Review: Women’s Arc’teryx Atom SL Hoody

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Functionality

Late spring, summer, and early fall are considered by many to be the primetime for outdoor adventures – and that’s exactly when the Atom SL comes in handy. It was made to throw on as on outer layer for cooler periods – think sunrise and sunset, temperature drops as you gain elevation, or shaded treed sections of a trail.

When the temperature starts to heat up, you can toss it in your pack; at only 235 grams, this high compressible hoody packs down to almost nothing.

The Atom SL is not a rain jacket, but it’s the perfect layer for keeping the chill out, breaking the wind, and helping you stay dry in a sprinkle.

Design and Aesthetics

The Atom SL Hoody is no nonsense. It’s designed to be lightweight (the SL stands for “super light”), so you won’t find it loaded with bulky extra features – yet it’s got everything you need, including a pocket on either side and a roomy hood that you can adjust around your noggin. The jacket comes in four solid colors: Astral Aura (a deep purple), Carbon Copy (black), Flamenco (red), and Halcyon (teal, pictured). The trim fit is flattering yet functional: the torso is long enough to prevent air gaps between your top and bottom, the sleeves extend past your wrists almost to your knuckles, and the fit is not too baggy, nor too tight. Available is sizes XS to XL, the Atom SL fits true to size.

Durability

Arc’teryx is known for producing quality, long-lasting outdoor gear, and the Atom SL is no exception. I tested it on trails through the Canadian Rockies, the Laurentians, and the Pacific Coastal Mountains, and it still looks as good as new after many washes. It’s made to be compressible and packable, so there’s no need to be overly gentle with it.

Value

At $229 few people would say that the Atom SL is a bargain – but if you’ve ever owned anything Arc’teryx, you know that their gear is worth every penny. It may cost a lot upfront, but the Atom SL should last you through many camping trips, hikes, and outdoor adventures. You’ll have it for years to come and it’s versatile enough to use in a variety of outings, so this one is classified under the worthy investment category.