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Arc'teryx Theta AR Jacket

Men's Clothing > Jackets & VestsRated: ***** by 31 reviews. Also available for: Women

Berg's Ski Shop

Perfect all around jacket for any outdoor activity, long trusted for any alpine encounter - The Theta AR Jacket. New for 2009 - made with the new GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric.
Made with the new GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric our most popular Hardshell has become even lighter and more breathable. The Theta AR is designed to be a rugged, jack-of-all-trades jacket for the outdoors. With our longest cut, the most reinforcement and every feature possible, this jacket does it all.
Features
  • Technical Features: Waterproof, Breathable, Lightweight
  • Construction: Laminated high-strength hanger loop, Tiny GORE®  seam tape (13 mm), Micro seam allowance (1.6 mm)
  • Design: One-hand adjustable drawcords
  • Patterning: Articulated elbows, No-lift gusseted underarms
  • Hood Configuration: Helmet compatible Drop Hood
  • Collar Configuration: Laminated chin guard
  • Pocket Configuration: Chest pocket with laminated zip, Two hand pockets with laminated zippers, Internal chest pocket with laminated zip
  • Zippers & Fly Configuration: WaterTight™ external zippers, Molded zipper garages, Laminated pit zippers
  • Cuffs & Sleeves Configuration: Laminated die-cut Velcro®  cuffs with elastic
  • Hem Configuration: Drop back hem, Laminated hem, Full seat coverage
  • Waist & Belt Configuration: Laminated waist drawcord
  • Reinforcements: Reinforced shoulders, elbows, sleeves
  • Logos & Label Configuration: Non-chafing heat transfer label
  • 380NR 3 layer GORE-TEX XCR
  • 480NR 3 layer GORE-TEX XCR
  • Care and Feeding: Wash Separately, Double Rinse, Remove Immediately, Do Not Use Fabric Softener, Do not Store Wet

GORE-TEX Pro Shell 3L:
The optimum solution for extremely tough conditions, GORE-TEX®  Pro Shell products are exceptionally rugged and durable. The backer, a patent-pending technology improves internal abrasion and snag resistance, enhances garment breathability and decreases weight. It also allows the garment to slide easily over mid-layers. Gore-Tex fabrics are engineered to pass Gore's most aggressive rain test. They deliver superior protection against extended wet weather conditions through the use of advanced garment design techniques.
Recco Reflector Tech:
The RECCO®  reflector is permanently affixed to skiers and snowboarders while they are recreating in the mountains. The small piece weighs less than four grams and is designed into commercially available outerwear, helmets, boots and protection gear. This ensures the reflector won't be left in the car, stashed mistakenly in the lodge or forgotten at home. It is a non-powered device, meaning it never needs to be switched on, will never loose signal strength and needs no batteries to function. It requires no maintenance and has a virtually unlimited lifespan.
The actual component is a small electronic transponder with a copper aerial and a diode. Similar to a thin, printed circuit card and surrounded by protective weatherproof plastic, it is factory mounted to the exterior of gear that is unlikely to be torn off in the event of an avalanche. The reflector is engineered to sit slightly raised from the body and is placed in a specific external configuration for optimal reflection in the event of a burial.
The two-part technology operates on the frequency-doubling principle. The RECCO reflector bounces back the directional radar signal to the searcher and doubles the frequency, allowing the operator of the RECCO detector to actually hear where the burial is located. This enables rapid pinpointing of the signal and tracks searchers on a direct path to the burial. The reflectors are most effective when worn on a helmet or in pairs pant and jacket or left and right boot due to the unpredictable orientation of avalanche burials.
Unlike operating a transceiver, which requires education and practice, there is no learning curve for use of the RECCO reflector. It is integrated into commercially available gear by the manufacturer and therefore requires no additional investment by the on-hill user. The reflector can be washed without damage and will not interfere with any electronic device since it does not transmit any sort of signal. And, with only a passive role to play in the rescue, the RECCO reflector does not compete with other search methods and therefore functions as an effective complement to but not a replacement for wearing a transceiver. RECCO reflectors do not prevent avalanches nor do they guarantee location or survival in the event of a burial, but they do provide one more chance for skiers and snowboarders to be found quickly by organized rescue.

