Check out the Fission SL on Arc’teryx’s newly updated website.
Support TetonAT and get up to 45% Off Fat Skis
from Backcountry.com. Expires 9/2/2009.
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TetonAT: Steve Romeo’s Website Dedicated to Backcountry Skiing and Ski Mountaineering in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park.
Sexy, warm and snuggly.
(The jacket looks good as well.)
You’re looking pretty good yourself broham!
There is one downside to this jacket, for the ski bum. I’m surprised no one has commented about it.
It’s either that:
a) it makes your ass look fat, or
b) your wallet look skinny.
I’m going with B as I bet that thing is about $750.
B would be correct.
But you’re a little high…with your estimate that is.
http://www.arcteryx.com/Product.aspx?Mens/Jackets-Vests/Fission-SL-Jacket#Insulated_Waterproof_Shell
Arc’teryx gear is sooooo pricey. Don’t they know we are in a recession?????
Only $699? Bargain! Of course taxes and shipping will bump it up.
Totally worth it if you want the best there is.
I’ve heard the same thing said about Cadillacs, Hummers and Rolex watches.
Yeah, but Arc’teryx isn’t going bankrupt.
Yeah …… Mine goes to “11″ HA HA ! I am sure it’s worth it if it’s purchased via pro deal — or given to you. Give me a break man — Cha - Chi –
Get with the times! This is a growing category and jackets like this are expensive because they are more or less two jackets in one. Arc’teryx’s offering might be a bit more expensive, but that is because they use top quality materials from proven manufacturers like Goretex, YKK, Velcro…as well as using high tech construction with micro seam allowances, tiny seam-tape, articulation and welded seams. Just because you can’t afford it…doesn’t mean it’s not worth it.
Dude where are the Zealots?!
Sure would be nice to see some of those puppies leaning against the wall…eh?
You’re just ahead of the curve again Steve. While companies like Patagonia keep talking about being “committed to the core,” or CloudVeil says they haven’t forgotten their roots, TetonAT gives dirtbags the middle finger salute. Can’t afford a limited use $700 jacket? SHUT UP WHINER! $20 tip loops? GET WITH THE PROGRAM LOSER! It’s refreshing to see.
Oh Andrew.
Considering your background and similar passions (ie: BC skiing), I would think that you could see more than “limited use” for a waterproof insulated shell. Maybe you’re just a fair weather skier now?
And spare me the marketing hype of Patagonia and Cloudveil please.
Steve, I hope your not being brainwashed by top of the line gear manufactures’. It would be nice to afford ALL top of the line gear. I only own one piece of Arc’teryx gear.(bib pant and paid FULL price. Would be nice to get free shwag like I think you do. Some sacrifices we locals have to make.
FWIW, Arc’teryx has no influence on the things I write and say on these pages. Hell, their PR agency doesn’t even have me on their mailing list…and it’s based here in Jackson. I choose to wear and promote Arc’teryx gear on TetonAT because it is awesome stuff. If I was being brainwashed by the gear manufactures, I’d be reviewing and promoting products from all of the companies, instead of just one. Since when is someone criticized for liking good gear?
And Chuck…don’t think I don’t sacrifice a lot of things to maintain this website. You’d be surprised at how much work it takes. Thanks for visiting.
Steve…Don’t get me wrong you do a GREAT job with TetonAt.com. I’m a frequent vistor and learn alot from guys like you (and Dawson, McLean, Hill and the like). You guys are an inspiration to me. I guess I’m a lil jealous that I cannot justify spending $700.00 on a jacket like that. I agree Arc’Teryx is awesome stuff and wish I had more. Glad to hear your not Brainwashed and you are just expressing the truth and your opinions (I agree with you totally). I know keeping up a website like TetonAt.com is alot of hard work. Sorry if I offended you. Keep up the great work, either way I’ll still be visiting and learning more from TetonAt.com
Mine still goes to 11 !!! If any of you know what that means then you know what i mean …..
It’s probably a little late to be dropping in on this topic, but am I the only one who sees “Two jackets in one” as a negative? Especially when it’s 700 bucks? Other than 1lb 8oz or so, how is having one of those better than a Theta AR and a MHW Compressor puffy? I take your point about throwing it on in bad weather, but that seems like a real limited use for something which would theoretically displace two extremely useful and versatile pieces.
I see this mostly making sense as Arc’ non-waterproof puffy is retardedly priced. This Fission, the Theta, and a lot of other Arc pieces are reasonably priced for their materials, quality, guarantee, and design; but sometimes those canadians just loose their GD minds. Dually belay jacket for $500? comeonn….
