Which Outer Layer Should You Choose?

[@trekitt]

Shop our latest range of hardshell jackets! www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/waterproof-jackets

[@HolybasilYT]

This is such an underrated channel. Love the content guys, don't ever stop.

[@reginahousehunters]

Agreed!

[@osheenoutside6097]

Yep

[@woolengrappler]

I have two arcteryx jackets, both are excellent pieces that I’ve been happy with for a number of years, however the arcteryx site is waaaaaaay too technical to understand without hours of research. You guys do great high quality videos and have an ability to explain complex technical concepts in simple easy to understand terms. Thank you and kudos!

[@Ray_Here]

U.S. watcher here. You guys do educational videos that are very well done. Thanks!

[@AdrianW_photo]

From start to finish, full of very useful information. Thanks for the video.

[@trekitt]

Thanks for watching!

[@chess777]

This channel is absolutely fantastic and I get plenty of good advice & Knowledge and as you say; "be bald, start cold". Thx so much for enlightening us! Cheers

[@CameronLittlesustainablecam]

Great advice. I've been checking out a few of your reviews of down and synthetic puffers and shells and I'm really impressed. When I'm making a purchase of gear I want to know about all of the technical details, not marketing fluff. I want objective AND subjective and you tell what you know and what you think. Perfect. I've just sent a recommendation to my adventuring mates to subscribe. Well done and thanks!

[@trekitt]

Thank you for the compliments and for recommending our channel; much appreciated. Kind regards, Harry.

[@Bereit18]

A fantastic, no nonsense summary of what goes into a waterproof jacket. Superb. 👍

[@trekitt]

Glad you liked it!

[@WyeExplorer]

End to end I really enjoyed that and learnt a lot. The technology today is, in itself, the result of exploration with fabrics, materials and techniques - well interesting! Your knowledge guys is impressive. I have nothing to add. All the best. Mark

[@MrVinnyh]

I am fairly new to walking, I had not heard of Trekitt until I ordered a Merino baselayer top. (ordered boxing day arrived 3 days later great sevice) just wish I had come across your videos earlier. Great advice given.

[@trekitt]

Thanks for the kind feedback and the order, hope you enjoy the baselayer! Kind regards.

[@SharonMiddletonNZ]

I've watched about an hour of your videos already. Great content. Wish you had a store in New Zealand.

[@unclebob8419]

Great video. Why don't you stock Keela? They look like they make the best waterproof jackets. Used by mountain rescue, the police, army etc, and they're reasonably priced.

[@MarcP5267]

Excellent and informative video. I am confident that those that do outside activities like yourself know how to best layer for outside activities vs the general public. I have a question for you that you probably have never gotten. I work outside as a laborer in a municipality in New Jersey USA. Like I said I’m confident to listen to advise of people like you vs even people in my field of work. People in my field of work for the most part don’t know how to ‘dress’ layer. Now the question I have is since I work outside as a laborer I need the most durable outer top and bottom shell to protect me from wind, rain and snow in the winter months. The problem in my situation could be potentially durability and price. I know this wear is expensive and I’m ok with spending the money but if I have to purchase a set every year let’s say that’s where the problem comes in. I work in conditions that has potential abrasive and my stuff can get dirty. For instance last week was was in a muddy hole and it was pouring down rain to fix a water main issue. My midlayers are all Carhartt because in this aspect I have confidence in quality and durability. However I’m not too confident in Carhartt’s water proof technology which is called Storm Defender. Technology might work for work wear though. What are your thoughts and suggestions. Thanks!

[@trekitt]

In this instance you're probably best opting for traditional workwear rather than outdoor gear. Outdoor clothing has to strike a perfect balance between durability and breathability as they'll be used in fairly aerobic situations, whereas workwear focuses more on durability and less on breathability. I'm afraid I'm not familiar with which brands would be best to look for, but I can't see any garment from us lasting more than a year on a building site. Harry

[@gferguson73]

Deadly videos man love how u explain things very clear and understanding, great help

[@andyw9043]

Very useful and informative, thanks for posting

[@ildargataullin5781]

Guys, you're just awesome!!

[@trekitt]

Thank you!

[@minimineeee]

im blown layer by how knowledgeable he is

[@lizzyshaw3867]

Wow. This is such a useful channel. As good as visiting a store for information. Been looking for a performance outer layer and this has answered all my questions.