Mountain Gear

Waterproof, ventilated, supple, three words that describe ARCTERYX's Theta AR Jacket, a reinforced, waterproof, and breathable GORE-TEX Pro Shell jacket that's loaded with weight-savings and waterproofing measures. Micro seams with waterproof tiny tape ensures that you reduce weight without letting any moisture in, carefully placed underarm gussets and a drop back hem provide coverage, and underarm zips give you the venting you need when you're working your hardest. F09 Specifications based on Men's size Medium.

Features:

  • Dial in the fit easily with one-hand pull cords
  • Dual hand pockets and 1 chest pocket
  • Get the coverage you need with the below-the-hip length cut, drop back hem, and helmet-compatible drop hood; or, get more ventilation through the laminated pit zips
  • Keep water out with Tiny GORE seam taping, micro seam allowances, watertight zippers, and molded zipper garages
  • Move comfortably without constriction in no-lift gusseted underarms and articulated elbows
  • Stay consistently dry and warm in wet conditions with fully waterproof GORE-TEX Pro Shell that blocks severe downpours while allowing your sweat to evaporate
  • Strategically placed non-absorptive materials reduce chills: laminated waist with hem drawcords; laminated, die-cut Velcro cuffs with elastic seals; and quick dry chinguard
  • Wear it with a pack - fabric reinforcements at the shoulders, elbows, and sleeves weather abrasion well

Rock/Creek Outfitters

The Theta AR Jacket is Arcteryx' most popular shell.  The design brief for the Theta AR was to create the ultimate all-round jacket. It's tough and lightweight with additional reinforcements in all the right places. The Theta AR provides absolute performance for year-round activities where greater durability and versatility are needed without compromise for all technical activities.
The Theta AR Jacket has WaterTight polyurethane laminated zippers on the pockets and venting so you have quick and easy access to them without the added inconvenience of a storm flap. This is a truly crafted piece of outerwear, meticulously engineered with the same high standards already appreciated in Arc’Teryx’s packs and harnesses.

Features:

  • Articulated elbows
  • Below hip length, drop back hem
  • Heat transfer labels
  • Helmet compatible Drop Hood
  • Laminated die cut Velcro cuffs with elastic
  • Laminated high strength hanger loop
  • Laminated quick dry chin guard
  • Laminated waist and hem drawcord
  • Micro seam allowances (1.6mm/1/16")
  • Molded zipper garages
  • No lift gusseted underarms with laminated pit zippers
  • One chest pocket with laminated zipper
  • One hand pull cords
  • Reinforced shoulders, elbows, and sleeves
  • Tiny Gore Seam tape
  • Two hand pockets with laminated zippers
  • WaterTight front, pit, and pocket zippers

Oregon Mountain Community

The Arc'teryx Theta AR Jacket is truly a go anywhere, do anything shell. The Theta AR Jacket has been a staple on adventures the world over, it is at home mountaineering, backpacking, skiing, climbing and whatever activity you can imagine that you need unmatched waterproof protection and breathability. Made from Gore-Tex® Pro Shell fabric the Theta AR Jacket can withstand any conditions Mother Nature can throw at you, plus, the long cut of the Theta AR Jacket means more of you will be covered from the elements.

Features:

  • Articulated elbows
  • Below hip length, drop back hem
  • Heat transfer labels
  • Helmet compatible Drop Hood
  • Laminated die-cut Velcro® cuffs with elastic
  • Laminated high strength hanger loop
  • Laminated quick dry chin guard
  • Laminated waist and hem drawcord
  • Micro seam allowances (1.6mm/1/16”)
  • Moulded Zipper Garages
  • No-lift gusseted underarms with laminated pit zippers
  • One chest pocket with laminated zipper
  • One hand pull cords
  • Reinforced shoulders, elbows, and sleeves
  • Tiny GORE® seam tape (13mm/1/2”)
  • Two hand pockets with laminated zippers
  • WaterTight front, pit and pocket zippers

REI

Theta AR from Arc'Teryx is a premier choice for year-round extreme mountaineering—it's made with new Gore-Tex® Pro Shell .

