- Patagonia and Arc'teryx are like up to 70% off at REI rn...
I've got all Atoms. Including the new versions for Winter 2024 season.
Summary
It's like comparing apples to oranges.
Atom Hw is designed for stationary or low-output use at most. It's much warmer and wind resistant than Atom.
Atom, on the other hand, is for high output activities. It provides much better breathability and mobility compared to Atom Hw.
This, in my opinion, is what your decision should primarily be based on.
Links:
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-heavyweight-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-heavyweight-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-hoody
- Atom HW vs Atom compared side-by-side: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007302-heritage/X000007487-edziza
Also read:
- Poll results: Giant Arc'teryx & Patagoina survey (Gore-Tex, pockets, hoods, fit, & more) [1000+ participated]
- Pics from outrageous discounts I ran into at Arc'teryx Parndorf Outlet
- I bought Gamma Lightweight (aka SL), Gamma (aka LT) and Gamma MX
- Patera Parka (one year update): Ain't worth the price...
- Alpha vs Beta: I bought all 4 Beta's and both Alpha's. Settling this for good
- I visited Iceland again, this time with a Nuclei (aka FL)
- Proton Hybrid: A "hidden" way to stuff it in itself!?
- Best Insulated Jackets: A hands-on Arc'teryx & Patagonia face-off
- 2024 Nano Air is in! Bought it immediately...
- I bought all 7 of Winter '24 Atom and Proton jackets
- Best Arc'teryx Ski Jackets: Rush is ideal, Sabre SV is overkill
- Arc’teryx colors: Most and least liked (poll results)
- Took my Nuclei SV to the Alps near Pfander, Austria
- Arc'teryx Alpha Parka Review: The most impressive jacket of all time
- Arc'teryx ReGEAR: OutdoorCrunch exclusive promo code!
- Beta Insulated Jacket is in: Pit zips AND two way zipper
- DropHood vs StormHood: Pros/cons and best uses
- 7 things all Arc'teryx newbies should know
Like hauntingly dark yet brilliantly brilliant electronic music? Check out my Hidden Electronic Gems playlist at Spotify.
- Macai Shell: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/macai-shell-jacket
- Nita: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/nita-down-jacket
- Epsilon: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/epsilon-insulated-hoody
- Cerium Pants (yes, seriously): https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/cerium-pant
- Liatris: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/liatris-down-jacket
- Thorium SV: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/thorium-sv-hoody
- Proton Heavyweight: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/proton-heavyweight-hoody
- Atom Shacket: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-shacket
- New Nano Air: https://patagonia.com/product/mens-nano-air-insulated-hoody/84367.html
Warmth
There's one thing that makes Atom HW unique in terms of the distribution of insulation.
It might not be a game changer but I personally really like the idea.
Name | Activity | Breathability | Weather Res. | Durability | Temp (F/C) | Bottom line | Review | Pit zips? | Two way zipper? | Stuffs into itself? | Hood? | Face Fabric | Fit | Weight | Length | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alpha FL (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 7/10 | No data | No data | 10/10 | N/A | No | No | Yes | Hadron 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 209 g / 7.4 oz | 76.5 cm / 30 in | Yes | |||
Alpha SL (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 5/10 | 7/10 | No data | 9/10 | N/A | No | No | Yes | N40p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 326 g / 11.5 oz | 77.5 cm / 30.5 in | Yes | |||
Alpha (aka AR) (Men's - Women's) | Climbing | 8/10 | 9/10 | 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 | 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 | No | |
Alpha IS (Men's) | Climbing | 7/10 | 5/10 | No data | 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 | Yes | |||
Beta (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 6/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | N/A | Streamlined all-doer shell. | Review | No | No | No | N30p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 300 g / 10.6 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | No | |
Beta Lightweight (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 6/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N40p 3L Gore-Tex | Fitted | 380 g / 13.4 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | No | ||
Beta LT (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 7/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N40d 3L Gore-Tex | Fitted | 395 g / 13.9 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | No | ||
Beta AR (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 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 | No | |
Beta AR StormHood (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 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 | No | ||
Beta Coat (Women's) | All Round | 6/10 | 5/10 | No data | 5/10 | N/A | No | Yes | No | 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 320 g / 11.3 oz | 88 cm / 34.5 in | No | |||
Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | No data | 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 | No | |
Beta Insulated Coat (Women's) | All Round | 7/10 | No data | No data | No data | 16/-9 | No | Yes | No | N40d 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz | 86 cm / 34 in | No | |||
Beta Down Insulated (Men's) | All Round | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | No data | 0/-18 | Yes | Yes | No | 2L 40D Gore-Tex | Regular | 760 g / 1 lb 10.8 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | No | |||
Beta Long | All Round | 4/10 | 9/10 | No data | 3/10 | N/A | Review | No | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 441 g / 15.6 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | Yes | ||
Beta LT Hadron | All Round | 7/10 | 6/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 | N/A | No | No | No | Hadron 3L Gore-Tex | Fitted | 255 g / 9 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | Yes | |||
Beta SV (Men's - Women's) | All Round | 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 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 | Yes | |
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 | 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 Double Weave | Regular | 545 g / 1 lb 3.2 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | 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 | No | |
Sabre SV (Men's) | Skiing | 10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 1/10 | N/A | Strongest ski jacket. | Review | Yes | Yes | No | N100d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Regular | 595 g / 1 lb 5 oz | 85 cm / 33.5 in | No | |
Sabre (Men's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 2/10 | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 705 g / 1 lb 8.9 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | No | ||
Sabre Insulated (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | No data | 6/10 | No data | No data | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 815 g / 1 lb 12.7 oz | 76 cm / 30 in | 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 | No | |
Rush Insulated (Men's - Women's) | Skiing | 3/10 | 5/10 | 5/10 | 9/10 | 16/-9 | Review | No | No | Yes | Hadron 2L Gore-Tex Infinium | Regular | 515 g / 1 lb 2.2 oz | 79 cm / 31 in | No | ||
Macai Shell (Men's) | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 775 g / 1 lb 11.3 oz | ? | 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 | No | ||
Macai Lightweight (aka LT) (Men's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 7/10 | 6/10 | 2/10 | 8/-13 | Review | Yes | No | No | N40p-X 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 855 g / 1 lb 14.2 oz | ? | No | ||
Theriss Down (Women's) | Skiing | 7/10 | 6/10 | 7/10 | 2/10 | No data | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 709 g / 1 lb 9 oz | 63 cm / 24.8 in | No | ||
Sentinel (Women's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 2/10 | N/A | Go-to ski jacket. | Review | Yes | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 640 g / 1 lb 6.6 oz | 73.7 cm / 29 in | No | |
Sentinel Insulated (Women's) | Skiing | 8/10 | No data | No data | No data | 21/-6 | Review | Yes | No | No | N80p 2L Gore-Tex | Regular | 600 g / 1 lb 5.2 oz | 79.8 cm / 31.5 in | No | ||
Sentinel Relaxed (Women's) | Skiing | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | Yes | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 655 g / 1 lb 7.1 oz | ? | No | |||
Sidewinder (Women's) | Skiing | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 2/10 | N/A | Yes | No | No | N80p 3L Gore-Tex | Regular | 570 g / 1 lb 4.1 oz | ? | No | |||
Andessa (Women's) | Skiing | 10/10 | No data | No data | 1/10 | 8/-13 | Yes | No | No | N40d 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 869 g / 1 lb 14.7 oz | 67 cm / 26.4 in | Yes | |||
Andessa Shell (Women's) | Skiing | 5/10 | No data | No data | 3/10 | N/A | No | No | No | N70p 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 560 g / 1 lb 3.8 oz | ? | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | No | |
Norvan Windshell (Men's - Women's) | Running | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | No | No | Yes | Permeair 20 | Trim | 90 g / 3.2 oz | 73 cm / 28.75 in | No | |||
Norvan Shell (Men's - Women's) | Running | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | No | No | No | 13D 3L Gore-Tex | Trim | 190 g / 6.7 oz | 73 cm / 28.75 in | No | |||
Nodin (Women's) | Running | 8/10 | 5/10 | 5/10 | 10/10 | N/A | No | No | Yes | 20D Tyono | Trim | 130 g / 4.6 oz | 75 cm / 29.5 in | No | |||
Incendo Airshell (Women's) | Running | No data | No data | No data | No data | N/A | No | No | Yes | ? | Trim | 105 g / 3.7 oz | ? | 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 | ? | Yes | ||
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 | ? | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | Yes |
Performance data axis of synthetic jackets (table above) and shell jackets (this table) are different. Don't compare them.
