Trino SL (Men's)RunningReview8/105/107/106/10N/ANoNoNoStandardGore-Tex InfiniumTrim340 g / 12 oz74 cm / 29.1 in[Men's / Women's]
Trino SL Anorak (Women's)RunningReview8/107/108/107/10N/ANoNoNoStandardGore-Tex InfiniumTrim290 g / 10.2 oz65 cm / 25.5 in[Men's / Women's]
Nodin (Men's - Women's)Running8/105/105/1010/10N/ANoNoYesStandard20D TyonoTrim155 g / 5.5 oz75 cm / 29.5 in[Men's / Women's]
Solano (Men's - Women's)Around TownReviewTestingTestingTestingTestingN/ANoNoNoStandardGore-Tex InfiniumRelaxed355 g / 12.5 oz72 cm / 28.3 in
Venda Anorak (Women's)Around TownTestingTestingTestingTestingN/ANoNoNoStandardGore-TexRelaxed255 g / 9 oz75.5 cm / 29.7 in
Zeta FL (Men's - Women's)Hiking4/106/104/106/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodN20r 2L Gore-TexTrim221 g / 7.8 oz76 cm / 30 in[Men's / Women's]
Zeta SL (Men's - Women's)HikingReview3/105/104/105/10N/ANoNoNoStormHood2L Gore-TexTrim310 g / 10.9 oz77.8 cm / 30.6 in[Men's]
Zeta LT (Men's - Women's)Hiking5/107/108/105/10N/ANoNoNoStormHoodN40P-X 3L Gore-TexTrim335 g / 11.8 oz78 cm / 30.75 in[Men's]
Zeta AR (Men's)Hiking7/108/107/104/10N/AYesNoNoStormHood3L Gore-TexRegular425 g / 15 oz80 cm / 31.5 in

More about this chart: https://outdoorcrunch.com/best-arcteryx-shells/ 

If you're confused now and don't know which jacket best corresponds to your own needs, then follow the advice given below: 

  • https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/jacket-finder/
  • https://outdoorcrunch.com/best-arcteryx-jacket/

Also see: 

