Pro Reviewer:
The Atom AR Hoody has become one of my favourite pieces of kit in recent years. The synthetic Coreloft fill used in the jacket offers idiot-proof insulation and is perfect for damp forays into the British hills during the colder months. The jackets ability to insulate in a damp environment has made it my favourite belay jacket for Scottish winter climbing, and at only 470g it’s still light enough to be carried on routes either on your back or clipped to your harness. I have also used the jacket extensively in the Alps from Grandes Courses to ski-touring, and feel it has excelled every time.
Dave in testing conditions on the final pitch of ‘Soul Vacation’ VIII,8 Cambridge Crags, Langdale. Credit: Kevin Avery, CGR.The design is simple and uncluttered with all the features needed but with nothing extra. The stretch-knit cuffs are perfect for use at belays where the jacket will be put on / taken off over gloves frequently, and are a well thought-out alternative to velcro which can freeze up when cold. The hood is helmet-compatible and features an elasticated seal and high collar to be able to close out the worst of the weather when the conditions turn nasty. The rip-stop face fabric is durable and stands up to ‘thrutchy’ routes well and doesn’t make you feel like you will destroy your jacket with any full-body moves. The jacket breathes well when working hard and has a good cut allowing complete freedom of movement. This coupled with Arcteryx’s usual high quality construction make it an easy choice for me time and time again.
Dave on the abseil approach to ‘Cosmique Couloir’, Mont Blanc Massif, France. Credit: John Crook.After many years use I can say the Coreloft insulation resists compression better than most synthetic fibres I have used and the jacket dries very easily at the end of a long day on the Ben. With years of abuse my original Atom AR Hoody has this season been replaced with a new one but apart from being a different colour and having an improved hood, the jacket has stayed the same and I look forward to many more years of warmth!
Dave is a Trainee IFMGA Mountain Guide and rope access IRATA L3 based in Kendal. He enjoys all different types of climbing and skiing, but has a particular passion for Scottish winter climbing and Alpine climbing. Click here to see his page.
Arc’teryx Atom AR Hoody Features:
- Coreloft synthetic insulation
- Light durable face fabric
- DWR finish repels moisture
- Helmet compatible hood
- Two zipped hand pockets
- Internal zipped pocket
- Jersey knit stretch cut for easy layering
- Adjustable hem drawcord
Colour: Twinleaf or Iron Anvil
Weight: 470g