The jackets fit definitely allows room for layering. Also the brushed liner does work fine with fleece or softer under-layers; minimal velcro effect!

The Arc'teryx Stingray is cut to accommodate layers, and you should have plenty of room (one consideration, smooth-faced layers work better than traditional fuzzy fleece due to the fleece lining of the coat-check the Atom or Tau)The Gore-Tex Softshell is totally waterproof. It's the membrance sandwiched in the middle, plus the DWR treated face fabric that keep water out.

Hi Doug, The Arc'teryx Stingray has a drop hood, with a collar; it does not stow or remove. It is built with Gore-Tex softshell, which has a light fleece laminated to the inside, which does add a bit of insulation, and also accounts for most of the weight difference. As for which one: if you're primarily using it as ski/board jacket, the Stingray is better, because of features (pow-skirt, etc). The Theta AR is good as a ski coat, but is better for hiking, travel, etc- more versatile, and packable.

it's not really a "long" fitting jacket (compared to some of the other arc'teryx mountaineering jackets). but that's what the powder skirt is for — it will definitely keep the snow out. i just returned my stingray (it was last years model) because the sleeves and waist weren't quite long enough. BUT, i have really long arms, AND i'm a snowboarder, so i prefer both measurements a little longer than normal.

that was my only beef with the stingray. other than that it's a really great jacket. and if you're a skier, it'll be just fine. also, i did just go to REI the other day and try on this years stingray (this one pictured above), and it did seem like maybe it was slightly longer than last years model.

thanks for that...in terms of length, do you find it long enough though to keep the snow out? I know the Theta are longer jackets and I want to make sure it covers enough of the waist area (keeping the cold and elements out...)

I just tried one of these on this weekend. I'm 6' 175lbs (16" neck, 34/35 sleeve) and a medium fit me nicely with just enough room for a layer underneath. Since you've got a few pounds on me I'd recommend a large for you. The jacket hit slightly below the waist and the sleeves were long enough. This is definitely an awesome jacket. The copper looks great in person.

I've been wearing a Medium in the Arc'teryx Stingray, and I'm 5'11, 175. Enough room for a couple layers (as long as they're not floppy fitting) but not too big when I wear just a baselayer. I'd suggest a medium for you as well. In my opinion, the ideal layer for this jacket is the Arc'teryx Tau pullover.

I haven't seen this jacket specifically, but based on other Arcteryx jackets that I have seen, you are going to be a tough fit. I'm 5'10 with and wear 34/35 inch dress shirts and have a 40.5" shirt. Medium Arcteryx ski shells fit me perfectly with room for an insulating layer. Stating the obvious, by chest measurement you want the Large and by arm length, probably no more than the medium. The ski shells do have a more relaxed cut, so a medium might work for you - obviously you are cutting into the room you have for layering though. I owned a size large shell at one time and I personally didn't like how baggy it was - these jackets are way too expensive for them not to fit right.

Something you might consider is looking at the Stinger jacket, which has a very roomy cut. I'm pretty sure a size medium would fit you well. It definitely is different than the Stingray though..

Best advice: take advantage of the awesome return policy that backcountry.com has and get both sizes. $5.99 is a cheap price to pay for returning one (or both if neither work) to get the right size.

Gore-Tex Pro Shell is designed for extreme, long duration exposure, whereas the Softshell includes some insulation so you don't need as many layers. They are both great fabrics. Check out their website for full descriptions:

http://www.gore-tex.com/remote/Satellite/content/fabric-technologies-outerwear