Arc’teryx
Why You Should Spend a Few Ounces of Pack Weight on Rainwear Ventilation Features
In this article, we make the case for spending some extra weight on rain jackets and rain pants that offer more ventilation features (and durability) than typical ultralight rainwear styles (updated May 2026).
DetailsEpisode 141 | Hiking at Night in a Blizzard
Critical winter layering, handwear, footwear, lighting, and navigation systems for safely hiking out through a sub-freezing blizzard at night.
DetailsEpisode 130 | Bivy Sack Camping
Discover Ryan’s discreet bivy sack camping methodology for alpine environments, encompassing essential gear, requisite skills, and a critical analysis of tent practicality. Embrace the experience of open-air slumber.
DetailsAdvances in Materials and Manufacturing in Ultralight Backpacks: A Technical Review and Case Study
A technical analysis of material and manufacturing innovations in ultralight backpack design, with a case study of the Arc’teryx Alpha SL 30. This report examines fusion bonding, molecularly bonded UHMWPE laminates, and the engineering tradeoffs shaping the next generation of ultralight packs.
DetailsWind Shirts for Backpacking
Wind shirt performance – design, technology, features, standardized breathability and air permeability data (MVTR and APR testing).
DetailsStaff Picks 2024
Our staff selects their favorite hiking, backpacking, and other backcountry gear that they’ve used over the past year – the next edition of our infamous Staff Picks!
DetailsEpisode 105 | Expedition Kite Skiing Across Greenland with Jesse Crocker
In today’s episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we’re going to learn about traveling off-trail responsibly, a rain jacket that defines new standards for durability and performance, and a kite skiing expedition across greenland with Jesse Crocker.
DetailsWhat Properties Influence the Air Permeability of Wind Shirt Fabrics?
The purpose of this report is to investigate the relationship between air permeability, fabric porosity, weave type, and yarn structure via photomicrography and image analysis. This is not an exhaustive research study, but rather, an exploration of some of the fabric design attributes that have an impact on air permeability rates.
DetailsArc’teryx Squamish Hoody
Gear reviews from our staff and members, buy/sell used, shopping tools, and more about the Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody.
DetailsBackpacking Light Staff Picks: Our Favorite Gear
Our staff selects their favorite hiking, backpacking, and other backcountry gear that they’ve used over the past year – the next edition of our infamous Staff Picks!
DetailsEpisode 89 | Fall Layering Systems
In episode 89 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we are going to talk about fall layering systems.
Details2022 Backpacking Light Members Choice Awards
First annual Members Choice Awards – what gear do our members use and love as we near the end of 2022?
DetailsArc’teryx Beta LT Rain Jacket
When you need 100% reliable protection against heavy, sustained rain in cold and windy weather, the Arc’teryx Beta LT is one of the few jackets we recommend that weigh less…
DetailsBy the Numbers: the Search for a High-MVTR Waterproof Breathable Shell Jacket
A high MVTR waterproof-breathable shell jacket may be the holy grail that can replace both a wind shirt and a rain jacket. Do they exist, and where do we find them?
DetailsArc’teryx Aerios 45 Backpack
Gear reviews from our staff and members, buy/sell used, shopping tools, and more about the Arc’teryx Aerios 45 Backpack.
DetailsArc’teryx Proton LT Hoody
The original version of the Proton LT Hoody received a Highly Recommended rating from our Alaskan contributor, Max Neale, in 2018. He called it the “highest rated all-purpose active insulation jacket”…
DetailsArc’teryx Norvan VT 2
With a sleeker and more refined design than most other trail running shoes, the Norvan VT 2 is an aesthetically appealing shoe that is thoughtfully built around the human foot….
DetailsArc’teryx Norvan VT 2 Shoe Review
The Arc’teryx Norvan VT 2 shoe provides above-average foot protection and traction performance when hiking or running on rocky, uneven ground, but suffers from abysmal durability.
DetailsArc’teryx Venta Mitten Review
The Arc’teryx Venta Mitten and its cousins, the Venta Glove and Venta AR Glove, are windproof, weather-resistant active insulation layers aimed at users participating in high-output activities in moderately cold temperatures.
DetailsArc’teryx Zeta FL Jacket Review & Zeta SL Pant Review
The Arc’teryx Zeta FL Jacket is a Gore-tex Paclite Plus rain jacket that features a trim fit and hip length. It has articulated tailoring in the hood and arms, a full-length water-resistant zipper, two handwarmer pockets with water-resistant zippers, elastic hem and wrist cuffs, and an adjustable hood aperture.
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