What is the Beta SL Pant?
The Beta SL pant from Arcteryx is a lightweight, protective waterproof shell trouser that combines two different Gore-Tex constructions to give you the optimum trouser for trekking and backpacking in the mountains. It is loaded with all the features and impressive tech you'd expect from Arcteryx, yet is light and packable enough to be stashed in your rucksack all day just in case the weather changes.
What is the Beta SL made of?
It's incredible weight and pack size is predominantly down to the use of 2L Gore-tex Paclite Plus. Paclite Plus is incredibly comfortable, soft to the touch 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. These pants also feature 3-layer Gore-tex reinforcements in the high wear areas for extra durability and protection when scrambling or using crampons.
What are the features?
The Beta SL pants feature full-length side zippers which make the pants easy to throw on when the weather changes quickly, but also provide rapid ventilation when you start to work up a sweat. The trousers also have low profile external waist adjusters that don't rub or dig in under a hip belt or harness. Moving down, the trousers feature bottom hem lace hooks that accommodate hiking boots and low profile alpine boots. The instep of the trousers is reinforced to provide extra durability when scrambling or using crampons.
How does the Beta SL fit?
The Beta SL Pants sit in Arcteryx's 'Regular fit' fit block which means that they will follow the shape of your legs without hugging them, offering excellent range of motion without being restrictive. They will also still be able to comfortably accommodate a layer or two underneath.
Where do the Beta SL pants fit in the layering system?
The Beta SL Pants are 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 Beta SL Hybrid is an excellent piece for fast and light adventures in the mountains; whether the weather turns on a long scramble, or as an all-day piece in changeable, chilly conditions - the Beta SL will keep you protected. It also weighs next to nothing and packs down nice and small so you can stash it in your pack on those days when you're not really sure what the weather is going to do.
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Lightweight
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Packable
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Waterproof
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Breathable
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Regular Fit
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2L Gore-Tex Paclite Plus with 3L Gore-Tex reinforcements in high wear area
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Full length side zippers
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Low profile external waist adjusters
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Bottom hem lace hooks
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Reinforced instep patch