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It's easier to press on and keep a clear head when you're comfortable and dry.... We'll even venture to say you'll still have a great time.

In addition to waterproof breathable Gore-Tex Pro material, Arc'teryx gave the Men's Theta SV Jacket an extra-long cut to provide even more protection in horrendous weather. Plenty of thoughtful design features help make the jacket your shelter from the storm on any alpine climb or ski tour.
  • Seal the helmet-compatible hood over your helmet or hat, cinch the laminated cuffs, and pull the WaterTight zippers tightly shut for an impenetrable fortress
  • No-lift gusseted underarms ensure the jacket won't ride up as you raise your ice axe or plant your ski pole
  • Laminated hand pockets sit above your harness for easy access
  • Slightly looser athletic fit accommodates any layers you need under the jacket
  • Laminated underarm vent zips let you stay dry as you crank the engines into high gear on your final uphill push

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Arc'teryx Theta SV Jacket - Men's

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Here's what others have to say...

5 5

sol100288840

Member since 

I've had many different Gortex (and Gortex wannabe) shells over the years and have always had to put up with some degree of inside moisture build-up due to physical exertion and/or ambient temperatures. So, that's what I expected with the Theta SV but was I wrong! I really tried to work up a sweat by putting on a liner jacket underneath and wearing a hat and gloves in relatively mild (48 deg F) temperatures, but it just wouldn't happen. No sweat even though I felt a touch too warm after about an hour. Given the conditions and the hilly terrain I hiked, I should have been swimming in perspiration. Instead I remained dry and comfortable. I don't think I'll ever get another Gortex shell again unless I manage to trash this one and need to replace it.

5 5

Cory Akin

Member since 
Groups:

I have not even worn it skiing yet. BUT, I know people have lots of questions about sizes. I am 5'11", 185lbs with a beer gut (33-34 inch waist). I have a Medium and it fits me great. I've tried it on with an Arcteryx Atom LT and a baselayer, and it's perfect. The cut is also awesome. This is one of the longer pieces Arcterxy offers, and I wouldn't want it cut any shorter for a ski jacket. The back goes down about mid-bum.
As other people have said, it's a fairly loud jacket. But for the protection and strength of fabric, that comes with the territory.

5 5

Phil Mollenkof

Member since 
  • Gender: Male
  • Familiarity: I've used it several times

Amazing jacket- the material is one of the most durable I've ever seen, and the coverage of this jacket is amazing- long in all the right places. I use this jacket for mostly cold weather actitivies- skiing, skinning, etc. I wouldn't recommend using it in very warm weather as I think it's just too heavy of a jacket. The only downside I would say is that the material is pretty crinkly and loud- nothing huge, but I just personally prefer my Sabre for skiing as it's just a little softer in the cold.

Also, how do the Theta SV and Alpha SV...

morp319523

Member since 
Posted on

Also, how do the Theta SV and Alpha SV compare sizing wise? I'm 6'1" 240lbs with a 52" chest - should I go XL or XXL?

PAUL UDOVIC

Member since 
Responded on

The Theta SV fits about a full size larger than the posted size. My small Theta SV fits exactly the same as my medium Alpha SV. Even when comparing them on top of each other the Theta is just as wide and a touch longer in the torso. Best to try one on before ordering (or you can order both sizes and return the one that doesn't fit to backcountry
.

morp319523

Member since 
Responded on

Thanks - I went with an XXL Alpha SV as I like the material a bit better- great fit!

I'm debating between the Theta SV and Alpha...

morp319523

Member since 
Posted on

I'm debating between the Theta SV and Alpha SV. What's the difference between the 150D nylon of the Theta vs. the 80D nylon of the Alpha? Is the Alpha softer?

Stephen M. Bennett

Member since 
Responded on

The Alpha should be softer. The Theta is conceivably more durable.

PAUL UDOVIC

Member since 
Best Answer Responded on

The Alpha SV uses the newer n 80 X-P fabric. It is more supple than the fabric on the Theta. Both are extremely durable and have the same performance.
Next season the Gore Pro membrane becomes available (20% more breatheable) and the Theta SV apparently becomes the Theta SVX (I heard they will be using the same fabric as the Alpha)

JBS

Member since 
Responded on

To add to Paul U...I spoke with Arcteryx and they said that the Theta SV will indeed become the SVX, using all n80 fabric like the current Alpha SV. The Theta AR will be a combo of the current 40d and will have n80 for reinforcement vs. the current AR's 150d.