NameEst. Temp (F/C)ReviewPit venting?Stuffs into itself?Two way zipper?TypeFill PowerFill Weight (grams)Fill Volume (FP x FW)Synthetic Insulator (SI)SI AmountFace FabricActivityFitWeightLength (CB)
Arc'teryx Alpha (Men's - Women's)-18/-28ReviewNoYesYesDown850296251,600Coreloft90 g/m²N30r 2L GoreTex InfiniumClimbingRegular805 g / 1 lb 12.4 oz86 cm / 34 in
Feathered Friends Khumbu-17/-27NoYesNoDown900378340,200Primaloft Gold200 gPretex Shield XTAll RoundRegular960 g / 2 lb 2 oz?
Arc'teryx Ceres SV (Men's - Women's)-15/-26ReviewNoYesYesDown850240204,000Coreloft?Arato 30All RoundRegular880 g / 1 lb 15 oz86 cm / 34 in
Mountain Equipment K7 (Men's)-13/-25NoYesYesDown800300240,000N/AN/A30D DriliteAll RoundRegular820 g / 1 lb 13 oz76 cm / 30 in
Rab Positron Pro (Men's)-13/-25NoYesYesDown800300240,000N/AN/A40D Pertex Quantum ProAll RoundRegular740 g / 1 lb 10 oz85 cm / 33.5 in
Arc'teryx Therme SV (Men's)-11/-24ReviewNoNoYesParka750211158,250Coreloft60 g/m²2L Gore-TexAround TownRegular1.072 kg / 2 lb 5.8 oz96 cm / 37.75 in
Patagonia Grade VII (Men's)-11/-24NoNoYesDown800335268,000N/AN/A1.2 oz 15 & 20D Perfex QuantumAround TownRegular743 g / 1 lb 10.1 oz83 cm / 32.5 in
Arc'teryx Firebee AR (Men's - Women's)-10/-23ReviewNoYesYesDown800225180,000N/AN/AArato 7 & 10All RoundRegular680 g / 1 lb 8 oz79 cm / 31 in
Mountain Equipment Exo (Men's)-10/-23NoYesYesDown800265212,000N/AN/ANylonAll RoundRegular770 g / 1 lb 11.2 oz79 cm / 31 in
Arc'teryx Thorsen (Men's)-7/-22ReviewNoNoYesParka750192144,000Coreloft60 g/m²90D 2L Gore-TexAround TownRegular1.1 kg / 2 lb 5.4 oz91 cm / 36 in
Patagonia Frozen Range (Men's - Women's)-6/-21ReviewNoNoNoParka700268187,600N/AN/A4 oz 75-denier polyesterAround TownRegular1.253 kg / 2 lb 12.2 oz84 cm / 33 in
Mountain Equipment Li. Ec. (Men's - Women's)-5/-20NoNoYesDown700295206,500N/AN/A50D DriliteAll RoundRegular822 g / 1 lb 13 oz72 cm / 28 in
Arc'teryx Patera Long (Women's)-2/-19NoNoYesParka7507455,500Coreloft60 + 80 g/m²2L Gore-TexAround TownRegular1.1 kg / 2 lb 6.8 oz117.5 cm / 46.25 in
Rab Neutrino Pro (Men's - Women's)-2/-19NoYesYesDown800212169,600N/AN/A20D Pertex Quantum ProAll RoundRegular585 g / 1 lb 8.6 oz77 cm / 30.3 in
Arc'teryx Dually Belay (Men's)0/-18ReviewNoYesYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/AThermaTek92 g/m²30D NylonAround TownRegular705 g / 1 lb 9 oz84 cm / 33 in
Arc'teryx Centrale (Women's)0/-18ReviewNoNoYesParka750157117,750Coreloft60 g/m²N90p NylonAround TownRegular885 g / 1 lb 15.2 oz95 cm / 37.5 in
Arc'teryx Camosun (Men's)0/-18ReviewNoNoNoParka75010578,750Coreloft140 g/m²N150p-X Gore-TexAround TownTrim960 g / 2 lb 1.9 oz80 cm / 31.5 in
Arc'teryx Cerium SV (Men's)0/-18ReviewNoYesNoDown850162137,700Coreloft80 + 140 g/m²Arato 7 & 10All RoundRegular415 g / 14.6 oz69.5 cm / 27.4 in
Arc'teryx Revet (Men's)2/-17NoNoYesParka750?N/AN/A20d nylon/spandex double weaveAround TownRegular755 g / 1 lb 10.6 oz91 cm / 36 in
Arc'teryx Piedmont (Men's)3/-16NoYesYesParka750218163,500N/AN/AArato 10Around TownRegular515 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz82 cm / 32.25 in
Arc'teryx Fission SV (Men's - Women's)3/-16ReviewNoNoYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous90 + 65 g/m²N80p-X Gore-Tex 2LAll RoundRegular890 g / 1 lb 15.4 oz81 cm / 31.8 in
Arc'teryx Alpha Lightweight (Men's)3/-16NoYesYesDown85011799,450Coreloft Compact40 g/m²Hadron 2L Gore-Tex InfiniumClimbingRegular540 g / 1 lb 3 oz?
Outdoor Research Sup. Alp. (Men's - Women's)3/-16NoNoYesDown800182145,600N/AN/A30D Pertex Quantum ProAll RoundRegular825 g / 1 lb 13.1 oz85 cm / 33.5 in
Arc'teryx Alessa Long (Women's)3/-16NoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft80 + 120 g/m²N90p 2L Gore-TexAround TownRegular1.015 kg / 2 lb 3.8 oz123 cm / 48.5 in
Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 (Men's - Women's)3/-16ReviewNoNoNoParka70011882,600N/AN/A5.5 oz polyesterAround TownRegular1.307 kg / 2 lb 14.1 oz85 cm / 33.5 in
Arc'teryx Radsten Parka (Men's)3/-16NoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact120 g/m²NP100d Gore-Tex 2LAround TownRegular745 g / 1 lb 10.3 oz82 cm / 32.25 in
Rab Electron Pro (Men's - Women's)5/-15NoYesYesDown800180144,000N/AN/A20D Pertex Quantum ProAll RoundRegular525 g / 1 lb 2.5 oz74 cm / 29 in
Arc'teryx Therme Parka (Men's)5/-15ReviewNoNoYesParka75012090,000Coreloft60 + 80 g/m²P75d PolyesterAround TownRegular991 g / 2 lb 3 oz85 cm / 33.5 in
Arc'teryx Macai (Men's)5/-15ReviewYes, zipsNoNoDown7506951,750Coreloft Compact60 + 100 g/m²N40p-X 3L Gore-TexSki/SnowboardRegular1 kg / 2 lb 4 oz76 cm / 30 in
