Arc’teryx Beta Jacket Review
The Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is a lightweight GORE-TEX shell built to keep you dry when you’re planning to be out for extended periods in the backcountry and/or are expecting to encounter less-than-ideal weather conditions.
It doesn’t come cheap and there are a few issues to note regarding the jacket’s pockets and the (lack of) pit zips, but that doesn’t take away from the jacket’s performance in adverse weather conditions.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket.
Testing Conditions & Notes
I have been using the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket for backpacking as well as a shell while riding at the resort or for the occasional backcountry tour. I use the Beta Jacket in a size medium and I’ve learned that newer Arc’teryx products tend to run big. If you’re on the fence and/or between sizes, size down.
Pros and Cons
+ GORE-TEX with GORE C-KNIT backer won’t soak through
+ Two large exterior pockets and one zippered interior stash pocket
+ Adjustable hood and hem with velcro cuffs
+ Comfortable and lightweight design
– No pit vents
– Exterior pockets not waterproof (only water resistant)
– Interior pocket too small for (most) phones
– Expensive
The Specs
- Weight: 10.6 oz / 300 g
- Materials: GORE-TEX with GORE C-KNIT backer
- Fit: Trim
- Pockets: Two zippered exterior hand, one zippered interior stash
- Adjustable Hood: Yes
- Adjustable Hem: Yes
- Pit Vents: No
- Country of Origin: China
- Colors: Phenom (Orange), Jungle (Green), Black Sapphire, Cloud (Light Gray), Forage, Daze, Black, Wicker (Tan), Sprint (Neon Yellow), Solace (Light Blue)
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL
- MSRP: $400
Photo Gallery
The Good
The Weight
The Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is one of the lightest GORE-TEX shells you can find. Yes, there are lighter options available, but oftentimes of inferior (albeit lighter) materials. A lot of times backpackers think they can get away using jackets designed for trail running or even just wind. These will soak through on extended stints in the rain in the backcountry. When looking at the list of comparable jackets that are designed to keep you dry during extended rainfall, the 10.6 oz / 300 g Beta Jacket can count itself among the lightest.
The Waterproofness
As alluded to above, the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is waterproof. You’re not going to have to worry about the jacket soaking through after a couple of hours in the rain. If you’re looking for a shell to use on backpacking trips in the rain (or even a lighter-weight winter), then the Beta Jacket will get the job done.
The Colors
I have to give Arc’teryx credit here. The Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is available in ten colors – many of which are awesome (i.e. high-vis and/or colorful). That said, Arc’teryx is big on changing up their colors regularly, so if you’re seeing a Beta jacket in a color you like, it’s probably wise to snatch it up – particularly if it’s on sale because that’s typically a good indicator that it’s a past season or discontinued color.
The Okay
The Pockets
The Arc’teryx Beta Jacket has three total pockets: two exterior hand and one interior zippered (on the backside of the left pocket). Despite this being a GORE-TEX shell, the exterior pockets are not waterproof. And this isn’t just me saying this, Arc’teryx admits as much on their product page. If I’m in light rain and/or freezing wind, the pockets do their job. But I really would like somewhere to easily stash my phone and/or small electronics during a storm where I know things will stay dry. The interior pocket will do a better job of keeping items dry but it’s incredibly small and you would be hard-pressed to fit anything larger than a credit-card-sized wallet in it.
The Pit Vents
I never understand when shells that appear to want to appeal to a wide audience or to be used in a variety of activities don’t have pit vents. Nothing much to say here except that there are no pit vents on the Beta Jacket. Does this save on weight and bulk? A bit, yes. However, would pit vents in a lightweight jacket like the Beta be a welcome addition? In my opinion, yes.
The Bad
The Price
The Beta Jacket is expensive at $400. If you’re planning to make this your daily driver and also planning to use it in the winter for time spent riding at the resort or in the backcountry, you may be able to make an easy case for the Beta. But if you’re finding yourself mostly in environments where you’re carrying a shell “just in case”, you may find it difficult to fork over this much for a piece of gear you may seldom use – if ever.
Wrap Up
If you can get past the price and know you’re going to be using it regularly, the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is a great jacket that will keep you dry. That said, it’s important to remember that there are no pit zips, and the pockets are not waterproof (just water resistant).
Questions, comments, or personal experience with the Beta Jacket? Leave a comment below or get in touch and let me know! Check out the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket here.
Rating + Recommendation
Arc'teryx Beta Jacket Review
Summary
The Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is a lightweight GORE-TEX shell built to keep you dry when you’re planning to be out for extended periods in the backcountry and/or are expecting to encounter less-than-ideal weather conditions.
-
Weather Resistance
(4.5)
-
Breathability & Venting
(3)
-
Comfort
(4.5)
-
Weight
(4)
-
Packed Size
(4.25)
Overall
Affiliate Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive small commissions for purchases made via these links at no additional cost to you. This helps pay the bills and keep the site up and running. Thank you for your support!
