Very Impressed and Pleased

By elejaces Ranked #1404 - Men's Technical Shells May 5, 2009

I was a bit hesitant to order this jacket based on some of the reviews about the length of the jacket 'and bagginess' around the shoulders, but it turned out to be a non-issue for me. I own several Arc'teryx jackets (Fission AR and SV, Alpha LT) and I have to say this is truly and all around (AR) jacket. It is definitely shorter than the Alpha, it sits exactly below my belt, and the rear drop back covers 3/4 of my rear end. I can see that if you have a longer torso, this jacket would just be too short. If I wear a slightly longer fleece, the front edge will peek underneath the jacket around the belt. The extra room around the shoulder area is great for me. For whatever reason the other jackets like the Theta AR always seem to rub against my armpits and this is just uncomfortable. I do not have this problem with my Beta AR, and I can put a fleece underneath with comfort. The other feature I like is the collar, you can zip it all the way up and it protects your neck from the elements. I think this is an important distinction with the Alpha line. The Alpha design probably assumes that you will have the hood up most of the time. Don't get me wrong, the Alpha LT is probably my favorite jacket for the outdoors, the fabric is super tough and more flexible, and is a little longer overall front and back. The only thing is that the Alpha leaves your neck more exposed if the hood is down. The fabric looks bombproof and the cut is trim. I actually love this about Arc'teryx in general, but this jacket is particularly nice fitting. I am 5'10" and 169 lb, athletic build and I just love how this M size fits me. The hood is very well designed as well, you can custom fit it to perfection with all of the adjustments possible. The Beta AR is significantly nicer that the Beta SL. It is not only a bit longer (about 3/4" longer, and it may not seem like much but it makes a difference), has pit zips, and the Gore-Tex PRO breathes significantly better than the thinner GoreTex Pac-Lite.
Great construction, fully taped seams, and quality zippers. Very happy with this one. I thinks this is a very well designed jacket. Get it on sale while it is available!

View Details: Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket - Men's

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes