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Arc'teryx Fission AR Jacket

rated 5 of 5 stars

The Fission AR Jacket has been discontinued. If you're looking for something new, check out the best synthetic insulated jackets for 2024.

photo: Arc'teryx Fission AR Jacket synthetic insulated jacket

Ok let me start out to say that I just bought the -current- version of this jacket. I owned the first or second version that came out, back when regular gore-tex was used (as opposed to the current gore-tex pro shell) A few things have changed since I originally had this jacket back in 2002:

- updated, more breathable gore-tex pro
*not tested yet*

-cuffs changed from smooth-knit to velcro
*according to the salesman, knit cuffs stretch over time,
my fission LT has smooth-knit cuffs which have stretched a bit, but not enough to be an issue. Maybe this will be a concern for folks larger than my skinny self.

- 2 inner drop in mesh pockets added.
*this is wonderful, a welcome addition! (large enough for gloves, nalgene etc)

-hanger loop added. not quite sure what the hell this is lol

-water tight zipper smoother /easier to operate
*the older versions were sticky at first, this one is as smooth as butter

Now on to the things that have not changed:

-warmth: 5 of 5 stars for it's weight(very light weight), excellent level of warmth. I recall wearing my original Fission AR into the teens if not colder, with a light 100 wt fleece p/o and mid weight base-layer.

-water/wind proofness: 5 stars on both points! Fully windproof , and the gore-tex is "guaranteed to keep you dry". Winds kickin' at 30+ , nothing came through.

things I'd change:

-add one chest pocket , I find these very useful for chapstick, and other small items.

-add a drawcord at the neck, which I find a bit large, but my neck is on the skinny side.

Over all , based on my previous experiences this is the usual Arc'teryx fit and quality that I've come to love over the years. If you aren't familiar, Arc'teryx products are designed for the athletic build, not casually cut like The North Face products. All Arc'teryx items have extra long arms , low volume chests and long torsos. there are some exceptions to this. Like their ski specific shells are larger in volume.

*I bought this jacket for every day mountain (Himalayas, cold and dry, wet and windy!), at home use (usually not so wet here but windy and cold at times), and for belay. I purchased a size larger than my usual, only one left on sale.

The extra butt coverage is welcome for all my uses. A little loose round the waist, the draw cords have to be pulled fully to seal it. I will come back and update this review when this point is tested*

bottom-line :
If you're in the market for a warm , light, water-proof, do-it-all jacket..look no further!

Fabric: gore-tex pro shell
Fill: prima-loft
Price Paid: $325

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Specs

Men's
Price MSRP: $499.00
Historic Range: $199.59-$550.00
Reviewers Paid: $325.00
Sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL
Weight 770 g / 1 lb 11.2 oz
Fit Athletic fit, Hip Length
Materials 325NR GORE-TEX® Pro Shell 2L, 420N GORE-TEX® Pro Shell 2L, 133 gm / sq m PrimaLoft® Sport, 40D Nylon lining
Women's
Price Historic Range: $139.95-$450.00

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