Apache AR In Real Life Usage

By TheJester Ranked #4501 - Men's Fleece Jackets June 1, 2006

I got an Apache AR fleece to replace an aging Columbia fleece. Arc'teryx had an excellent reputation for high quality items, reviews were positive, and I liked the style of it. Having now used it for several weeks over a few light hikes and mostly day-to-day living, my impressions are very positive.

It is a thin layer compared to many other fleece tops, but insulates quite well despite it. The zip neck is surprisingly effective at moderating temperature by simply zipping up more or less. The brushed collar and flatlocked seams worked by preventing any chafing regions and I find the trim cut very comfortable overall. The chest pocket is a good place to stash a wallet, and the zipper on it (and the front zip) are both high quality and slide easily, even when pulled from strange angles.

The only annoyance I have discovered with it is from the brushed fiber ends of the sleeves; the way they are stitched on makes it slightly thicker than the sleeve material itself. Thus if you rest your arms when typing (or some similar activity) it creates an uncomfortable pressure spot on your wrist, unless you pull the sleeve down or shove it up a little. Of course the Apache is designed as outdoor gear, so I doubt this was a design consideration, but just about everyone uses a fleece for day to day life too, and at this price point I expect damn near perfection.

So overall, only one very minor complaint about an overall excellent product. If you don't have a gut, and are looking for a nice fleece, it gets my thumbs up.

View Details: Arc'teryx Apache AR Zip-Neck Fleece Jacket - Men's

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