Arc'teryx Fission SV Jacket - Women's

Down below,("Arc'teryx has a great rep") you'll see I had reservations about this jacket. I was especially concerned about the lack of "features". Here's my opinion after a full winter (60 ski days). --pitzips: Still want them! Fortunately it was a winter to remember and it didn't get hot. I did get overheated in the deep pow due to exertion this year and had to just wait for the old wicking underwear to help out while I rode the chair. --place for lift ticket: Made do by tying the lift ticket to the elastic waist tightener inside one of the pockets and dangling it out the closed zipper. Worked okay. --clip for keys: Decided I didn't really want to fall on them anyway, so left them in my locker (or forgot to and they ended up in my chest pocket with everything else) --wrist pockets: Got along fine with just the chest pockets. --interior pockets: Used the ones on my ski pants to keep camera batteries warm. --Waterproof zipper: Worked GREAT, got easier to use throughout the winter, but wish it worked from the bottom so I could wear the coat zipped when driving. --Warmth: FANTASTIC!!!! Not once did I have to resort to my old Eddie Bauer -40 degree F down jacket over the whole ski outfit to stay warm. I was out on those days in the negative 20's and 30's oblivious to the temps. --Waterproofness: Not an issue this winter. Also discovered that when it's snowing, I can prevent the snow coming down my back into the long johns by keeping up the hood over my helmet quite comfortably. The non-detachable hood meant it was there for me when I suddenly decided I needed it. So, bottom line is I like this jacket a lot and will use it until it's worn through and I'm forced to buy another. Then will look for the new version, hoping they've added the features I miss.

I bought this jacket because of an excellent review in Smart Money magazine. I live in Chicago and needed something that would keep me warm. However, this is more of a ski jacket than a commuting to work jacket. The very large flaps at the neck became like blinders when I was seated driving in the car. The pockets are very small and shallow. Considering the cost, it just didn't meet my needs and I sent it back.

This jacket is an incredible piece for harsh winter days. It keeps the wind and water out completely, yet remains light and easy to move in. It is the most comfortable winter coat I have ever worn.

This is the best jacket I've ever owned, worth the price!

But... I hope that the warmth and waterproofing of the jacket counteract the lack of pit zips, a place to clip on a lift ticket, a clip inside a pocket for your keys, wrist pockets for your handkerchief, interior pockets, etc. I am also wondering about the longevity of the waterproof zipper. It is certainly NOT easy to zip, I have to take off my gloves to do it and it takes a bit of pulling to get it zipped even then. I am surprised that this brand has the reputation it has considering the lack of features in the jacket. I'll know better by the end of the winter whether the money was worth it. I will say it kept me plenty warm the other day when the temps were in the teens, without any additional long johns.

I realy like the Arc'Teryx hiking apparel, but this jacket just did not cut it for me. I was looking for a fairly heavy jacket that i would not have to layer and this fit the bill. I also liked the adjustable drawcord at the waist and the light weight. However, I also like pockets and this is where Arc'Teryx fails for me. For the price it just did not completely satisfy me on the features.

This jacket is fantastic for colder days. Stopping the wind, very warm and yet no weight at all. I highly recommend this Arc'teryx Fission SV jacket. My best buy so fare this year and of course backcountry is a great place for shopping quality products for outdoor living!

I was hesitant on spending that kind of money for a jacket. But this is the best jacket I have ever had. And I am so glad I bought it. Very comfortable and light weight. I would buy another. And the staff was so helpful and knew what he was talking about. Customer service Execellent. Will buy more from you

This jacket is a winner for alpine skiing in extreme conditions. I was initially concerned that the zipper didn't open from both the top and bottom, and there was no obvious place to attach a lift ticket, but those were minor inconveniences. The jacket provides a lot of warmth. The cords at the waist and bottom hem enable you to customize the fit, and the hood is a real plus. I don't wear a helmet, so it looks a bit geeky, but it's a luxury on the lift or in a squall. The insulation is toasty, and the fabric lining the collar is easy on the chin. I'd recommend this for under twenty degrees, but have worn it in warmer temps as well.