What is the Proton FL?
If you're familar with Arc'teryx's hugely popular Atom, you'll recognise where the Proton gets its good looks from. Don't get them confused though, these are two very different beasts! The Proton is designed with exceptional breathability in mind, whether that's as a midlayer in worse conditions or as an outer layer when moving quickly.
What is it made of?
Insulation: Providing the warmth inside the Proton is an air-permeable (wind passes through) Octa Loft insulation. This synthetic insulation will still provide warmth when wet, will compress down to a fraction of its original size and is nice and easy to take care of.
Outer fabric: The primary feature of the Proton is its outer fabric. Unlike the majority of insulated jackets which will feature a wind-resistant outer fabric, the Proton's is air-permeable, meaning air can pass through. This means that the insulation traps your warmth, but air can pass through to cool you down when you're working hard. Think of it like a tent; you open the vents to allow air to pass through to provide a comfortable micro-climate, much like the inside of your jacket. Despite its exceptional breathability, it will repel water and is tough enough to put up with the abuse that climbing and mountaineering have to offer.
What are the features?
Starting at the top, you get a helmet compatible uninsulated hood, two chest pockets two hand pockets and lastly holes in the hem to allow you to insert a tubular piece of foam to prevent the jacket slipping up when wearing a climbing harness.
How does it fit?
Much like an Atom! If you haven't tried an Atom, the Proton fits into Arc'teryx's 'trim' fit block and is a regular/slight short length, features plenty of room in the shoulders and feels brilliant when on. For reference, the centre back length is 77cm.
Where does it fit in the layering system?
The Proton, due to its fantastic breathability, can either be used as a midlayer with a shell over the top or an outer layer when moving quickly.
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Exceptionally breathable
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Water resistant
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Air-permeable
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Two hand pockets
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Two chest pockets
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Uninsulated hood
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Hemlock holes