Arc'teryx Beta vs. AR vs. SL(LT): Differences and Reviews 2025

Arc'teryx Beta LT vs. AR vs. SL: Comparison Table

Arc'teryx Beta Review

Arc'teryx’s Beta series is a collection of ‘all-round’ outdoor apparel, best known for its ‘do it all’ waterproof jackets that work well for technical hiking and trekking. The Beta is the cheapest option in the current line-up.However, what you get in return is an extremely lightweight and packable three-layer Gore-Tex shell designed to provide high-grade weather protection at minimum weight. Made with a durable 80D face fabric and a GORE‑TEX ePE (expanded polyethylene) membrane that’s light, strong, and PFC-free, it delivers lasting waterproof, windproof, breathable protection with a reduced carbon footprint. The C-KNIT backer adds comfort, and the low-profile StormHood adjusts with a quick pull to provide coverage and maintain lines of sight. Articulation removes restriction, and an embedded RECCO reflector can aid in search emergencies.

The new ePE membrane technology is lighter and thinner, but just as strong and durable as the materials the brand used before.   You may notice the face fabric “wetting out” slightly faster in products with ePE membranes, but rest assured this does not affect the waterproofing of the membrane itself. If you notice the fabric wetting out faster than you’d like, simply wash the jacket and dry it to remove the oil contamination and bring the DWR back to its full power.

Stay dry out there, whatever the weather. Every Beta is designed with fabrics and features for a wide range of adventures and activities.

Arc'teryx Beta Construction

• GORE C-KNIT backer technology is light, soft and comfortabl.

• PFC-free GORE-TEX ePE membrane provides breathable weather protection and is laminated to a bio-based nylon face made with fibres derived from plant.

• Made with an innovative GORE-TEX fabric that provides a long product life, is PFC free, and has a reduced carbon footprint.

Arc'teryx Beta Pros and Cons

Arc'teryx Beta AR Review

The Beta AR (AR stands for "all-round" in Arc'teryx lexicon) is the burliest of the Betas.The difference between the Beta AR and Beta are the body construction (GORE-TEX Pro with Most Rugged Technology vs GORE‑TEX ePE membrane with GORE C-KNIT backer) so more durability vs more comfort.When it comes to GORE-TEX Pro vs. GORE-TEX, the answer is simple: the former always bests the latter in weatherproof performance. That said, I'd argue that superior weather resistance is NOT the primary advantage of GORE‑TEX Pro items. The main advantage is that Gore-Tex Pro shells experience almost zero loss in weather resistance, even after many years of use. This is what makes the Beta AR a buy-it-for-life kind of purchase.The helmet compatible DropHood has an internal collar for added protection and an embedded RECCO reflector improves searchability in emergency situations.

The Beta AR can handle just about anything. It’s perfect for skiing, hiking, climbing, and even daily wear if you want to stay dry and warm.This is your "do-it-all" jacket.

The fit is quite large, to the point of being baggy, making it perhaps the best hardshell for hanging out in all the time (think work), but not as ideal for technical climbing or skiing missions as more athletically cut jackets. Due to its fit, the Beta AR is also an excellent choice for men with larger frames.

Arc'teryx Beta AR Construction

• Laminated high-strength hanger loop.

• Micro-seam allowance (1.6 mm) reduces bulk and weight.

• Taped seams for added weatherproofness.

• N40d Most Rugged 3L GORE-TEX PRO in the main body keeps jacket light and supple.

Arc'teryx Beta AR Pros and Cons

Arc'teryx Beta SL Review

Looking for the Beta LT or Beta Lightweight? They’re now the Beta SL. The new-for-2024 Arc’teryx Beta SL Jacket is built for mountain realities. Highly versatile, it’s carefully designed to deliver complete waterproof, windproof, breathable protection without sacrificing lightweight packability. The Beta Lightweight is the same great jacket—new name.

