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How to Identify Fake Arc’teryx

Last updated: November 14, 2022 by

In summary, there are four main elements to pay attention to when detecting a fake Arc'teryx. They're shoddy stitching, cheap materials, inconsistent logos, and missing info on tags. Also, you should do some more digging for fakes that are very close to the original ones. For example, a genuine item features Arc'teryx logos on hardware, YKK logo on zips, and clear-cut velcro tabs. But if you don't see even one of them on your jacket, I'm afraid it's most probably fake.

  • #Important note: The following models have very close replicas. So, be more vigilant while buying them.

Keep reading my article if you want to learn more...

How to detect a fake Arc’teryx?

Arc'teryx is a well-known design company with innovative outdoor jackets. That's why its products are often imitated.

Luckily, uncovering a fake Arc'teryx isn't too hard if you know which details you'll check on the jacket. But, some of them are very well-made. So, you need to do some more digging to identify counterfeit ones.

Now, let's start to look at their distinctive characteristics in detail.

Logos

For a kick-off, you can compare suspected logos to those that conform to the brand standard.

For example, the Archaeopteryx on the logo should have an almost straight tail and a sharp nose. Or, you'll notice the misspelling of the Arc’teryx wordmark on fake jackets. Especially see the apostrophe.

Look at whether the embroidery of Arc’teryx and Gore-tex logos is clean and with high stitch density.

Some Zeta, Alpha, Beta, and Theta jackets have an emblem on their internal security pocket. It should be clean-printed and neatly placed. If you're buying one of these jackets, don't forget to check out this symbol.

Also, Arc'teryx uses its branded logos or the company name all over the jackets. So, control if the jacket’s hardware, such as snap fasteners, hooks, and the zip and cord lock pulls, have them.

Materials

Counterfeiters generally use poor-quality materials to reduce production costs. For example, when you touch the fabric of a fake Arc'teryx, you'll feel it's rough and less durable.

Arc’teryx zippers are weather-resistant YKK or Vislon. Look closer at your jacket's zips to ensure they have these brand names. 

Keep in mind that the zippers’ color should be compatible with the jacket's design in the real-deal one.

Authentic Arc'teryx jackets feature tapered-shape, well-integrated velcro tabs. And they are flexible, plain, and non-rubberized. If not, that's a clear sign that your jacket is a fake.

Seams

If your jacket has bad stitch lines, loose threads, and low stitch density, they're red flags! Because Arc'teryx jackets are produced using special sewing machines. And the waterproof ones have 16 stitches per inch, and others have 12. That is, imitating Arc'teryx's high-quality seams is challenging.

As you know, seam tapes prevent leakage of moisture from stitching holes. And they should be inserted neatly in the jacket. So, you'd see pliable, clean, and narrow seam tapes on a genuine Arc'teryx jacket. If not, unfortunately, you’re looking at a fake item.

Tags

Arc'teryx products have consistent tags. Namely, it's hard to see any spelling mistakes or misprinted logos on their labels.

Woven labels in an authentic Arc’teryx will have proper stitches and be color-matched with other elements. Also, these labels show your jacket’s size. And a counterfeit item is likely to feature the wrong size information. So, measure your jacket's weight and dimensions. Then, you can compare them to the shared data on Arc'teryx's official website.

A genuine care label should display the model’s code and production date. That said, a waterproof Arc'teryx jacket has a laminated care tag. So, you can also check this label to detect a fake item.

Arc'teryx jackets are produced in Canada and the Far East. It is impossible to tell if your jacket is original only based on the production site. But still, this information might help you recognize a fake Arc'teryx. Check out my post where I listed Arc’teryx’s manufacturing facilities.

Last, check your jacket's package. Is your garment carefully packed? Is the info on the package consistent?

How to detect fraudulent sites

Now you know what to do to identify a counterfeit Arc'teryx jacket. But what about online shopping? Well, it's a different kettle of fish.

I'll explain certain ways of recognizing a fake Arc'teryx, even without seeing it.

  • To avoid the risk of getting a fake Arc'teryx jacket, the easiest way is to buy items from official websites:

Website domain

The only legit site belonging to Arc'teryx that contains the "outlet" word in the domain name is outlet.arcteryx.com. Plus, just official Arc'teryx websites use the term "arcteryx" in their domain name.

So, if you come across another website having them, it's a scam. Stay far away!