It’s better because it’s easier and quicker to put one jacket on instead of two…and it is my dedicated backcountry skiing puffy these days.
I’m with you Reese. Even though the Fission is a great design (congrats Arc’Teryx, Steve and anyone else who ownes it) and a great option, I believe I have a few extra seconds (not pennies) to throw on my 800 down Marmot Zeus.sale $119.00 and my just bought yesterday Gore-tex Arc’Teryx shell.sale $149.00. If money was no object the Fission unquestionably would be in my gear collection.
randosteve - nice review! Really appreciate it. I am trying to decide between the Arcteryx Fission SL and the Fission SV. How would you compare those too? Thanks!
Greg…the SV is more full featured with a dedicated collar, more pockets and a longer cut. For BC skiing…I’d say the SL is the better call…more streamline and lighter.
Thanks for the review. I stumbled onto this jacket in the store a few days ago and fell in love with it instantly. It’s the culmination of all the things that Arc’teryx has done well over the many years I have had their products. Always mixing and matching my Alpha shell with other mid-weight fleece layers, wishing there was one that did it all.
And don’t forget about us urban dwellers. After taking your backcountry terms and translating them to urban situations, i’ve determined it will work perfectly in the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. Can’t wait to pick one up tomorrow.
Cheers
you are SO right peter…and i don’t know why people have made the comments they have earlier in this post. the fission sl (and sv for that matter) are great jackets that combine insulation with a waterproof shell. you’ll love it!!!!
Thanks for the reply. I going with your recommendation and geting the Fission Sl. Now, just have to decide if I get the black or aztec!
go with aztec greg…way better for photographs!
Hey guys,
Nice discussion here…I get really tired of discourse getting polarized and (almost) inevitably falling into the argument abyss. Anyway, my two cents falls this way: I bought an “Aztec Orange” Fission SL in men’s large and an very pleased. First, the vendor I ordered from sold me the thing for 50% off (yes that’s $350…mostly because people wanted the black jacket); and secondly it crosses the line for a skier like myself who needs a dual-purpose jacket (warm ski jacket, around town jacket) to make trip/airline packing that much simpler and lighter (an important discussion I didn’t see mentioned).
So, I’ll wrap it up by saying that some vendors (yes I know I didn’t mention which one) WILL bargain (even on Arcteryx). Too, many of us “outdoor” types have to air our way to the mountains to kick it. With the Fee of Fees airline billing process we fight, its important to choose clothing that will fill the gaps w/o overfilling your TravelPro. Dig? Have a good one.
Bill
sounds like you like the jacket too! thanks bill!!!!
Hi guys,
I know this was discussed before, but I want to know more about the difference between the SV and the SL. I want the jacket to use it “all around”. I live in NY and this to be my everyday jacket.
I like the SL more because it looks better, but I do not know how less warmer is than the SV.
Thank you guys!
francisco…the fission SV has two additional chest pockets, is longer and has a built in collar. It is also warmer than the fission SL. since weight doesn’t seem to be an issue for you…go with the SV for maximum protection.
Well, I ended up ordering the Fission SL and the Fission SV, because I just could not decide between the two of them. What is funny is a week later and I still can’t decide. I like the how light and the fit of the Fission SL better, but the Fission SV seems much warmer and also seems like it would offer more protection in severe elements.
I guess I really want to like the Fission SL, but for some reason like the SV too. SL is definitely more stylish!
Bill you sure got a great deal! Would love to know that vendor :).
Ha…tough decision when you have such good options. I have other jackets that are super warm…for winter camping and such…so I went with the SL for everyday use.
Hi Steve
I too like the Fission SL. However, my local ski hill here in BC is a tree skiers mecca and Im wondering just how durable the 2layer gore tex is? Would I be better going for something like the Sentry? After spending this amount of mula, I would hate to join the tape up your down jacket with duct tape brigade.
Cheers for the advice
Gman
Hi Steve,
So another question for you. Still trying to choose between Fission SL or SV. Purpose would be skiing and maybe even wearing when fishing, etc….
Would I be better off buying the Arcteryx Alpha SV and then layering underneath with another Arcteryx coat like the Kappa AR or a Canada Goose Lodge Jacket. That way could use the Arcteryx Alpha SV as a year around rain coat.
Also, like the idea of having one coat too. Think I am making to confuse.
Thanks and appreciate your guidance, since it seems you have many coats!!!
Gman…I’ve been bashing trees all year…and haven’t had any rips. I’d say it is as durable as any other Gore-tex jacket. The sentry=goretex…so similar durability.
Greg…if you want more versatility…go with a separate shell layer. The beauty of the Fission…is that it is a shell and insulating layer all in one…but i think you understand that.