So far, so nice.

By Rob de Luca November 4, 2008

I've only had the Venta SV for four days now (one star per day), but I'm very happy. I tend to warm up and cool down quickly, and I needed a light, reasonably weatherproof jacket that could cope with my heat output, but still insulate when I stopped moving; I've been putting the Venta through its paces and I think it could be the one. From hiking around trails in Park City in changing conditions (we've had sun, clouds, wind, freezing rain, sleet, and snow in the last 72hrs) to working, napping on the couch (fully zipped) and occasionally grabbing firewood off the porch, this jacket hasn't soaked through, been cold, or been hot, just perfect-I've hardly taken it off. The cut is athletic, but accommodates 2 under-layers (merino tee, Capilene zip-neck) in a Medium (I'm 5'10, 165#; see my profile for body measurements) and the micro-grid fleece lining is not bulky; it feels warm on bare skin in the wind, unlike my hard shells. The face fabric is soft, quiet and stretchy, and the hood cinches down over a beanie fine but will also fit a helmet no problem. The Aztec color is a more muted, orangey yellow, and it has garnered compliments from both sexes. Can't wait to "get serious" with it and wear it touring, but we need a bit more snow to make that worthwhile. Consider this a great first impression, with another review to follow.

View Details: Arc'teryx Venta SV Softshell Jacket - Men's

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No