Arc'teryx AR vs. SL: Which one should you buy? [2026]

The main difference between the Arc'teryx AR (All Round) and SL (Super Light) lines comes down to a simple trade-off: durability versus weight. The AR series is built to be a versatile, highly durable workhorse for various conditions and activities, using more robust materials. In contrast, the SL series prioritizes minimal weight and packability, making it ideal for fast-and-light adventures where every gram counts.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Arc’teryx line for your outdoor pursuits.

Arc'teryx AR (All Round) Series

The AR series is the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need one piece of gear that can handle almost anything. Designed for all-around performance, these jackets blend rugged durability with comprehensive weather protection, making them suitable for a wide range of activities from skiing and mountaineering to hiking in harsh conditions.

• What it is: A line of versatile, highly durable outerwear built to perform across various activities and severe weather conditions.
• Key features: GORE-TEX Pro membranes for maximum durability and waterproofing, robust face fabrics to resist abrasion, helmet-compatible hoods, and a fit designed for layering.
• Price: $500 - $700
• Materials/Construction: Emphasizes durable, abrasion-resistant materials like N40d or N80p GORE-TEX Pro to withstand use with ropes, packs, and prolonged exposure to rock or ice.
• Sizing/Fit: A slightly more relaxed fit (often called a 'Regular Fit') designed to comfortably accommodate insulating layers underneath without restricting movement.
• Pros: Extremely durable and abrasion-resistant. Highly versatile for multiple sports. Offers superior weather protection in demanding conditions. Can function as a true do-it-all piece of outerwear.
• Cons: Heavier and bulkier compared to the SL line. Higher price point. May be more jacket than necessary for mild conditions or minimalist trips.

This series is for the user who demands a reliable, fortified shell that prioritizes long-term durability and versatile protection over saving a few ounces.

Shop this product: www.arcteryx.com

Arc'teryx SL (Super Light) Series

The SL series is precision-engineered for those who measure adventures in grams and pack space. By using the lightest materials possible without sacrificing essential waterproof performance, Arc'teryx created a line of shells that are incredibly packable and disappear when not in use, making them perfect for thru-hiking, ultralight backpacking, and trail running.

• What it is: An ultralight series of outerwear focused on delivering reliable weather protection at the absolute minimum weight and packed size.
• Key features: The lightest GORE-TEX constructions available (like SHAKEDRY or Paclite Plus), a streamlined design with minimal features, and a high degree of packability.
• Price: $400 - $600
• Materials/Construction: Utilizes lightweight and thinner face fabrics to achieve its low weight, which provides excellent waterproofing and breathability but less abrasion resistance.
• Sizing/Fit: Features an athletic 'Trim Fit' that sits closer to the body to reduce unused material, save weight, and prevent flapping in high winds. It’s designed for minimalist layering.
• Pros: Exceptionally lightweight and compact. Highly breathable and comfortable for high-output activities. Ideal for "just-in-case" emergency protection.
• Cons: Lower durability and not suitable for rugged, abrasive environments. Fewer features like pockets or adjusters. Fit can be restrictive with thicker layers.

This line serves backpackers, climbers, and minimalists who need effective weather protection that won’t weigh down their pack or slow their pace.

Shop this product: www.arcteryx.com

Arc'teryx AR vs. SL Comparison

Durability & Materials

This is the most significant point of difference. The AR line uses thicker, more robust face fabrics (like N40p-X or N80p-X GORE-TEX Pro) designed to withstand rubbing against rock, ice, and heavy backpack straps. It's built for sustained, rugged use.

The SL line, on the other hand, employs lighter-weight fabrics. While still fully waterproof, these materials are more susceptible to tearing and abrasion. They're perfect for use on a trail but wouldn't be the first choice for bushwhacking or alpine climbing sessions where a lot of wear is expected.

