Quality on this jacket is exceptional. Attention to detail is the specialty of this climbing-industry based company. On this jacket, everything from the laminated zippers to the moulded "Zipper Garage", die cut velcro cuffs, to the quick dry chin guard has been thought of. This gear is manufactured to stand up to the grueling standards of the rock-climbing industry, and the quality shows!

There are a few considerations to keep in mind when looking at this product, however. When it comes to the age old weight versus functionality battle, Arc'Teryx has shaved all of the excess cream, which is a necessity to acheive its miraculously low weight. This means it is waist cut, which is actually perfect for fly fishermen. Waders and hip-cut rain jackets don't mix well! It also means you have only one pocket, a zippered chest pocket. This is nice for keeping items that need to be dry handy, and the laminated water tight zippers do wonders. Pockets for your hands would be nice, as well as a better design on the hood. Keep in mind, however, that this would increase the weight of the jacket considerably.

The Gore-Tex PacLite material is very waterproof for its weight, it's the lightest material Gore makes. However, if you stand in a downpour with this jacket for sixteen hours, you will get wet. With that being said, how many jackets do you know of that will provide excellent shelter from the rain at such a light weight? It's a trade-off, weight versus functionality, and if you're looking for the lightest possible jacket of the highest quality to keep you dry but not weigh you down, this is the jacket for you. All in all, I'd say that Arc'Teryx has hit this one perfect: a super water-proof, breathable, ultra-lightweight rain jacket that you can take anywhere!




4/5 Stars

Ryan Davey
Fly Fishing Instructor, Guide, and Videographer
Angling Exploration Group

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Article	068
Created	7-10-2004
Modified	7-13-2004
Author	Worldanglr
Rating