Arcteryx Atom LT Vs. Proton LT: Active Layer soft shell Jacket Showdown

[@nosilverharbinger]

It may be important to note that the Proton LT no longer uses a 40 denier face fabric. When they revised the design of that piece in late 2019 they changed it to a 20 denier fabric , which is similar to the Atom LT'. At this point I think that both of them will have similar durability, but I don't have both jackets to compare that.

[@b_o_o_g_i_e__]

Tried multiple jackets in arcteryx store and others selling them. Settled on Atom LT as my mid under arcteryx shell for snowboarding, much better than the bad fitting fleece or down layers I was using before. And just a nice comfy every day hoody too. L fits snug but still moves well on me 6'2" 205lbs

[@Fedgery007]

I have the Atom LT which I love. I also use it as a mid-layer for skiing.

[@KirstenBayes]

Really appreciated list. I have been enjoying the 2020 Atom LT, and have found it works really well as a layering piece with either a Kyanite LT hoody or softshell underneath, or a Zeta AR hardshell on the top. Very likely to get a Proton based on this review, when my ship comes in.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Yes Atom will work great as a layering piece especially this newer 2020 version compared to its predecessors. But yes, the Proton is one special jacket.

[@ovivan79]

Those are excellent layering choices. Love my Kyanite LT with the Proton as well. The combination adds a lot of warmth to the system while staying breathable. Works well with the Atom SL and Proton FL, too

[@pittwm]

I have both of these earlier gen…. I love the Proton for it’s fit and plan on getting a new gen ATOM LT for its new hem cinch cord.

[@jonimakesails]

Great video...! I have an old Atom LT that I have had for several years which I loved and was always my jacket of choice. It's pretty used and abused now. This winter I decided it was time for a replacement and was planning on getting another Atom LT but after trying the new Atom LT and the Proton LT I went with the Proton. Main reason being the lack of those fleece side panels featured on the Atom. Plus the Proton has a better fit and the harder wearing outer material is an improvement over the Atom. I was a little put off by the extra cost of of the Proton but once I tried each of the jackets the decision was easy. That said they are both fantastic jackets. Another thing is these Arc'teryx jackets have a matt finish to the outer layer unlike the super shiny finish you find on most jackets of this type which I'm not a fan of.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks! And thanks for the feedback on your experience!

[@FABM27]

Exactly what i was looking for!!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Awesome! Thanks for watching

[@larimitchell795]

Firstly, this is an exceptional review. Bravo! Given the Proton LT's strength is breathability when motoring along, give thought to the Proton FL. Not as warm as the Proton LT but if you generate your own heat then the FL merits consideration. Also, be mindful of the trim fit of the jacket chosen. If one is not as trim as the reviewer then an XL might be better. The Atom LT and the Beta AR fit me well as a large, I need XL in the Proton FL and the Kyanite fleece.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks good info. Yes I plan on checking out the FL to review sometime

[@genericmike7361]

Got the Proton FL, after buying the Proton Pant combo’d with the Zeta SL pants during 2021 winter. Now I grabbed the Proton FL and Zeta SL jackets today at 25% off. Sad the Proton LT was sold out everywhere :(

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@genericmike7361 great deal the FL though. Let me know how you like it

[@thdjjfsfh]

Also, you can pack the jacket easily in their sleeve or hood. I prefer the hood, you can use the cinch cord to tighten it, then wrap it around the whole thing. Packing a jacket tightly into their pocket with those tiny zipper is hard with thick gloves or cold hand.

[@simplyproductions5005]

Hoodless atom lt with the beta ar is my daily ski setup, it’s perfect

[@muamerkapetanovic7940]

I'm 176 cm and 75kg and i fell wery comfy in size Small..i was afraid that it would be to small but side stretch panels are great for mobility and comfort..i own both jackets atom and proton and i highly recomend..Graet rewiew bdw.👍👍👍

[@TiagoWP7]

Hey. So im 1.64m and usually i wear size S… but reading your comment i should use size XS on Arcteryx jackets? Thanks

[@JohnnyTaxonomy]

Excellent video. Thank you for this comparison and all the detail.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

your welcome, glad it was helpful

[@deanowarrior]

Atom lt i have is great in still conditions but any cool wind at all send chills through the side panels.

