Works great when it works, but I broke two of these under normal use. As others have said, the tension adjuster failed. I have gone back to a simpler tool.

I bought the Mystic Jacket and pants both in a size small. I received them the other day in the mail. Right out of the box I was impressed with the style, color (shadow), and build quality. What really impressed me, and mainly the reason for buying the suit, was the ability to zip the snow skirt of the jacket to the pants and create a one piece suit. The systems works beautifully. However, I am sending both pieces back today. The main problem for me was the fit. I am 5'6" 150 lbs and I ordered a size small in both pieces. I anticipated a "loose" fit, but this was way to loose for me. I like the way the suit looks, I think its fantastic. However, on someone on the shorter side of life, it made me look like a 12 yr old borrowing his dads outfit. More than that, I found that due to the ill fit my motion was restricted by bunching and movement of the suit. Overall, great style and quality and it looks like it will keep the weather out, it just wasn't the proper fit for me.

I bought the Mystic Jacket and pants both in a size small. I received them the other day in the mail. Right out of the box I was impressed with the style, color (shadow), and build quality. What really impressed me, and mainly the reason for buying the suit, was the ability to zip the snow skirt of the jacket to the pants and create a one piece suit. The system works beautifully. However, I am sending both pieces back today. The main problem for me was the fit. I am 5'6" 150 lbs and I ordered a size small in both pieces. I anticipated a "loose" fit, but this was way to loose for me. I like the way the suit looks, I think its fantastic. However, on someone on the shorter side of life, it made me look like a 12 yr old borrowing his dads outfit. More than that, I found that due to the ill fit my motion was restricted by bunching and movement of the suit. Overall, great style and quality and it looks like it will keep the weather out, it just wasn't the proper fit for me. A note on the pants, the size small felt pretty loose in the waist. I am a size 30. I have the Oakley Brigade pant in a small and it fits perfectly, but I think Oakley labels those as "regular" fit.

I bought a Gamma SV 6 years ago when it was first released. Being the original softshell, it was ground breaking. I have taken the jacket through the forests of Northern British Columbia, Skiing in Colorado, hiking in Alaska, trekking in Thailand, and even a couple seasons of tree planting. I have worked this jacket harder than any other jacket I have ever owned. Finally, after 6 years of beatings, I had to replace the zipper. For the amount of abuse this jacket has taken, I can't give anything less than 5 stars. When I am packing for a trip, this is my go-to item.

I will be the first to admit I own a few too many Arcteryx Jackets, but this one is my current fav. Solid construction and great styling bring it all together. This jacket feels bomber. I am not worried when I am bombing through trees that a little branch will reach out and tear it up. The materials are solid and effective. All that being said, I was surprised by the weight. For something as robust as it is, it is not overly heavy. I find it a little long in the torso, but mainly because I am really, really short (5'5"). I would recommend this jacket for mainly resort skiing, if you are looking for something tele/BC/AT related, there are some lighter and more breathable shells out there. Overall, if you are lapping the back bowls and want a jacket that looks good and keeps you climate controlled while doing it, this is for you.

The retail price is a little steep, but when it came up on Steep and Cheap, I was on it. Great all around spring/fall jacket that will protect you from the elements. I own the 1st generation Gamma SV (literally bought it 1 month after its release) and 5 years later it is still going. I anticipate this to do the same. But with a hood. Oh, and a snazzy green color.

If you want an ultra light, high tech, top quality minimalist shell, this is it. mine has one pocket, and it is enough to stash your ID and keys, the rest is only what you need. This years has two pockets, a nice add i thought. I have taken it through West coast downpours and skied Colorado Backcountry in it. Gore-Tex Paclite shaves weight and keeps you nice and dry. and the styling is typical Arc'teryx, subtle but kick @$$. I have it in grey, and my bro has the Wasabi, I like his better.

I bought a Sidewinder SV 6 years ago as my first descent jacket from Arcteryx. It has been fantastic. The durability is second to none. the materials have kept me warm and dry in some pretty awful situations and it keeps on ticking. the styling and materials have only gotten better with time. I would highly recommend it for anyone needing a very stylish, very technical resort skiing/light backcountry jacket. My only gripe, it is a little long in the body, but I think that has more to do with me being short than the jacket.