[@trekitt]

Hi Lizzy, thanks for your comments. We’ve always aimed to replicate the service and advice of our Hereford shop in our videos. Paul.

[@jayj.manalo2271]

Finding this channel was one of the best things that happened to me.

[@trekitt]

We're glad we could assist!

[@stuartjohnston6211]

Tank you John great vib

[@rocfella]

winter is so annoying , even in -6 celsius a get hot after 10 minutes of uphill hiking and have to strip down to just wool baselayer. but then when i stop after 3 minutes it gets cold again. annoying 🙂

[@trekitt]

The best tip we have is to start cold and warm up to the correct temperature. You'll be uncomfortable for a few minutes, but as you pointed out, you'll quickly warm up.

[@alessandroromanenghi8261]

I saw the video yesterday and found the title a bit misleading. "Outer layer" doesn´t have to be a waterproof hard shell, unless it´s raining or there are good chances to get wet from the outside. Especially in Winter with sub-zero temperatures and while on the move, a softshell, a wind shell or even a windproof insulated jacket would be way better options. Think breathability: the most breathable water proof membrane is still a huge vapor barrier. I was hoping you´d address THIS topic. Maybe next time?

[@trekitt]

Valid points. It was named 'outer layer' to fit into a series of videos we filmed a few years ago, but we're planning more layering-related videos in the not-too-distant future. Harry

[@Rivster79]

What colorway is the Beta LT? Super awesome and educational video. Thanks!!!

[@trekitt]

It was called Matador, however this colour is now discontinued. The closest comparable colour is now called Trail Blaze, but it's more orange than red. Kind regards, Harry.

[@5angels332]

Some very usefull info as always. Thanks Trekitt.

[@peteaustin9636]

love your lectures & I am learning shitloads .... I am in the next 2-3 months going to purchase the fjallraven keb2 dome in blue + a footprint ... and was wondering if you can them and how much for both please

[@trekitt]

I'm afraid we don't stock the Keb Dome, however we do stock the Abisko Dome 2 and can supply a footprint for half price when both are purchased at the same time. The Abisko Dome is far better suited to camping below the treeline, whereas the Keb is suitable for use above the treeline but with a weight penalty (over 1kg difference), so it depends where you plan to camp. Both are four-season rated, so you'll have no problem with either once winter comes around. The Abisko Dome 2 and the footprint would come to £760.50. Let us know if you need any more information.

[@melaniebailey3446]

Such a valuable video, thank you!

[@trekitt]

You're welcome, thanks for watching. Harry

[@annie.c7130]

Thankyou for such informative videos! I just bought an Atom LT Hoody after some research and watching your videos!! Just wondering if the Beta LT can be used as a ski jacket? Also, for autumn hiking (I’m from Sydney Australia) can you suggest what would be a good outer layer? Thankyou again.

[@trekitt]

Hi Annie, thanks for your kind comments. The Beta LT is a massively versatile jacket that can be used for just about all mountain activities. Paul.

[@Marcus_PG]

Excellent, detailed description on a subject I need to know more about as I'm looking to get some lightweight kit. In the 4 years since the video was made have there been any key developments in this area that need to be considered? Thanks

[@trekitt]

The principles are largely the same, however, there are far more options these days. There are various different waterproof membranes to consider that weren't available at the time, more recycled/sustainable options, etc.

[@trytheoutdoors]

Great work. Thank you.

[@trekitt]

Thanks 🙌

[@Allen-ut8ms]

great review. thank you!

[@manuelcalleja92]

Excellent video. Thanks for making this.

[@craigdavies1747]

I've go or arcteryx base layers, trousers, hoodies and tees. (I've got a good half price source) but the coats are way overpriced. I've got a Berghaus goretex fellmaster 3 in 1 coat which included the interactive taconite hoody and baselayer and still £100 cheaper than the arcteryx rain shell!

[@trekitt]

Hi Craig, lucky you getting half price Arcteryx! Their jackets are like a piece of artwork and an example of the finest fabric engineering, hence the high price. However, if you've found an alternative that works for you then that's great. Thanks for watching. Paul.

[@craigdavies1747]

@@trekitt fair point they are a bit special but I couldn't justify £350/£400 personally.

[@johnmccarthy2179]

Good review well presented.

