Arcteryx is based in Canada but a subsidiary of the Chinese sportswear company Anta, and it is a global powerhouse in heavy duty clothing. They have done a good job of marketing to law enforcement and military personnel, while working with various agencies to improve their products.
Specifically, in 2016 Arcteryx launched their LEAF Cold WX LT jacket after using feedback from the Canadian Special Operations Command (CANSOFCOM) to build it. They did an awesome job, and it was so well received they launched their Gen 2 version of the jacket. This jack is specifically designed for extreme cold use with high alpine altitudes and is directly marketed to military members. This is basically a windproof, weather resistant, light weight, insulated stand-alone jacket. Let’s check out some of the key features:
- 100g Coreloft™
- 10″ x 7.5″ External chest pockets
- 6″ x 6″ Zippered internal chest pocket
- Two 4″ x 6″Upper arm zip pockets
- Vertically routed hem drawcords
- 4″ x 4.5″ Velcro® loop panel
- Micro Fleece-lined collar
- Elastic Cuffs
- Articulated Torso and Elbows
- Gore Windstopper®
- Fleece-lined underarms
The jacket is made of N40p Windstopper 2L, Coreloft 100g (the insulation) and 15DX15D Ripstop taffeta (lining). This is all quality materials that you would expect from the price point ($350-$450 depending on where you are). The Cold WX LT was designed to be an “insulated outer garment jacket” so keep that in mind when judging how warm it’ll keep you. I found it to be very comfortable even at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, wearing just a long sleeve t-shirt.
This is nice because the Cold WX LT is deceivingly light, but provides great comfort and warmth while still giving you breath ability. If you are worried about getting wet, it has the Gore Windstopper face fabric which provides great water resistance to pretty much any level rain minus extreme downpour. All of this will providing a true fit and finish. I found the jacket to be true to size, while still giving me ability to move my elbows and torso without issue.
If you are looking for a jacket that will keep you warm without the need for a few layers, I would strongly recommend the Leaf Cold WX LT Gen 2. It might be pricey but it’ll be worth it on those cold windy days!
Score: 9/10
Smooth