The Beta SL is essentially a revised Beta Lightweight now featuring PFAS-free Gore-Text ePE and nicely fills the void between the fuller-featured Beta AR and the no-frills Beta. Its innovative GORE-TEX ePE membrane is light, strong, and PFC free. C-KNIT backer technology improves comfort and breathability. The helmet-compatible StormHood protects without compromising vision, pit zippers ventilate, and a RECCO reflector can aid in search situations.The Beta SL's 40-denier face fabric with 70-denier reinforcements in high-wear areas means it is now the lightest Beta model.If you need the best lightweight weather protection, keep the Beta SL at the top of your list, as long as it's within your budget.

Arc'teryx Beta SL Construction

• GORE C-KNIT backer technology is light, soft and comfortable.

• PFC-free GORE-TEX ePE membrane provides breathable weather protection and is laminated to a bio-based nylon face made with fibres derived from plants.

• Made with an innovative GORE-TEX fabric that provides a long product life, is PFC free, and has a reduced carbon footprint.

Arc'teryx Beta SL Pros and Cons

Where to Buy Arc'teryx Beta Line of Jackets?

To purchase Arc'teryx Beta jackets, you should primarily focus on the official Arc'teryx website or authorized retailers.You can use their "Find a Store" feature to locate a physical Arc'teryx store or authorized retailer near you. 

Reputable outdoor gear retailers below are authorized to sell Arc'teryx products. They ensure the authenticity of their inventory. 

• REI
  

• Amazon
  

• EVO

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Where To Buy Arc'teryx The Cheapest In 2025? (Cheapest Country, Discount, Price, VAT Rate & Tax Refund)

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Conclusion: Which One Shoud You Choose?

All Beta models are well-constructed, high-performance waterproof shells made for three-season adventuring and even winter use depending on your activities and expectations.The Beta AR uses Gore-Tex Pro, which is the heaviest and most protective GORE-TEX fabric. It is more durable and breathable than the other Beta models. If you expect to wear your new Beta for, say, the next decade or so without any performance capability loss, then without a doubt buy the Arc'teryx Beta AR.

If, however, you don't plan to have your shell for that long, or if your typical use cases don't necessitate the burliness of Gore-Tex Pro, then the Beta or Beta SL are great choices for a little less money. The Arc'teryx Beta AR is a burly, lightweight jacket with features that make it versatile. The Beta SL is a technically capable jacket with harness-compatible hand pockets and a helmet-friendly hood. The SL is also lighter than the AR. Both offer the PFAs-free 3L Gore-Tex ePE fabric. The ePE is lighter weight and "less crunchy" than traditional Gore-Tex waterproof membranes but still offers a waterproof rating of 28,000mm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Beta AR stand for?

Arc'teryx designs their Beta series of clothing for all-around mountain performance, and the AR specifically also stands for “All-round.” 

When to wear Arc'teryx Beta AR?

From high-aerobic activities like cross-country skiing, all-day endeavors such as backcountry touring, and everyday outdoor excursions with kids, the Arc'teryx Beta AR is the perfect hardshell for almost any adventure.

Is Arc'teryx Beta AR waterproof?

Yes.

Is Beta SL the new Beta LT?

The new Beta SL jacket features a three-layer 40dx70d GORE-TEX material with a PFC-free ePE membrane, making it the most lightweight model in Arc'teryx's highly popular Beta line. It was previously labeled the “LT” model, but is now referred to as “SL” for “superlight.”

What does SL mean in Arc'teryx?

Superlight. Superlight materials and design, emphasizing light weight and packability over durability.

Is Arc'teryx Beta SL worth it?

Yes. The Arc'teryx Beta SL demonstrated incredibly effective waterproofing and windproofing, with excellent breathability and comfort on steep, exposed terrain. 

Can you wear Beta LT in winter?

Yes. The Beta LT is quite formidable in rowdy conditions: Its 40-denier (D) face fabric and proven Gore-Tex waterproofing have effectively blocked everything from wet and slushy snowfall to strong gusts blowing off of alpine lakes.

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