[@jonklass]

Wow man congrats and most importantly thank you for an amazing review. You covered pretty much everything one could ask for in a review.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks a ton for the encouragement! Glad it helped

[@sashinger5230]

Such a great detailed review, very impressed by your work. I already have an Atom LT and like it pretty much for all around everyday carry. For hiking I just ordered the Proton FL and hope it will be breathing really that well. What I rather don’t like about the Protons is that printed logo. I prefer the stitching on the Atoms and hope the print will not get off with heavy use.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Glad it was helpful! let me know your thoughts on the Proton FL.

[@rosscornwall9293]

The revised Proton Hoody (previously LT) 2024 now has an embroidered logo.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@rosscornwall9293 excellent thanks for the update

[@crazehare]

This is the video I was searching for thanks for making it!!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

great! hope it helps

[@crazehare]

@@BackcountryRenegade yes it did! getting the Atom lt for the warmth!

[@acurabby]

I have both the Proton LT Hoody and the Kyanite LT Hoody, what a match made to each other.Either or will be suffice to for just light hiking and playing acoustic at night on the patio/cabin located on the cliff side at night with a nice bonfire.😁

[@jonhall8621]

This was the jacket comparison that I was wanting to see. You did a great job! Thank you. Like you, I’m leaning towards the Proton LT. I have one question. When wearing the Proton LT while taking a break from hiking or just sitting around having a beer , what would be the coolest temperature that this jacket would keep you feeling comfortable? I know this temp may be a bit different for every person, but wearing just a t-shirt under the Proton LT sitting in no wind conditions, what temperature range is the Proton LT best suited?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks! It will be different for each person but just being in a t-shirt and the proton I start to feel cold around 43 degrees if I’m not moving. You can have a wool base layer or even a light shell over the proton and you can probably take it a bit lower. Once I get into the 30s, I’m using this a mid layer rather then a stand alone

[@bmurray330]

I was looking for a jacket between the Atom AR and Atom LT and was hoping the Proton fit the bill. I golf a lot but the side panels in the LT let in cold air at times, but your comment that the Proton is colder when standing still got me wondering. Great review though!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Proton feels over all more breathable, but it is better at blocking wind the. Those side panels on that atom. For golf a proton with out a hood would be great imo

[@boatengjr]

I really love your videos. They are the best reviews I have seen on KZbin. If you have time can you please review the Atom AR vs Proton Lt. Thank you. Keep up the great reviews.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks. Sounds good I’ll see if I can get my hand on one

[@josephsantana3094]

Still can't decide lol. Both have characteristics that appeal to me that the other one doesn't have. Might just have to buy one at random first and then buy the other one later on when I can afford it.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

If you can make it to a store and try in person go for it. Otherwise through backcountry (link in description) they have a good 30 day return policy

[@Spurgte]

Buy the atom if you a warm breathable waterproof jacket Buy the proton if you want a insulated jacket for outdoor activity

[@josephsantana3094]

@@Spurgte I ended up with the Atom, although I'm not sure where you're getting the waterproof part from.. It does have a dwr coating which provides mild water resistance but it is by no means waterproof or comparable in any way to an actual shell jacket that's designed to keep you dry.

[@teddyrasputin3850]

Really nice, in depth comparison

[@yhwanjo3621]

Thanks for the great review. I agree with you, except for one thing. Proton LT is warmer. Coreloft 80g vs 60g and no side panel vs side panel where the wind blows in.

[@maxstephan2976]

Great comparison! I'd love to get a comparison: Men's Rab Xenair Insulated Jacket vs arcteryx atom lt and Men's Xenair Insulated Jacket vs Proton LT. Many thanks!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

thanks for the suggestions. ill see if i can get my hands on those others.