Arc'teryx Nuclei SV (Men's)5/-15ReviewNoYesYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous180 g/m2 + 90 g/m2Arato 15ClimbingRegular600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz81 cm / 31.8 in
Patagonia DAS Parka (Men's)5/-15NoYesYesParkaN/AN/AN/APrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco133 + 40 gPertex Quantum ProAround TownRegular555 g / 1lb 3.6 oz84 cm / 33 in
Arc'teryx Patera (Women's)5/-15ReviewNoNoYesParka7505843,500Coreloft60 + 80 g/m²2L Gore-TexAround TownTrim867 g / 1 lb 14.6 oz93 cm / 37 in
Black Diamond Access Down (Men's - Women's)7/-14NoYesYesDown700155108,500N/AN/A30D ripstop nylonAll RoundRegular442 g / 15.6 oz76 cm / 29.75 in
Arc'teryx Kappa (Men's)7/-14ReviewNoNoYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous140 g/m²N70p Gore ThermiumAll RoundRegular755 g / 1 lb 10.6 oz80 cm / 31.5 in
Arc'teryx Prema Down Coat (Women's)7/-14NoNoYesParka7509269,000N/AN/ANylonAround TownRegular794 g / 1 lb 12 oz117 cm / 46.1 in
Arc'teryx Radsten Insulated (Men's)7/-14NoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact120 g/m²NP100d Gore-Tex 2LAround TownRegular715 g / 1 lb 9.2 oz73 cm / 28.75 in
Rab Microlight Alpine (Men's - Women's)7/-14NoYesNoDown700153107,100N/AN/A30D Pertex QuantumAll RoundRegular466 g / 1 lb 0.5 oz72 cm / 28.5 in
Arc'teryx Thorium (Men's - Women's)7/-14ReviewNoYesYesDown750140105,000Coreloft80 + 140 g/m²Arato 30All RoundRegular517 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz71.5 cm / 28.1 in
Feathered Friends Eos8/-13NoYesNoDown90010594,500N/AN/APertex QuantumAll RoundRegular306 g / 10.8 oz?
Arc'teryx Thorium AR (Men's - Women's)8/-13ReviewNoYesNoDown75013097,500Coreloft80 + 140 g/m²Arato 30All RoundRegular490 g / 1 lb 1.3 oz72 cm / 28.3 in
Patagonia Macro Puff (Men's - Women's)8/-13ReviewNoNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/APlumaFill135 + 90 g10D Recycled nylon ripstopAll RoundRegular435 g / 15.3 oz79 cm / 31 in
Arc'teryx Macai LT (Men's)8/-13Yes, zipsNoNoDown7504936,750Coreloft Compact60 g/m²N40p-X 3L Gore-TexSki/SnowboardRegular855 g / 1 lb 14.2 oz74 cm / 29.1 in
Arc'teryx Seyla (Women's)8/-13NoNoYesParka7509269,000N/AN/AArato 10Around TownRegular507 g / 1 lb. 1.9 oz.87 cm / 34.4 in
Patagonia Fitz Roy (Men's - Women's)8/-13NoYesNoDown800128102,400N/AN/A20D NylonAll RoundRegular632 g / 1lb 6.3 oz74 cm / 29 in
Arc'teryx Koda (Men's)8/-13NoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft80 + 140 g/m²N80p-X Gore-TexAround TownRegular720 g / 1 lb 9.4 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Patagonia Vosque 3-in-1 (Women's)10/-12ReviewNoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/AThermoLite100 g65% nylon, 35% polyesterAround TownRegular1.360 kg / 3 lb90 cm / 35.5 in
Patagonia City Storm Down (Men's - Women's)12/-11NoYesNoParka700191133,700N/AN/A4.2 oz polyesterAll RoundRegular468 g / 16.5 oz91 cm / 36 in
Patagonia Jackson Glacier (Men's - Women's)12/-11ReviewNoNoYesParka70014198,700N/AN/A3.6 oz 50D polyesterAround TownRegular880 g / 1 lb 15 oz79 cm / 31 in
Arc'teryx Sensa (Women's)14/-10NoNoYesParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact120 g/m²NP100d Gore-Tex 2LAround TownRelaxed785 g / 1 lb 11.7 oz86 cm / 34 in
Patagonia Hi Loft Down (Men's - Women's)14/-10ReviewNoYesNoDown600177106,200N/AN/A1.4 oz 30D polyesterAll RoundRegular540 g / 1 lb 3 oz76 cm / 30 in
REI Magma 850 Hoodie 2.0 (Men's - Women's)14/-10NoYesNoDown850120102,000N/AN/APertex mini ripstop nylonAll RoundRegular340 g / 13.75 oz74 cm / 29.25 in
Arc'teryx Beta Insulated Coat (Women's)16/-9ReviewNoNoYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft 80 g/m² + 120 g/m²2L 40D Gore-TexAround TownRegular600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz?
Arc'teryx Atom AR (Men's - Women's)18/-8ReviewYes, meshNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous120 g/m2 + 80 g/m2 + 60 g/m230D TyonoAll RoundRegular475 g / 1 lb 74 cm / 29.1 in
Patagonia Downdrift (Men's - Women's)18/-8NoNoNoDown600279167,400N/AN/A4.2 oz polyesterAround TownRegular1.014 kg / 2 lb 3.8 oz?
Arc'teryx Magnus (Men's)19/-7NoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft80 gN60p Gore-Tex 2LAround TownRegular690 g / 1 lb 8.3 oz83 cm / 32.5 in
Arc'teryx Agrium (Men's - Women's)21/-6NoYesNoDown85011799,450N/AN/AAratoAll RoundRegular365 g / 12.9 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Patagonia AlpLight Down (Men's - Women's)21/-6NoYesNoDown80010080,000N/AN/A0.8 oz 10D polyesterAll RoundSlim270 g / 9.5 oz74 cm / 29 in
