Gear Review
Arc'teryx Gamma MX Softshell Jacket - Men's
Evolution in action
By Brandon Carlile
Ranked #2 - Men's Softshell Jackets
August 21, 2009
As a longtime devotee of the original Gamma MX (I've been wearing them for 7 years) I'll give some insight to the new version. Fit is basically the same: athletic, long sleeves, fairly close torso. This MX uses a new fabric that is a bit lighter, dries more quickly, and has a softer face. It maintains the old characteristics of being super durable (much more than you'd expect from a soft face fabric) lots of stretch, blocks about 90% of wind and very water resistant, while breathing much better than laminated soft shells. Have no fear, it's really an upgrade from the classic Gamma MX of old!
View Details: Arc'teryx Gamma MX Softshell Jacket - Men's
Helpful Votes: 4 Yes
Change me.
2 Comments Last Reply: January 11, 2011 By: rev
Don't mean to pick nits, but it's worth noting: Polartec Power Shield, used in the Gamma MX uses, *is* a laminate/membrane. It's perforated, allowing for better breathability than hard-shell-in-disguise technologies like WINDSTOPPER and Gore-Tex Softshell, but it's still a laminate. For what it's worth... :)
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Brandon is spot-on--I've been wearing Gamma MXs for about 5 years now, wearing them 350 days a year in SF, and it's time for a new one. The local REI had the blue in. The material feels a fair bit nicer to the hand and does seem lighter/maybe a bit thinner. Also, I consider it an improvement cosmetically, as the chest pockets are no longer of an alternate color, but rather have minor accents along the zipper edge, so the look is more subtle. Considering the range of activities in which I wear it, from sporting to social, I consider that a positive change.
Helpful Votes: 2 Yes