Patagonia Nano Air Vs. Arcteryx Atom LT: Active Midlayer Jacket Showdown

[@XXXX19187]

The most clearest comparison these two jackets that I’ve ever seen awesome 👏

[@arinkim708]

Arcteryx Atom LT (older version) 7 years going strong a bit of wear with a few stiches. Cannot say enough good things about the quality of it. It has been through thick and thin. I have tried various other ones but consistently gone back to my Arcteryx. Having the cinch cords is pretty nice slows down gusty winds from blowing up and also around camp its nice to cinch the bottom down to stop breezes from creeping up. In my opinion and experience the nano air seems to be more specialized item and it might be lighter (not by much) but you would have to bring additional gear to compensate for the lack. Overall 7 years use of the Arcteryx I have to say overall under various conditions, its flexibility of use and amazing quality has held up amazingly well for me. It is one of the items I never leave without on any trip.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Awesome thanks for the feedback

[@udayshome1793]

I have a LT Leaf version jacket. The only thing I hate is the tail hangs off longer than the front which gives it a weird look. I understand the purpose of it - to prevent exposure when I'm bend over - but still, looks weird.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@udayshome1793 yes it does take a bit getting used to, but does feel weird at first and looks different for casual use, but serves it purpose for the alpine

[@semirtuce8418]

Outstanding review! Comparing every feature and function in a very logical and easy to follow way.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks glad it was helpful. Have a new one being released tomorrow too.

[@Nickel1911]

These are seriously detailed reviews. Well done! Subscribed

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks much more to come

[@windowsrolled6535]

I picked up the Atom LT and I really like it. So soft and it was enough when I went to Yosemite a few days back. The pockets are really comfy too.

[@rob060]

Why am I watching this? I already have a Nano Air

[@marcbaigrie2295]

Validation!

[@rob060]

@123 World Peace 963 Haha, I do like the cuts and designs of Arcteryx, but I have the Nano air, the R1 air hoody and the Rainshadow jacket, so I'm pretty well covered, and if anything wears out they'll repair it or give me credit for a new one :]

[@JoeZUGOOLA]

I have the atom LT so it's like a battle

[@MS_249]

I love the nano air. Came here to see other people talking good about it.

[@Errcyco]

I don’t have either and can’t afford them and I watch these videos all the time 🤦‍♂️

[@johnmiller7427]

Very thorough review, I am happy with my LT and the plus points from your review have confirmed my choice

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Awesome glad it helped. Thanks for watching

[@paulmartin5889]

I own both jackets. One con regarding the Patagonia Air’s newest version is that Patagonia eliminated one of the two breast pockets. I liked the older version with the two vertical pockets. Another thing Patagonia eliminated in the newer version jacket was the draw cord to cinch the jacket at the hips. Yet Patagonia still charges the same lofty price. The savings for at least $50 less makes the Arc’teryx Atom a better choice jacket purchase hands down. BTW, I have noticed that instinctively I have been grabbing the Arc’teryx Atom more often while hiking and even snowshoeing than the Nano-Air.

[@avanvalenziano]

Another thing the older version had was fully elastic cuffs like the Atom LT. I was very happy when I picked up the older version for $135 at the worn wear store. Can’t even tell it was used!

[@Errcyco]

They are trying to minimize zippers cause they tend to wear out first on a garment. I watched a whole thing with their current head of design. Napoleon pockets and hand warmer pockets are two of the most important things to was far as features go on a jacket. My new rain jacket doesn’t have one and I absolutely notice it way more than I thought I would. Gonna buy a Mountain Hardware Minimizer when I find one at or under $200 for a winter shell. My new rain gear is also very well fitted so I can’t do a down jacket underneath 😢

[@herrelladventures]

I can't speak for the Arcteryx, but my Nano Air is my favorite jacket. So comfy, warm, flexible. Use it as a outer layer on cold days, use it as a midlayer for extra warmth under a shell. Great jacket.