  • Theta AR is designed to be a rugged jack-of-all-trades jacket with a long cut and generous reinforcements and features
  • Gore-Tex® Pro Shell 3-layer laminate fabric is tough, extremely breathable and durably waterproof and windproof
  • Gore Micro Grid backer is a thin, low-denier, low-density woven fabric that allows the shell to slide easily over mid layers
  • A reduced number and thickness of seams offers improved abrasion- and snag-resistance, enhanced breathability and decreased weight
  • Reinforced shoulders, elbows and sleeves are highly abrasion resistant
  • Helmet-compatible hood offers full protection and fits without inhibiting peripheral vision; collar/hood design offers an excellent weather seal
  • WaterTight™ front zipper features an internal storm flap and laminated quick-dry chin guard
  • No-lift gusseted underarms and articulated elbows allow freedom of movement
  • Pit zips provide ventilation control; WaterTight zippers eliminate need for bulky double zipper flaps
  • Dropped back hem increases coverage
  • Features two large handwarmer pockets and one chest pocket all with WaterTight zips and zipper garages


Backcountry.com

At this point, we’d have thought Arc’teryx couldn’t find yet another way to improve on the Men’s Theta AR—this alpine shell already has so much going for it, from its Gore-Tex Pro material and ultra-thin seam tape to its helmet-compatible hood and high hand pockets that you can get to while wearing a harness. But Arc’teryx did make a slight change for the better: This season’s Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric is just as waterproof, breathable, and durable … plus it feels suppler and more pliant, so it moves with you even better than before. Open up the Theta AR’s waterproof underarm zippers to stay cool as you break trail for the final summit push, and then seal them tight for your ski descent through fluffy powder—the jacket’s long length helps to stop spindrift from getting underneath this bomber shell.


USOutdoor.com

Long trusted for any alpine encounter, the utility of our best selling jacket is magnified with Tiny Taping, a helmet-ready Drop Hood and top-stitchless exterior wear areas. A roomy internal profile and longer cut deliver appreciated comfort in the backcountry.

Features:

  • Below hip length, drop back hem
  • Helmet compatible Drop Hood
  • Laminated die-cut Velcro® cuffs with elastic
  • Laminated quick-dry chin guard
  • Laminated waist and hem drawcord
  • Micro seam allowances (1/16 in./1.6 mm)
  • Moulded Zipper Garages
  • No-lift gusseted underarms with laminated pit zips
  • One chest pocket with laminated zip
  • One hand pull cords
  • Reinforced shoulders, elbows, hips, and sleeves
  • Tiny Gore® seam tape (1/2 in./13 mm)
  • Two hand pockets with laminated zips
  • WaterTight front, pit and pocket zipsT20NR 3-layer GORE-TEX® XCR®U30N 3-layer GORE-TEX® XCR®

Paragon Sports

Made with the new GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric our most popular Hardshell has become even lighter and more breathable.

Features:

  • Activity: All Mountain
  • Articulated elbows
  • Athletic fit, Thigh length
  • Below hip length, drop back hem
  • Heat transfer labels
  • Helmet compatible Drop Hood
  • Laminated die-cut Velcro cuffs with elastic
  • Laminated high strength hanger loop
  • Laminated quick dry chin guard
  • Laminated waist and hem drawcord
  • Micro seam allowances (1.6mm/1/16”)
  • Moulded Zipper Garages
  • No-lift gusseted underarms with laminated pit zippers
  • One chest pocket with laminated zipper
  • One hand pull cords
  • One internal laminated pocket
  • Reinforced shoulders, elbows, and sleeves
  • Tiny GORE seam tape (13mm/1/2”)
  • Two hand pockets with laminated zippers
  • WaterTight front, pit and pocket zippers
  • Weight: 548 g/1 lb 3.3 oz

TetonVillageSports.com

How many years in the line and how many satisfied customers? The Arcteryx Theta AR jacket simply improves with age as any "classic" truly will. New technology and fabrication keep the Theta AR's classic style as cutting edge as ever. Now the Arcteryx is lighter and more breathable than ever, designed to be a rugged jack-of-all-trades for the outdoors.


