Arc'teryx
Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket
78B-TIERhigh Confidence
A flagship all-round hardshell in continuous production since 2000, built with Gore-Tex Pro ePE 3-layer membrane in 80D (body) and 100D (shoulders, arms, hood) face fabrics. PFAS-free DWR. Weighs 460g (16 oz). Helmet-compatible DropHood with Recco reflector. Covered by Arc'teryx limited warranty with ReBIRD repair program. Consistently top-rated by OutdoorGearLab and Switchback Travel across 20 years of iterations.
207verified reviews analyzed
90%positive
78
B-TIER/ 100Good
Material & Build22/25
Gore-Tex Pro ePE 3-layer membrane is the highest-tier waterproof-breathable technology available. Dual-fabric construction uses 100D nylon on shoulders, arms, and hood for abrasion resistance and 80D on body for weight savings. PFAS-free DWR coating. Updated cordlocks and enhanced fabric lamination for improved durability. Slight deduction for limited breathability during high-output activities and the premium weight compared to lighter hardshells.
Warranty & Support22/35
Limited warranty covers manufacturing defects for practical product lifespan with repair, replacement, or voucher at Arc'teryx discretion. ReBIRD program provides in-store and mail-in repairs (zippers, patches, buckles, DWR reapplication). 4-6 week turnaround for mail-in service. Does NOT cover wear-and-tear, accidents, or normal use — significantly narrower than competitors like Patagonia Ironclad Guarantee or Osprey All Mighty Guarantee.
User Trust34/40
207+ REI reviews at 4.5/5 stars. Switchback Travel rates it 4.8/5 as a top hardshell. OutdoorGearLab top-rated hardshell for durability and weather protection. 20-year product line since 2000 with consistent flagship status. Long-term owners report 5+ years of heavy alpine use with minimal degradation. Strong Reddit and outdoor community presence. Slight deduction for mixed breathability feedback and fit complaints from some users.
high ConfidenceUpdated Feb 2026
High
Uses Gore-Tex Pro ePE 3-layer membrane with dual-fabric construction: 100D nylon face fabric on the yoke, arms, and hood for maximum abrasion resistance, and 80D nylon on the body to save weight. Both fabrics are PFAS-free with fluorocarbon-free DWR treatment. Updated fabric lamination and cordlocks enhance durability over previous generations.
Source: Arc'teryx product specifications; Gear Patrol; Switchback Travel review
High
Total weight of 460g (16.2 oz) for men's medium. Features helmet-compatible DropHood with Recco reflector, pack-friendly hand pockets, and internal pocket. New patterning minimizes fabric waste in production while maintaining fit integrity across 25 years of design refinement.
Source: Arc'teryx product specifications; Switchback Travel review
Known Concerns4 issues reported
Limited breathability during high-output activities like steep hiking and ski touring. The Gore-Tex Pro membrane prioritizes weather protection over moisture vapor transfer, making it better suited for moderate-exertion use or stop-and-go alpine missions.
At $650 MSRP (increased from $600 in 2025), the Beta AR is one of the most expensive hardshells on the market. The premium reflects materials and brand positioning but competitors offer comparable protection at lower price points.
Some reviewers report the jacket runs slightly large with longer-than-expected arms and a spacious hood. The back length (30 inches) may be slightly short for skiing applications where more coverage is preferred.
Arc'teryx warranty does NOT cover wear-and-tear, accidents, rips, tears, or normal use — only manufacturing defects. Significantly narrower coverage than Patagonia Ironclad Guarantee or Osprey All Mighty Guarantee.
$650.00
Where to Buy4 retailers
| Arc'teryx | Best price | $650.00 | Visit |
| REI | Best price | $650.00 | Visit |
| Backcountry | Best price | $650.00 | Visit |
| Zappos | Best price | $650.00 | Visit |
Prices updated Feb 2026. Links may earn a commission.
Brand Profile
Arc'teryx
Founded 1989 · North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Founded in 1989 in North Vancouver. Known for technical precision in outdoor gear with innovations like Down Composite Mapping. ReBIRD program offers repair, resale, and upcycling.
Warranty
Limited warranty for practical product lifespan covering manufacturing defects. Repair, replacement, or voucher at Arc'teryx discretion. Wear-and-tear, accidents, and normal use not covered. ReBIRD in-store repairs for zippers, patches, buckles. 4-6 week turnaround for mail-in service.
Brand Score
22/30
Repair Program
Yes
Parts
medium
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