[@Errcyco]

Anyone with an athletic build tends to say this about any Patagonia product they buy. Most complaints I’ve notice come from people who aren’t very active.. makes sense.

[@KirstenBayes]

Both great jackets, know folks who swear by them. I have really enjoyed the Atom LT, paired with a Kyanite hoody and/or a shell layer. Very comfortable either side of freezing. Good for a mix of active, camp, or town wear, whether with a shell or without one: versatile piece of kit. If I knew I was going to be super active and would have a shell with me, I'd suggest the Nano Air is a better choice: warmth with breathability, great combo.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

awesome, Thanks for sharing!

[@IgraineOhnefurcht]

Thank you very much for this detailed and thoughtful review! 😊

[@matthewoconnor1621]

Love both equally for different reasons 🙌 great breakdown 👌

[@chriscowan6630]

Super review brother.....buying my second LT this week....thanks!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Awesome, it’s a excellent jacket especially this newest version!

[@chlorophyll365]

Thanks Jeff for a useful review. I have been looking for a midlayer jacket and actually the Arcteryx Atom has been on my list to check out. 👍

[@BackcountryRenegade]

your welcome. they are both great. But if you can wait a bit for my proton lt vs atom lt vid, i think it will be worth considering ;)

[@chlorophyll365]

@@BackcountryRenegade Im looking forward to that vid 😊

[@deeez3606]

I think the Nano Air is more comparable to the Proton from Arcteryx. I have both the Atom LT and the Nano Air, both are fantastic.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

yes I would agree

[@InfamousMS]

Fantastic review - thanks so much!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

My pleasure!

[@eddiejin9211]

DAMN, the exact video I was looking for lol

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Great hope it was helpful

[@Ozzymandias33]

Superbly detailed overview

[@tadejjurkovic8819]

Exactly the in deep review and comparison I was after! Was hesitating between Atom and Nano Air and just ordered the latter. My only concern is about face fabric abrasion, there seem to be quite a problem with fabric abrasion on Atom jackets mostly cause of backpack frictions - shoulders and chest areas. If there's someone who can give "longer period backpack hiking" review, how's the face material holding on Nano Air? Thanks!

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Nano air fabric is delicate too. If the main concern is fabric durability I would go with the proton lt

[@tadejjurkovic8819]

@@BackcountryRenegade thanks for that info. Since I'm looking for something I can wear in shoulder season as my top layer, Proton LT is much thicker in terms of filling. Would Proton FL be a better option then? If so, how's with fabric durability on Proton FL then? Thanks!

[@СергейМорин-м1х]

Hi! To me the dramatic difference between the two is a concept behind. Arcteryx claims (especially in Vehilance series) protection of nature throgh conscious consumption. It means creation of long lasting products. You need to, say, buy one pair of black trousers, which would serve you for decades, as a contrast to buying a new pair every year and wasting a lot of clothing because it wears out. Here we are facing an obvious case when you'd wear out 3 Patagonia pieces, while Arcteryx atom LT would still serve you like new. (all IMHO) It is not a secret that Patagonia Nano Air quickly wears out in points of contact with the backpack... as well as on chest area when used as a mid-layer. If one plans to use Nano Air exclusively for an outdoor activities, maybe it doesn't matter how the piece looks like after some period of use. Personally, I like Atom LT that it could easily be used as a city wear, not only for sports and trail activities. Ok, some might say that they need a "better breathability" and Nano Air does the job. Arcteryx has an answer to that - Arcteryx Proton LT - a more breathable version of Atom LT, which keeps all the prons of this model. :)

[@clairehsu5915]

Atom wears out pretty easily too. Lots of reviews and complains on the Internet. It’s not any more durable than the Nano Air…………

[@clairehsu5915]

@@СергейМорин-м1х not to mention Patagonia might be a better company between the two, ethically, considering Arc’teryx is pretty much a “China” company and it says a lot about how ethical it can be now.

