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

The Arc'teryx SV and AR lines cater to two different types of outdoor enthusiasts: SV (Severe Weather) is their most robust collection, engineered with maximum durability and GORE-TEX Pro for extreme, unforgiving conditions, while AR (All Round) offers versatile, balanced performance for a wide range of activities and everyday use. The main difference comes down to specialization - SV is for the most demanding environments at a premium price, whereas AR is the reliable workhorse for hiking, skiing, and daily wear.

Here is everything you need to know to decide whether an SV or AR piece is the right investment for your needs.

Arc'teryx SV (Severe Weather) Collection

The Arc'teryx SV line is the pinnacle of the brand's weatherproof engineering, designed specifically for climbers, mountaineers, and outdoor professionals who operate in harsh, unpredictable environments. These pieces are built with the toughest materials and construction techniques to provide uncompromising protection against severe wind, snow, and rain, making them a common sight on major expeditions.

• What it is: Arc'teryx's top-tier technical outerwear collection is designed for maximum durability and protection in severe weather.
• Key features: Built with the most durable GORE-TEX Pro shells, reinforced high-wear areas, helmet-compatible StormHood™, taped seams, and a streamlined, athletic fit.
• Price: Premium pricing, with shell jackets typically ranging from $600 to $1,200.
• Materials/Construction: Features the highest denier face fabrics and top-of-the-line GORE-TEX Pro membranes for rugged, long-lasting performance. Construction is focused on durability to withstand abrasion from rock, ice, and gear.
• Sizing/Fit: An athletic, trim fit that is cut to accommodate layers underneath without adding excess bulk, prioritizing mobility for activities like climbing.
• Pros: Unmatched weather protection and durability. Built to last for years in the toughest conditions. Designed with professional-grade features for serious outdoor pursuits. Excellent weather-sealing components.
• Cons: High price point can be prohibitive. Materials can feel stiff and may be too robust for casual use. Less versatile for everyday or urban environments. Potentially "too much jacket" for the average user.

This collection suits professionals and serious adventurers who require fail-safe protection and can't afford gear failure in critical situations.

Shop this product: arcteryx.com/us/en/c/mens/sv-severe-weather-products

Arc'teryx AR (All Round) Collection

The Arc'teryx AR collection is created for versatility, delivering solid technical performance that works across a broad spectrum of activities and conditions. It strikes a balance between durability, weight, and comfort, making it the perfect choice for hikers, skiers, and general outdoor enthusiasts who want one high-quality piece that can handle almost anything they throw at it.

• What it is: A line of versatile, high-performance outdoor gear designed for a variety of activities and conditions.
• Key features: Utilizes high-quality GORE-TEX fabrics, durable water repellent (DWR) coatings, packable designs, and practical features like multiple pockets and adjustable hoods.
• Price: More moderate than the SV line, with shell jackets typically priced between $300 and $600.
• Materials/Construction: Employs durable GORE-TEX fabrics that provide excellent weather resistance and breathability. Construction quality is still top-notch but without the heavy-duty reinforcements of the SV line to save weight and improve packability.
• Sizing/Fit: A more standard or relaxed fit that allows for easy layering and offers greater comfort for everyday wear compared to the trim SV fit.
• Pros: Excellent versatility for mixed activities (hiking, resort skiing, travel). A strong balance of performance, durability, and price. Comfortable for daily use. More accessible price point than SV models.
• Cons: Not as rugged or protective as SV pieces for extreme expeditions. Lacks some of the ultra-specialized features found in the SV line.

This collection is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast who needs a dependable, high-quality jacket for weekend adventures and daily life.

Shop this product: arcteryx.com/us/en/c/mens/ar-all-round-versatility-products

Arc'teryx SV vs. AR Comparison

Durability & Weather Protection

This is where the collections differ most. The SV line uses the most durable version of GORE-TEX Pro, often with high-denier face fabrics designed to resist abrasion from rock, ice, and repeated use with a pack. The primary goal is uncompromising protection and longevity in the worst possible conditions. If you're ice climbing or mountaineering, this ruggedness is a necessity.

The AR line also provides excellent waterproofing and durability for its intended use, typically featuring standard high-quality GORE-TEX. It's perfectly capable of handling heavy rainstorms and snow, but it isn't built for the same level of sustained abuse as an SV shell. For most users - weekend hikers, resort skiers, or daily commuters - the AR's level of protection is more than sufficient.

