Thanks to waterproof breathable Gore-Tex Paclite fabric and a thoughtful design, the Arc'teryx Men's Beta SL Jacket provides total weather protection for only 11oz. Arc'teryx took a minimalist approach to creating this ultralight shell. The Beta SL Jacket includes no features that would add unnecessary weight. Two high hand pockets remain accessible in spite of your backpack or climbing harness, and a trim-fitting hood protects without inhibiting your peripheral vision.
Bottom Line: When you need protection from the elements but don't want too much extra weight, add the Arc'teryx Beta SL Jacket to your gear list.
I used to carry the marmot but I wanted something that breathes a little better. I have worn this in hours long total downpours, winds at 50 mph and with a wool layer underneath down to 0F. If it ever wears out I'll buy another. My picture is attached wearing this jacket during a winter camping trip on Rainier.
I bought this jacket after a long search. I have the Arc'teryx Fission AR jacket and I loved it! The fit is slimmer than most jackets. I have layered a capeline, and heavy fleece under and it works well. I am 5'10 and 210lbs so room is important and this jacket mixes a slim fit with the right amount of room. I took it white water rafting in early June in Colorado and it repelled everything the river threw at me. It also has a regular hood which isn't bad, but the hood fit well over my helmet. I bought this jacket because I wanted a lightweight jacket for spring and late fall. I couldn't be more happy. I also have the Outdoor Research Mentor jacket that has the Gore-tex pro shell and I don't really even use it because of this jacket. The only complaint I would have is that there are only two pockets. Adding a chest pocket would make this jacket a step better. Overall, it kept me dry when I needed it too. Good ventilation even without the pit zips.
10
of
10
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Durable, lightwieght, packs small, great shell 12-08-08
This jacket is fantastic. Its much more affordable than the Arcteryx Theta jacket and the weather protection is just as good. It is lightwieght and packs away very small in your pack. It is fully waterproof. The tension cords around the waist secure the jacket below the hips which is good to keep the weather out. Even though the hood doesnt detach, it rolls up very tight. I have had this coat in the crater of Broken Top in the Central Oregon cascades when the wind and snow coming up the slope was 35 mph easily. This jacket took it all. Yes, the Theta is the Bentley of jackets, but the Beta is much more affordable with fantastic durability and performance. I rated it four and not five because of the zippers. The zipper handles are terribley small to handle with gloves on and tough to pull without opposite tension. Other than that, sweet jacket.