- Patagonia and Arc'teryx are like up to 70% off at REI rn...
Most Arc'teryx jackets are equipped with only one insulation density throughout the jacket. It's the same thickness everywhere.
This causes some areas to be over insulated and other areas to be under insulated. Both has their own downsides.
Forget the negative impact that over insulation has on the weight for a second. Because what we're talking about is grams in here.
The primary negative impact of over insulation can mostly be on hindering mobility and comfort. Because some areas, like underarms, do not need that much of insulation.
The primary effect of under insulation is warmth (surprising news). Some areas, like the yoke, can require more insulation. Because it prevents the heat from escaping.
That's why Arc'teryx equips some of their jackets with not one but two different insulation thicknesses. Like the Beta Insulated (Men's - Women's - read my review), Therme (Men's - read my review) and Thorium (Men's - Women's - read my review).
Atom HW is the only Arc'teryx jacket that is equipped with not one, not two, but three different insulation thickness:
- 120 g/m2 of Coreloft around the yoke, the top of the sleeve, the sides, and the back.
- 80 g/m2 of Coreloft in the bottom of the sleeves and in the zip guard.
- 60 g/m2 of Coreloft everywhere else (the front).
This customized insulation distribution makes the Atom Hw more comfortable compared to other jackets with similar warmth.
The Atom is still more comfortable than the Atom Hw, though. Because it's insulated less (60 g/m2 of Coreloft everywhere).
Source of above information:
These are pretty much the biggest differences between the two models. Atom HW is significantly warmer and less comfortable compared to the Atom.
If you're truly active inside the Atom HW, you're likely to overheat. Despite the side fleece panels.
For low output activities; like hiking, mountaineering, or resting between climbing sets; however, Atom Heavyweight would be outstanding, in addition to stationary use (no output).
Poll results: Best colorways of Atom Series
Upvote your favorites.
Quick links:
Quick links:
Now, although it's quite difficult to pinpoint the warmth differences between these two jackets, let me do my best and at least try to give you an idea:
Generally speaking, with only a long sleeved shirt under and without a shell on top, for an average person, during daily use (strolls, power walks, etc) and with enough wind to cause an umbrella to twist in your hand:
...without feeling uncomfortably cold, the lowest temperature to wear an Atom would be 36 deg F (2 deg C), and Atom HW around 18 deg F (-8 deg C).
With at least a moderate quality layering:
...Atom would be at 25 deg F (-4 deg C), and Atom HW at 7 deg F (-14 deg C).
With a good base layer under and a shell jacket on top:
...Atom would be at 10 deg F (-10 deg C), and Atom HW at -4 deg F (-20 deg C).
Links:
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-heavyweight-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-heavyweight-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-hoody
- Atom HW vs Atom compared side-by-side: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007302-heritage/X000007487-edziza
Breathability
Atom is the only line in Arc'teryx's entire insulated jacket line-up that offers mechanical ventilation.
In other words, side fleece panels.
However, how these panels are incorporated into these jackets still make them very different than one another.
Look at the side fleece panels of Atom Hw. They only takes place in the armpit area.
They're small and doesn't help that much with ventilation.
Now look at Atom's much larger panels. They span all the way from the armpits to the hem.
They're spectacular in terms of providing breathability. This single thing gave the Atom the fame it has today.
For reference, Atom SL (soon to be called Atom Lw) has even LARGER panels than the Atom!
It's even more breathable. Check out this Proton vs Atom guide to see its images and read more about it.
Panels this large can be a mixed blessing, though. Which brings me to my next point.
Weather Resistance
Water resistances of these two are top notch. I'm 100% sure they're not going to disappoint. They're coated via DWR, too.
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 at arcteryx.com 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.
When it comes to the wind resistance, however, it's another story. As you can guess by now, Atom Hw is off the charts in this regard too.