5 5

ajsp283659

Member since 
  • Gender: Male
  • Familiarity: I've used it several times

Backcountry was awesome, they made my exchange for the right size a priority and I am very happy with the fit and the performance of this shell. The features are very intuitive and it becomes part of you quickly. I love that I can easily put climbing skins in the pockets, that's critical. It's seems like everything it's cracked up to be and hopefully it will endure rugged 4 season use for many years to come.

4 5

Cameron Costley

Member since 
Groups:
  • Gender: Male
  • Familiarity: I've used it several times

This is my first Arcteryx hardshell. I have my reasons for holding out so long. I've gotta say that I regret all of them. This jacket is near perfection! I picked up the jacket here at Backcountry's warehouse and headed up to Alta for some night-skinning. I love the length of the jacket, the high collar, and the big pockets! I did get warm on the skin up (I was trying to keep up with my freakishly athletic friend) so I had to open the pit zips and unzip the jacket to keep cool on a clear, windless night.
I have skied several days in this jacket and have really enjoyed it and have kicked myself for not buying one years ago!
I'm 6'1" and 165 lbs and I a have the medium. It fits really well but I feel like the sleeves are a little long (I realize the Theta has exaggerated length) and maybe a little baggy in the rest of the jacket? If I ever get the chance I'm trying on a Small. I really wonder if the small would fix these problems.
No Arcteryx owner is without a justified complaint or two of scrutiny because if you pay for perfection, you demand it. Here's what I would change about my jacket: 1) Gore-Tex. I do miss my MHW DryQ. The 3-layer on this jacket is very loud and not super breathable. I tried to get dressed and leave my friend's house early without waking anyone. If it weren't for this jacket I would have succeeded. 2) Velcro on the cuffs. I am already questioning the longevity of the velcro because it seems that every time I open the cuff, insert my ski glove, and then close it, the velcro is fraying drastically more and more.
I do love this jacket and would recommend it to anyone who isn't a ninja!

Hi, There are Theta sv jackets made ??in...

pinp23795

Member since 
Posted on

Hi, There are Theta sv jackets made ??in China, Is there a difference between them and those who made in Canada ?
Thanks,
Pini

PAUL UDOVIC

Member since 
Best Answer Responded on

Mine is made in China. Arc'teryx rotates which models are produced in Canada and which ones in their factory in China every season. I cannot notice a difference in quality between any of my arc gear made in Canada and made in China

5 5

Chris Wilke

Member since 
  • Gender: Male
  • Familiarity: I've used it several times

I have owned this jacket for a couple of months now. This is my first Arc'teryx piece and will not be my last!! I don't think I could find a better hardshell.

I bought this jacket because of the burly fabric. I live on the east coast so I do a lot of tight tree skiing and skiing where 99% people wouldn't go near. Knowing this I really wanted a really tough shell that would still be able to breathe and not feel super stiff like I am wearing a leather jacket or something.

Another huge factor for me was fit. I wanted something with some style to it. I didn't want a short tight fitting jacket that just meets the waistline like most tech shells are. I wanted more length and some room to layer as well. I am 6 feet and 150 pounds. The size medium fits me PERFECT. It is nice and long without being too long and has enough room in it to layer without looking like you gained 45 pounds.

I have worn this jacket pretty much everyday since the temps have started to drop. I have hiked, skinned, skied, and even mountain biked with it on. All activities the jacket performed flawlessly.

My first hard test on this jacket occurred a few weeks ago when they first started to blow snow at my local mountain. The temps were above/below freezing all night so the snow guns were blowing pretty much water with some snow. I skinned up the mountain underneath all of the snowguns and once at the top I was completely dry. I was blown away. The jacket had breathed exceptionally well and didn't make me feel like a human sauna on the way up even though I had the jacket all the way zipped up and the hood up because of the crazy conditions.

This jacket has exceeded all expectations of mine!! I will be purchasing a pair of Arc'teryx pants as soon as possible so I can have a full bombproof setup!!

Can't wait to put this jacket through more hell!

What is the difference between this jacket...

Dan

Member since 
Posted on

What is the difference between this jacket and the Theta AR?

Sam

Member since 
Best Answer Responded on

1. The SV is fully reinforced (150D fabric), the AR is not (the AR is reinforced in high wear areas like the shoulders and sleeves)... therefore the SV is more durable and will last longer (but also a few ounces heavier).
2. The SV has an expedition fit (wider) than the AR (athletic fit)... although the SV has a waist cinch that can make it fit more like an athletic fit.
3. The Ar has separate collar encircling the neck while the SV does not. I find this collar annoying when wearing a layer under that has a hood (but that's personal preference I guess).
4. The collar on the SV covers much higher on your face than the AR (it is an SV after all).
5. Price difference of $50. But then again, at this price range I don't think $50 is a big deal.