[@johntruongpictures]

The Proton LT Fortius Air 20 is not 40 denier, it’s the same as the Atom LT, which is 20 denier. Hence the name “Fortius Air 20”.

[@qlfi]

Proton is my choice out of this two

[@locoraindrops7653]

My upper layers(sans base layers) consist of the Fortrez, the Proton LT, then the Alpha SV when things get fun.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Sounds like a great combo

[@locoraindrops7653]

@@BackcountryRenegade people scoff at the price but my 1st SV lasted me 14yrs. I take care of my gear. While it looks as though it could walk & talk on it's own it is still waterproof. DWR jumped ship awhile back but I reapplied as necessary. I just replaced it with a 100D variation a short bit back. If you break down the cost per year it is cheaper than a Marmot Precip.

[@diegom2157]

great analysis...extremely well done...

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Much appreciated!

[@zaneearldufour]

Ermagerd I'm loving your videos. If you ever do really cold weather camping (

[@zaneearldufour]

And I know that 20F isn't that cold for some places, but it's cold for me here in SE Michigan

[@BackcountryRenegade]

I got a few vids coming with the Cerium LT. I’ll look into the other two. Thanks for the suggestion and thanks for watching

[@mxthicalzz1621]

Which one is the better jacket, I’m stuck between the two 🤔

[@BackcountryRenegade]

really it comes down to if you want fleece side panels or not. The proton is more technical and does not have the fleece side panels so that's the one I favored. Cant go wrong with either one though. The atom will be the cheaper option if you dont care about the side panels.

[@mxthicalzz1621]

@@BackcountryRenegade in England it’s the same price so this is why I ask this question, I mean I am leaning towards the proton but I just want to know I’m making the right choice. Thanks

[@mesorottoercazzo1000]

Hi, What are the temperatures that you recommend for stay warm from standing still with the Proton LT? I'd use it for hiking and trekking, specially when I'm at the top and down of the mountain or during the walking without feeling cold. For these kind of uses is it good the Proton lt or would it be better a jacket like Patagonia Micro puff or Rab Cirrus Alpine or similar? Thanks

[@thdjjfsfh]

I am now sure if Arcteryx ever publishes the reason for their zipper design, but I believe it's for one-hand operation. If you are belaying, it's super dangerous to let go of the brake hand. In my opinion, the proton is better for everything that I do outdoor, I think the only place the atom is better is in the city. It does not have a super technical look. I figured that Arcteryx was going to drop the atom LT but instead they added the proton FL. Proton FL vs Atom SL next?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Interesting probably one of the reasons for that zipper. I agree with you on the proton. Yeah I’ll look into those two soon

[@bmd6343]

Have you reviewed the Atom SL? Where does it fit in the mix? Keep up the great work!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks! Not yet. But I can put it in the to do list

[@zj9928]

Proton LT is the choice

[@thiccdddad75]

I’m confused, which is actually warmer? You said the Atom is warmer earlier in the video and later you said the side panels make it colder than the proton.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

it depends if there is wind or not. if no wind the atom feels more warmer, if wind, it goes straight through the side panels of the atom, making me feel colder, and the proton does a better job blocking it.

[@LetsDraw12]

Personally the Proton LT didn't have the same level of comfort and fit compared to the Atom LT. Sooooo I kept the Atom LT, returned the Proton LT, and bought the Proton FL. Now I have the best of both worlds. The Proton FL for high output and the Atom LT for colder days around town.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Yes that’s understandable. The proton has a very particular trim fit and it’s not for everyone. The atom is a tad looser and more accessible fit. How you liking the proton fl?

