Pat Took the Arc’teryx Beta LT Rain Jacket to New Zealand for some Testing | Photo Mountain Weekly News
Its the Purple Neutral on the Beta LT Jacket Jacket from Arc’teryx did it for me straight away. Having been a supporter of Arc’teryx gear for going on 20 years now, I was no stranger to the impeccable quality and superior nature of the product. They pay attention to every detail always producing the finest garments bar none. Have you ever heard someone complain about an Arc’teryx piece? In the rare event that a complain be lodged, I’ve never heard of anyone that in turn wasn’t still taken care of by the company because of the nature of their expectations for superiority and standing behind their product.
Ready for the Elements
The Beta LT Jacket was no exception to this well oiled machine of an outdoor apparel company. The Purple Neutral as advertised is straight electric in it’s appearance. I find the bright, vibrant nature of the purple takes some of the worry out of when you’re wearing this coat, typically one is battling the elements such as wind/rain and in other cases extreme sun, etc.
In a lightweight active GORE-TEX offering their is always the argument for are the lightweight materials still worth it in terms of keeping you dry and comfortable. Sometimes jackets like this kinda keep you dry but their inability to breath produces excessive perspiration thus negating the whole purpose of this offering; to keep you dry. However, this is not the case with the Beta LT as it keeps you dry, breathes enough to keep your temperature and perspiration levels at bay.
While on a recent trip to New Zealand, I was able to put this garment to the test in several different scenarios relating to excessive wind, rain and also a fair bit of moderate rain with extended periods of moisture.
The Beta LT Rain Jacket performed exceptionally across all exams passing with flying colors. I couldn’t of been more pleased with the overall functionality of the jacket evidenced by how much I was wearing it with layers where as my intention was to use it solely as a rain jacket going into the journey in New Zealand.
Technically speaking with 3-layer GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable fabric, Pit Zips allowing you to dump excessive heat from activity, Hip-Length cut with a drop tail hem and dual hem adjusters gives you all the flexibility you need pending activity and coming in at just 13.9 ounces this jacket exceeds expectations every time you put it to the test. Versatile, efficiently capable despite its ridiculously light weight even with a helmet compatible hood which snugs nicely not compromising sight lines makes this jacket a popular choice among outdoor pro’s and enthusiast’s alike. Watertight zippers from this company have always been the best in my experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
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Exceptional Quality and Durability: Arc’teryx’s “impeccable quality,” “superior nature,” “flawless construction,” and attention to detail, noting the brand’s reputation for standing behind its products.
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Excellent Performance (Waterproof & Breathable): The Beta LT is highlighted for keeping the user dry while also breathing well to prevent excessive perspiration, performing exceptionally in various conditions (wind, rain).
Cons:
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High Price: The review explicitly states, “Sure, it’s not the cheapest lightweight rain shell” and mentions the $600 price tag, indicating it’s a significant investment. But compared to quality outerwear the price is very competitive amongst the big name players.
Overall Impression
It’s hard not to give the Arc’teryx Beta LT Rain Jacket($600) a 10/10 recommendation due to its absolutely flawless construction and attention to detail for the conscious consumer. The Jacket fits extremely well and truly moves with your body. The thought and detail Arc’teryx continues to put into all their products separates them as an outfit from the rest. Sure, it’s not the cheapest lightweight rain shell but few would argue it’s not the best. Do yourself a favor and put it to the test, you’re welcome.
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