Softshells that make you go "hummm"

By Donner Party Ranked #3224 - Men's Softshell Jackets February 23, 2007

First off, quality or no quality (and Arc'teryx does make top-quality stuff) paying full retail for this jacket would be a bad buy in my opinion. I found it for $170 so figured what the heck. As with most Arc'teryx stuff the characteristic quality (often subtly manifested) is there, but it can't compete with other high-end softshells, most notably Mountain Hardwear Alchemy. Sigma AR fits very close to the body and feels rather insubstantial; flimsy might be too harsh a word, but it doesn't have the beefy, tough feel of the Alchemy. As observed in other reviews the sleeve cuffs are rather wide and no closure straps or other weatherproofing means are available. The pit-zips are very nice, but they do not have internal linings and this can be uncomfortable particularly when you have only a light baselayer underneath. The hem is also on the short side, causing shirttails to stick out and easily riding up over the waist. I'm sure it's very "technical," but for the money you can do better; this just doesn't look or feel like a $300 jacket, Arc'teryx or not.

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

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