Arc'teryx Zeta AR Jacket

Perfect jacket for hiking, backpacking, trekking, or tramping (as we call it here in New Zealand).

Fit & Comfort

I am 5'8" and 198lbs (chest: 96cm, waist: 103.5cm). Yes, I have a beer belly and I found that the medium fits perfect and I can still add a light layer without it being too tight.

I was confused at first which size to get as my waist is much bigger than my chest, which fits perfectly in the medium on the size guide, but my waist fits in with the XL on the size guide. So I got the medium and I'm glad I did because I still have a little room to add a light layer underneath without it being too tight.

Even with just a T-shirt underneath the Gore-tex C-Knit technology is very comfortable.

Adjustability

You can adjust the hood, cuffs, and the hip endings. 

Water Resistance 

I have used it twice so far in the rain for about 2 hours and it has kept me dry (I controlled condensation by using the pit zips when necessary). I found that if you use the pit zips correctly you can reduce or completely eliminate inner condensation from body heat relatively well.

Breathability

If you layer up correctly using breathable fabrics then you should have no problems providing that you open the pit zips.

I have tested this by closing them, which it still breathed but was a little warmer on the inside, and with them open, which cooled me down a little while no rain got in through the pit openings.

Layering

There is plenty of room for light layering. As I said above that my waist is bigger. I can still add a fleece mid layer without it being too tight.

Function

There are two chest pockets which are positioned higher than where your waist pack strap will go. This is handy because you don't have to take your pack off all the time. The zippers are easy to use as well. I can use them with one hand.

Construction & Durability

I have only had this jacket for a week now so I cannot say in confidence how the jacket has stood up, but what I can say is that it IS well designed and I see no flaws in it whatsoever. One would expect this anyway for such a high price tag!

Overall Opinion

It is a light jacket so I am still a little concerned as to how this will hold up to bush bashing (off track tramping), but only time will tell but I would expect it to stand up to that anyway.

If you are a little put off buy the price, I can confidently say that the jacket is well worth the money and you can expect it to last a very long time.

Thumbs up Arc'teryx!

I have added some photos below so you can see how the jacket fits on me with my big belly. This jacket is  size M.