Fit & Sizing

Fit is another key differentiator that speaks to each line's intended use. SV jackets feature a trim, athletic cut. This design reduces bulk, prevents the jacket from snagging on gear, and layers efficiently over base and mid-layers for technical activities. It's a fit optimized for movement and performance.

AR jackets have a more standard, slightly relaxed fit. This offers greater comfort for casual use and provides a bit more room for layering bulky items like a thick fleece or insulated jacket underneath. This versatile cut makes AR pieces more comfortable for general wear and less specialized activities.

Style & Versatility

While Arc'teryx is known for its clean, minimalist aesthetic across all products, the SV line leans heavily towards function over form. The designs are purely utilitarian, streamlined for performance in alpine environments. They are timeless pieces of technical equipment.

The AR line strikes a better balance, blending technical performance with a more accessible style suited for both the trail and the city. The slightly more relaxed fit and broader color options make AR gear a popular choice for those who want one shell that can do it all, from mountain adventures to rainy-day errands.

Price & Value

There's no getting around the significant price difference. SV products represent a major investment, often costing double what their AR counterparts do. This premium pays for the most durable materials, specialized "bombproof" construction, and the peace of mind that comes with it. For the professional guide or dedicated alpinist, this cost is justified.

For the majority of outdoor lovers, the AR line offers far better value. You get the meticulous craftsmanship and reliable weather protection expected from Arc'teryx at a much more accessible price. It's a durable, high-performance product that will last for years, making it a smart investment for non-specialists.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both collections offer best-in-class quality, but they are built for entirely different purposes and customers.

Choose the SV line if:

• You are a serious mountaineer, ice climber, or backcountry skier who faces extreme weather regularly.
• You need maximum durability to withstand abrasion from rock, ice, and equipment.
• Your safety depends on your gear, and you need uncompromising weatherproofing.
• Budget is not your primary concern when investing in essential technical gear.

Choose the AR line if:

• You need a versatile jacket for a wide range of activities like hiking, resort skiing, and travel.
• You want one high-quality shell that can comfortably transition from the outdoors to everyday life.
• You need reliable weather protection for rain and snow but not for expedition-level conditions.
• You are looking for the best balance of performance, versatility, and value in the Arc'teryx lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Arc'teryx SV and AR?

The core difference is specialization versus versatility. SV (Severe Weather) is for extreme, alpine environments and prioritizes maximum durability and protection. AR (All Round) is for versatile use across many activities and balances performance, weight, and comfort.

Is Arc'teryx SV worth the price?

For professionals, serious mountaineers, and anyone whose safety relies on gear in harsh conditions, yes. Its durability and weather protection are top-of-the-line. For most recreational users, an AR piece provides sufficient performance at a much better value.

Can I use an Arc'teryx AR jacket for skiing?

Absolutely. AR jackets are an excellent choice for resort skiing and general winter activities. They offer robust weather protection and their standard fit allows for easy layering with warm mid-layers.

Which is more waterproof, SV or AR?

Both lines are exceptionally waterproof thanks to GORE-TEX technology. However, SV models typically use the most robust GORE-TEX Pro membrane, which is designed for extreme and extended wet conditions and offers a slight edge in performance and long-term durability over the fabrics used in many AR shells.

How do Arc'teryx SV and AR jackets fit?

SV jackets generally have a trim, athletic fit designed to minimize bulk and optimize movement for technical activities. AR jackets have a more standard, slightly relaxed fit that provides comfort and versatile layering options for a wider range of activities and everyday wear.

Which line is better for everyday wear?

The AR line is much better suited for everyday wear. Its balance of comfort, versatile style, and a more relaxed fit makes it ideal for transitioning from outdoor adventures to casual urban settings without feeling like you're wearing technical expedition gear.

What do the letters 'SV' and 'AR' stand for?

'SV' stands for Severe Weather, indicating its purpose for the most demanding conditions. 'AR' stands for All Round, highlighting its versatility for multiple activities.

Are both lines sustainable?

Yes, Arc'teryx is committed to responsible manufacturing across its entire product range. Both the SV and AR lines often use materials that are bluesign® certified, which ensures they are produced with minimal environmental impact and are safe for workers and consumers.