Arc'teryx Fission SL Jacket

Core Venting:	No
Fabric:	250N GORE-TEX Pro Shell 2L, 2.7 oz ThermaTek
Fit:	Athletic fit, Hip Length
Hood:	Yes
Insulation:	2.7oz ThermaTek
Lining fabric:	nylon
Manufacturer Warranty:	Lifetime
Material:	250N Gore-Tex Pro Shell 2L
Pockets:	2 Front, 2 internal
Recommended Use:	Aerobic winter activities
Waterproof:	Yes
Waterproofing:	GORE-TEX 2 layer ProShell
Weight:	614 g / 21.7 oz (M)

Size	Color
Aztec	Lichen	Black
Extra Small		552.95	552.95
Small		552.95 698.95 699.00	552.95 698.95 699.00
Medium	699.00	552.95 698.95 3 More...	552.95 698.95 4 More...
Large	489.27 698.95	552.95 698.95 4 More...	552.95 698.95 4 More...
Extra Large	489.27 699.00	552.95 698.95 3 More...	552.95 698.95 4 More...
Extra Extra Large	489.27 698.95	552.95 698.95	552.95 698.95 3 More...

Synthetic down?!?
Rating:
Although it’s seen only limited use so far (winter hasn’t quite begun in NJ… or CT for that matter), I thought I would describe my initial impressions of the Fission SL for the benefit of those interested (my apologies for the long windedness, but I think it’s useful info). First, this is clearly a minimalist piece using the very best materials – the feel is reminiscent of your typical ultralight down jacket (but with somewhat thicker shell materials). I have yet to see how this insulation performs in really low temps, but if its as good as claimed (coupled with the incredibly light weight) I see this design as cost justified (especially for backpackers or climbers). Obviously overkill for dog walking ;) and I can’t understand why someone would trash this jacket over cost if they have little or no real use for it (not to mention very limited experience with it – this is a Fall 2008 release). Clearly such a person either refuses to acknowledge the basic concept, or simply lacks an understanding of what Arcteryx appears to have accomplished here. The 2L ProShell is extremely thin (but supposedly durable) and the nylon interior resembles ripstop silnylon (for breathability, this would not be silicone treated nylon – also, the insulation appears to have been laminated to this inner shell giving it a spotty pattern if you look closely). Anyway, it feels great against the skin. For the weight, ThermaTek is seriously high loft insulation and seems to drape pretty well (allowing it to fill in free volume to prevent convective heat loss). It is also highly compressible - in fact, the entire jacket can be rolled up and packed into the hood with ease – a bonus for climbers and backpackers (and, compared with down, synthetic insulation is typically much better about regaining its loft after being compressed for long periods). I’d guess it could be stuffed below 6”x9” with a compression sack – try that with the Fission SV (at nearly twice the weight to boot). Sizing seems to match other Arcteryx gear and I like the look, not overly technical (in black at least) or poofy (but you can tell this is an insulated jacket). Other details: hem falls just below the belt (drops in the back), lacks Arcteryx’s typical collar/hood separation (I miss this a bit, but it’s to be expected given the ultralight design), main zipper looks to be an improved waterproof design (a bit easier to operate than the one on my Theta shell, and looks like a normal zipper), has pit zips (thankfully), pockets are not raised and are minimally insulated (but seem warm enough so far), hem drawstring works, but given the short cut, plan to insulate your mid-section when the temps really drop. For general use around town (25-40F so far) I’ve found the performance of this jacket to be excellent – much like down, it appears to remain surprisingly comfortable in a wide range of temperatures. Laminated insulation is said to help the body’s natural heat regulation, and I think I’m now on my way to becoming a believer. My first (and only significant) test run saw temps in the mid-30s under a steady rain. After several miles (moderate pace on even terrain) I was still very comfortable and completely satisfied with the rain performance of the shell. I then picked up the pace on a brief 500 foot ascent and quickly heated up. A little sweat later and I was feeling clammy. As has been my experience with all waterproof jackets, drying perspiration in steady rain is difficult (can sometimes be accomplished by resting for a while). Didn’t have time for a rest, but I found that the jacket dried out within 20 minutes after returning inside. I look forward to putting this jacket through its paces in REAL winter weather. All in all, thus far, commendable performance for a jacket so lightweight and comfortable that you barely know its there.
Ken at Mountain Gear on 12/12/2008
Synthetic down?!?
Rating:
First impressions - this is an amazing piece of work by Arc'teryx. The feel of the Fission SL reminds me of an ultralight down jacket - weighs practically nothing and feels silky smooth against your skin. The 2L ProShell outer layer is extremely thin, yet supposedly very durable. The inner lining (black version) is an odd brownish color (with a purple hue?), and looks/feels like ripstop silnylon (to which the ThermaTek insulation has apparently been laminated on the inside). Although I haven't tried it, this jacket seems to be highly compressible! Very warm. First (and only) test run was 35F with steady rain - I could have spent all day hanging out in that rain! Once I got moving on an ascent, it heated up pretty quickly and got a bit clammy inside. Pit zips are a godsend, but it was difficult to dry out (taking a break to cool down might have worked). Complaints - velcro cuff closures are cut strangely and can poke out uncomfortably unless properly adjusted (maybe there's a purpose?). Hand pockets are minimally insulated (most/all the insulation on mine seems to be behind the pocket), but they're windproof and pretty warm so far. Collar is not independent of the hood (a feature common to many Arc'teryx jackets), but this is a minimalist piece, so to be expected. Fit appears to be normal for Arc'teryx, a bit on the puffy side, but considering the warmth it's nothing really. Plenty of winter testing yet to be done, but so far - amazing performance considering there doesn't seem to be much to it!!
