Buying guide for Best Arc'teryx jackets for women
Spending time in the great outdoors means you need the right outerwear to keep you warm and protect you in all weather conditions. Finding the right jacket can be a bit of a challenge, but if you invest in a women’s Arc’teryx jacket, you’ll know you made the right choice.
Arc’teryx, a Canadian-based outdoor sport clothing retailer, draws inspiration from the country’s diverse landscapes to manufacture all-weather jackets. From insulated jackets to keep you warm on high-elevation hikes to shell jackets that keep you dry in rainy weather, you’ll remain protected and comfortable. Arc’teryx also incorporates the latest technology in its jackets and engineers unique materials for added insulation, protection, and water resistance.
If you’re wondering which Arc’teryx jacket is best for your outdoor pursuits, keep reading our buying guide. We’re sharing an overview of the brand’s various styles, some of our favorites, plus a few helpful shopping tips to help you find the right one in no time.
Key considerations
Jacket styles
Shell: Arc’teryx has an extensive line of shell jackets, ranging from lightweight to All Round (AR) styles. Lightweight jackets are relatively thin so as not to add unnecessary bulk and weight and are best for layering. Given their sleek, functional designs, these Arc’teryx styles are popular choices for hiking, camping, and commuter use.
Insulated: When warmth is the main concern, consider an insulated jacket from Arc’teryx. These range from lightweight, lightly insulated running jackets to full-length, down-filled parkas. The lining varies considerably among the styles, including polar fleece, synthetic filling, and down.
Did You Know?
In addition to outerwear, Arc’teryx offers a broad range of tops and bottoms with advanced layering and thermal features.
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Features
All Round (AR) jackets
Arc’teryx All Round (AR) jackets are intended for use in challenging weather conditions, which is why they’re equipped with far more features than other designs. These offer more in the way of insulation and water resistance and are often outfitted with advanced pocket systems to optimize storage for essentials.
Despite their involved technology, AR styles are lightweight and easy to pack, and they’re a popular choice for travelers and trekkers. Many styles are designed to function as sport and performance wear for mixed activities, such as hiking, snowboarding, and skiing.
Hood
Most Arc’teryx jackets come with a hood, some of which are sewn on while others are removable. On some jackets, the hood can be hidden inside a zippered pocket when it isn’t in use.
The hoods on many Arc’teryx jackets share a unique design element in which the panels connect to create a tall collar that reaches the nose in most individuals. The collar doesn’t flop down or warp because the zipper doubles as boning to ensure it remains upright. Additional coverage like this not only aids in protecting the face and neck, it can also eliminate the need for a scarf.
Adjustability
Many Arc’teryx jackets are adjustable for a customized fit. Some styles feature Velcro cuffs to tighten sleeves around the wrist and eliminate drafts. Certain jackets also have bungee cord hems around the bottom of the jacket and in some hoods.
Weather resistance
Arc’teryx utilizes a broad range of materials that boost its jackets’ performance in various weather conditions. Some jackets feature air-permeable, water-resistant shells for temperature regulation. Others have a GORE-TEX shell that repels water and eliminates the need for additional water-resisting treatments.
Sizing
Women’s Arc'teryx jackets are available in sizes XS through XL. Some consumers recommend sizing up to accommodate layers of clothing, however it’s not always necessary. To find a jacket that fits well, simply match your measurements, including arm, bust, waist, and hips, to the Arc’teryx sizing chart. If you’re between sizes, you may want to size up, especially if you have broad shoulders or long arms.
There’s no need to wonder if an Arc'teryx jacket will suit your needs. Simply refer to the product modifiers and product family. This information details the jacket’s material capabilities and intended uses.
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Accessories
Snow pants: Arctix Women’s Insulated Snow Pants
Invest in these thermal bottoms, which offer a high degree of warmth with lightweight synthetic insulation. The pants have a Thermalock coating to increase protection against abrasions and punctures.
Thermal top: Under Armour ColdGear Mock Top
This thermal top base layer wicks away sweat and moisture while keeping you warm. Made from a polyester and elastane blend, it offers four-way stretch for full mobility and plenty of comfort.
Ski socks: Pure Athlete Ski Socks
Stay warm and comfortable with these unisex knee-length, cushioned-toe ski socks. Reinforced stitching at the heel and toe combat friction-related wear, especially in hiking or ski boots.
Arc’teryx jacket prices
Women’s Arc’teryx jackets start at $180 and can cost as much as $1,000. Price is determined by how warm and protective the jacket is, as well as the number of premium features.
Inexpensive: Lightweight Arc’teryx jackets cost $180 to $300 and mostly include hip-length styles. Not all jackets in this range include a hood, and those that do have a sewn-on hood as opposed to a removable one.
Mid-range: Styles in the $325 to $500 range include jackets in various lengths, many of which include premium features like full-coverage neck panels and adjustable cuffs. These Arc’teryx jackets are available in several warmth levels ranging from lightweight to heavily insulated with down.
Expensive: Arc’teryx jackets that cost $550 to $1,000 include high-performance styles, which offer the most in terms of warmth, protection, and water resistance. Many of these jackets offer superior warmth for wear in extreme cold-weather environments.
Caution
If you wear foundation or lipstick, keep in mind that it could transfer to the collar or hood of your Arc’teryx jacket, especially when it’s zipped.
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Tips
- Choose a bright color for sports. If you want to increase your visibility to fellow skiers, hikers, or climbers, choose an Arc’teryx jacket in a bold color.
- Learn how to layer. For the best wear experience, refer to the resources on appropriate layering on the Arc’teryx website. Recommendations vary from one jacket style to another.
- Choose a style with a pocket system. If you prefer to travel light and want to downsize your backpack or bag, invest in an Arc’teryx style with an advanced pocket system. Many of these styles include lined, waterproof pockets for electronics, too.
- Consider your preferred layers before you buy your jacket. If you have go-to cold weather layers, such as thermal underwear and a fleece vest, be sure to try on the Arc’teryx jacket with them to see if the entire ensemble is comfortable.
FAQ
Q. Does Arc’teryx offer a warranty with its jackets?
A. Yes, there’s a limited warranty on all Arc’teryx products. Keep in mind that you’ll need to document any damage and return your jacket to open a claim. Repair and replacement are discretionary, and if your jacket has signs of misuse or neglect it won’t be covered. As far as how long the process takes, expect anywhere from six to eight business days for repairs in addition to shipping time.
Q. What is Coreloft insulation?
A. Coreloft is a nonwoven polyester-based insulation best known for its quick-drying qualities. For that reason, it’s common to see Coreloft in Arc’teryx jackets intended for sporting use. Coreloft is also effective at holding onto warmth by trapping air between its fibers.
Q. How should I clean my Arc’teryx jacket?
A. Arc’teryx details the recommended care and cleaning instructions on its website. Instructions vary based on the jacket’s materials, so it’s a good idea to read them before throwing the jacket in the washing machine. As far as frequency of cleaning, Arc’teryx recommends washing its jackets every 10 to 12 uses if they’re used in extreme conditions or sporting activities. For jackets that are worn lightly, wash every 20 to 30 uses.
Q. What colors do Arc’teryx jackets come in?
A. Most Arc’teryx styles are available in at least three colors, with some available in as many as ten. Unlike other jacket brands, there aren’t really any “core” colors, such as black or navy, that you’ll see across all styles. Most Arcteryx jackets come in at least one neutral color like gray or white. The brand doesn’t manufacture any jackets with patterned fabric, but you’ll find several styles that incorporate two or three colors into their overall design by way of panels or zippers.