Marmot Mountain

Made with the new GORE-TEX® Pro Shell fabric Arc'Teryx's most popular Hardshell has become even lighter and more breathable. The Theta AR is designed to be a rugged, jack-of-all-trades jacket for the outdoors.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Average weight:19 ounces
Back length:32 inches
Breathable Rating:Guaranteed
Core Venting:Underarm zips
Gender:Men's
Hood:Yes
Lining:Nylon
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:Gore-Tex Pro Shell
Materials:380NR GORE-TEX® 3L Pro 480N GORE-TEX® 3L Pro
Pockets:2 Hand, 1 chest
Powder Skirt:No
Recommended Use:Mountaineering, alpine climbing, backcountry skiing
Seam Taped:Yes
Secondary fabric:100% nylon
Shell fabric:Ripstop nylon
Waterproof Rating:Guaranteed
Waterproofing:Gore-Tex Pro Shell laminate
Weight:19.3oz (548g)
Zip-in Compatibility:No

View other products from Arc'teryx classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

View all products from Arc'teryx.
View other products classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

Arc'teryx Theta SV JacketArc'teryx Theta SV Jacket$448.95 - $550.00
Arc'teryx Theta AR Bib - ShortArc'teryx Theta AR Bib - Short$399.00
Arc'teryx Theta AR Bib - TallArc'teryx Theta AR Bib - Tall$399.00

Sometimes brands make complementary products for the opposite gender that coordinate with this product, we also try to show these products below.

Arc'teryx Theta AR JacketArc'teryx Theta AR Jacket - Women's$249.97 - $475.00
Arc'teryx Theta AR BibArc'teryx Theta AR Bib - Women's$249.99 - $399.00
Arc'teryx Theta AR Bib - TallArc'teryx Theta AR Bib - Tall - Women's$239.97

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

Arc'teryx Alpha LT JacketArc'teryx Alpha LT Jacket
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$339.93 - $499.00
Arc'teryx Beta AR JacketArc'teryx Beta AR Jacket
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$276.22 - $425.00
Arc'teryx Beta AR PantArc'teryx Beta AR Pant
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$348.95 - $350.00
Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant - TallArc'teryx Beta AR Pant - Tall
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$349.00 - $350.00
Marmot Oracle JacketMarmot Oracle Jacket
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$95.97 - $165.00
Outdoor Research Seattle SombreroOutdoor Research Seattle Sombrero
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$36.99 - $54.00
Arc'teryx Theta SV BibArc'teryx Theta SV Bib
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$424.95 - $425.00
Arc'teryx Theta SV Bib - ShortArc'teryx Theta SV Bib - Short
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$425.00
silver star GearBuyer.com Top 25 Category Product
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Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

SizeColor
Oregano
Oregano
Black
Black
Indigo
Indigo
Candy Apple Red
Candy Apple Red
Teak
Teak
Small474.95474.952 More...474.95474.954 More... 474.95474.952 More...474.95475.00475.00
Medium474.95474.955 More...474.95474.957 More... 474.95474.953 More...474.95475.003 More...
Large474.95474.955 More...474.95474.959 More... 474.95474.956 More...474.95475.004 More...
Extra Large474.95474.954 More...474.95474.956 More... 474.95474.955 More...474.95475.003 More...
Extra Extra Large474.95475.00475.00474.95475.003 More...475.00474.95475.00475.00474.95475.00475.00

Legend

  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - TetonVillageSports.com
  •     - Marmot Mountain
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - REI
  •     - Berg's Ski Shop
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters

Arc'teryx Theta AR Jacket Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****24
****5
***0
**1
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Jacket Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Put one on and then TRY not to buy it

Rating:*****
I have had this jacket for 4-5 years and mine is the Gore Tex XCR version. The first time that I wore the jacket I was so impressed with the detail in construction. I was so impressed that while flying down a traverse on a powder day at more than 20 MPH I snagged the sleeve on a tree, I freaked out because my new [$] dollar jacket must be ripped. When I stopped and looked at it there wasn't even a scratch! I have been all over the world with this jacket and have seen every type of weather imaginable and there is no other jacket as nice as this one. I am pretty sure that it would survive if it was laying on top of a bomb while it went off. I have had soooooo many other jackets and this is the only jacket that I would never get rid of, EVER. There is nothing like Arctery'x and the price is cheap once you own one and see how it is constructed. I traveled to Vancouver many times for work and have been to the outlet there and now know why their clothing is so expensive. They have the highest standards for perfection in the industry and if a material or even one stich doesn't "look right" they don't sell it to REI or other distributors and put it in the outlet. There really is nothing like these jackets and if you are reading this and thinking about purchasing one do it now, I promise you will not regret it. It's a big investment, but I would have nothing else on when it is dumping in the mountains and I want to get a many runs in as possible without being uncomfortable. I plan to have mine for pretty much the rest of my life. Enjoy!
goneskiin at REI on 05/19/2008

True to form!

