What is the Beta AR?
There is a reason that the Beta AR has been part of Arcteryx's essentials range for nearly 20 years. Strong yet breathable, robust yet supple, durable yet light; the Beta AR has been completely redesigned to encompass everything Arc'teryx has learned from making waterproof jackets for almost 30 years. Everything about this piece (the fit, the materials, the construction and the features) comes together to give you this incredible fortress of a jacket that can be grabbed straight off the coatrack and taken with you on any adventure you have planned.
What is it made of?
This superb lightweight all-rounder is made with a very durable yet supple ripstop 40D Nylon outer in the main body with 80D Nylon reinforcements in the high wear areas (e.g. Shoulders). This durable face fabric encompasses a 3L Gore-Tex Pro membrane that's windproof, waterproof and highly breathable.
What are the features?
Moving onto the features of the jacket; we briefly touched on the adjustments of the hood so let's expand on that first. The hood is Arcteryx's own helmet compatible DropHood design, which is basically a fully standalone collar with a separate hood. It can be cinched with one-handed drawcords, allowing it to rotate with the head without obstructing your vision when turning your head from side to side. The high neck means that the jacket will still protect your chin and neck from cold winds, even when the hood is down. When you need to dump heat quickly (like when you're pushing hard to get to the top of a mountain) then unzip the handy WaterTight pit zippers. The toggles on these zips are generously sized without adding a tonne of weight so you can still easily get to them with big gloves on. Storage wise, the jacket features two large hand pockets in the front of the jacket and one internal, zipped security pocket. To seal out the elements Arcteryx has used adjustable hem drawcords, a WaterTight centre front zip and Cohaesive cord locks in the front hood adjusters, as well as improving the shape of the neck so it sits closer to your collarbones, all with the aim of sealing out rain, snow and cold drafts.
How does it fit?
The Beta AR fit's into Arc'teryx's 'Regular Fit' fit block, meaning it fits a wide range of body shapes and you can easily get an extra couple of layers on under it. It has a longer hip length for better coverage and improved e3D (ergonomic 3D) patterning that provides an enhanced level of articulation and movement. The Beta AR is roomier than the Beta LT to allow you to fit more layers underneath in colder conditions; it also features plenty of room in the shoulders for active climbing and mountaineering use.
Where does it fit in your layering system?
The Beta AR is designed to be your outer layer when the weather isn't on your side (unless you like rain, in which case when it is on your side). Other layers can easily fit underneath, but the Beta should always be used as your protective outer layer.
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Waterproof
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Breathable
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Lightweight
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Women's Regular fit
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Helmet compatible DropHood
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40D Face fabric with 80D reinforcements
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3L Gore-Tex Pro
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WaterTight centre front zip
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WaterTight Pit Zips
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1 internal, zipped security pocket
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2 large hand pockets
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Velcro Cuffs
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Micro-seam allowance (1.6 mm) reduces bulk and weight
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Taped seams
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DWR (Durable Water Repellent)
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Anatomical shaping for fit and comfort
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Articulated elbows
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e3D Ergonomic 3-Dimensional patterning for enhanced comfort and mobility