Gear Review: Arc’teryx Beta AR & Beta LT Comparison

 

Tiffany Hansen
Tiffany Hansen

In earlier posts I reviewed both the Arc’teryx Beta LT and the Arc’teryx Beta AR. There is a significant difference between these shell jackets as they are intended for different uses. I thought I would spend a moment comparing and contrasting the two. The differences I am highlighting are gender neutral so this applies to both the men’s and women’s Arc’teryx Beta LT & Beta AR.

It is worth noting here, while the Arc’teryx Beta LT is not gender specific patterning, the Arc’etryx Beta AR is.

Again, to really simplify the Arc’teryx product line it helps to understand Arc’teryx abbreviations and designations of technical shells. Arc’teryx also breaks down technical shells and apparel in to ‘fit categories’. This designation system helps to easily keep track of The force created by gravity acting on a mass." class="glossaryLink " target="_blank">weight and purpose if you are looking for a technical shell so that you can pair it with its intended use. More information can be found on both below.

TECH SHELL DESIGNATORS:

  • SV – Severe
  • AR – All’Round
  • LT – Light
  • SL – Super Light (pac-light)
  • SK – Ski
  • MX – Mixed

FIVE FIT CATEGORIES:

NEXT TO SKIN FIT: These snugly-fitting garments are made with stretch fabrics to fit next to the skin to enhance moisture management and thermal efficiency.

TRIM FIT: Trim-fitted garments share the motion-friendly traits with our ‘Athletic’ fit garments, but are patterned with lower volume for reduced bulk. These close-fitting pieces layer well under other garments.

ATHLETIC FIT: This is the ‘Arc’teryx Standard’ fit. These complete patterns utilise anatomical shaping and gussets to enhance motion by minimizing excess bulk. Easy layering under or over each item extends seasonal versatility and comfort.

RELAXED FIT: Relaxed fit garments rely on higher volume patterns and a reduced amount of articulation to offer roomy mobility.

EXPEDITION FIT: Cut roomier than our Athletic fit and suitable for winter/extreme conditions, Expedition (XPD) fit garments are cut larger to accommodate multiple layers without binding or restricting movement.

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In previous reviews I spent time reviewing the highlights of each jacket. I will simply highlight the differences between the two jackets in this review.

Arc’teryx Beta AR / Beta LT Comparison Table

beta
lt
LT | LIGHTWEIGHT
ar
AR | ALL AROUND
All around mountain use garments: moderate length; hand pockets; interior pockets; moderate articulation; room for layers; helmet compatible hoods; drop hem. Built with highly durable top performance materials but designed with a streamlined minimalist set of features to offer very light weight.Arc'teryx Beta LT Provides high performance & weather protection and highlights a range of features to give All Around versatility in multiple activities.
beta_ar
Shell material: N40p-X GORE-TEX® Pro 3L N70p GORE-TEX® Pro
Fit: Trim Fit Athletic Fit
Hip length: Yes Yes
Activity: Lightweight / All around Ski, Snowboard, Backcountry Skiing, Hiking
Weight: 11 ounces 15 ounces
Pit Zips:  No Yes
Fully helmet compatible:  Slightly Yes
Hood type: Stormhood™ DropHood™
Internal Pocket:  Internal chest pocket with zip Internal chest pocket with laminated zip
Underarms: Gusseted underarms No-lift gusseted underarms
Patterning:   Gender specific patterning
Patterning Fit:  Trim fit Athletic fit for a slimmer more flattering profile
Retail Price: $450 USD $550 USD

Details

Here are a few photo comparisons between the Beta LT and the Beta AR.

Conclusion

I hope that helps clear up the differences between the Beta AR and the Beta SL. For the record, I own the ‘Mai Tai’ color in the Beta LT, and the ‘Tiger Lily’ in the Beta AR. Both are women’s size medium.

You can find more information on the Arc’teryx website. www.arcteryx.com


Arc'teryx Beta LTCheck out my full review on the Women’s Arc’teryx Beta LT
Arc'teryx Beta AR Check out my full review on the Women’s Arc’teryx Beta AR

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