Description of Arc'teryx Venta AR Softshell Jacket - Men's:
Make the Arc’teryx Men's Venta AR Jacket your go-to jacket for cold-weather cragging, winter ski tours, or gusty days around town. Thanks to three different kinds of Gore Windstopper fabric, fully taped seams, and an interior zipper wind flap, you get full protection from the wind along with stretch and breathability. No-Lift gusseted underarms don’t pull up the jacket when you reach for that next hold or plunge your ski pole, and two hand pockets and an interior chest pocket hold your camera, lip balm, and energy bars.
Bottom Line: One jacket for all of your active winter pursuits.
Incredible softshell. Built with Windstopper and interior lining is very warm. This is warmer than any other softshell I've had, including the Arcteryx Gamma MX. I am extremely impressed and satisfied. Expensive, but worth ever dime if you find yourself doing a lot of winter ski tours and winter climbing.
Everyone already added the good things about the jacket. I would buy another one if I lost it.
Only issue I had is with the plastic zipper pull. It feels a bit cheap and somehow broke off. I emailed Arc'teryx and they promptly sent me a new one free of charge (plus some cool stickers and drink coasters).
I'm just shy of 6'2 and about 180lbs. I bought the large and fits me perfectly.
I have the Venta AR in black and you would have no idea how technical the design was unless you really looked closely. Super lightweight and thin, kind of plain looking (in black at least) but that's what I wanted (still retains at least some of that classic Arcteryx fit). The microfleece is only around your upper chest and down the back, elsewhere the material is even thinner to let out heat. No pit zips, but core venting is possible by leaving the pockets open. Oh, and a nice suprise - all of the interior seams are taped, which makes it a bit more comfortable than other jackets I've had if you're wearing a very thin shirt underneath (or nothing at all ;). Haven't had it very long, but so far it's perfect around town for temps down to 40F with a t-shirt or thin sweater underneath. Layering (or aerobic activity) should extend the comfort range lower, but my chub (combined with the athletic fit) seems like it might prevent me from layering up too much. If you're a thick guy, you might want to size up on this. If you're looking for something warmer (also more technical looking and maybe a bit more breathable) check out the Gamma SV.