[@LetsDraw12]

@@BackcountryRenegade It's amazing! The Proton FL is exactly what I was looking for as a breathable windbreaking shell! I pair it up with a Delta LT or Aptin and it's the perfect combo for intense mountaineering while still staying cool!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@LetsDraw12 excellent I’ll have to try it out

[@rampatra]

Such an expounded review. Thanks for making it. Btw, does the hoody in the Atom fold so that I can tuck it inside such that it looks like a jacket without a hoody?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Not really, it is a bulky hoody and will show if you do that and you will feel it against your back. If you want to do that i would suggest to just get the hood less version of it

[@JohannOfArc]

Nice and on the point review🙌🏻

[@orhancabarov]

Thanks for the review.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Your welcome. Thanks for watching

[@graykaegi4397]

Awesome video! One question, what color is the Proton? Is that Dynasty? Arcteryx does such a terrific job with color, but it's always difficult to discern on their website.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

yep its the dynasty

[@sillytorque]

Would have been good to hear what actual practical situations and weather the jackets were used in or was this a hang around and look cool jacket test?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Haha, well assumption is if you are considering these two, you already have narrowed down the situations you will be in for these. Plus they are mentioned. These are high output jackets that are breathable so any high output activities. These both have a basic dwr finish and are meant for light rain, Nothing more. The proton is more durable so is the better if you are climbing. Did you watch they whole vid?

[@kevinrose1453]

Thx for the add apriciate that. I am going to buy my first jacket and I am not sure what is the best for me. I would use it for all day spring and fall as stand alone. For a relaxed walk with the dog or also for a boulder session. I am between the proton lt hoody. Like the longer arms and the outside chest pocket. Or the atom lt. Also there is the atom leaf lt. It has the chest pocket too. But technically fabric is not the new 2020. Hope you can tell me maybe your own experience. Heard the proton is not so warm for relaxed walking cause of the great climate fabric. Or do you think it is warm enough for spring and fall also for all day use without being active? The atom lt would be my alternative l. Heard it is better for all day but I like the proton style more. So i found the leaf but it has no update to 2020 Thx so much Best regards kevin

[@brandontom6230]

Do you feel like the speed bumps on the proton are a bit more noticeable when you unzip the jacket than on the atom?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

They feel the same to me

[@jaytee839]

Subscribed! Which one would you say is the more “stylish” option? Proton LT or Atom LT?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

if your looking for style around town the atom is a good choise, the proton is a bit more technical

[@DemolishNoobsPs3]

Can either of these jackets be used as a mid layer underneath a Cerium LT or SL or would that not be recommended?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

That can but if you plan to do that I would size up on the cerium

[@spotlight761]

The lining inside is nylon or "softer" like polartec alpha?

[@nikitasolaya697]

Which one would be warmer, like a better mid layer for skiing

[@BackcountryRenegade]

If they are used as a mid layer, they both are going to be similar in warmth. Proton will be a bit more breathable if used as a stand alone

[@mxthicalzz1621]

Hey I’m wondering what jacket I should get, the Arcteryx proton LT or the Arcteryx proton FL

[@BackcountryRenegade]

it depends on your activity and the temps. I would say anything 42 and higher go with the FL, but below that Id go with the LT. BTW the newest versions are confusioning in the names the Proton LT is now just the Proton, and the Proton FL is now the Proton Light

[@mxthicalzz1621]

@@BackcountryRenegade damn, you’ve been a real help man keep it up much ❤️

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@mxthicalzz1621 your welcome. Thanks for watching

[@glu6567]

Planning on using the proton lt for snowboarding with some layers underneath but nothing on top, do you think it is water repellent enough for snowy conditions? I’ll be snowboarding in NJ, Pa, and NY so snowy conditions aren’t too extreme, but occasionally I’ll be sitting in snow and falling in snow

[@BackcountryRenegade]

I’d say it depends on the snow day. If it’s cold and fluffy Parton should be sufficient. But it’s it’s a slushy day then I’d go with a actually shell. Remember the only thing keeping this to repel water is the dwr coating

[@frazze8097]

can you use the atom lt for just an outer jacket for skiing?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

You could if you are in dry powdery snow, but if you are in wet I wouldn’t recommend it. The shell of the jacket only has a dwr finish to repel light water but would soak in eventually in wet melting snow

[@TheLalaian]

Hi i am looking for a proton LT for snowboarding. I wear a small atom SL but wonder if a medium proton LT might be better size? (5’5 and 135lb) thank you!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

I’d go with a small. I’m wearing a small here and I’m 5’7, 140 lbs. it offers enough room for a thermal underneath as well.

