The Sentry is the only one of the three that I have looked at, but I would definitely recommend it. The collar on the jacket is very high - it comes up almost to my mouth. This will be a pro for some since it provides lots of coverage, and a con for others who might not like the actual appearance. The Sentry jacket is surprisingly non-bulky, and it feels like a blanket when you wear it. The cut of this jacket is pretty relaxed - it leaves plenty of room to layer underneath it if necessary.

I'm sold on this jacket because of the flexibility that the Sentry offers: for warmer conditions (that warrant an insulated jacket), wear a baselayer. For colder conditions, there is plenty of room for a heavy sweater or a fleece jacket or a down/synthetic sweater. And the pit-zips always afford the ability to vent off extra heat.

In terms of warmth between the jackets that you are considering, the Orage uses a warmer insulation than this jacket (135 g/m as opposed to 100 g/m) while the North Face Jacket uses the same weight insulation. I'd at least recommend taking advantage of backcountry.com's excellent return policy and look at the jacket's side-by-side.

A couple details to consider. The Sentry uses Arc'teryx lamination to install the insulation. This does away with cold spots, helps the loft to last longer, and keeps the michelin man look away. Also, attention to detail, i.e. no exposed stitching, waterproof cuffs, and really durable face fabric that isn't boardy, make for a jacket that will last; and perform better on a daily basis. Design, materials, and construction are what make Arc'teryx distinctive from others.

ditto. I was hesitant to drop 450.00 for the Kappa Hoody but this thing rules! I've done plenty of personal testing and it's unbelievable.

I would also like to reiterate that Arcteryx is in a league of its own. No one compares to them in anyway. Its unreal. There are many good reasons their products cost so much.

your nuts if you pay 600 try mountain hard wear line better any day and a little less bling far more testing done .

I don't own this particular jacket but I will tell you that ArcTeryx is expensive for a reason, it's the best gear out there, bar none.

Well, it depends on what you are doing. No waterproof fabric will breath enough to let all the moisture out when you are slogging up hill, but for most situations, Gore Tex works well.

The Arc'teryx Sentry does use 100gm, and the Sceptre (women's version), 133gm.

From what I can see, it looks like these three jackets stack up like this on the warmth scale- Koven, Sentry, then Hoback. The Arc'teryx Sentry has a couple details to consider. Highest quality face fabric and Gore Pro-Shell (this will keep the jacket performing longer than any other waterproof/breathable membrane)Primaloft is 130gm, whereas the Hoback is 100gm. I found the Sentry to be a great warmth level for a wide variety of conditions; I've skied in 700 fill down jackets, and I'm always too hot, unless I'm standing around, not skiing (which is why I wear slightly less insulated jackets now; not too much standing around) If you want the absolute highest level of protection and warmth, check the Arc'teryx Fission SV.

I second BASEjumper's answer - made in China. The one that I saw certainly met my expectations though.

its made in CHINA

Canada

Yes it is.

The Arc'teryx Sentry is the most similar to the old Patriot. The Sentry uses a bit less insulation (130 gm compared to 200gm in Patriot) Also, has an even better face fabric, and uses Gore-Tex Pro Shell, so better breathablilty, durability, and drape. Additional, Arc'teryx added the roll-away hood, a better powder skirt, and pit-zips.