Rating:*****
My search for the perfect jacket is over. Far too many jackets these days are made for specific seasons and a very narrow range of conditions. My only hobbies usually take me to the mountains, no matter what the season. I have been searching for a lightweight, packable, waterproof, multi-sport, multi-season, durable shell for a very long time. I wanted a jacket without a liner to avoid limiting the jacket to cold weather, and to allow for layering. I also wanted a jacket lightweight enough and breathable enough to double as a rain jacket. The only thing left is durability. It hasn't yet been a year since I purchased the jacket, so the answer to that question will have to wait. Every other expectation has been met.

I started my testing on the ski slopes, and despite the lack of a snow skirt, the jacket performed beautifully. Whether sunny and 50 degrees, or windy and -15 degrees, I was able to have complete control of body temp by just adding or removing layers. Something almost impossible to do with a heavier snowboard jacket. Over the past summer I have spent every possible weekend in the backcountry and have survived numerous downpours without any thought to getting wet. And the breathability. To be able to hike all day over rough terrain, carrying a full load in wet conditions, and remain dry underneath. 'Nuff said.

I believe I have found the only jacket I will ever need, no matter what the conditions or the season. You will be hard pressed to find a better jacket. Well worth the price.
rmtrekker at REI on 08/20/2008

Amazing jacket!!!

Rating:*****

I have worn this jacket for about a month now and it's an amazing jacket! The higher pockets were a little odd at first but it's such a minor issue. My jacekt is made in Canada which is a change this year because the previous year, they were made in China. The quality is there and if you flip it inside out, you can see the attention to quality. You will get the odd glue spots or an uneven stitch (not stitched in a straight line) but these are minor minor issues...i'm just a little anal and notice these things quite easily. With the function, it blocks all wind and is amazing at blocking out water. It's also very breathable and makes me wonder how the eVent jackets compare. I took about a month to research this jacket and many people have suggested this jacket or anything from Arcteryx because you get what you pay for. I look forward to really testing this jacket out in the winter time. I'm 6'1, 195lbs and an athletic build and I fit medium perfectly. I can still put my Hercules underneath or my Montbell UL Parka underneath if it's really cold. Don't worry about the price, in the long run, it's worth it!

Dave at Backcountry.com on 04/29/2009

Top of the line quality all around

Rating:*****

I've owned a boat load of jackets from TNF and Marmot...and certainly they make quality products, but I've yet to find another jacket that performs as well as the Arcteryx Theta. I'm a big guy 6' 230lbs. The XL fits wonderfully for me, not too tight...a bit bulky in the shoulders but leaves comfortable room for layering with my Patagonia R2 fleece and Icebreaker base layers for extreme cold.

The DWR functions exceptionally well...and if that wears off, the Goretex proshell fabric does the trick with ease. I stay dry as a bone. I've skied, hiked, backpacked and stood in hours of rain at sporting events and never got a drop of water in the jacket. It vents well and looks awesome.

Personally, I like being able to sit down and not get by rear soaked when necessary, because the Theta is made to cover most of your "seat".

It is not the lightest jacket Arcteryx makes, but it is light enough for my taste- and I gladly accept a little extra weight for durability and breathability. My Marmot precip makes me feel clammy in about 10 minutes wearing it no matter what the weather conditions. You will not go wrong purchasing this jacket.

Scott Smith at Backcountry.com on 09/19/2009

Be like a turtle, take your house with you.

Rating:*****

This is my second glowing review of this jacket in so many years. It's like having a little house you can go inside when the weather is bad, and look out through your little protected window. It's so good that at times in hellacious weather, you can get this confused sensation about things not feeling real, until a gust of wind puts you on your butt.

For starters, let's talk about the bad: The inside fabric can feel really clammy right against your skin, if you plan on wearing a jacket bareback, go for a packlite or conduit DT laminate. Also, there aren't what one would expect for hand pockets, because that's where your pack's waist belt goes. The fabric is also very stiff when new, and doesn't break in much, so get used to a crinkly sound with the hood up, and a tin-roof over your head when it hails.

The pros? Everything. This thing is body armor against weather. The hood and elbow articulation are probably the biggest stand-out features of this jacket. The hood fits like a baseball cap, and doesn't drip water down your neck when you pull it back.