Arc'teryx Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's)21/-6ReviewYes, zipsNoYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous80 g/m²2L 40D Gore-TexAll RoundRegular680 g / 1 lb 8 oz78.5 cm / 31 in
Patagonia Topley (Men's)23/-5NoNoYesDown700172120,400N/AN/A6 oz polyesterAll RoundRegular1.133 kg / 2 lb 8 oz77 cm / 30.5 in
Arc'teryx Alpha IS (Men's)23/-5NoYesYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous65 g/m²N40p-X 2L Gore-TexClimbingRegular610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz78 cm / 30.75 in
Rab Xenon 2.0 (Men's - Women's)23/-5NoYesYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/APrimaLoft Silver60 g30D Pertex QuantumAll RoundRegular385 g / 13.6 oz71.5 cm / 28.1 in
Patagonia Down Sweater (Men's - Women's)23/-5ReviewNoYesNoDown800150120,000N/AN/A1.4 oz 20x30D polyesterAll RoundRegular428 g / 15.1 oz67 cm / 26.25 in
Arc'teryx Ralle Parka (Men's)25/-4NoNoYesParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft 80 g/m²2L 40D Gore-TexAround TownRegular735 g / 1 lb 9.9 oz?
Patagonia Silent Down (Men's - Women's)26/-3ReviewNoNoNoDown70010976,300N/AN/A2.2 oz polyesterAround TownRegular585 g / 1 lb 4.7 oz74 cm / 29 in
Arc'teryx Therme Insulated (Men's)26/-3ReviewNoNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact40 g/m²2L Gore-TexAround TownRegular960 g / 2 lb 1.9 oz73 cm / 28.75 in
Arc'teryx Cerium (Men's - Women's)26/-3NoYesNoDown85011396,050Coreloft 80 + 100 g/m²Arato 15All RoundTrim335 g / 11.8 oz?
Mountain Hardwear GW/2 (Men's - Women's)28/-2NoYesNoDown8008568,000N/AN/A10D Ripstop NylonAll RoundTrim250 g / 8.8 oz70 cm / 27.5 in
Arc'teryx Cerium LT (Men's - Women's)28/-2ReviewNoYesNoDown85010286,700Coreloft 80 + 100 g/m²Arato 10All RoundTrim305 g / 10.8 oz72 cm / 28.3 in
Arc'teryx Nuclei FL (Men's - Women's)32/0ReviewNoYesNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous65 g/m²Arato 10rClimbingTrim325 g / 11.5 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Patagonia DAS Light (Men's - Women's)34/1NoYesYesSyntheticN/AN/AN/APlumaFill65 g0.8-oz 10-denier Pertex Quantum ProClimbingRegular320 g / 11.3 oz77 cm / 30.5 in
Patagonia Micro Puff (Men's - Women's)36/2ReviewNoYesNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/APlumaFill65 gPertex QuantumAll RoundTrim298 g / 10.5 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Patagonia Isthmus (Men's)36/2NoNoNoParkaN/AN/AN/AThermoGreen60 g4.2 oz polyesterAround TownRegular895 g / 1 lb 15.6 oz70 cm / 27.5 in
Arc'teryx Proton LT (Men's - Women's)37/3ReviewNoNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact80 g/m2 + 60 g/m2Fortius Air 20ClimbingTrim375 g / 13.2 oz75 cm / 29.4 in
Patagonia Nano Puff (Men's - Women's)37/3ReviewNoYesNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/APrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco60 g22D PolyesterAll RoundRegular363 g / 12.8 oz71.5 cm / 28 in
Arc'teryx Norvan SL Ins. (Men's - Women's)39/4NoYesNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact40 g/m²Gore-Tex ShakeDryRunningTrim270 g / 9.5 oz71.5 cm / 28.1 in
Patagonia Nano Air (Men's - Women's)41/5ReviewNoNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/AFullRange60 g33D Nylon ripstopAll RoundTrim318 g / 11.2 oz?
Arc'teryx Atom LT (Men's - Women's)43/6ReviewYes, meshNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Continuous60 g/m²20D TyonoAll RoundTrim375 g / 13.2 oz74 cm / 29.1 in
Arc'teryx Cerium SL (Men's - Women's)43/6ReviewNoYesNoDown8505849,300Coreloft 40 + 100 g/m²Arato 7All RoundTrim215 g / 7.6 oz69 cm / 27.2 in
Arc'teryx Proton Hybrid (Men's - Women's)46/8ReviewNoNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact40 g/m²Fortius™ Air 50All RoundTrim365 g / 12.9 oz?
Arc'teryx Proton FL (Men's)48/9ReviewNoNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/AOcta Loft94 g/m²Fortius Air 20ClimbingTrim323 g / 11.4 oz77 cm / 30.4 in
Arc'teryx Atom SL (Men's - Women's)52/11ReviewYes, meshNoNoSyntheticN/AN/AN/ACoreloft Compact40 g/m²20D TyonoAll RoundTrim245 g / 8.6 oz72 cm / 28.3 in
REI Stormhenge Hybrid (Men's - Women's)TestingYes, zipsNoNoDown850?N/AN/A40D + 80DAll RoundRegular900 g / 1 lb 15.75 oz80 cm / 31.5 in
Arc'teryx Monitor Insulated (Women's)TestingNoNoYesParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft80 + 100 g/m²40D 3L Gore-TexAround TownOversized645 g / 1 lb 6.8 oz93 cm / 37 in
Arc'teryx Coelle (Women's)TestingNoNoYesParkaN/AN/AN/ACoreloft80 + 140 g/m²40D 2L Gore-TexAround TownRegular460 g / 1 lb 0.2 oz93 cm / 37 in