[@abehaile2659]

Thank you. Almost bought the atom as a ski jacket 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@danielhoffmann8537]

The ca#34438 (Arcteryx Atom Hoody LT [Size L]) from 2022 fits into the inner pocket without problems.

[@Blix79]

The Patagonia Nano air is $299 but you can usually find on sale for $279. Nice review though....I love my acteryx atom lt jacket.

[@MalakaiDerg]

Just got one (Jacket, not hooded) for 100, new. Definitely not complaining!

[@Theiftanlazx]

Which one would be better for climbing? Belaying & climbing overall? Im seeking more everyday wear overall and something comfortable

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Personally for climbing I’d choose the proton over both of these. Check my vids on that to see why.

[@Theiftanlazx]

@@BackcountryRenegade thanks man!

[@dinodini547]

What about the size? If i have atom m how Is the size for Patagonia ? Thx

[@BackcountryRenegade]

it runs a bit trim, both these jackets are size small here

[@akshayeks7591]

Great content. Helped me choose the right one. Thank you. P.S. What’s the name of the background song / music?

[@thepropolys]

Good comparison. I think the proton LT is a better comparison piece though.

[@FloodGTX]

What is the ultimate mid layer for downhill skiing at a resort? Keep in mind I will have a shell for protection from wind and water on top of it.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

If you always have a shell over it so your not concerned about how delicate the outer fabric is to abrasions and thinking only as a mid layer, I’d go with the nano air. Most breathable and stretchy

[@ittotaq]

The proton lt vs nano air is a better comparison for high output like skiing

[@sashinger5230]

What an excellent comparison! Well done! Do you also plan a comparison of hard shells? I’m currently a bit torn between the Patagonia Rainshadow and the Arc’teryx Beta LT.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

thank you, yes im open to check out more to compare and open to suggestions. I'll look into these two and see if I can get my hands on them.

[@sashinger5230]

@@BackcountryRenegade Would be awesome. Thanks! ✌️

[@brandontom6230]

I have both. I haven’t worn either for multiple hours out backpacking in really wet weather so can’t compare waterproofness. Comparing features though, the Beta LT is more outdoor oriented with the higher zip pockets, helmet compatible hood, and the cut allows for better overhead movement IMO. In theory the gore pro material is better than H2NO. The rainshadow is great too but is more oriented for around town as the pockets are lower and the hood is not helmet compatible. I wear my rainshadow around town/to work and like it a lot.

[@dfabella85]

Thanks for posting.

[@danielom7325]

is the atom lt waterproof'

[@BackcountryRenegade]

they both have a dwr finish to help repel water which will help in a light rain, but if enough water it will penetrate through. It will retain its loft though because its synthetic. I would recommend if it starts raining to put a light shell over it.

[@evilish7]

Anyone reading this can compare these jackets to Dynafit's Mezzalama Alpha or Traverse Alpha?

[@unzengasfumes]

What size are you? Weight and height! I’m 5’9 - 155 and broad shoulders. What size do you reccomend? I don’t want something constricting, but want to use as a midlayer and for wearing around town.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

I’d say medium

[@unzengasfumes]

From your experience would you say arcteryx is generous with their sizing? It’ll be my first time buying, I’m a frequent Patagonia customer so this is new to me.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@unzengasfumes from my experience they run more trim then Patagonia. Their fit is a athletic fit. They either fit you great or not. Patagonia is more relaxed and forgiving

[@skii9333]

Does anyone know how to loosen the hym; lower part of the jacket?

