Arc'teryx Beta SL Jacket (Men's)

The Beta SL (“Super Light”) is Arc’teryx’s feather-friendly yet fully-waterproof shell—the kind of jacket that laughs in the face of downpours, but disappears in your pack when skies are clear. It updates the older Beta Lightweight / LT line with eco-upgrades: a PFAS-free GORE-TEX ePE membrane, a C-Knit backer for comfort and breathability, and a balanced 40d×70d nylon face with FC0 DWR—so you’re getting serious weather protection and a nod to sustainability.

It weighs in at about 12 oz (men’s M) (≈ 340 g), which puts it on the light side for a 3-layer shell, yet solid enough that it doesn’t feel flimsy. The cut runs fitted but slightly generous for layering. There are pit zips for vent control, a helmet-compatible hood, two big zip hand pockets + internal chest pocket, and a RECCO reflector for added mountain-safety cred.

This jacket is made for do-ers: trail-blazers who move fast in the mountains or switch between commuting and climbing—or anyone who hates being soaked yet hates carrying bulk more. Because when you’re hiking, riding, scrambling in storms, the Beta SL delivers serious waterproofing without the drag.

If you’re the type who mostly stands around in bad weather (belays, watching, waiting), or need max durability in brutal terrain (ice, rope wear, full alpine abuse), you might instead lean toward Beta AR. But if you want the sweet spot between protection, light weight, and packability, the Beta SL is your shell.