Dan

Member since 
Responded on

I actually bought the AR and I have to say that I love it. I found it for $400 and backcountry price matched it plus they still gave me 2 day shipping.

PAUL UDOVIC

Member since 
Responded on

The AR also has the cinch waist.Over the years I have not noticed any durability issues with the lighter fabrics used on the AR models. 9 years and counting for my old Theta AR and its still looking great and waterproof as ever

5 5

Bert

Member since 
  • Gender: Male
  • Familiarity: I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Received the jacket a couple of days ago and am very pleased. I'm 6'3", 215 lbs, 45" chest, 34" waist. I ran track (sprinter) in high school & college, so I exercise like a sprinter/hiker hybrid rather than a pure endurance athlete. I paired a large in the Theta SV with a XL Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man jacket and it fits great...I'm really looking forward to skiing & hiking this season. The large in the Theta AR was just a touch too small but I have the perfect amount of layering room in the Theta SV.

Some argue against the fleece mid-layer as being "too heavy" but my feeling is, if you're in good/great shape, the extra few ounces will not make or break you, especially since a good fleece is quite warm & breathes better than a down sweater. Obviously, ounce for ounce, down is warmer (dry) but as long as you have a good shell (which this is!) that is the right size, you're good to go. You may lose a little space in your pack, but nothing insurmountable in most cases.

HURRICANE EDIT:

Not that anyone needed any convincing that this shell is great, but I live in the northeast US and can assure you that this shell is indeed windproof . Helping relatives who "forgot" (i.e. relatives who think the hurricane "can't be worse than the Blizzard of '78!" to remove items from their backyard that can be tossed about in 45MPH gusts and driving rain. Theta vs. plant holder: Theta wins.

Theta vs. flying deck chair: Theta won with no tears BUT wrist is sore from shielding myself.

In all seriousness: stay inside but help people if they need it.

Awesome shell; worth the big bucks

Hi, I'm 5'9" and 180 lb.
What size should...

pinp23795

Member since 
Posted on

Hi, I'm 5'9" and 180 lb.
What size should i take for the Theta SV Jacket ?

Josh

Member since 
Responded on

Medium. You could go for large if you plan on lots of layers underneath, but I think you'd end up with too much length.

vazp291019

Member since 
Responded on

Here are the exact Measurements from Arc in inchs.
Theta AR Med
Chest - 48 1/2
Waist - 45
Arms - 36 3/4
Back length - 32
Bottom of the Jacket - 47
No Powder Shirt/ 4 Season
Pit Zips - Yes
Material - Proshell

Theta AR Large
Chest - 511/2
Waist - 48 1/2
Arms - 37 1/2
Back length - 33
Bottom of the Jacket - 50

5 5

Josh

Member since 
  • Gender: Male
  • Familiarity: I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Just got the jacket and I'll update this once I've taken it out a few times, but I can comment on the fit. I'm 6'1" 170lbs and wear a size medium. There's plenty of room for layering (maybe even more than I expected), but like all arcteryx products the jacket is clearly well designed without excess bagginess or strange proportions. It's also pretty long, reaching 6 or so inches below my waist. I would like to see a powder-skirt (personal preference), but I do understand that there are pros and cons to that. I would also add that the jacket does seem a little stiff and "crinkly," probably unavoidable considering the bombproofedness of the materials.

Bert

Member since 
Responded on

Hmm...based on your description I think I'll go with a Large. I'm a bit bigger than you (6'3" 215lbs) and I tried on the Theta AR in large and it was just a tiny bit too small to layer a Monkey Man jacket underneath. The SV sounds like it has the extra space I'm looking for without having to jump up to an XL. Do you feel the SV is too heavy for spring hiking? I plan to use it on the slopes but do you think it's too heavy for spring hiking based on your feel?

Josh

Member since 
Responded on

I agree on your sizing. I do think that this would be overkill for spring conditions, but it is GoreTex, which always breathes well. Personally, I prefer minimal gear in the spring (unless it's raining...).

Hi I'm 5' 11" and 230lb. The largest part...

rivest

Member since 
Posted on

Hi I'm 5' 11" and 230lb. The largest part of my body measurement is my waist and it is abt 46". Should I go for XL or XXL considering I need to layer a fleece and a t-shirt?