Weight & Packability

The SL series is the clear winner here. A typical SL jacket is shockingly light and can often be compressed to the size of a water bottle or smaller, making it an easy addition to any pack. This minimal footprint is its primary selling point.

An AR jacket is noticeably heavier and bulkier. While still packable for an expedition, it will take up more space and add more weight to your kit. The extra grams come from the more durable textiles and added features.

Fit & Versatility

The AR series offers a more relaxed 'Regular Fit', which makes it far more versatile for layering. You can comfortably fit a thick puffy or fleece mid-layer underneath, making it a viable shell for everything from winter skiing to summer mountaineering.

The SL series has a 'Trim Fit' that is athletic and close-to-body. This cut is efficient, preventing excess fabric from getting in the way, but it limits layering options to just a base layer or a light fleece. This specialized fit is focused on a minimalist mission.

Price & Value

AR jackets generally come with a higher price tag, reflecting the cost of their more durable GORE-TEX Pro materials and additional features. The value is found in their resilience and multi-sport versatility, for many, an AR jacket is a decade-long investment that covers all their activities.

SL jackets are slightly less expensive but offer a different kind of value. They provide elite-level lightweight performance for specific use cases like backpacking or trail running, where low weight is the most prized feature.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both product lines are excellent at what they do, but they are built for different users and priorities.

Choose the AR Series if:

• You need a single, bombproof jacket for varied activities like skiing, ice climbing, and hiking.
• Durability and maximum weather protection are your absolute top priorities.
• You often wear a heavy, abrasive pack and need your shell to withstand wear and tear.
• You require the room to layer a thick insulated jacket or several mid-layers underneath.

Choose the SL Series if:

• Minimizing weight and pack space is your most important concern.
• You are a backpacker, thru-hiker, trail runner, or minimalist traveler.
• You need a high-performance "emergency" shell that lives in your pack just in case.
• Your activities don't involve a lot of abrasion, like moving through thick brush or scraping against rock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Arc’teryx AR and SL?

The key differences are durability and weight. AR (All Round) is heavier but much more durable and versatile, designed for a variety of conditions. SL (Super Light) is ultralight and highly packable, making it ideal for activities where weight is critical, but it's less resistant to abrasion.

Which one is more waterproof?

Both are extremely waterproof, as they typically use high-end GORE-TEX membranes. An AR jacket, with its thicker face fabric, might maintain its water repellency longer under physical abuse, but both an SL and an AR jacket will keep you dry in a downpour when properly maintained.

Can I use an SL jacket for skiing?

While an SL jacket will block wind and snow, it’s not the ideal choice for resort skiing. It lacks the durability to withstand repeated abrasions from chairlifts, trees, or a fall. The trim fit also makes it difficult to layer sufficiently for cold weather.

Is the AR line worth the extra money?

If you need its durability and versatility, absolutely. An AR jacket can function as your one-and-only shell for years across multiple sports. If your primary need is just a waterproof layer for hiking, an AR jacket might be more than you need, and a different model could be more suitable.

How does the fit compare?

The AR series generally has a 'Regular Fit,' which provides more room for layering. The SL series has a 'Trim Fit' that is cut closer to the body to save weight and reduce bulk.

Which is better for everyday or city wear?

The AR series is often a better choice for daily use due to its greater durability and more accommodating fit, which allows for wearing over sweaters or other casual layers. Its ruggedness holds up well to the scrapes and scuffs of urban life.

What do other Arc’teryx acronyms like LT and SV mean?

Beyond AR and SL, you'll also see LT (Lightweight) and SV (Severe Weather). LT sits between SL and AR, offering a balance of lightweight design with durable materials. SV is the most durable, heaviest option designed for the harshest professional use and severe weather environments.

How should I care for my Arc’teryx jacket?

Wash it regularly using a technical-specific detergent like Nikwax Tech Wash. Tumble dry on medium heat to reactivate the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. When water no longer beads off the surface, it’s time to reapply the DWR with a spray-on or wash-in treatment.