New member of Beta line Beta Long (Men's) feels weird. Really weird. A combination of N80p face fabric and regular Gore-Tex (not Gore-Tex Pro) is confusing. 

It's like they could make it either more breathable or more weather resistant & durable - but they messed up and ended up not achieving either one of these. Beta Long is kind of in purgatory. 

Beta Long is only available for men, and Zeta AR only for women (see both of them in this image). It also kind of feels like Arc'teryx tried to make a Zeta AR for men with Beta Long. I don't know. Even if this was what they tried, I think they still failed anyway. Because I wouldn't consider Zeta AR to be an unnecessary piece at all. It's actually a pretty solid one - and I recommend it to my hiker readers in my Best Arc'teryx Jackets post. 

To me, the only upside of it is that it's available in XXS and XXXL. We rarely see Arc'teryx offering these sizes. 

Speaking of which, no other Beta or Zeta offer either one of them. 

Other selling point can be seen as the suitability tall folks (owing to its lengthier nature) - but I kind of disagree with this. I'd rather get a slightly shorter jacket than a perfectly fitting Beta Long. The fact that it's lengthier doesn't justify its shortcomings. At least that's the case to me. 

In addition to that, length of other jackets in this roundup are more than enough for most of us - even for very tall folks (6'1"+). 

Tech specs

Find their spec comparison below. 