Sam Reese at Backcountry.com on 09/16/2009

Amazing shell, but for one thing

Rating:****
I've been looking for the perfect cold, snowy, blowing, everyone else stayed home winter shell. The Theta AR is ALMOST perfect. It's extremely waterproof, windproof, durable, and has a very nice athletic cut (beer bellies wouldn't like this jacket). I just got back from at day skiing at Snowbird in 0 degree, 50mpg wind gusts and sideways snow. The snow beaded off the jacket like it's supposed to, the wind stayed out completely, and I felt protected, except for my face. I had my hood up over my helmet (which is a great feature on this jacket), but the collar didn't even come up to my lips to protect my face. With the hood down, the collar seems even less protective. Up on a windy ridge, my friends told me to get off the mountain because ice was building up on my face where the jacket wasn't protecting it. The only way to have a well protected face with this jacket is to wear a balaclava or thermal face mask. I would have thought that a shell designed for "extreme mountaineering" would have a more protective collar.
Wasatchguy at REI on 12/22/2008

Works in Alaska

Rating:*****
Coat seems tough, but it may be too early to tell. Have worn out several other major and niche brands over the years so I decided to spend the money on this coat. Love the fit, even if it is a little bulky and surprisingly long (no store nearby, so had to go with internet sizing charts and info from other reviews) which bothered me at first but now I'm starting to see the practical applications of a dress length coat. More of a 4season parka, not a summer beat around jacket. If wanting for summer wear, get smallest appropriate size, if for year round in a northern climate go with largest appropriate. I got big enough to layer down underneath and still feel like I have lots of freedom of movement and can stash largish items in the roomy pockets. Worth the money if the money is available. Chicks dig it. I'm 5'10" and 180 with athletic build and got a large. Roomy fit in summer, perfect in winter when layered.
Alaska Islander at REI on 10/12/2007

"Well built, light, and great fit"

Rating:*****
I love this jacket, they have thought of all the comforts an utility with minimal bulk or extras you don't want or need. The Gore-Tex pro is still a bit crinkly feeling but better than past versions. The jacket packs small but covers my toursue and butt completely. I have long arms and the sleeves on the size L do not ride up and feel perfect. The sizes are true to size. Don't be confused by the hype about new Gore-Tex material this season vs past, it is Gore-Tex pro vs. the old version called XRC. A well built and designed coat that will keep you dry the day after wadding it up wet in your tent over night.
Dean at Moosejaw on 10/28/2009

Review Title

Rating:*****

The best shell any one could ever buy..From 14ers in Colorado to paddle trips in AK, this jacket has survived it all--and for nearly 5 years! As just a plain gore-tex shell, this jacket is capable of anything from spring/summer rain and thunder storms to full on winter mountaineering. The theta always gets shoved into my pack, regardless. Other than fitting me a little bit wide in the shoulders, this is my favorite piece of gear. For winter, i layer it with an ultra-light down puff (which are often fragile/not waterproof) and a layer of merino wool. I prefer that set up to a bulky jacket for winter alpining and ice climbing. Can't go wrong with BC's dankest.

Graviteton at Backcountry.com on 07/22/2009

Theta AR.... Bulletproof

Rating:*****

I have owned this Jacket for over a year. I have worn it ice climbing, backpacking, kayaking, and for general purpose. I am 6'3" and 235. I normally wear a xxl mostly for sleeve length, but the xl fits great. This is my go to hard shell jacket. I have gone down a few mountains rag doll style and my pants (north face paramount)have taken a beating and been torn up, but this jacket shows now signs of any damage. The pit zips are an esential, I run hot, but can easily control my temp even when wearing a pack. Hood works great with a helmet, ball cap, or nothing at all. Can't say enough about this jacket.

Stephen Ferguson at Backcountry.com on 06/25/2009

Negative Reviews:

Try On Before You Buy!!!

Rating:**

I just purchased the Theta AR, and was very dissapointed with the fit. I'm 5'7" 155 lbs. and purchased a medium. The shoulders are huge, comically huge. I took it back and tried a small...same thing. It's the cut of the jacket. I'm not doubting the jackets performance, seems VERY well built, but I want to look "normal" and stay warm and dry. I purchased the Marmot Torre instead...WARNING: just try-on the Theta before you buy!!!

West Ham Fan at Backcountry.com on 04/30/2009