REVIEW: Arc’Teryx Squamish Hoody

What’s everyone looking for?! The perfect jacket that they don’t need to take on, take off and faff around with.

A jacket you basically don’t notice, because if it does its job well, you can concentrate on climbing. I want a sleek cut, well fitted (I have surprisingly wide shoulders), and something that does the job. I want it to breathe well – no point being protected from wind and mizzle if it builds up condensation – and I want to not feel chilly when the wind and temps are slightly dreich.

Design, Features, Functionality

Basically, it’s a super simple design, done really well.

By allying a functional feature-set with an effective fabric, in an ergonomically sound cut (the tailoring around the arms and shoulders cannot be underestimated here), Arc’Teryx have created a really useful, protective and comfortable bit of kit. Not only is there not much to nit-pick, but it’s mainly notable that it’s just, well, very good.

Purpose

Whilst primarily designed with alpine and rock climbing in mind, the Squamish hoody really does lend itself to a number of other activities. Its harness and helmet compatibility doesn’t detract from its function when trail running or for wet and windy walk-ins to the crag either.

Hood

On the subject of the helmet-compatible hood, it’s protective, ergonomic and works well both with or without a lid.

Basically, it’s a super simple design, done really well