Evolution of the Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket
The Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket is a great example of the reputation for innovation Arc’teryx has in designing and manufacturing outdoor apparel. Now in its 25th year, the Beta AR Jacket has consistently evolved its design through the years. It’s hard to imagine the number of hands that have contributed to what is now the toughest, most durable jacket in the Arc’teryx Beta range of apparel. Here’s a brief backgrounder:2000 The first Beta AR was released
2004 Lighter and stronger
2007 Streamlined the seams as seam-welding technology developed
2010 Integrated WaterTight Zippers
2013 More rugged fabric used
2018 Introduced waterproofing innovations
2020 Next-Gen Fabric and Emergency Technology
2023 StormHood design integrated
In 2025, we now have what Arc’teryx calls ‘The Best of Beta (so far)’, which includes a complete update of fabric materials and innovative new patterning to minimize waste. The Beta AR now utilizes GORE-TEX PRO ePE fabrics with enhanced fabric lamination, which is touted as the most innovative waterproof protection to date. GORE-TEX PRO ePE is treated with FC0 DWR (Durable Water Repellent), which is free of intentionally added chemicals called PFAS so the ePE membrane (the thin layer that blocks water within a fabric) has a much lower environmental impact compared with membranes of the past. Also, the GORE-TEX ePE is half the thickness and therefore lighter weight. This fabric mapping is as follows:
Breathable, waterproof, wind-resistant 100D 3L GORE-TEX PRO ePE on the yoke, arms, and hood for durability in high-moisture zones.
Breathable, waterproof, wind-resistant 80D 3L GORE-TEX PRO ePE on the body for lightweight protection.
An updated design for the Beta AR includes new cordlocks for increased durability, pack-friendly pockets for easier access and the spacious helmet-compatible DropHood for enhanced peripheral vision. A lightweight RECCO reflector is installed in the hood brim for searchability in an emergency.
There is something reassuring about the fact that whether I’m hiking through a deluge, cresting an icy, windy ridge or whatever the next may be crux, I am fully protected wearing 25 years of innovation. It’s a stiff, burly jacket (a little noisy on first use) but more than up to any situation Mother Nature can throw at you. I have not yet tested it in harsher winter conditions but based on the fit, features and range of movement I have experienced so far over there summer and early fall, winter testing is something I am very much looking forward to.
Features:
- Articulated fit for layering and maneuverability
- Adjust fit and seal out weather with glove-friendly cuff tabs on sleeves and hem draw cord.
- Two zippered hand pockets offer great access when ski-touring or hiking with a pack on.
- The hood is helmet compatible and adjusts to move with your head as well as provide coverage without affecting peripheral vision (DropHood construction) with internal cordlocks in the hood for a custom fit.
- Low-profile RECCO® reflector in the hood brim is searchable in emergencies.
- Pit zippers for venting on the way up.
Price: $800 CAN / $650 US
Sizes: Men’s XXS-XXXL; Women’s XXS-XXL
Colours: Men’s: Black, Black Sapphire, Copper Sky / Blaze, Lodestar, Olive Moss / Euphoria, Solitude / Void; Women’s: Arctic Silk / Solitude, Black, Black Sapphire, Glacial, Nightscape / Glacial, Tatsu / Olive Moss