NameActivityReviewFace FabricWeightLengthbetazeta
Alpha FL (Men's - Women's)ClimbingHadron 3L Gore-Tex209 g / 7.4 oz76.5 cm / 30 inalpha
Alpha SL (Men's - Women's)ClimbingN40p 3L Gore-Tex326 g / 11.5 oz77.5 cm / 30.5 inalpha
Alpha AR (Men's - Women's)ClimbingReviewN40d & N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro430 g / 15.2 oz79.5 cm / 31.25 inalpha
Alpha SV (Men's - Women's)ClimbingReviewN100d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro510 g / 1 lb 2 oz78 cm / 30.75 inalpha
Alpha IS (Men's)ClimbingN40p-X 2L Gore-Tex610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz78 cm / 30.75 inalpha
Beta (Men's - Women's)All RoundN30p-X 3L Gore-Tex300 g / 10.6 oz76 cm / 30 inbetazeta
Beta Long (Men's)All RoundReviewN80p 3L Gore-Tex441 g / 15.6 oz85 cm / 33.5 inbetazeta
Beta Coat (Women's)All Round3L Gore-Tex320 g / 11.3 oz?betazeta
Beta LT Hadron (Men's - Women's)All RoundHadron 3L Gore-Tex255g / 9 oz76 cm / 30 inbetazeta
Beta LT (Men's - Women's)All RoundReviewN40d 3L Gore-Tex395 g / 13.9 oz76 cm / 30 inbetazeta
Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's)All RoundN40d 2L Gore-Tex680 g / 1 lb 8 oz78.5 cm / 31 inbetazeta
Beta Insulated Coat (Women's)All RoundN40d 2L Gore-Tex600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz?betazeta
Beta AR (Men's - Women's)All RoundReviewN40r-X & N80p-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro460 g / 1 lb 76 cm / 30 inbetazeta
Beta SV (Men's - Women's)All RoundReviewN80p-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro495 g / 1 lb 1.5 oz79 cm / 31 inbetazeta
Alpine Guide (Men's - Women's)All RoundN80d-X Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro480g / 1 lb 0.9 oz?
Gamma SL (Men's - Women's)All RoundReviewFortius 1.0310 g / 10.9 oz74 cm / 29.1 ingamma
Gamma LT (Men's)All RoundReviewWee Burly545 g / 1 lb 3.2 oz76 cm / 30 ingamma
Gamma MX (Men's - Women's)All RoundReviewFortius 2.0555 g / 1 lb 3.6 oz74 cm / 29.1 ingamma
Rush (Men's - Women's)SkiingReviewN80p-X & N100p-X 3L Most Rugged Gore-Tex Pro590 g / 1 lb 4.8 oz79.5 cm / 31.25 in
Sabre (Men's)SkiingN80p-X 3L Gore-Tex705 g / 1 lb 8.9 oz79 cm / 31 in
Sentinel (Women's)SkiingN70p 3L Gore-Tex370 g / 13.1 oz?
Macai (Men's)SkiingReviewN40p-X 3L Gore-Tex1 kg / 2 lb 3.3 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Macai LT (Men's)SkiingN40p-X 3L Gore-Tex855 g / 1 lb 14.2 oz?
Andessa (Women's)SkiingN40d 3L Gore-Tex869 g / 1 lb 14.7 oz?
Andessa Shell (Women's)SkiingN70p 3L Gore-Tex560 g / 1 lb 3.8 oz?
Theriss Down (Women's)SkiingN80p 2L Gore-Tex709 g / 1 lb 9 oz?
Rush IS (Women's)SkiingGore-Tex Infinium515 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz?
Sentinel IS (Women's)SkiingN80p 2L Gore-Tex600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz?
Ski Guide (Men's - Women's)SkiingN80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro570 g / 1 lb 4.1 oz?
Micon HeatherSkiingNP100-d 3L Gore-Tex685 g / 1 lb 8.2 oz83 cm / 32.5 in
Micon (Men's)SkiingN80p 3L Gore-Tex685 g / 1 lb 8.2 oz83 cm / 32.5 in
Cassiar (Men's)SkiingReviewN70p 3L Gore-Tex820 g / 1 lb 12.9 oz74.5 cm / 29.3 in
Cassiar LT (Men's)SkiingReviewN70p 3L Gore-Tex605 g / 1 lb 5.3 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Ravenna (Women's)SkiingReviewN70s-4 3L Gore-Tex725 g / 1 lb 9.6 oz69.5 cm / 27.4 in
Ravenna LT (Women's)SkiingReviewN70p 3L Gore-Tex540 g / 1 lb 3 oz69 cm / 27.2 in
Procline (Men's)SkiingN70p Gore-Tex Infinium720 g / 1 lb 9.4 oz76 cm / 30 in
Shashka Stretch (Women's)SkiingN70p Gore-Tex Infinium670 g / 1 lb 7.6 oz71 cm / 28 in
Sabre AR (Men's)SkiingReviewN70p 3L Gore-Tex700 g / 1 lb 8.7 oz79 cm / 31 in
Sentinel AR (Women's)SkiingReviewN70p 3L Gore-Tex590 g / 1 lb 4.8 oz72.5 cm / 28.5 in
Sabre LT (Men's)SkiingReviewN80p 3L Gore-Tex660 g / 1 lb 7.3 oz83 cm / 32.5 in
Sentinel LT (Women's)SkiingReviewN80p 3L Gore-Tex565 g / 1 lb 3.9 oz73.5 cm / 29 in
Incendia (Women's)SkiingReviewNP100d 3L Gore-Tex610 g / 1 lb 5.5 oz79 cm / 31 in
Indencia ISSkiingN80p 2L Gore-Tex?78 cm / 30.75 in
Norvan LT (Men's - Women's)RunningN13p 3L Gore-Tex190 g / 6.7 oz?
Squamish (Men's - Women's)RunningReview30D Tyono140 g / 4.9 oz77.5 cm / 30.5 in
Norvan SL Ins. (Women's)RunningGore-Tex ShakeDry270 g / 9.5 oz71.5 cm / 28.1 in
Cita (Women's)RunningReviewLumin120 g / 4.2 oz67.5 cm / 26.5 in
Cita SL (Women's)RunningReviewPermeair 2065 g / 2.3 oz61.5 cm / 24.2 in
Incendo (Men's)RunningReviewLumin125 g / 4.4 oz?
Incendo SL (Men's)RunningReviewPermair 20 & Canim80 g / 2.8 oz73 cm / 28.75 in
Incendo AirshellRunning???
Norvan SL (Men's - Women's)RunningReviewGore-Tex Infinium120 g / 4.2 oz77 cm / 30.4 in
Trino SL (Men's)RunningReviewGore-Tex Infinium340 g / 12 oz74 cm / 29.1 in
Trino SL Anorak (Women's)RunningReviewGore-Tex Infinium290 g / 10.2 oz65 cm / 25.5 in
Nodin (Men's - Women's)Running20D Tyono155 g / 5.5 oz75 cm / 29.5 in
Solano (Men's - Women's)Around TownReviewGore-Tex Infinium355 g / 12.5 oz72 cm / 28.3 in
Venda Anorak (Women's)Around TownGore-Tex255 g / 9 oz75.5 cm / 29.7 in
Zeta FL (Men's - Women's)HikingN20r 2L Gore-Tex221 g / 7.8 oz76 cm / 30 inbetazeta
Zeta SL (Men's - Women's)HikingReview2L Gore-Tex310 g / 10.9 oz77.8 cm / 30.6 inbetazeta
Zeta LT (Men's - Women's)HikingN40P-X 3L Gore-Tex335 g / 11.8 oz78 cm / 30.75 inbetazeta
Zeta AR (Men's)Hiking3L Gore-Tex425 g / 15 oz80 cm / 31.5 inbetazeta
 

Anyways, without further ado, let's move on to typical buyer profiles because it's highly likely that you're one of these guys. 

