For backcountry skiing and mountaineering, this is great. But if you're trying to use it for any sort of casual use, it's very much overkill. It is durable like the skin of a rhino, and beautiful to behold, but lacks some basics, like compression straps. The 40 also withholds on a zipper to the main compartment, so you only have rolltop access. 50 and 65 have main side zip. It will last forever, but you definitely have to make compromises when you get a pack that is this directed in its purpose.

It looks beautiful, but just make sure you buy this for the right purpose and reasons.

The ACT fabric will stand up to the worst abuse, the backpanel and fit are easily dialed, it will carry anything short of an elephant with applomb, and construction is...flawless.

Great jacket, read all the other reviews. The only thing to add is that unlike a lot of other jackets, the hem on the Stingray is quite boxy, and does not drop much in the back at all. It makes it great for skiing, but for snowboarding, if you want butt coverage, look elsewhere. That being said, it looks snazzier and cleaner for it's shorter length.

Construction, style, function...all Arc'teryx typical excellent. Can't go wrong with the brand, just watch that you get the jacket for it's purpose.

With more coverage than the Stingray, the Scorpion is a nice bet for a warmer hardshell. Unfortunately, I've found that due to the heavier, higher loft fabric, that I can feel the sleeves and the pitzips under my arms. Not a problem with the Stingray. This will be updated and reflected in next Fall's line, where they will mix the high and low loft fabrics for better movement. The fit of this coat in the body is definitely roomier than the Ascent line, so choose accordingly.

This jacket makes you look like a football linebacker. Admittedly, it helps with range of motion when moving your arms for belaying, but for all other situations, it just looks like you're wearing pads. The problem is that they gave you room, but also gave you bulk. Thermatek works wonders and is basically waterproof, and is warm and light as hell, but for any other practical use, the jacket is laughable as anything close to a casual piece. I'd stick to the Solo, which alternatively has a very close Euro fit, (closer than most Arc'teryx, but true to sizing) and is one of the best pieces I own.

Derrek hits the nail on the head. I have a 32" waist, 32" inseam and I'm more than amply covered with the Med. Regular. Additionally, I've used them as just rainpants and had no problem in them, as long as I didn't just stay still in the downpour. The breathability makes up for it, as you end up comfortable in such a great range of activity levels and temperatures with the great breathability. This is the right pant for most times, with a hardshell pant and some long underwear the only other accessories needed for ALL times.

FYI, fit VERY similarly to the Gamma AR pant, but just have the different gaiter in the cuff, with the drawcord, AND the addition of suspenders. Like a relaxed fit pair of jeans.

This jacket will be overkill for most, and was made for the most demanding of athletes and conditions. That does mean that it will easily deflect rain and almost anything nature or you can throw at it. It is heavier than the Alpha LT and Beta LT, so question how much you will abuse it. The new LT fabric will be fine for 99.9% of people. Rest assured, this jacket will look new for nigh upon a decade of use, due to the quality of the fabric and construction. When looking to buy, ask yourself if you want to be able to stow the hood, if you use your pockets for your hands (then don't get this), and if you want the low back (for coverage) and high front (for a climbing harness). The Theta and Beta are decidedly more practical for most. But this jacket is like a WRX STi...not practical for most, but still decidedly badass.

The best part about this little gem is that no matter what's in it, it sits beautifully between your shoulder blades. My buddy borrowed it and took it skiing, his first words were, "I can't even feel it" (vs. his Dakine Heli Pro) and I've taken it on hikes, to work, to tradeshows, the odd festival here and there, and just traveling in general. It's great for all of the above, and the only niggle I'd have is that the drawstring can be a pain to put away. I wish they'd put on some sort of keeper for the drawstring when tight, but I think it just needs to go down into the hole in the top of the main sack.

The best thing about this bag is how it fits even without any backpanel suspension, and how great of a harness is attached to it. Sternum strap, curved, padded, and a waist strap. That's removable! Never worry about it shifting when you're bending over or running again.

And there are attachments for shock cord, I'm looking into adding some for lashing/compression.

Oh, and for the record, I love the colors :)

I don't think you realize how easy it is to get to your gear with this pack. There's two huge BOMBER zippers running down the side of the whole pack, and you can just take the pack off, stand it up (it'll balance standing up!), and pull down both zippers and there's your whole rack, ready to use! Nothing has easier access.

Only qualm, the fit in the bottom is a bit tight for the Pali Rope bag, but I guess that's Arc'teryx and its tight tolerances for you.

Oh, and like everything else Arc'teryx, build, quality, materials, fit, and suspension have no problems.