Innovation has always been the driving force at Arc’teryx. Our pursuit of superior product performance has resulted in a long list of industry fi rsts. We pioneered thermoformed technology, giving a third dimension to harnesses and pack suspensions. We developed the WaterTight™ zipper, and our discoveries in fabric lamination bore the softshell revolution. We tightened seam allowances, bonded components and created curved zippers long before these advancements were adopted throughout the industry. While many of our technological accomplishments have become industry norms, we continually work to perfect our products, endlessly tweaking our construction methods and exploring unconventional ideas.
This season we expand our Ascent Softshell selection with a new Polylaminates category, introduce Gore-Tex® Soft Shell fabric into our Descent Hardshells, and premier Polartec® Hardface® technology in four distinct styles within our Insulation and Traverse programs.
As these latest iterations are widely recognized and thoroughly tested, we will reanalyze and start the cycle of innovation again. At Arc’teryx, we are driven by evolution in action, working passionately to advance performance in the outdoors.
When Arc’teryx first dove into designing Hardshell apparel, 7/8”/22mm seam tape was an unchallenged industry norm. While successful at ensuring a waterproof seam, this tape added unnecessary weight and contributed to a stiff, boardy feeling. The challenge was to maintain waterproof integrity while reducing the extra bulk of wide seam tape.
We realized that using tighter seam allowances would enable us to use narrower tape. By developing a tighter seam, and therefore reducing tape width, we would be able to shave excess grams from our garments and still maintain a secure waterproof seal. In the beginning, the most challenging task was adapting the taping machines to our new process using the smaller seam allowances. To ensure proper adhesion of the narrow tape, we had to work at a considerably slower pace. While this was a costly alternative, we felt the results more than warranted the added expense. In conjunction with W.L. Gore® and Associates and the manufacturing expertise found on our factory floor, we honed the new narrow stitch-and-tape process to pure art. The first-stage technology, a 3/4”/19mm product termed Narrow Tape, was integrated into our apparel launch in 1998. It didn’t take long for the old 7/8”/22mm tape to become an outdated industry standard.
The success of this initial refinement led us to push the taping envelope even further. Working in increments, we trimmed seam allowances down again to 1/8”/3mm and finally to 1/16”/1.5mm. In conjunction with the new seam allowances, we developed 1/2”/13mm Tiny Tape with top-stitchless micro-seam construction. First available in 2002, the skinny taping shaved substantial weight from the finished product, improved fit dramatically and allowed Gore-Tex® garments to trade their bulky, boxy stereotype for a supple and inviting hand. Used on all of our Hardshells, our Tiny Tape has completely altered perceptions of how a shell should move and feel. Yet the greatest benefit was felt in the field, where breathability was elevated and personal comfort surpassed expectations.
Our Softshells are a one-layer solution designed to adapt to ever-shifting conditions in the outdoor world. While versatility defi nes the entire class, each piece is tailored toward a specifi c profi le and particular discipline to provide varying ratios of breathability, warmth, and weather protection. Our fabric pallet is made up of highly advanced textiles which we have compiled in various combinations to create fi ve distinct softshell families: Hybrids, Windstopper®, Polartec® Power Shield®, Stretch Wovens, and Polylaminates. Offering exceptional breathability, our extensive selection sheds weather, stretches liberally and endures countless days of use.
Our Hybrids have been designed to provide both weather protection and breathability. They’re patterned with waterproof fabric in critical areas and stretch-woven material where more air permeability is essential. Ideal for when variable percipitation conditions threaten, our Hybrids are used best for backcountry approaches, stop-and-go ascents and milder winter conditions.
Achieving core thermal effi ciency is the ultimate challenge when moving at varied paces in alpine environments. Our Insulation pieces employ advanced materials and exceptional construction to create garments that are more than just fuzz and puff. Textured and laminated, our Peak and Mid Layers exceed the conventional standard and are extremely warm for their weight. Our Base Layers, available in itchless wool or odourless synthetics, are founded on cutting edge fabrics and excellent fi t. Each piece is designed to provide an advanced degree of personal warmth and comfort. This combination of foundation and fl eece creates an effi cient moisture management system that keeps core temps comfortable in varied conditions.
Our Descent styles are designed for big mountain enthusiasts who are drawn to the irresistible pull of gravity. Rooted in technical alpine innovation and infl uenced by snowsports styling, they are specifi cally detailed for backcountry demands. Our Descent Hardshells guarantee protection against stormy weather while our Softshell Hybrids deliver a perfect balance when more breathability and extra mobility are essential. Built with individual style, these pieces are equipped to perform during fresh tracks, open-to-close charges and hundred-day seasons.
Our Traverse collection is superbly suited for aerobic pursuits, long outings on the trail and adventurous explorations in the backcountry. Our performance enhanced Endorphin and more subtle Trail styles incorporate the same commitment to superior materials, components and construction as seen throughout all of our products. Wicking jersey knits, tough stretch-wovens and hybrid textile fusions offer exceptional breathability and durability, while laminated detailing and superior designs ensure these styles wear well and look great.
BACKPACKS & HARNESSES
Picking the right pack is a tough choice. Features like durability, functionality and comfort all need to be considered. Our packs are designed with anatomical shape, meticulous detail and technical materials that make them a consistent choice when heading for the trails. They are built to provide the essential blend between performance and convenience, allowing them to truly become an extension of your body. Our packs utilize thermoformed shaping to improve comfort, curved and cupped belts to conform to anatomical variability, and ultra-light materials to shave weight. Designed with our extensive alpine and trekking knowledge, each of our packs–from the fast Needles to the big Boras–is perfectly targeted to shoulder your load.
For dedicated climbers, the right harness is essential. Fit, convenience, and comfort are necessary factors in the vertical world. Marked by anatomic sculpting, our legendary harnesses are unmatched in the realm of on-the-rock comfort. Vapor™ thermoforming technology brings a third dimension of fi t by thermolaminating variable thicknesses of foam into form fi tting shapes. Internal seam technology reduces wear and softens normally abrasive edges. An engineered fi t features hipbelts and leg loops that taper in width, providing support and protection where most needed. Our harnesses conform to every aspect of rock climbing with elevated comfort, quality and performance.
M20 DESIGN Proud of its portfolio of descents, the M20 is the ideal everyday riding partner. Wrap System™ securely sucks down your board or skis and a Rolltop™ closure enables easy access. Compact and functional, its sleek, low profile helps quench your thirst for turns.
M30 & M40 DESIGN The M 30 & M40 are perfect candidates for charging all-day approaches and laying down big lines. Large enough for guide-sized kits, they come epicready with Rolltop™ closure, snow-shedding x-Pac™ fabric and loads of technical features.
ROLLTOP CLOSURE Our rolltop™ closure eases entry and seals out snow. HDPE rim rods hold the pack mouth wide open or snap tight, allowing easy use with gloves on. This smart closure system makes sense in the backcountry
WRAP SYSTEM™ Our patented Wrap System™ is a better way to hitch a ride in the backcountry. Grippy Hypalon™ cuffs suck down the gear independent of pack compression, leaving side webbing fully operational, minimizing slippage. Allows a board or skis to be carried horizontally or vertically, depending on need.
