Arc'teryx Beta SL Jacket - Women's review
Ugh, so I snagged this Arc'teryx Beta SL jacket from REI, full price, just a week before Black Friday. I was getting ready for a Thanksgiving trip and needed a good hardshell, and honestly, I didn't even think about Arc'teryx having a sale. Then, bam! Black Friday hits, and there it is, 30% off on their website. I was so bummed, felt like I'd just thrown $150 out the window.
But, get this! The very next morning, I checked REI's site, and they were having the same 30% off sale! I practically ran to the store the minute they opened and asked for a price adjustment. Since I'd only bought it a week before, they gave me the difference back, no questions asked! Suddenly, it felt like I'd made $150! I actually wore it on my trip the very next day (and I'd already taken it hiking the weekend before – it was awesome).
For sizing: I'm 5'7", weigh about 145 pounds, and I'm kind of pear-shaped. The women's large fits me perfectly, with room for a sweatshirt or fleece underneath. I've worn it a few times now, and it's super lightweight, comfy, and blocks the wind like a champ. Seriously amazing! It doesn't feel tight when I'm driving, and it doesn't wear me out when I'm hiking uphill.
Quick comparison: I also checked out the regular Beta Jacket (women's medium, same "alpenglow" color) next to the Beta SL. The regular Beta doesn't have a drawstring on the hood or pit zips, but the SL does. The Beta's fabric is also a bit thicker, while the SL is all about being "super light," like the name says. The Beta is also a looser fit, while the SL is more fitted at the waist.