[@jdmart8577]

15:58 LOL :D :D

[@cllmanagement5770]

Ty Hell of a review! Much appreciated.

[@trekitt]

Thanks for your kind comments.

[@GolgoSixty]

Great video and content. Learnt a lot. Thanks for the vid!

[@Kam-fk4ou]

Would tou please say again what exactly are u wearing under your jacket ?

[@JahBlessd]

Great content and very informative!

[@trekitt]

Thanks for watching. Paul.

[@gerhardscommunityblog5218]

Question: What’s a good outer jacket for everyday use like a bit of walking but not mountaineering. I just want to keep warm and cosy and if possible not sweaty. It seems to be an entire science, which can be confusing. I had a look at the Raab Microlight Alpine, the Electron and the Electron Plus. Now this video shows jet another outer layer. I’m confused.

[@trekitt]

To keep comfortable while walking, it's best to have layers rather than one jacket. For example, if you've just got a t-shirt and your insulated jacket and you get too hot, you won't be able to take the jacket off as you'll then be too cold, whereas if you've got 3 layers, for example, you can take layers off incrementally until you're comfortable. I would recommend doing more research and having a watch of our 'how to layer correctly' video (link below) before narrowing down a list of which jackets you'd like to purchase, as the ones above (Electron, Microlight, etc) are all insulated jackets, whereas the layers in this video are hardshells/softshells. Kind regards, Harry. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZm8gHmZbbBgn9E

[@Fun_Dealer]

Do you have anywhere where you have shared your favourite hardshells? I’m looking for a bomb proof hardshell that will never fail me. The all black aesthetic is important to me. I currently have these options: Rab Kangri, Rab firewall, montane Ajax, Helly Hansen Vergas, Montane alpine spirit, Arcteryx Zeta SL. I know some of these are quite different but they are all within my budget.

[@trekitt]

My personal favourite is the Arc'teryx Beta AR. I've used it for weeks at a time in the wettest area of the UK (Lake District!) while lugging around 15kg of camera equipment and it didn't fail me once. If your main concern is durability, I would look at either the Beta AR or Mountain Equipment's Lhotse. The Lhotse is available in Grey/Black and the Beta AR comes in all black; I'll pop some links below. Harry Beta AR: www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/arcteryx-mens-beta-ar-jacket-black__40242 Lhotse: www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/mountain-equipment-mens-lhotse-jacket-anvil-greyblack__40476

[@Fun_Dealer]

@@trekitt awesome, thank you!

[@timothysung4626]

Very well done!

[@markharwood]

Excellent explanation. I have found that the cut of Arcteryx is superior to other brands - feel far better for movement.

[@oddjob4877]

Great video .

[@trekitt]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@TheTrailDancer]

Great vids!

[@stephenhickey8062]

Your gore-tex jacket is a size L, are all the rest of the layers also L? Or do you have to compensate for the extra layers beneath as you add more? I have the A'T Atom LT in size M and am wondering what size gore-tex layer would fit best.

[@trekitt]

Hi Stephen, the rest of Paul's layers are a size large too. This varies largely on the person, for example, I am a medium in the Atom LT but have to go for a size small in many of Arc'teryx's shells as they're fairly oversized to fit additional layers underneath. I would recommend you go with your standard size (medium), and if it isn't right you can always send it back provided the labels are still on and it's in a re-sellable condition. Regards, Harry.

[@woolengrappler]

Stephen Hickey I wear a medium in all arcteryx gear. The arcteryx shells are over sized to fit several layers underneath. If you plan to wear a base layer, mid layers, puffy coat, then a Shell I would recommend sticking to your typical size.

[@jonstrongman3292]

Hi Stephen, I wear a large size for my layers, yet my Arcteryx Theta jacket is a medium size and fits over my layers just fine.

[@nadezhdadimitrova4042]

Hi! Which arcteryx do you recommend for plain hill walking in Scotland - loads of rain and heavy wind. Thank you!

