ARC’TERYX PROTON FL HOODY IN TEST

The latest product from Arc‘teryx is the Proton FL Hoody which is available since February 2019 in sports retailers. The Proton FL Hoody is, according to the manufacturer a “lightweight insulated and breathable softshell for summer mountain activities and rock climbing.” That sounds like a great jacket for warmer days in the mountains.

THE PROTON FL HOODY – EASY, WIND-RESISTANT & BREATHABLE

Product features

The ARC’TERYX PROTON FL KAPUZENJACKE In detail

Let’s start at the top of the hood. It stands out immediately that the jacket has a surprisingly large, yet gauzy adjustable hood, perfectly cut, so that a helmet can fit under it. Since I tested the jacket primarily for freeriding and ski touring, I was very surprised that my ski helmet, which seems rather bulky compared to a climbing helmet, easily fit under the hood. Although the hood is wind resistant, it is not insulated, which is not really necessary due to its field of application. As well as the part under the arms, which ensures optimal breathability through the omitted insulation. Exactly right, to release the steam where it originates.

In the upper part there are two large chest pockets with zippers on the outside, an inner pocket was probably deliberately omitted so as to keep the jacket slim and flat. In these you can easily stow small things that you can access without having to open the hoody complicated. In addition, there are two other zipped pockets, which were provided from the inside with a super soft and comfortable material. This allows cold hands to warm up quickly.

It should also be noted that I have a very slim and long upper body with 1.90m and 75kg. Like most Arc’teryx jackets designed for climbing, Proton FL also features the well-known foam inserts on the waistband of the hooded jackets. What causes a question mark for Arc’teryx newbies, is very popular with connoisseurs, because these small foam inserts ensure that your jacket stays where it belongs, especially when climbing – namely below your belt. A simple means with great effect and thus also joy for the user, because so the jacket sits perfectly and does not slip.

A HOODY ACTUALLY HOLDING WHAT it PROMISES

After looking at it for the first time and fitting it was clear that the jacket fits well, that you have enough freedom of movement and that, admittedly, it looks really good too. But now it was potted – the real test, which should show if the jacket also holds what it promises. After several ski tours in the temperature range of 6 ° C to -10 ° C, I must admit: I was impressed. This hoody is awesome! On cold days you can wear the Proton FL perfectly as a midlayer. As a midlayer under a hardshell – I had used the Arc’teryx Saber LT – it was never too warm and never too cold. Just right! It ensures a very good regulation of body temperature and breathes well in the front area. When wearing an avalanche backpack, you usually sweat faster in the back area, but again, the Proton FL has done a great job. Although there was sweat in the back, it never lasted long, because it was amazing how quickly the jacket got dry again.

Credits @ARC’TERYX

AN ALL-ROUNDER – a must have

In conclusion, the Proton FL Hoody is not just for warm summer days and climbing. No, rather it is a hoody for all athletic, or sometimes cozier, activities. Should a more strenuous ski tour be planned, the Proton FL is a “must-have”. Lightweight, breathable and remarkably fast-drying. In cool temperatures is so perfect as a midlayer to wear. In wind-exposed passages you can easily, quickly and easily pull the hood over the helmet and immediately it is a pleasantly warm again and in sunny weather, it is the perfect companion as a lightweight softshell. If you want to be on the road for a longer time and tour from hut to hut, then the Proton FL will look good in the evenings in the evening. In summary, the Proton FL Hoody by Arc’teryx is a true all-rounder and suitable for any activity in the mountains, whether as a midlayer or softshell.

PROs and CONs

 Credits @ARC’TERYX

Review by Daniel Moder