Price

Beware of offers and discounts appearing too good to be true. These are clear red flags that such websites sell fake Arc'teryx products.

Seller

Make sure the seller is an Arc'teryx authorized dealer or retailer.

Look at its detailed contact information on the website. If you can't find it, it's likely a counterfeiter.

Look for other signs of the scam, like typos or low-quality images. Also, you should check user reviews. Particularly ones with 1-star ratings. Because they’re more reliable in identifying the counterfeiters.

The last thing you watch out for is second-hand purchases. Ask for the details about the jacket you'll buy from the seller to ensure it's not a replica.

Conclusion

You can detect a fake Arc’teryx jacket by checking out four key points. These are sketchy seams, poor-quality materials, sloppy-placed logos, and mistakes on the tags.

But still, inspect other small details on your jacket to be sure to have a genuine Arc'teryx. For example, color-matched zippers, tapered-shape velcro tabs, and neat packages.

After looking at them, if you think your Arc'teryx might be fake, contact reportafake@arcteryx.com.

BV450 vs BV500

Last updated: May 17, 2022 by

The BV450 is good for 4-day trips. But the BV500 (see image) is better. The 11.5-liter capacity has enough storage space to keep you on trail for up to 7 days.

In the BearVault lineup, model BV450 and BV500 serve as the best options for food storage in the backcountry. The smaller BV450 is good for shorter treks, whereas the BV500 is best for thru-hiking.

In summary, the rugged BV450 and BV500 can take some serious abuse from a hungry grizzly. While both are exceptional, the 7.2 liter capacity of the BV500 offers 7 days worth of meal storage, making it the better value. 

Let’s take a look at the differences between the BV450 and BV500 so you can decide which is best for your outdoor adventure.

Capacity

How long are you heading out for a trek? Are you doing an overnighter or tackling a thru-hike on the PCT?

I ask because your supply and resupply situation is the single most important factor when it comes to choosing a BearVault model.

The stout BV450 has a capacity of 440 cubic inches. That’s roughly 7.2 liters of food. For most hikers, this is enough space to hold 4 days’ worth of food.

That is if you’re carrying typical hiker food. We’re talking dehydrated meals, trail mix, peanut butter, jerky, and of course, some candy.

For thru-hikes, the BV500 is better. This bigger bear canister offers 700 cubic inches, which round out to about 11.5 liters.

That’s enough space to last a thru-hiker 7 days between resupply. Or you could use it on a 2 to 3-night journey to feed you and a hiking buddy.

What I don’t recommend doing is opting for the BV450 if you’re simply trying to pack light for a long journey.

Every backpacker knows things happen out on the trail. Injuries, weather, and other factors are constantly coming your way. That extra day's worth of food may be your saving grace on trail.

Weight

Overnighter or thru-hiker, the weight of your pack, is everything.

Every ounce you haul needs to be meticulously calculated to avoid injury. Or at the very least, to avoid overburdening you with a heavy pack.

Empty, the BV500 weighs 2 pounds and 9 ounces. At 2 pounds and 1 ounce, the BV450 will save you 8 ounces.

Obviously, once you load up both these suckers, you're looking at a heavier weight.

That said, you still need to make sure you're properly fueled for your journey. So keep that in mind when choosing which BearVault model is best for your backpacking trip.

Size

The stout BV450 (see image) has a capacity of 440 cubic inches. That’s roughly 7.2 liters of food. For most hikers, this is enough space to hold 4 days’ worth of food. 

What I love about the BV450 is the size. This bear canister is about as wide as it is tall. Specifically, 8.7 inches x 8.3 inches.

The BV500 adds a noticeable amount of bulk. At 8.7 inches x 12.7 inches, the BV500 takes some meticulous packing to get all your gear stored just right.

I find trying to stash it in my pack horizontally is a bit of a stretch. And yet, vertically, it takes up a lot of precious cargo space.

That’s why most hikers, myself included, strap the BV500 horizontally on the top of a pack.

The benefit is this provides easy access for snacking. The downside is it makes the pack top heavy when fully loaded.

Horizontal or vertical, the BV450 simply fits better in a pack than the BV500.

Value

As a backpacker, I find bear canisters to be far superior to the old-school method of slinging a bear bag up in a tree.

You'll also be hard-pressed to find a tree if you’re backpacking through the desert or setting up camp above the treeline.

The BV450 and BV500 are honestly the best bear canisters for stashing your food in bear country. Even my US Forest Service friend confirmed nothing beats these canisters when it comes to proper storage in the backcountry.

