Arc’teryx Beta SL Jacket Review [2025 Version]

The Arc’teryx Beta SL Jacket has become my go-to waterproof hiking shell for days when the weather looks questionable but I still want to move fast and light—and lightweight it is; it even carries the coveted ‘SL’ tag from Arc’teryx, which stands for ‘Superlight’.

It’s built for all-mountain adventures but easily fits into everyday life—especially if you want one jacket that can handle city commutes, rainy dog walks, and full-on alpine downpours.

I’ve been testing this one across a mix of conditions—wet trail hikes, and rainy dog walks around my neighborhood—and while the price tag is steep (it’s Arc’teryx afterall), there’s a lot to like.

It balances performance, packability, and durability admirably, and it now comes with some meaningful sustainability improvements, in this latest 2025 updated version.

Key specifications

• Price: $500 from Arcteryx.com
• Weight: 340g / 12oz (men’s M)
• Fit: Fitted (runs slightly large making it good for layering)
• Membrane: GORE-TEX ePE (PFAS-free)
• Backer: C-KNIT™ backer for added comfort and breathability
• Outer fabric: 3L 40d x 70d nylon with FC0 DWR
• Extra features:
  • Helmet-compatible StormHood™ with size adjustable toggle
  • Pit zips for ventilation
  • 2x hand pockets with zips, 1x internal chest pocket
  • RECCO® reflector for mountain safety
  • Rolls into the hood for packability
• Manufacturing: Fair Trade Certified (Vietnam)

Performance review

One of the first things I noticed was how lightweight this jacket feels without giving off that flimsy, paper-thin vibe you sometimes get with ultralight shells.

At 340g, it’s noticeable how little weight it adds whether I’m wearing it or stuffing it into a hydration pack.

But what’s even more impressive is that despite the weight, it holds up well in rough conditions like thrashing rain and wind.

The waterproofing is rock solid. I’ve stood in proper downpours and not had a single drop get through.

That new PFAS-FREE GORE-TEX ePE interior membrane provides a completely waterproof experience, and it’s PFAS-free, which is a step forward sustainability-wise.

I will say, the outer fabric does “wet out” like most other shells, but it doesn’t actually leak and it’s super easy to bring it back to that new water repellent finish.

Just wash the jacket to remove any dirt build up, and then stick it in the drier to tighten the outer mesh fabric again, which turns rain water back into beads that just roll off, rather than soak in.

Pit zips are a massive win; all the zips on this jacket are watertight by the way…

I run hot on climbs and fast hikes, and the zippers release heat quickly without compromising rain protection. They’ve clearly been positioned with movement in mind, too—no awkward bunching or tugging when using them.

The StormHood deserves a shout.

It’s large enough to go over a helmet (think cycling commute, ski-touring, climbing), but even when I’m not wearing a helmet, it adjusts nicely and stays put in strong wind.

It also doesn’t block my peripheral vision, which I’ve found to be an issue with some other alpine-focused jackets.

Fit-wise, the Beta SL runs a bit large. My ‘small’ leaves room for layers underneath, which I like in colder conditions, but I’d say if you’re between sizes and not layering heavily, you could size down.

The cut is “fitted,” but not tight—so it doesn’t feel restrictive even when I’m moving dynamically on the trail or chasing after Kepler in the park.

The waist also has a toggle so that you can keep it tight, stopping water and cold air from getting in.

One thing that adds peace of mind (but isn’t a buying reason for me personally) is the RECCO reflector.

It’s one of those features that I hope I never need, but it’s nice to know it’s there, especially if I’m out solo in the mountains.

It also has enough pockets for it to be functional but not too many that you ends up turning this lightweight shell into a heavy accessory storage system, with two front hand pockets, and one interior pocket (see photos below).

It’s not the most breathable jacket, but what waterproof shell is, and there are pit zips to help keep things cool inside.

It’s important to remember that this is a 3-layer ePE shell, which includes a backer (the inside layer), the ePE middle membrane, and the face fabric with DWR coating.

It’s this new technology that gives the jacket such great waterproofing, and durability.

My verdict

The Arc’teryx Beta SL Jacket is a bit of a unicorn. It walks the line between ultralight packability and all-weather durability without making you choose one over the other.

At $500 from arcteryx.com, there’s no question it’s expensive but I’d argue that for the blend of features, weight, durability, and versatility, the Beta SL holds its value better than many because it’s going to be your trusty waterproof jacket for many years to come.

If you want a jacket that covers everything from technical trails to city errands and can disappear into your pack until needed, and the price tag doesn’t make you wince, the Beta SL is one of the best waterproof hiking jackets, I’ve ever tested.

To learn more about all the technologies used in this jacket, and buy one for yourself, head over to the Arc’teryx store via the link below.