Typical buyer profiles

  • "I really don't need any really specific features. I want to stay active during the quite cold winters in my town: A lot of fat biking, outdoor climbing, hiking, skiing, snowboarding etc. I'm looking for a jacket I can easily use during all these."

Now if this is you... 

Then I'd recommend the Beta AR (Men's - Women's) to most of you my eyes closed. 

It's one of my two favorite Arc'teryx pieces (along with Proton LT), and I think it's one of the most versatile hardshells out there (along with Beta LT). 

Beta SV (Men's - Women's) is an absolute unit. It's single handedly the most robust jacket in this roundup in entire Arc'teryx catalogue (along with Alpha SV - climbing specific counterpart of Beta SV). 

If, on the other hand, you either (1) want something even more durable than the Beta AR, (2) will be hiking in quite severe weather and/or (3) want something baggier to maximize your under layering options, then Beta SV (Men's - Women's) can be an amazing choice for you. 

You can check out my Beta AR vs SV post if you'd like to read more about this. 

If you're on the other side of the equation...

...Meaning that if you need a lighter, more packable alternative to the Beta AR, then I'd recommend you the Beta LT (Men's - Women's). 

In one of previous updates, Beta LT had gotten slammed. From an amazing Beta AR alternative, it had suddenly turned into a cheap Beta AR. 

Luckily, Arc'teryx was on the issue and they fixed it. Once more, I started to recommend it my eyes closed. It's literally a light Beta AR with minimal sacrifices. 

  • "I want to stay active during the quite cold winters in my town, will be doing various activities with my jacket, but at least 80% of the time during these activities I'll be hiking/trekking."

If this is you...

Then I would have recommended the Zeta AR (Women's) to most of you, but as I said earlier (and as you can see here), after Fall 2021 update, it's only available for women and not for men. 

You might still be able to find it on other stores such as REI and Backcountry, though. 

If you couldn't, then I'd recommend you the Beta AR (Men's - Women's). 

  • "I'm looking for an emergency shell I can pack and put on easily during in case of downpours. My main (or only) expectation from this shell is superior waterproofing."

If this is you...

Then I'd recommend you the Zeta SL (Men's - Women's). After 2021 updates, this is your only option anyway. Arc'teryx discontinued Zeta FL (read my review), Beta FL (read my review) and Beta SL Hybrid (read my review) all together.

You can still my reviews of them if you'd like, because it can be possible to find them on other retailers such as REI and Backcountry. 


One last point I'd like to make before we move on to cross price checking, if you'll be using your jacket mainly for climbing, then I'd recommend you to stop reading this post and go visit my Arc'teryx Alpha vs Beta post. 

Live price checking for Beta and Zeta lines: 

NameReviewbetazeta
Alpha FL (Men's - Women's)alpha
Alpha SL (Men's - Women's)alpha
Alpha AR (Men's - Women's)Reviewalpha
Alpha SV (Men's - Women's)Reviewalpha
Alpha IS (Men's)alpha
Beta (Men's - Women's)betazeta
Beta Long (Men's)Reviewbetazeta
Beta Coat (Women's)betazeta
Beta LT Hadron (Men's - Women's)betazeta
Beta LT (Men's - Women's)Reviewbetazeta
Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's)betazeta
Beta Insulated Coat (Women's)betazeta
Beta AR (Men's - Women's)Reviewbetazeta
Beta SV (Men's - Women's)Reviewbetazeta
Alpine Guide (Men's - Women's)
Gamma SL (Men's - Women's)Reviewgamma
Gamma LT (Men's)Reviewgamma
Gamma MX (Men's - Women's)Reviewgamma
Rush (Men's - Women's)Review
Sabre (Men's)
Sentinel (Women's)
Macai (Men's)Review
Macai LT (Men's)
Andessa (Women's)
Andessa Shell (Women's)
Theriss Down (Women's)
Rush IS (Women's)
Sentinel IS (Women's)
Ski Guide (Men's - Women's)
Micon Heather
Micon (Men's)
Cassiar (Men's)Review
Cassiar LT (Men's)Review
Ravenna (Women's)Review
Ravenna LT (Women's)Review
Procline (Men's)
Shashka Stretch (Women's)
Sabre AR (Men's)Review
Sentinel AR (Women's)Review
Sabre LT (Men's)Review
Sentinel LT (Women's)Review
Incendia (Women's)Review
Indencia IS
Norvan LT (Men's - Women's)
Squamish (Men's - Women's)Review
Norvan SL Ins. (Women's)
Cita (Women's)Review
Cita SL (Women's)Review
Incendo (Men's)Review
Incendo SL (Men's)Review
Incendo Airshell
Norvan SL (Men's - Women's)Review
Trino SL (Men's)Review
Trino SL Anorak (Women's)Review
Nodin (Men's - Women's)
Solano (Men's - Women's)Review
Venda Anorak (Women's)
Zeta FL (Men's - Women's)betazeta
Zeta SL (Men's - Women's)Reviewbetazeta
Zeta LT (Men's - Women's)betazeta
Zeta AR (Men's)betazeta


