Gear Review: Arc’teryx Zeta LT

Worn occasionally, generally into the bottom of a pack, rain jackets are very often mistreated and over-looked.

After destroying my less expensive rain jacket, I was delighted to test out a more steadfast alternative.

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Arc’teryx Zeta LT

Part of the Arc’teryx Traverse collection, which is created for lightweight backpacking and hiking, the Zeta LT rain jacket foregoes extra doodads for simplicity and comfort.

Coming in at 10.6 ounces it’s a great addition to a cool weather setup. The Zeta LT is not to be confused with the Zeta LT Hybrid, which has the ability to zip the hood into the collar.

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Size

TheArc’teryx website labels this jacket as “trim fit” so I ordered a size larger just to be safe. I’m happy with the fit for the most part, but it seems unnecessarily baggy around the waist. 

The jacket still looks good without additional layers despite feeling baggy. Since I plan to wear this jacket in colder weather and plan to layer quite a bit, the extra room makes sense and I stayed with the larger size.

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Material

Equipped with 3-layer Gore-tex, the Zeta LT is breathable AND durable. The outer layer is where this jacket really shines. Lightweight and comfortable, this woven material is less noisy and “crinkly” feeling than a typical rain jacket.

The outer layer is coated with Arc’teryx NU water repellency, which lets the water bead and roll off. Taped seams and waterproof zippers give you an extra layer of weather protection.

I would feel comfortable using this for more heavy duty applications like as a shell layer while skiing/snowboarding.

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The inner layer is also super comfortable to wear. I didn’t feel like I was wrapped in saran wrap, albeit I chose to test it out in cooler temps.

I loved the front pockets situated above hip belt level, which are big and easily accessible even when wearing a hip belt around the waist.

The hood is easily adjustable from a single cinch in the back, and accommodates a helmet. The fit of the hood allows for unobstructed vision to both sides, but I did find myself wishing that there was an additional  hood adjustment to pull the brim back.

The high pockets and oversized hood make this a great companion piece for time spent at the crag or a day of technical hiking.

The stretchy and breathable inner pocket is another add-on that I’m quite happy about. Its a great way to keep my phone close while also keeping it safe from the weather.

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Retailing at $399.00 the Zeta LT is undoubtedly pricey, but the inherent benefits of a higher-end jacket reveal themselves at every turn.

Check out the differences in the image below. Arc’teryx Zeta LT on the left, and a popular $90 rain jacket on the right. The Zeta’s stretchy woven material offers more breathability than the sheet of nylon that makes up the other.

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In conclusion, this jacket is pretty awesome. Arc’teryx is the cadillac of rain jackets and even though incredibly expensive I can see where the money is going.

If you’re looking for

  1. A lightweight waterproof jacket
  2. That’s versatile for all your different adventures
  3. And you’d rather spend more money on something that’ll last you longer

The Arc’teryx Zeta LT fits the bill. Check it out.

Disclosure: the following product was donated for the purpose of review.

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Comments 1

  • web site : Oct 22nd

    Ориентируясь на срок кредитования,
    кредиты могут быть долго-,
    средне- и краткосрочные.

    Reply

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