[@pittwm]

I love Atom LT

[@thehowlingterror]

Atom LT will pack into the sleeve. The LEAF version is my preference.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Thanks for pointing that out

[@LeChuck2050]

LEAF is awkwardly short in the front though

[@Scouseking]

What size and what height are you ?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Both of these are smalls and I’m 5’7

[@Scouseking]

@@BackcountryRenegade ye I find the arcteryx are really long in the sleeves

[@Scouseking]

@@BackcountryRenegade am 5/11 13 stone ... think am going order the medium but don’t want it to tight and short

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@Scouseking I think the medium would fit good

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@Scouseking they are a more technical jacket then the nano air and are bit longer because they are to allow you to climb and reach for holds and have enough sleeve length so it doesn’t ride up your arm. If you climb this is a dream, if not it may not be a feature you need

[@jls1337]

I have long arms and I find the nano air fits me better. To me the atom lt is more boxy with shorter arms.

[@MobileAura]

Upvoted at the snap the first 10 seconds 😁

[@BackcountryRenegade]

haha nice

[@TheRealSteveEllis]

Can’t think why anyone wouldn’t own an atom lt tbh apart from cost

[@iguessitsmanny]

Probably should’ve compared the Proton LT instead of the Atom LT

[@BackcountryRenegade]

That’s next actually. Look for it tomorrow

[@daneshappypace]

Why? These are much more alike than the proton which is more heavy duty

[@The-Warrior-Optimist]

The Arcteryx proton LT would have been a much more accurate comparison.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Just check the other vids I have. Made the proton compared to each of these as well

[@qlfi]

Thank You for this review. I am sweating a lot, and looking for most breathable midleyer. IMO nano air is what i am looking for. But i am still doin research.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Good choice!

[@nrrve.1]

Arcteryx just looks so much better

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Agree and in that case Check out the proton lt kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6rVn4hoZbyXba8

[@BobGnarly420]

They do, i dunno if i like the look of that logo tho, ig same with the patagonia one tho hahhahaa

[@gummybear41283]

I have a black nano air hoody and it looks great!!!!!!!!

[@_scrd_3206]

Why am i watching This? I already have the Atom lt

[@fchow8652]

Exactly what I want to compare with, m thx

[@BackcountryRenegade]

your welcome, glad it was helpful

[@jasonwright6823]

Nice comparison. Thanks. Hate the background music. It gets super irritating after a few minutes.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

thanks, already fixed in newer vids

[@robertjustin1291]

The nano air would compress better as typically garbage bags fold into themselves quite easily. The hood on the nano air is awesome if disgrace is your style.

[@Tiger24kicks]

I like Arc'teryx Patagonia seems a little boring to me

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Check out the Arcteryx proton then, better then the Atom IMO

[@LeChuck2050]

"the Nano air is way lighter" ... 20g?

[@BackcountryRenegade]

yep very noticeable once on

[@matt6477]

Both cost far too much.

[@HisGraceHisGlory]

*I have had both and it is not even close, the Atom LT is the better jacket. Patagonia does not approach the quality of materials used as the Arc'teryx, and you realize this after a few seasons wearing each one, the Patagonia literally starts to fall apart. Patagonia is a very distant second to the Arc'teryx Atom LT.*

[@BackcountryRenegade]

Really a preference. I hated the fleece sides on the Atom, if it didn’t have that i would have loved it, which is why i went with the proton ultimately. Proton is better then both imo

[@HisGraceHisGlory]

@@BackcountryRenegade I Disagree, only because all the failures I experienced with the Pat had nothing to do with my personal preference. You must use both for years to appreciate what I am pointing out.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

@@HisGraceHisGlory i have and i could see it with the Patagonia, you are right about the more fragile material, but id rather have then then those fleece panels. Horrible Idea. Thankfully they made one like it with out them in the proton and is better all round.

[@vajona2495]

Imagine paying the same or more for "recycled" material. In America, these companies get their "recycled" material for free while charging these prices. Stop using recycled material as a positive selling point rather than the trash (pun intended) it is.

[@BackcountryRenegade]

for backpacker it is about reducing the environmental impact, these jackets are reusing materials from left over and previous modles giving them new life and the jackets that use them are like new and you couldn't tell the difference. Its actually a more labor intensive process while reducing impact, if you know the work involved. so if you like to utilizing the outdoors and care about it, it is a positive