Both these models are Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee approved. That means they’re resistant against grizzlies and black bears.

So yeah, they’re seriously tough as nails. Or, I guess in this case, murder paws.

This is a feature I highly appreciate on a recent camping trip in the heart of Montana. Which, if you aren’t aware, is prime grizzly country.

Needless to say, both are valuable buys.

Yet while I dig the size and weight of the BV450, there’s no arguing the BV500 is the overall better value. It stores more food and barely costs more money.

If you’re going backpacking for more than a couple of days, go with the BV500. You could even stash enough food for you and your backpacking buddy on a 2-night journey.

Conclusion

If you plan on snoozing under the stars in bear country, you need a proper way to store your food. The BV450 and BV500 are the best options. 

Rugged and IGBC approved, the BV450 is good for 4-day trips. But the BV500 is better. The 11.5-liter capacity has enough storage space to keep you on trail for up to 7 days.

Maven C.1 vs Vortex Viper

Last updated: May 17, 2022 by

The Vortex Viper (see image) will give you a wider view for hunting, wildlife watching, birding, and everything else you need these binos for.

In the Maven and Vortex lineups, the C.1 and Viper blend attractive features for rugged use. The Maven C.1 marries mid-level optics with affordability. Meanwhile, the wider field of view of the Vortex Viper is better for the hunting community.

In summary, the Maven C.1 and Vortex Viper are durable optics made to handle outdoor abuse. While the Maven C.1 flashes an attractive price, the sharp image and wider view of the Vortex Viper are far superior. 

Let’s take a look at the breakdown to gain a better perspective on these binoculars.

Magnification and Objective

The Maven C.1 comes in 8x42, 10x42, and 12x42. The Vortex Viper also comes in an 8x, 10x, and 12x magnification. 

Yet it does the Maven C.1 one better by offering a 42 and 50 objective. Specifically, 8x42, 10x42, 10x50, and 12x50.

The difference here is plain to see. The Vortex Viper gives you a closer look with a wider view. 

Brightness and Clarity

Maven C.1 features exceptional brightness and crisp clarity for the price. Additionally, these binos offer good light transmission with good coloration.

While they don’t offer the same brightness as the Maven B.1 and B.2 in low-light settings, they can hold their own in dimly lit settings.

However, it’s the Vortex Viper that boasts less distortion with high fidelity. It also doesn’t have the same degrees of chronic aberration that you get with the Maven C.1.

I should note, though, that both binos use a dielectric coating. This reduces light loss and improves the overall image quality. The Vortex Viper just does it better.

Field of View

Maven C.1 (see image) features exceptional brightness and crisp clarity for the price. Additionally, these binos offer good light transmission with good coloration. 

When you’re stalking prey animals like a predator, a field of view is a feature you highly want to consider. This is how wide of a view you’ll get through your lenses.

For a better comparison, let’s take a look at the 8x42 option of each model.

The Maven C.1 offers 341 feet at 1000 yards. That’s an angular field of view, or rather a real angle, of 6.5°. Not bad, but not great.

The Vortex Viper ups the game to 409 feet at 1000 yards. This equates to a 7.8° angle.

This will give you a much wider view. A wider view I would much rather have when I’m hunting antelope on a wide-open plain.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is the distance at which you can hold the binocular eyepiece from your eyes and still have a clear sight of the field of view. This is an especially important feature to consider if you wear glasses. 

While the eye relief is close for both these binoculars, the Maven C.1 is better. The 8x42 option has an eye relief of 19.5mm. That’s a bit longer than the 18mm eye relief of the Vortex Viper.

Value

Maven C.1 gives you mid-level performance at a substantially lower cost. This alone makes these binoculars an excellent value.

What the Maven C.1 offers, the Vortex Viper does better. This option enhances clarity, color, and depth of field. However, it will cost you a significantly higher price.

The Maven C.1 and Vortex Viper offer some features that are highly coveted in the field. Both models are waterproof, fog-proof, and offer tripod compatibility.

The one noticeable difference is the Vortex Viper offers a locking diopter. The Maven C.1 does not.

If you’re on a budget, the Maven C.1 is clearly the better value. However, the Vortex Viper will give you a wider view for hunting, wildlife watching, birding, and everything else you need these binos for.

If neither of these options meets your intended price range or demands, the Maven and Viper binocular finder can help you find what’s right for you.