Gary Todd

Member since 
Responded on

Hello rivest,
I am 6' 1" tall and at the time I had aquired my Theta SV size XL I was 262lbs and had a 40-42 in. waist and there was plenty of room in the waist and I can imagine you would have a problem. The cut of this shell is expedition fit which means its cut roomier for layering. It all depends on how you plan on utilizing it. Do you plan on wearing alot of layering for winter activities like a baselayer and a puffy down then you might look at the xxl. At this time Im 220 with a 36" waist and can easily wear a baselayer, Atom Lt under my Atom SV with the shell on top for extremely cold conditions. The great thing about Backcountry.com is they have an excellent return/exchange policy so no need to worry. Hope that helps you get an idea of how roomy this shell is. Great piece of gear you will love it! Ps. I just measured across the face of the shell laying flat and its 26.25"across, pleanty wide.

what are the major differences between the...

Taylor Francis

Member since 
Posted on

what are the major differences between the theta AR and SV. for $50 more am i better off getting the SV?

Gary Todd

Member since 
Responded on

The Theta SV is built entirely of a more durable fabric (N150p GORE-TEX Pro 3L) and the Theta AR uses this fabric in the high wear areas like the shoulders. The cut of the AR is more athletic and the SV is cut roomier for layering. I own the SV and use it mostly in the winter. Any other season its really too much coat for the purpose it serves. This coat will hold up to just about anything you throw at it. The AR is a great coat too. If you want the biggest bang for the buck go with the SV. It will not dissapoint. Find a local retailer and try them both on and that way you can compare fit and feel.

How much longer is this jacket really than...

Stephen M. Bennett

Member since 
Posted on

How much longer is this jacket really than the Alpha SV? The specs say the center back length on the Theta is 0.7 inches longer. Is that all we're talking about here?

Other questions:
1. Would you pick this or the Sabre for skiing (resort skiing only at the moment)?
2. What about for winter backpacking?
3. Which would you pick if you could only have one?

utah whatchamacallit

Member since 
Responded on

If you could only have one jacket-i would go with this jacket for sure. I own this jacket and love it. I also own the sabre and sidewinder and would definitely not want the snowskirts that the sabre have for winter backpacking-the snowskirt will be annoying and get layered under the hipbelt causing discomfort.
If I could only have one-i would go for this for sure-its a great jacket that is bombproof. In addition, the hood on this is great and will swallow any ski helmet as well. this jacket is also lighter which would be better for backpacking as well.

I am 6' 3" and weigh 150 pounds. Should...

Nic

Member since 
Posted on

I am 6' 3" and weigh 150 pounds. Should I get the small or medium?

Is there another jacket that would have a better fit?

Thanks!

Brandon Carlile

Member since 
Groups:
Responded on

You would get a better fit with the Theta AR or Alpha SV. Either of these have just a bit less volume in the body. You'll need at least a medium to accomodate your length.

My trusty Stoic hardshell recently bit it...

adetchells1384214

Member since 
Posted on

My trusty Stoic hardshell recently bit it after 5 years of faithful use.

I'm now looking for a shell to last me the next decade. I live in the Pacific NW so hardshell is necessary given our weather.

I get in about 30 days of snowboarding a year (mostly resort, but I started doing more backcountry towards the end of the season).

I've started to get into mountaineering too. Mainly non-technical ascents but I'd like to get into more challenging stuff as my skills progress - ice climbing, etc. Oh, snowboard mountaineering is a definite goal as well.

I want to rely on ONE hardshell for everything. I'm considering either the Alpha SV or the Theta SV. It seems the main differences are:

Theta has bigger pockets (beer!)
Theta is longer

Are there strong arguments in favor of one or the other for my use? Does the Alpha's shorter length get annoying for skiing/snowboarding? Does the Theta's longer length interfere w/ harness?

Oh, and why doesn't bc carry the Sidewinder SV?

Brandon Carlile

Member since 
Groups:
Responded on

The Theta SV will be your best bet, as it's more versatile, especially for the down portion, and for more layering options. The Sidewinder SV will be back on Backcountry.com when the new styles fill in for Fall '12 around mid september. Sidewinder wouldn't be as good as Theta SV for the climbing ventures.

adetchells1384214

Member since 
Responded on

Wish I could comment on Brandon's question. The alpha sv description said something about a climbing harness keeper loop. Does the theta offer any similar advantage or is that just compensation for the shorter length? By the down portion you mean it covers your butt with the drop back better? By layering you mean it has a more generous fit?

PAUL UDOVIC

Member since 
Responded on

THe alpha SV has a hemlock harness holder around the side of the bottom drawsting. Small piece of foam (about 5" long) . It is supposed to help the jacket from rising up or rubbing along the sides. I prefer the Theta for skiing, but for climbing the Alpha is better (shorter cut helps as well).

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