Arcteryx gamma jacket

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I have used my Gamma MX on a very consistent basis over the last three years, and it has been with me rock climbing, ice climbing, backpacking and winter camping. Due to the superb fit and wonderful drape of the fabric, I have also worn the jacket as my "around town" piece, and as a consequence the jacket has seen a good deal of use and wear. My experiences with the Gamma MX indicate that although the fit and design of this jacket is unparalleled, the choice of fabric restricts the use of the jacket to light exertion activities where rain is unlikely. From the outset, the jacket failed to breath adequately when hiking uphill with or without a pack in cool weather. Compared to a Gore-Tex hardshell the Powershield is in fact more breathable, but it in no way matches a decent windshirt, and has always left me overheated, even in winter while wearing only a T-shirt baselayer.

Arcteryx gamma jacket

The Gamma line from Arc'teryx comprises garments that are stretchy and breathable while being moderately weatherproof. The Gamma LT is the lightest weight model in this series and is designed to be worn with or without layers in warm to cool climates. The bulkier Gamma MX uses a fleece backing and has more warmth for colder weather, but the LT hits the sweet spot of being good at almost everything which is why it's an easy pick for our Editors' Choice. The Wee Burly fabric used in the Gamma LT has a tight, hard-faced weave and does well at beading water off in light precipitation, thanks to an additional DWR durable water repellent treatment. It did wet through in our shower test, failing along the shoulders and back much sooner than other models; like all the softshell jackets we tested, it is merely water-resistant, not water proof. The fabric is air permeable, which positively affects its breathability, and it holds up to cold gusty winds well, though it is not as wind resistant as thicker lined models. The hood on the LT is sized to accommodate a helmet and can be adjusted with three separate cinches. The wrist closures are fitted, not adjustable, making them a bit too tight to place over gloves but streamlined enough to easily slide under larger gauntlet-style gloves. The Gamma LT is unlined, which adequately allows moisture to pass through during strenuous activity. There are more breathable options available, but this one strikes a great balance between protection and ventilation, depending on what you are doing. During highly aerobic endeavors, having all the zippers pulled up can feel a bit stifling and hold more dampness in than a lighter option. However, opening up the mesh-lined pockets helps considerably to dump excess heat. Given that this jacket is best used by climbers and skiers who are not racing uphill at an aerobic pace, we find the breathability to be appropriate for those activities.

From the brand.

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The Gamma line from Arc'teryx comprises garments that are stretchy and breathable while being moderately weatherproof. The Gamma LT is the lightest weight model in this series and is designed to be worn with or without layers in warm to cool climates. The bulkier Gamma MX uses a fleece backing and has more warmth for colder weather, but the LT hits the sweet spot of being good at almost everything which is why it's an easy pick for our Editors' Choice. The Wee Burly fabric used in the Gamma LT has a tight, hard-faced weave and does well at beading water off in light precipitation, thanks to an additional DWR durable water repellent treatment. It did wet through in our shower test, failing along the shoulders and back much sooner than other models; like all the softshell jackets we tested, it is merely water-resistant, not water proof. The fabric is air permeable, which positively affects its breathability, and it holds up to cold gusty winds well, though it is not as wind resistant as thicker lined models.

Arcteryx gamma jacket

Brian McCurdy Photography. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us. Throughout a season of testing in the variable North Shore and Cascade mountains of the Pacific Northwest, we found the jacket to be extremely comfortable with a cozy fleece lining, impressively durable with a robust outer shell, and highly wind-resistant. Below we break down our experiences with the Gamma MX. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on the best softshell jackets. To help protect against the elements, the Gamma has a durable water repellent DWR finish along the exterior, the brand's well-respected StormHood that provides great all-around coverage, and a Fortius 2. If a deluge or big snowstorm is in the forecast, I simply reach for a waterproof hardshell instead. My first few outings with the jacket were especially telling: I tend to run cold while backcountry skiing, so the Gamma MX seemed like an obvious choice.

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Care instructions. Even though people say their quality has diminished since moving production from Canada to China, I say not. Yes, helmet compatible, adjustable StormHood. The LT gives you a classic Arc'teryx jacket with excellent attention to detail, function, and good looks. From the head down, we are happy to see there is a full-sized hood with three-way adjustable cinches, with a stiffened brim to shed precipitation. We haven't found this to be an issue in other jackets, but it works well and does keep the zipper at a comfortable height when needing to dump heat out on a strenuous uphill climb. There is no better soft shell on the market. Arc'teryx Gamma MX Jacket. This jacket is built for harsh conditions and effectively blocks wind and wet weather. The way Arcteryx produces their products is of the highest level at all and unbeatable. It can easily be worn with extra layers for more warmth or thrown over a light shirt in the summer climbing season. The material is highly wind resistant, but its water shedding abilities deteriorate quickly once the factory DWR wears off. Be sure to consider which traits are most important to you in this weight class. The hood on the LT is sized to accommodate a helmet and can be adjusted with three separate cinches. Given its durability, breathability, and climbing-friendly cut, it is a solid jacket for its weight.

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On the first 2 Gamma MX jackets the logo was on the back of the neck and chest…nice accent. Marmot ROM Hoody. My experiences with the Gamma MX indicate that although the fit and design of this jacket is unparalleled, the choice of fabric restricts the use of the jacket to light exertion activities where rain is unlikely. I haven't noticed any wind penetration in strong, direct wind, or while running or biking. The material is highly wind resistant, but its water shedding abilities deteriorate quickly once the factory DWR wears off. Outdoor Research Fe Visit the Store. I can reach and not have to constantly adjust my sleeves. The wind blows a little through the garment, but this is very good for breathability. Though able to withstand moderate winds and light precipitation, keeping your baselayers warm and dry, the Gamma LT does favor breathability over weather protection and is not as weatherproof as its more robust brother, the Gamma MX Hoody. Hope it might help you. Images in this review. From the brand.