We have yet to find a light shell that performs with more reliability than the new Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket (available in women’s and men’s). For this high level of protection, the material (bluesign-approved 3L GORE-TEX fabric with tricot backer technology) is very lightweight. This isn’t an ultralight layer—i.e., it doesn’t compress into its own pocket. However, ultralight stowables can’t offer maximum windproof and waterproof protection. The Beta LT can.
Designed with a disciplined simplicity that maximizes its versatility, Beta LT delivers all-mountain, all-conditions performance. We tried, but we were unable to overheat in this jacket. Though the fabric is breathable, the pit zips come in handy when you’re really working hard. One detail worth noting is the quality of the zippers. We often engage the pit zips in a mad rush in the middle of a punishing climb, and these zippers are built for handling on the fly. As are the RS (Rain Shield) pocket zipper sliders and the WaterTight full-length front zip. Wrecking a zipper on a mission is a huge annoyance (and potential liability). Arc’teryx zippers can handle the toughest treatment.
The helmet-compatible StormHood gives full coverage without impeding sight lines, and focused articulation in the shoulders and elbows provides freedom of movement. Our plan is to wear the Beta LT as a snowsports shell, and as a spring/fall raincoat/windshell.
This Just In: Arc’teryx signs four-year sponsorship agreement with Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC)
This agreement will support the development and growth of competition climbing at a national level. Founded by climbers in 1989, Arc’teryx began its design legacy with its first product, a climbing harness.
CEC’s mission is to enable athletes to achieve their high-performance potential in an ethical, equitable, and equal competition environment. “CEC is honored to partner with Arc’teryx,” says Christiane Marceau, Executive Director of CEC. “This iconic design brand has proven it shares our values, such as community and the pursuit of excellence. This strategic partnership will bring awareness and opportunities to both of our organizations and to the Canadian climbing community.”
Arc’teryx will provide apparel for the Canadian Climbing Team and CEC high-performance athletes representing Canada at all international competitions including competition clothing for Alannah Yip, Sean McColl and national coach Andrew Wilson at the IFSC World Championships and Tokyo Olympic Games, where sport climbing will make its Olympic debut. The brand’s involvement with CEC will also support local, provincial, and national level competitive climbing events during the term of the partnership. More details here.
