What is the Norvan SL Insulated?
The Norvan SL Insulated is one of the lightest, most packable waterproof and insulated jackets available. It's perfect for trail runners, bikepackers, ski tourers and those who require the lightest insulation possible while still maintaining a waterproof outer.
What is it made of?
Insulation: Taking care of the warmth inside the Norvan is Arc'teryx's own Coreloft 40 Compact insulation. This synthetic polyester offers a high warmth to weight ratio and is virtually unaffected by moisture, making it ideal for high active use. This particular version is the 'Compact' variant, which as you may have guessed, will pack down smaller than standard Coreloft. Arc'teryx cleverly place less insulation in areas such as the elbow, armpit and lower back, where you don't require as much warmth. Although marginal, it's these marginal gains which allow the jacket to pack down so small.
Outer fabric: This is where the magic happens! Unlike your standard waterproof/insulated jacket which will typically feature an outer fabric, a membrane sandwiched in the middle and an inner fabric to protect the membrane, the Norvan features Gore-Tex ShakeDry technology. This essentially means that the membrane is the outer fabric. Although this may not sound like a groundbreaking feature, it means the sweat that you produce only has to pass through a thin inner fabric and the membrane, reducing the main limiting factor to a breathable jacket which is the outer fabric. This also means that the jacket will always repel water like day one and will never need its DWR (durable water repellent) coating topped up. Please note that this technology does make it an extremely lightweight and breathable jacket, so no bramble-bashing!
What are the features?
Most of the features in this jacket lie in the above paragraphs, but you do get a few creature comforts. You get a fitted, adjustable and insulated hood with an elasticated adjustment to seal in warmth around your head, a brim that can be left out or rolled away to prevent water dripping onto your face, an elasticated hem to seal in further warmth, an internal zipped chest pocket and finally an include stuffsack.
How does it fit?
Arc'teryx label the Norvan a 'Trim Fit', and we'd agree. It's perfect for those who are on the slimmer side and require insulation for moving fast and light in mountainous environments.
Where does it fit in the layering system?
The Norvan SL is designed to be your outer layer when moving quickly in cold, wet conditions.
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Gore-Tex ShakeDry technology
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Coreloft Compact 40 insulation
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Adjustable insulated hood
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Body mapped insulation
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Elasticated hem
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Internal chest pocket
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Included stuffsack