The Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody has a killer combination of weather protection, breathability, and mobility.
Quick Guide
Category: Hooded Softshell Water-resistant Outdoor Jacket
Length: Hip
Pockets: 3
Weight: Men's: 19 oz / Women's: 16 oz
Fabric: Nylon, Polyester, Elastane
Pros: Weather protection, Breathability, and Mobility.
Cons: Pricey
Best Suited For: Hiking, Climbing, Skiing
Final Verdict: An excellent, durable, weather protective, all-around option for alpine environments.
Part of any successful outdoor clothing layering system is the perfect hiking jacket.
Having the right jacket for a day spent outside is one of the sure-fire ways to have a comfortable day on the trail. Depending on the climate, season, and activity, you will have specific jacket needs.
In these short hiking jacket reviews, we cover top-rated hiking jackets of varying styles.
Don’t worry, we don’t pick favorites either. We leave that decision up to you.
We’ll give you our honest review of each jacket, including the things we love and what they could have done better. So let's take a look at the Arcteryx Gamma LT Hoody.
Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody Review
While most other softshell jackets struggle to be an excellent all-around option for alpine environments, the Arcteryx Gamma LT Hoody is a top contender.
It isn’t the lightest weight softshell jacket on the market, but it makes up for it with a killer combination of weather protection, breathability, and mobility.
Many rock climbers and mountain adventures choose the Gamma LT Hoody as their softshell jacket of choice because of its durability and ability to keep baselayers dry even in the wind and light rain.
Although the weather protection is a bit better than other softshell jackets, it is not a hard shell, so it is not waterproof.
If you are looking for a waterproof option, check out the Arc'teryx Zeta LT Women's Jacket / Arc'teryx Zeta LT Men's Jacket.
The Gamma LT is still a very breathable jacket, which doesn’t allow it to be waterproof. However, it utilizes a unique, hardwearing fabric known as Wee Burly that improves durability, which is why it is an excellent jacket for alpine and climbing environments.
Not sure the difference between a softshell and hardshell jacket? Check out our guide to Choosing the Right Hiking Jacket.
What We Like about the Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody
There's a lot to like about this jacket, including:
Good Weather Protection
Wee Burly fabric, a tight weave, and an extra DWR coating give the Gamma LT Hoody enough weather protection to bead off lighter precipitation.
Great Breathability
Despite being weather-protective, it is still a very breathable jacket that can be worn when performing high endurance exercise outdoors.
Excellent Mobility
Easily worn over other insulating layers, the jacket's tailored fit affords optimal mobility, even with large arm movements during climbing.
What we don’t Like about the Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody
The Gamma LT Hoody is an extremely versatile and weather-resistant option that almost any outdoor enthusiast can enjoy. Because of its unique features and durability, that does make it one of the more expensive options in the softshell jacket category.
Key Features of the Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody
Construction
- Laminated high-strength hanger loop
- Mechanical stretch textile for unrestricted mobility
Hood Configuration
- Laminated brim
- Helmet compatible StormHood™
- Adjustable hood drawcords
Collar Configuration
- Tall collar
- Laminated chin guard
- Soft brushed-lined collar
Zippers & Fly Configuration
- Full length Vislon No Slip Zip™ front zipper with wind flap
Cuff & Sleeves Configuration
- Laminated cuffs
- Stretch gusset cuffs
Hem Configuration
- Adjustable hem drawcord
- Drop back hem
- Laminated hem
Pocket Configuration
- Internal chest pocket with zip
- Two hand pockets with zippers
Fabric Treatment
- Arc'teryx Nu water repellent treatment
What the Manufacturer Says
Versatility is freedom. Inspired by British Columbia’s range of terrain, environments and conditions, the Gamma LT Hoody is an essential softshell for anyone seeking new places and experiences. Wind and weather resistant, the lightweight softshell fabric stretches and breathes.
The fit is streamlined, allows room for light layers, and is patterned for freedom of movement. A helmet compatible StormHood™ delivers full coverage without impacting peripheral vision. - Arc'teryx Website
Final Thoughts
The Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody is a great softshell jacket for nearly any alpine environment. Durability, breathability, mobility and its ability to keep you dry even in the wind and light rain elevates it above the pack.
Check out more hiking jacket reviews.
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