Arc’teryx has refreshed a staple of its snow collection: the ski-touring–focused Rush Jacket and Bibs. Updated with several new features and an all-new fabric, the latest iteration is purpose-built for backcountry skiing and riding. The Rush Jacket and Bibs are designed to move with you—be light, durable, and protective—offering waterproof, windproof, and breathable performance for harsh conditions and rugged terrain. Let’s take a closer look at what’s changed and how these updates make them even better suited for backcountry skiers and riders.
The big upgrade for the Rush Jacket and Bibs is the new Gore-Tex Pro fabric featuring ePE (expanded polyethylene) membrane technology—marking a major step in Arc’teryx’s commitment to more responsible, PFAS-free products. This next-generation material eliminates intentionally added PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” which persist in the environment and the human body, leading to long-term ecological and health concerns.
Despite being free from PFAS, the Gore-Tex Pro ePE membrane retains the performance associated with its predecessor: lightweight, highly durable, waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection. By incorporating this fabric, along with solution-dyed yarns and carefully selected recycled textiles, Gore-Tex has reduced the fabric’s carbon footprint by up to 39% compared to the previous generation.
“This next-generation GORE-TEX® Pro category exceeds our rigorous brand testing requirements by going beyond standard limits,” says Sara Ellis, Global GORE-TEX® Pro Product Specialist and Materials Engineer. “Our advanced R&D testing protocols replicate extreme conditions to ensure long product life and extended durability.”
Like its predecessor, the new women’s Rush Jacket is a lightweight, no-nonsense touring shell built for backcountry pursuits. Redesigned with Gore-Tex Pro ePE protection, it’s 95 grams lighter than before, featuring a roomier women-specific fit featuring articulated patterning and a shorter silhouette for improved comfort and freedom of movement for touring-specific use.
The internal stash pockets now offer increased volume and smarter placement for improved accessibility—though more suitable for gloves or other smaller items than for climbing skins.
The jacket’s hem includes an adjustable cinch for a secure fit that prevents snow ingress, effectively replacing the need for a powder skirt. There are also adjustable velcro cuffs to help form a tight seal over your gloves.
Exposed watertight pit zippers allow for quick ventilation and temperature regulation while keeping out the elements
The updated Rush Bibs share the same Gore-Tex Pro ePE upgrade, offering dependable waterproof, breathable protection in a slightly lighter package. The fit has been refined with added room throughout the hips and legs to better match a women’s body shape, while articulated knees maximize freedom of movement on both the skin track and the descent.
A recycled four-way-stretch softshell material at the upper bib enhances comfort and protection from wind and snow. New key clip–equipped thigh and bib pockets (ideal for securing a transceiver) now give skiers and riders multiple carry options based on preference. Both zippered bib pockets are mesh-backed for ventilation when needed, while each thigh pocket includes a media sleeve to secure small items or a transceiver in place.
A low-profile RECCO® reflector improves safety while further reducing weight, and the upgraded suspender attachment points ensure a stable, stay-put fit.
Arc’teryx has made meaningful upgrades to the Rush Jacket and Bibs, adding thoughtful features that make them even more backcountry-focused than before. The standout story, however, is the shift to the new Gore-Tex Pro ePE fabric, which is more sustainable, less harmful, and better for long-term environmental health. The result is a robust, lightweight, and impressively compact kit that packs down small, ready for days of touring where ascents dominate time spent on the skin track.
The women's-specific cut of the Bibs provides an exceptional balance of comfort, mobility, and fit—roomy in the right places without feeling loose or restrictive. It’s encouraging to see Arc’teryx continuing to tailor gear to female forms, as they differ so much from men’s.
Aside from the predictably high price tag (the “Arc’teryx tax”), the only drawback lies in the jacket’s stash pockets, which are too small to hold climbing skins for wider skis (100–105 mm underfoot). For narrower touring setups, though, they’ll serve their purpose well—and for many users, these pockets are better suited to keeping your ski gloves warm on the skin track while climbing.
Overall, Arc’teryx has knocked it out of the park with the updated Rush collection for both men and women. For those who demand top-tier quality and can justify the investment, this kit delivers top-shelf performance, durability, and refined backcountry functionality.
![]() |
PROS:
|
![]() |
CONS:
|
Arc’teryx Women’s Rush Jacket
Price: $950 CAN / $800 US
Weight: 445 g / 15.7 oz
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Colours: Olive Moss/Bliss, Blaze/Copper Sky, Aster/Black, Graphite/Black
Arc’teryx Women’s Rush Bibs
Price: $900 CAN / $750 US
Weight: 515 g / 18.2 oz
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Colours: Olive Moss, Copper Sky/Blaze, Aster/Black
Did we miss something? Are we totally out to lunch? Let us know what you think. People like/dislike gear for different reasons so chime in below and we'll get a well-rounded evaluation. You'll need to login or register before you can comment but it only takes a few seconds, then you're good to go.
Copyright © 2009-25 Backcountry Skiing Canada. All Rights Reserved.