Conclusion

For rugged use, the Maven C.1 and Vortex Viper are worthy options of your dollar.

The Maven C.1 is no doubt an affordable choice with solid performance. If you can spend a bit more, the Vortex Viper will reward you with a wider view and crisper clarity.

Maven B.1 vs B.2

Last updated: August 10, 2022 by

The flagship Maven B.1 (see image) is a solid go-to for all outdoor activities, whether it be birding or whale watching.

In the Maven product line, the B.1 and B.2 offer superior optics for low-lighting scenarios. The flagship Maven B.1 is sized for everyday use, while the Maven B.2 offers exceptional performance. 

In summary, the 10x magnification and brightness level of the Maven B.2 is more advanced than the Maven B.1. This makes these binos better for big game hunters and wildlife watchers scanning the landscape at dawn and dusk. 

Let’s delve deeper for better clarity on the two.

Magnification and Objective

Also known as strength and size, the magnification and objective vary between the Maven B.1 and B.2.

With Maven B.1, you have a choice between 8x42 and 10x42. Meanwhile, the Maven B.2 offers a wider range with 7x45, 9x45, and 11x45.

As you can see, the full-size objective is the same for both models. It’s the magnification that’s really setting them apart.

A 7x to 10x magnification will suit most users. However, this depends upon the scenario.

If you’re a hunter scanning the ridgeline for a bull elk, you’ll want the 11x magnification, especially if regulations prohibit antlerless elk hunting.

The smaller 7x magnification is better when the objective isn’t miles away. Like when you’re cheering on your favorite soccer team, and you want an up-close look at the red card that’s about to get pulled.

For times like these, go Maven B.2.

Brightness and Clarity

Both Maven B.1 and B.2 are just as sharp as the attractive streamlined design. Yet it’s the Maven B.2 that wins out in brightness.  

The sharp prism offers a brighter image along with incredible light transmission. That makes the Maven B.2 a superior choice in dim lighting.

This is a feature I find particularly useful considering the prime time for wildlife watching is at dawn or dusk especially if I’m trying to ID certain species.

Field of View

The 10x magnification and brightness level of the Maven B.2 (see image) is more advanced than the Maven B.1. This makes these binos better for big game hunters and wildlife watchers scanning the landscape at dawn and dusk.

Field of view is important when you need more of the horizon in your sights. For instance, when you’re keeping a close watch for a rare bird in the sky.

A general rule is the smaller the magnification, the greater the field of view. Both the Maven B.1 and B.2 offer a wide field of view.

Both of which are excellent options when you're bird watching or keeping a lookout for small critters roaming about.

Should you need a different field of view, these aren’t the only options. Maven offers a range of binos in a wider and narrower field of view.

Prism Type

One of the most notable differences between Maven B.1 and B.2 are the prisms.

The Maven B.1 features a Schmidt-Pechan roof prism. The Maven B.2 is equipped with an Abbe-Koenig roof prism. So what’s the difference?

Without going full-on optics nerd, the Schmidt-Pechan prism is more compact than the Abbe-Koenig. That means it will be more comfortable to grasp and easier to transport for everyday use.

On the other hand, the Abbe-Koenig prism offers better light transmission. They’re also harder to produce and more expensive.

Near Focus Distance

It may sound counterintuitive, but how close a pair of binos can focus can be just as important as how far.

For instance, say you’re sketching field notes of a woodpecker’s feathers, and the bird is only 10 feet away. A smaller near-focus distance will allow you to get more detail.

So in the case of the woodpecker, you’d want to opt for the optics of the Maven B.2. The Maven B.2 has a minimum focus distance of 4.9 feet. That’s just slightly better than the 6.6 foot near focus of the Maven B.1.

Conclusion

The flagship Maven B.1 is a solid go-to for all outdoor activities, whether it be birding or whale watching. However, it’s the Maven B.2 that excels in low light situations, whether that be dawn, dusk, or a cloudy day.

Thule Motion vs Force

Last updated: May 20, 2022 by

What you get with the Thule Motion XT (see image) is a highly secure cargo box. This is what you want considering the cost of all the gear loaded inside.

Still packing your car like a game of Tetris? Save yourself some stress and enhance your storage space with either the Thule Motion XT or Force XT. These cargo boxes are about as good as they come. But it will cost you. For a more budget-friendly option take a gander at the Thule Sidekick. 