But when your arms are up, Atom's side fleece panels invite lots of wind and hence cold in. Even when your arms aren't up, it still does that although not equally as much.
This is something you should to consider.
Abrasion Resistance
The numbers you see in face fabrics indicate the density (in other words the thickness) of face fabric.
So, 30D Tyono face fabric of Atom Hw is stronger than 20D Tyono face fabric of Atom. It better resists against the abrasion when bouldering and backpacking.
I'm 5'11", 165 lbs, athletic build. Size M fits me perfectly.
My size is always the same. Arc'teryx, Patagonia, TNF, Salomon, Columbia, Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Zara... Doesn't matter.
Durability
You'd expect the same relationship between them in terms of durability, too. But there's a caveat here.
Larger side fleece panels of the Atom help with stretching more. This puts less stress on stitches over time, and hence can increase the life of jacket.
If you have no plans to use these jackets close to a decade, then you can simply ignore this difference.
The stretchier nature of Atom also makes it more comfortable and allows more mobility. Although I do appreciate the "too small" armpit panels of Atom Hw, they just offer less mobility.
If you need more durability, definitely check out Proton (Men's - Women's - read how it compares to the Atom) and Proton Heavyweight (Men's - Women's - read how it compares to the Atom Hw).
Pockets
Number of pockets are the same. 2 hand warmers and 1 internal zippered chest pocket in each.
Sizes of them are very similar too.
- Atom Hw:
- Hand warmers: 9.4 in (or 24 cm) x 6.7 in (or 17 cm)
- Internal zippered chest pocket: 10.6 in (or 27 cm) x 7.5 in (or 19 cm)
- Atom:
- Hand warmers: 10.6 in (or 27 cm) height x 7.1 in (or 18 cm) width
- Internal zippered chest pocket: 9.9 in (or 25 cm) height x 7.5 in (or 19 cm) width
Cuffs
Both are pretty elastic.
Conclusion
Atom Heavyweight is a loftier, warmer, more weather resistant and durable version of the Atom. It did not have any alternatives to it for a long time. That's why everyone lost their minds when Arc'teryx shortly "discontinued" it.
Now we have the Proton Heavyweight (Men's - Women's - read how it compares to the Atom Hw), though.
The Atom, on the other hand, is best used for high output activities in general. It's light and comfortable. If climbing is what you're going to do, then I'd mostly recommend the Proton (Men's - Women's - read how it compares to the Atom) instead of this one. It's more abrasion resistant.
Both Atom HW and Atom offer mesh side panels which span all the way from the armpits to the hem. These panels are popular. They make them more breathable than all the other Arc'teryx synthetics.
Keep in mind that overheating inside the Atom HW is easier because it's very warm. That's why people say it's more breathable than the Atom HW.
Lastly, both are fantastic jackets that won't disappoint.
Links:
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-heavyweight-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-heavyweight-hoody
- https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/womens/atom-hoody
- Atom HW vs Atom compared side-by-side: https://arcteryx.com/us/en/compare/X000007302-heritage/X000007487-edziza
Also read:
Long ago I've had captured this on arcteryx.com. Saved it to my computer. Here's their own take on both jackets.
Josh says
Great page, really digging how comprehensive your info is! I’m in the market for a new winter jacket and am torn on what to get. I’ve narrowed myself down to the Fission for the extremely windy and harsh cold and wind, and considering getting an Atom AR for when it’s not as frigid and less windy, which I could also use for hiking and other high output activities since it is packable if I get too warm. I looked at the Atom LT originally, but since I tend to be on the colder side, I figured I should go AR instead of LT. And now that I’ve discovered the Proton LT, i’m torn between Proton LT vs. Atom AR.
Canberk Koksal says
Thank you for the kind words Josh! Glad it’s helpful for you 🙂
Could you elaborate the approximate lowest temperatures you’re planning to wear your jacket? Note that the Proton LT isn’t warmer than Atom LT – in fact, it’s even a little bit colder.