[@TheLalaian]

Backcountry Renegade appreciate the insight! :)

[@kevinstarski1598]

Interesting how outdoorgearlab ranked Atom LT higher in breathability, but they may be in minority...

[@BackcountryRenegade]

If they are doing it from the perspective of the side panels I can see their argument for that, but from my experience, that is the main breathable part. the front and back not so much when compared to the proton which is breathable all over. The proton has a more breathable shell as well. Therefore my conclusion is proton more breathable.

[@thdjjfsfh]

When it's windy, the side fleece offer almost no warmth, so if they are in the high alpine where is almost always windy, I can see why they think so. Also the new proton is much more breathable then the old one. Not sure which one that tested.

[@kevinstarski1598]

@@thdjjfsfh Well, that's another problem. Who can tell newer vs older, none of them is marked at all on most clothing items, lot of time you're lucky you get a name of the jacket somewhere, but forget any versions 1 or 2.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@thdjjfsfh yes exactly, that’s my main gripe with the atom

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@thdjjfsfh yep, I have both the newest models of each here. Proton is more breathable and the more technologically advanced jacket then the Atom

[@amsterdamcreative]

ATOM LT

[@nana10221]

Do you feel any fit differences between the two jackets?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Yes the proton is a bit trimmer fit

[@TVinmyEye]

Review The Atom SL and The Proton FL 😁

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks for the suggestion. I’ll check them out

[@unzengasfumes]

What size are you in the atom?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Both are small

[@Scouseking]

What size are these and how tall are u

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Both small and I’m 5’7

[@Scouseking]

@@BackcountryRenegade is the arm length the same on these to or ?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@Scouseking it’s close but the arm length on the proton is slightly longer

[@Scouseking]

@@BackcountryRenegade thanks I bought the atom LT in a large and medium and the M was to tight and the large the arms was well to big

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@Scouseking ah bummer, the longer arms are meant to allow you to climb and have enough material so your sleeves don’t come down when you reach up for holds. These are a bit more technical jackets so not for everyone and the Arcteryx fit is pretty trim, so from my experience, they either fit you great or they don’t.

[@youngmc5040]

Is one fit you bigger than the other one?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

No they were about the same. There is more arm material in the proton though to be better suited for climbing

[@youngmc5040]

@@BackcountryRenegade thank you. Do you own the Atom AR as well?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@youngmc5040 I do not but would love to get my hands on one

[@arpeggiosfromhell666]

What color is the Proton LT?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

It’s the red one in the vid

[@arpeggiosfromhell666]

I know, but what specific colorway? Dynasty? Sambal? Thanks

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@arpeggiosfromhell666 it’s the Dynasty

[@arpeggiosfromhell666]

@@BackcountryRenegade Gorgeous color! Thank you for the review!

[@user-rt6np5mw2b]

How tall and weight you r? Relay hard to choose my size lol~ Thanks~

[@BackcountryRenegade]

I’m 5’7, 140 lbs

[@user-rt6np5mw2b]

@@BackcountryRenegade same like me So the size S can wear hoody underneath ?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@user-rt6np5mw2b if it’s a thin hoodie yes. I can wear my merino wool base layer. My thin north face polar tech L2 hoodie, then one of these jackets over those.

[@user-rt6np5mw2b]

@@BackcountryRenegade thx! Your request is really clearly!!! Now!All I need to do----subscribe:)

[@KingKeta]

you can pack the Arc’teryx jacket in your pocket, it’s even smaller than the Patagonia

[@ralphthut5318]

Stop it with the hoodies.... You don't layer with hoodies Under shells..Unless you want that annoying hunchback... Ridiculous..

[@BackcountryRenegade]

🤣. Just get the hoodless version. Easy solution. Most of these I use as standalone so prefer the hood

[@cyt1312]

no need to be rude