The Thule Motion XT and Force XT feature aerodynamic and user-friendly designs with ample storage capacity. The Thule Motion XT is large enough to fit up to 7 pairs of skis. For smaller groups, the Thule Force XT still offers plenty of room at 5 pairs of skis capacity. Either way, both these cargo boxes can free up some elbow room inside the vehicle for a long drive.

Model Size

The Thule Motion XT and Force XT come in four different sizes. Both of which are L, XL, and XXL.

Additionally, the Thule Motion XT comes in a robust Alpine size. Meanwhile, the Thule Force XT features the smallest size as Sport.

The main difference between the sizes are the dimensions. The reason for that is to better fit the roof of your vehicle.

To give you an idea, the Thule Motion XT XXL shell is 91.5 x 37.5 x 18 inches. The Thule Force XT XXL is smaller at 90.5 x 35.5 x 18.5 inches.

Head on over to the Thule cargo box finder to find the best dimensions for your roof rack.

Gear Capacity

As for the Thule Force XT (see image), you’ll get a cargo box that is shaped perfectly for skis and plenty of extra storage to go along with it.

Whether it be snowboards, skis, or trekking poles, the Thule Motion XT and Force XT have ample space to stash your gear.

So much space that the Thule Motion XT can hold up to 7 pairs of skis. That’s likely more skis than people can fit inside your vehicle. The Thule Force XT, on the other hand, can store a more modest 5 pairs of skis.

However, I understand not everyone is looking to hit the slopes. Converting those numbers to the metric system equates to about 453 liters and 300 liters for the Thule Motion XT and Force XT.

Both of which have a maxed out gear weight at 165 pounds. In layman’s terms, that’s a lot of gear.

One noticeable storage feature of the Thule Force XT is a more robust back end. This is great for storing bulkier equipment.

Yet, when you look at the numbers, the Thule Motion XT has more gear space.

Security

Other than gear capacity, there are two big differences you’ll notice with the Thule Motion XT and Force XT. The difference being how each cargo box locks.

The Thule Motion XT has a SlideLock. The Thule Force XT has a central lock. So which one is better?

In my humble opinion, I prefer the SlideLock. The reason why is increased security.

The lock opens and closes without much effort. Simply turn the key, slide the lock, and you’re in.

The whole design removes stress from the key. Unlike the Thule Force XT which combines both the key and locking mechanism as a single unit.

The aerodynamic design of the Thule Motion XT also enhances security. The large overlap between the base and lid prevents air from blowing through the front.

This in itself makes the Thule Motion XT one of the most secure cargo boxes around. Which I greatly appreciate considering windy conditions do their best to try and rip anything off a roof rack.

Additionally, there’s a glaring red warning near the lock that lets you know when the lid is open. This extra feature is lacking on the Thule Force XT.

However, I will say that what I like about both the Thule Motion XT and Force XT is it’s impossible to lock the key inside. Unlike my vehicle.

Admittingly, both options feel secure. The Thule Motion XT just offers a bit more security.

Appearance

The shiny exterior of the Thule Motion XT screams sleek. However, some may prefer the matte finish of the Thule Force XT (see image).

We tend to do all sorts of things to our vehicles because we like the way it looks. And a cargo box is an extension of that, no matter the practicality.

The shiny exterior of the Thule Motion XT screams sleek. However, some may prefer the matte finish of the Thule Force XT.

Think about wear and tear. Any scratches you accrue over the years of adventuresome road-tripping won’t be as apparent with the matte finish. Load either up with stickers and nobody will tell the difference.

Really, there’s no right or wrong. It’s all a matter of personal preference.

Value

High-end cargo boxes can easily cost you a month’s salary. The Thule Motion XT and Force XT deliver premium quality at a more reasonable price. That said, these guys aren’t cheap.

Yet what you get in return is an easy to mount, open, and close cargo box that provides extra space for all your gear. Whether that be camping supplies, climbing gear, luggage, or bulky winter clothes.

With the Thule Motion XT, you get better security and more user-friendly features. As for the Thule Force XT, you’ll get a cargo box that is shaped perfectly for skis and plenty of extra storage to go along with it. 

Conclusion

The Thule Motion XT and Force XT make road tripping easier. Both are user-friendly options with some noticeable differences.

What you get with the Thule Motion XT is a highly secure cargo box. This is what you want considering the cost of all the gear loaded inside. Meanwhile, the Force XT has a larger back end for all your bulky items.