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:

  • Best Arc'teryx Jackets: My Top Picks
  • Best Patagonia Jackets: My Top Picks
  • Best Down Jackets: My Top Picks
  • Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets: My Top Picks
  • Temperature Ratings of Best Insulated Jackets
  • Arc'teryx Wiki: Complete Data Set
  • CLO values: Explained, compared & plotted
  • Ultimate Size Guide to Arc'teryx
  • StormHood vs DropHood

Complete list:

  • All Arc'teryx Shell Jackets sorted by performance
  • All Arc'teryx Ski Jackets sorted by performance
  • All Patagonia Ski Jackets sorted by performance
  • All Patagonia Winter Jackets compared
  • All Patagonia Fleeces compared
  • All Patagonia Rain Jackets compared
  • All Patagonia Down Jackets compared

Synthetic Insulated Jackets

  • Arc'teryx Proton LT
  • Patagonia Nano Air
  • Arc'teryx Atom LT
  • Arc'teryx Atom AR
  • Patagonia Nano Puff
  • Patagonia Micro Puff
  • Arc'teryx Atom SL
  • Arc'teryx Proton FL
  • Arc'teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody
  • Arc'teryx Fission SV
  • Arc'teryx Dually Belay Parka
  • Arc'teryx Atom SL Anorak
  • Arc'teryx Kappa

Down Jackets

  • Arc'teryx Cerium LT
  • Arc'teryx Cerium SV
  • Arc'teryx Cerium SL
  • Arc'teryx Thorium AR
  • Patagonia Down Sweater
  • Arc'teryx Firebee AR
  • Arc'teryx Ceres SV

Parkas

  • Arc'teryx Thorsen
  • Arc'teryx Therme
  • Arc'teryx Camosun
  • Arc'teryx Patera
  • Arc'teryx Centrale
  • Patagonia Tres
  • Patagonia Vosque

Shell Jackets

  • Arc'teryx Beta SV
  • Arc'teryx Beta FL
  • Arc'teryx Beta AR
  • Arc'teryx Alpha AR
  • Arc'teryx Alpha SV
  • Arc'teryx Gamma MX
  • Arc'teryx Gamma LT
  • Arc'teryx Gamma SL

Ski Jackets

  • Arc'teryx Rush
  • Arc'teryx Rush IS
  • Arc'teryx Sabre LT
  • Arc'teryx Sabre AR
  • Arc'teryx Cassiar
  • Arc'teryx Sidewinder
  • Arc'teryx Macai

Fleece Jackets

  • Patagonia R1
  • Patagonia R2
  • Patagonia Synchilla
  • Patagonia Better Sweater

Wind Jackets

  • Arc'teryx Solano
  • Arc'teryx Nuclei FL
  • Patagonia Houdini
  • Patagonia Houdini Air
  • Arc'teryx Squamish
  • Arc'teryx Incendo
  • Arc'teryx Norvan SL
  • Arc'teryx Trino SL

Rain Jackets

  • Patagonia Torrentshell
  • Patagonia Torrentshell Insulated
  • Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid
  • Arc'teryx Zeta FL

Also see:

  • Arc'teryx vs Patagonia
  • List of Manufacturing Facilities of all Arc'teryx Jackets

Thank you for reading!

Filed Under: Hardshell Jackets, Softshell Jackets Tagged With: arcteryx, arcteryx jackets, jackets, shell jackets

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Molly Klag says

    March 15, 2020 at 11:05 am

    Thank you for the article. It is very informative.
    I need some advice. I need a packable rain jacket for mountain hiking to layer over my Atom sl as needed. I also need it for extreme wind in the Falklands (40-50 degrees).
    I have been researching the Beta sl hybrid and Zeta lt. Can you please offer some advice?

  2. Robin Brown says

    February 11, 2021 at 8:40 pm

    Your charts are very helpful. Could you add a ranking for noise? I could use more information on quiet jackets are for someone who is hard of hearing. My understanding is that, for Goretex, C-knit is quietest, but Arc’Teryx has discontinued all C-knit products.

    Note, Beta SL is still being produced (or being produced again?). Arc’Teryx recommended that as the most similar to the Zeta AR.

  3. Sabrina says

    September 2, 2021 at 8:52 am

    Such a great article – thanks a lot!

    You mentioned that the Beta LT was much better in the past. Do you know when Arcteryx changed it?

    Best wishes from Copenhagen,
    Sabrina

  4. derek says

    August 11, 2022 at 6:02 pm

    Your research is extensive. I’d like advice for selecting a lightweight rain pant. It will primarily be used for travelling. Nothing too active. I’d like it packable and relatively light. I’ve experienced “peel offs” with a marmot brand and like to avoid that. Was looking at the Zeta SL but see it is discontinued? Thank you.

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Hey, what's up? Canberk here. I try to approach outdoor gear from a scientific point of view. Here's more about me.

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