[@trekitt]

The Beta AR would make an ideal walking/trekking jacket up in Scotland. I'll pop a link to it below if you need some extra info. Regards, Harry. www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/arcteryx-mens-beta-ar-jacket-black__40242

[@Elfin4]

It is also frustrating when manufacturers don't display the waterproof rating of 8000hd etc. Most so called waterproof jackets have a rating of 8,000 or 10,000. Fully waterproof jackets would be rated from 15,000 to 20,000hd or h20

[@trekitt]

The main problem is that there is no one testing system that all manufacturers adhere to. Technically, in the UK, anything with a Hydrostatic Head measurement over 1500mm is "waterproof". But for serious mountain use we'd recommend a HH of over 10,000mm. Paul

[@kevinhaynes9091]

Hi, I was looking for the three layer laminate Arc'teryx Beta LT in high vis red, on your website, as well as the Arc'teryx website. Unfortunately it looks like you no longer sell it, and this colour isn't available on the Arc'teryx website. It's been several years since this video was made, so things could certainly have changed. Priced at £350, it's right in my budget, whereas their other jackets jump up in price considerably. Could you please confirm that the jacket featured is the Beta LT, and that you no longer sell it, and suggest an alternative with the same specs and a similar price. Many thanks...

[@trekitt]

It is a Beta LT, we do still stock it, and at the same price, but not in the red colour shown. If it's not essential that it's red, we stock the Beta LT here in other colours: www.trekitt.co.uk/facetresults.aspx?Term=beta%20lt If it has to be red, the Lhotse from Mountain Equipment is a stunning jacket right in your price bracket: www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/mountain-equipment-mens-lhotse-jacket-imperial-redcrimson__40477

[@kevinhaynes9091]

@@trekitt Thanks for the reply. I'll be popping into your shop in the next few days to check out some gear...

[@atommachine]

great info.

[@trekitt]

Glad it was helpful!

[@haligali4360]

Thank you:). Don’t you have video about shoes?

[@trekitt]

Shoes are a difficult one as it depends completely on your foot shape. We would always recommend visiting us to receive a professional footwear-fitting service.

[@nutcake72]

how come this Beta LT has got pit-zips? I have looked at a Beta LT in color iliad which weighs about 375 grams and has (unfortunately) no pit zips. Otherwise it would be the perfect jacket for my use, since it is overall one of Arc's lightest jackets wich full GT-Layering. I wonder how important the pit-zips would be

[@trekitt]

It doesn't have pit zips; Paul changes into a Mountain Equipment alternative which does have them at around 12:45. In our experience the Beta LT is breathable enough to go without the zips, but both the Beta AR and Zeta AR have them if it's a dealbreaker. Kind regards, Harry.

[@gurgenmakaryan4428]

Hi, love your reviews ! need a help please: For winter (-10°C) fatbike cycling, shell I choose Beta Lt with base layer, or Zeta SL with 3 layer system? Or some other model? Actually have arc'teryx Kappa hoody, but it's a bit bulky Thanks for any input Cheers from Montréal !!

[@trekitt]

To be honest, I wouldn't choose a hardshell at all. If it's -10°C, you're unlikely to experience rain, in which case you'll be better off with a good softshell which will withstand pretty much all the snow you can throw at it. Something like the Gamma MX would be more suitable in my opinion. www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/arcteryx-mens-gamma-mx-jacket-black__40245

[@gurgenmakaryan4428]

Thank you ! Is there any difference on materials between 2019 model and 2021? I can have a good deal on 2019's

[@trekitt]

@@gurgenmakaryan4428 The Gamma was updated in 2020 and does feature some improvements. It's mainly down to fit and fabrics.

[@gurgenmakaryan4428]

Thank you very much Happy new year, be safe!

[@AnthonyJohnson1]

I’m looking for a new Mountain Equipment waterproof jacket but I’m not sure which of the 3 Gore-tex fabrics to go for? I notice that there is Pro, Paclite and standard Gore-tex. Is there a significant difference between the 3? I would only be using the jacket for hiking in the UK mountains.

[@trekitt]

Hi Anthony, thanks for watching and for getting in touch. I'm assuming that you'll be wearing a rucksack when hiking, so my recommendation would be to go for either Gore-Pro or standard Gore-Tex. The Pro version is tougher and more breathable, but consequently costs more. For general hiking, unless you get very hot and sweat a lot, you probably wouldn't notice the difference. Our best selling hiking jacket is the Rab Kangri - www.trekitt.co.uk/38511/products/rab-mens-kangri-gtx-jacket-black.aspx It's a belter of a jacket that'll be perfect for UK, all year, hiking and trekking, you can watch my video review on our webpage. I hope that helps. Paul.