Ken Eberts at Altrec on 12/01/2008
Awesome jacket, but unisex it's not!
Rating:
Arcteryx advertises this as a unisex jacket. I searched high and low for a review written by a woman, but couldn't find one. I decided to go ahead and give it a try. I'm 5'4", 105 lbs., and have a typical female shape. I couldn't find an XS in black, so I ordered a size small, thinking if it didn't work out I'd get an XS in Aztec. The jacket was exceptional, and just what I was looking for, but it did not fit. I found that it did fit through the hip area, but that was it. The shoulders were very broad, the chest area too big, and the sleeves too long. I found nothing unisex about the fit. It seemed to be cut just like you'd expect a men's jacket to be cut. I didn't bother looking for the XS in Aztec, because since the small fit in the hips, the XS would undoubtedly be too small in the hips, but probably fit everywhere else. So if you're a woman, I don't recommend this jacket unless you have broad shoulders, narrow hips, and long arms.
JKC at Backcountry.com on 07/26/2010
Super Light
Rating:
Here's my pros and cons list: Pros: Super light can be compressed into size of a volleyball very warm Lots of room in the hood. Almost like having your own awning Pit zips should be very effective in cooling you down they open to whatever you have on underneath, no mesh Cons: No plastic zipper pulls, come on $700 jacket and no zipper pulls, just plain ole cord, Pit Zips are kinda hard to open and close Material attracts dust, Material sounds like crinking wax paper, not the most quiet jacket Overall superlight and warm. I hope the material holds up to woods life.
Colt Miller at Altrec on 12/18/2009
Nice!!!!!!!!
Rating:
This jacket is incredible. Yesterday I was out in a 30 mph, 28 degree wind and driving snow. I was wearing a flannel shirt and the Fission SL. Warm and toasty and yet it is so light and well-cut that it feels like you are wearing nothing at all. I have three other Arcteryx jackets. Two of them are deeply disappointing because the sleeves are lined with high-friction fabric that makes them hard to put on and take off. The sleeves also constrain your movements while you wear the jacket. Beware!
Anonymous at Altrec on 11/14/2008
Fission SL - There is no equal!
Rating:
Aesthetics, form and function make this jacket a work of art. I have been an alpinist for twenty plus years and the Arc'teryx Fission SL has no equal. I wore a Patagonia Capilene base combined with the R1 pullover and the Fission SL. After 14 hours of mixed ice, sleet and rain the jacket performance was flawless. No changing gear to match weather conditions or climbing in wet, cold gear. You will experience complete confidence in a myriad of situations.
John Spafford at Altrec on 01/12/2010
WOW.
Rating:
Wow, this jacket is so awesome. LIGHT, Warm, Super-Thin, and comfortable. It always keeps me comfortable no matter where i am. When i am inside, it feels comfortable (72degree room and i don't even have to unzip), when i am outside in the cold, it feels comfortable. That the beauty part of this jacket. Put it on and forget about it. I wish there are more color selections.
Khoa Phan at Altrec on 01/09/2010
all I expected and more.
Rating:
I own other Arc'teryx products so I had high expectation, and this jacket is great. I don't live in Alaska or some polar extreme, but I live on the beach in New Hampshire where the wind blows everyday and sea spray will hit you as you walk the beach at 15 degrees, so I needed warm and dry... and this coat is it
Jim at Altrec on 01/06/2010
Great light jacket
Rating:
This is pretty much all you need for winter. This is light and block all the wind and rain. Yet it is super light. If you get hot just unzip the armpit. Overall, it is a 10/10 jacket. Two thumbs up. I am 6'1 and 185 lbs, Large is perfect. Highly recommended!
Spencer at Altrec on 04/14/2010
Awesome Jacket!
Rating:
Altrec.com is just great. I received my Fission SL Jacket in a very speedy manner. After owning 20 winter jackets, this is by far the best, lightest, warmest, and the most versatile jatket. I own two of them now. Treat yourself well. Life is too short. Get this jacket!!
DrSpine at Altrec on 01/14/2010

Show all positive reviews...

	Arc'teryx Fission AR Jacket	$394.95 - $499.00
	Arc'teryx Fission SV Jacket	$473.95 - $599.00

	$489.27 - $698.95 27% off
(Fall 2009)	$552.95 18% off
	$698.95
(Fall 2010)	$699.00
	$699.00
	$699.00
	$699.00


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you gotta be on drugs to buy this jacket
Rating:
I use the jacket to walk the dogs,winter hiking, skiing in cold weather. It's a nice jacket, but no better than the fission jacket or even the easy rider soft shell for my purposes. It's way overpriced.
Panama Jack at Mountain Gear on 11/11/2008

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Arc'teryx Fission SL Jacket Reviews Summary:

Positive Reviews:

Synthetic down?!?

Synthetic down?!?

Awesome jacket, but unisex it's not!

Super Light

Nice!!!!!!!!

Fission SL - There is no equal!

WOW.

all I expected and more.

Great light jacket

Awesome Jacket!

Neutral Reviews:

you gotta be on drugs to buy this jacket