Quote:
Originally Posted by Lomac
Apart from the name, is it really worth the extra cost? And are there any other decent comparable jackets out there?
|
In my not so humble opinion, yes. Just like with automobiles, just because it costs more doesn't mean it's better. It probably is though... I have a few pairs of Arc'teryx pants, gloves, climbing harness, and an Alpha SV among other items, all of which I absolutely adore. There are very few items in the Arc'teryx catalog that I don't think are very near best-in-class. There are other comparable jackets, but in terms of quality (even for items not made in Canada) I highly doubt you'll find anything better. They stand by their products as well, which I know because I had my Beta AR pants replaced a few years ago. My love for their gear though comes down to the small details and impeccable craftsmanship.
I've tried on the Fission SV before but since I'm an absolute furnace on the hill I know it would be way too hot for me. The 2 layer Pro-Shell face fabric on it should be fairly comparable to the 2 layer Pac-Lite in your Beta. I'd imagine a bit more durable and while it should be more breathable, the generous insulation will probably stifle that a bit. If you want a little more flexibility with layering for different temperatures, I'd take a look at the
Stingray Jacket or the
Sabre SV. Both of those are made with the new Gore-tex Soft Shell material and not heavily insulated. Similar cut and still just as waterproof/windproof as the Fission. The Stingray has the same style hood as the Fission SV or your Beta whereas the Sabre has the Storm style hood. Try on a few of them if you can and just throw on some other makes of jackets, and more often than not, features aside I'd bet you'd pick the Arc'teryx gear based purely on how well it fits and how well thought out it is.
While I have a pair of gaiters with Mountain Hardwear's new Dry-Q technology, I don't yet have pants or a jacket with it, although it's on my shopping list. Take a look as well at the
Snowtastic Jacket by MHW. The breathability offered by that jacket is probably unmatched in the industry. I quite like MHW gear as well - see if you can find one of these to try on at Valhalla Pure Outfitters or Atmosphere (only 2 retailers that I frequent that stock a lot of MHW).
I would be highly hesitant to recommend any jackets that aren't made with Dry-Q, eVent or Gore-Tex (not necessarily because of it's breathability, but for it's legendary durability and reliability). I personally don't find Conduit, Precip, Hyvent, Apex, etc items to be worth it. While I really like some of my The North Face, Marmot, etc clothing, I ended up buying other items that I use far more and prefer, not just in the backcountry or skiing, but as crossover items in the city as well. Anyways I've been drinking and even though I've tried my hardest to proofread this I hope it's all comprehensible.