[@AnthonyJohnson1]

Trekitt thanks for the reply Paul. I’ll have a look at the Kangri then

[@FABM27]

There is also something called Gore-Tex Performance. Is that another name for standard Gore-Tex??

[@TheTrailDancer]

Great Vid

[@trekitt]

Thank you!

[@danimoosakhan]

What Arc'teryx outer layer jacket can I buy which doesn't have noise, unlike this one?

[@trekitt]

They all have a little noise due to the nature of the fabrics, however the one with the least which is made by Arc'teryx is the Zeta AR. Unfortunately we don't stock this anymore, so we'd recommend looking at the Mountain Equipment Firefox Axel jacket. This features a knitted backer, therefore virtually eliminating the 'rustly' noise, and creating a softer fabric to sit next to your skin in warmer weather. You can find it here: www.trekitt.co.uk/36186/products/mountain-equipment-mens-firefox-axel-waterproof-jacket-kiwi.aspx

[@TheVoltaire1]

If you want true silence, look at wool jackets. It won't be as waterproof as goretex but it's still very good. Its got a level of fire resistant element to it... something these jackets will never be.

[@dan.b]

A video about softshells?

[@trekitt]

We'll add it to the list.

[@michaelz1383]

Mince pies and Backpack

[@trekitt]

Wrong video!

[@samd6405]

Arc’teryx Beta LT w/Gore-Tex Pro vs. Zeta LT w/cknit backer. Pros/cons of each???

[@trekitt]

Beta LT is more of an all-rounded jacket, you can use it for climbing, mountaineering, dog walking, it's a great all rounder. The Zeta is better if you're more of a casual walker, it's more comfortable next to skin and features a longer length. The Zeta also doesn't feature a helmet compatible hood, therefore it tends to fit your head better when not wearing a helmet. I personally chose a Zeta due to the length and the fact that I will never climb in it, however you can't go wrong with either option. Regards, Harry.

[@samd6405]

Trekitt Mountain Sports thank-you for the reply. Anything negative to say about the cknit backer, ie, durability, adhesion to the mid-goretex layer, effects on breathability?

[@FABM27]

@@trekitt Harry, do you know what Gore-Tex is used in the Zeta AR? The website just says 3 layer Gore-Tex with C-knit (which I assume is the backer so the fabric in touch with the skin). It does say the fabric is N70p (70 Denier and Performance). But it will be good to know of its Gore-Tex performance or Pac-Lite Plus (which they do on the Zeta SL). Also which is more breathable? The Performance or Pac-Lite Plus??

[@trekitt]

@@FABM27 The Zeta uses standard Gore-Tex. The 'p' after N70 means plain weave rather than performance. Gore don't tend to reveal a lot of figures regarding breathability so I can't tell you which is more breathable, but having used both I'd find it hard to tell a difference.

[@FABM27]

@@trekitt thank you for confirming that the Zeta AR uses standard Gore-Tex and N70 denier plain weave fabric. Regarding “breathability” then I have heard the Pac-Lite Plus is said to have the best (again cannot find it on Arc’teryx site but more from other reviewers and comments). One good thing about the Zeta AR that clinched it for me was the use of C-knit which is much nicer against the skin. I would have preferred the Zeta LT (which is lighter at 300g i/o 425g and uses a N40pn i/o N70p) but could not find it at a good price. I would imagine the Zeta LT is slightly more breathable than the Zeta AR.

[@labellaescrima1996]

not fair Harry did not have all the sweaters and jackets you had on, so not really a true test!

[@trekitt]

Harry is still young and doesn’t feel the cold like me!

[@andras.csicsari]

Love these videos, most informative I have seen. The only thing bothers me more and more as I watch more of these: your camera struggles to maintain focus on you. Super disturbing. Still the knowledge and the presentation outweighs that.

[@trekitt]

Yeah, I agree. This was shot with an old Canon DSLR which we quickly replaced with newer gear. In any of our recent videos, the focusing, sound, etc will be spot on. Harry

[@labellaescrima1996]

Arc'teryx made in Canada and proud of it, we do make good stuff!

[@trekitt]

That used to be the case, but mostly made elsewhere nowadays. Still making the best kit though!

[@saemushailstorm3135]

coat/jacket might be bit longer , say just down to top of legs - waist length really useless , pls