Lukevenable says
Really love your Arc’teryx guides. Very practical and to-the-point info. I recently got the Atom AR (my first insulated jacket) and it fits my needs perfectly. I use it when walking my dog or around town at temps between 20f and 40f with just a t-shirt underneath (haven’t had a chance to try it in colder temps than that). One thing I really like about it is that the hood is made to fit over a helmet which means I can comfortably wear my over-the-ear headphones with the hood on- that’s a feature I didn’t even realize I needed! I considered the Atom LT but ultimately warmth was more important than breathability for my uses.
Aitor says
Outstanding!
Thank you very much for all that info. It really helps me a lot to decide on what jacket is best for me.
Simon says
I’m tying myself in nots trying to decide between the LT and the AR, and reading the various articles and reviews is helping and also adding more confusion at the same time. Obviously when you’re spending this amount of money on a jacket you want to get the right one!!
I’m looking for a multi purpose jacket that I can use around town in the autumn and winter months, wear to the park with my daughter and then go on family walks and outings. So temperatures will range from 30 degF (0 degC) to 50-55 degF (10-12C). The activity will be a range of walking and probably standing around
Any help and advice would be massively appreciated
Canberk says
I’d recommend getting the LT in this case, Simon. It actually would work perfect in this setting. You’re likely to overheat inside the Atom AR.
Simon Wood says
Oh I was thinking you’d say. AR
Steven M says
Hi, just a note to say that I really enjoyed reading this review and content. It’s full of information, but is so well structured that it’s not overwhelming.
You’ve pulled in comparable products, with both useful context and relevance. For someone who knew of, but not about Arcteryx products, this has given me the knowledge and confidence to buy the model that I was interested in (LT).
I’m sure many visitors don’t appreciate the work and time that you have put into this page, so hopefully this little nod of appreciation is welcome. I wouldn’t normally take the time to write something like this, but I think you’ve done a fantastic job on this site, and think it sets the gold standard for how products should be reviewed! Keep it up and thank you!
Canberk says
Thank you so much Steven. I really appreciate your kind words. Glad I was helpful. Thank you for taking the time to write this comment.
Fillipe says
I would like to second that. I always come here for advice. Thank you for your effort. Cheers!
Trent Rogers says
Thanks for all the resources here. I recently purchased the Camosun and really, really like the build quality. I live in the Midwest of the US and am starting to worry it’s going to be over engineered for me. I was looking for something that could withstand snow and wind (if I’m outside shoveling for example). That being said, I’m usually driving to work. I’m just outside on walks with the family or around town casually. Thinking about swapping out for the Atom AR. What are your thoughts?
Trent Rogers says
In case anyone finds this and are in the same boat: I’m definitely keeping the Camosun. I would be interested in picking up an Atom LT in the future for not so cold days, but the Camosun has been a beast in the recent cold and snowy weather.
Tony Martin says
Great resource, thank you
I’m still torn between the Atom AR and LT.
Firstly, I live in the UK so the temperatures are rarely below -5c and I would probably wear it up to about 15c
The reason for my indecision is my usage is varied; I would use it for photography where I’m hiking into/up to a location, carrying a large pack and tripod, so raising a good old sweat. And then I would be pootling around on location for an hour or so, getting cold.
I’d also wear it for commuting (flipping between cold railway platforms and stuffy trains).
I’m replacing my Mountain Equipment Bastion jacket, which has been fantastic down the years, so something approaching this would be perfect.
I can see benefits in both models, but would really appreciate your insight.
Thanks
Elliot Klein says
Hi thanks for your detailed review!
I was just wondering what your thoughts were regarding a jacket whose main use would be cold-weather cycling – these being two I am considering. I live in Toronto so we get decently cold winter days, with average winter temperatures (incl. wind chill) around -10C (14F). As it stands I have a thick parka for the really cold winter days where biking isn’t an option, but for the temperatures down to -15C I still bike and so I need something that’s not a heavy parka for this.
I was initially thinking of getting the Atom LT when it came on sale next season for the 15C to 0C temps, and then either the Patagonia Jackson Glacier or new Downdrift Jacket for the 0C to -15C temps. However I recently learned about the Atom AR and so that interested me as the jacket for the 0C to -15C temps. One thing I’m wondering is if your breathability/overheating concerns would even apply to me if I were using it below 0C. Also will you review the new Arcteryx Agrium and Patagonia Downdrift (as these are big alternatives I am considering)?
Thanks!