What is the Zeta SL?
The Zeta SL from Arc'teryx is a great lightweight, waterproof that excels in warmer conditions, or when you're moving fast. The Gore-tex Paclite Plus material feels great next to skin and also breathes exceptionally well helping to keep you comfortable in even in warmer conditions. Due to it's weight and pack size, the Zeta SL works well as a just-in-case shell that you can stash in your pack all day, but is also just as suited to long, wet, mountain days.
What is the Zeta SL made of?
It's incredible weight and pack size is predominantly down to the use of Gore-tex Paclite Plus. Unlike previous generations of Paclite, Paclite Plus is incredibly comfortable and doesn't stick to your skin when you get wet - I can confirm this, I tested it out in person. It's a 2 layer construction that not only offers great breathability but also the reliable durability of Gore-Tex in torrential downpours.
What are the features?
All of the features of the Zeta SL have been tailored to keep as much water out as possible - The Stormhood, whilst not helmet compatible, sits snug to your head to eliminate excess material. The hood also features a halo adjuster so you can synch the hood so it sits snugger around your head in strong winds. The Watertight front zip, velcro adjustable cuffs and the drawcord around the hem ensures you can really seal out the elements when the weather takes a turn for the worst. There are also two external hand pockets for extra storage that sit out of the way of the rucksack hip belt line, so whatever is in your pockets doesn't dig in to your hips.
How does the Zeta SL fit?
The Zeta SL fits into Arcteryx's 'Trim Fit' fit block which means that is tailored to fit closer in the waist and also eliminates excess material that may flap around in strong winds. The Zeta SL also has a drop hem which helps to protect your lower back when scrambling or bending over.
Where does the Zeta SL fit in the layering system?
The Zeta SL is primarily designed as an outer shell, more commonly referred to as a hard shell; which means it works well to protect you from strong winds on cold days, right up to torrential downpours.
Summary
The Zeta SL truly excels as a hill walking piece in the unpredictable UK weather; but, due to it's next to skin comfort and light weight, also works just as well as an emergency shell as it does an all day mountain piece.
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Waterproof
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Breathable
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Lightweight
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Packable
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40D Gore-Tex Paclite Plus
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Trim Fit
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Stormhood with Halo adjuster
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Watertight front zip
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Velcro Cuffs
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Hem drawcord
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Two external hand pockets