OutdoorGearLab

The Arc'teryx Zeta SL is a phenomenal hardshell jacket for an impressively low price, and it replaces its predecessor, the Beta SL. The main difference seems to be a simple rebranding of the jacket into their hiking and trekking category. It provides an excellent fit and is simple, streamlined, lightweight, and durable, but not as fully featured for mountaineering purposes. 
The update makes it slightly less optimized for climbing movements; the jacket does not have raglan sleeves, which provide excellent mobility, but this is inconsequential for a jacket designed for hiking and trekking. With the stellar breathability, durability, light weight, and comfort, we even like this jacket for backcountry ski tours.

The Arc'teryx Zeta SL offers some serious protection against the elements. It's one of the most intensely waterproof models we tested and has a large hood and tall chin to keep your face dry - no matter the weather. This raincoat is just on the cusp of being an ultralight hardshell. Its sleek profile and soft interior make it a joy to wear even against bare skin. Gussetted underarms and articulated elbows, combined with longer &#40;but adjustable&#41; sleeves and an impressive hem drop of 5.5 inches give you effective protection against even the strongest storms - without compromising your movement. And true to their brand reputation, this jacket literally exudes durability, helping to justify that shockingly high price tag with a layer built to last for years of intensive adventuring. 
However, all that durability and protection come at a cost. It lags behind when it comes to breathability, not only as a thicker model but also a total lack of pit or pocket vents to dump body heat when you need it most. While the soft interior makes it harder for perspiration condensation to build up, with any seriously active endeavor, this is bound to happen. It's also one of the few models we tested that doesn't pack into its own pocket. Though it's just under average weight, the Zeta's stiff fabric makes it a bit more challenging to pack into a small object or stuff at the bottom of your pack. But if you're heading out into some serious weather and need cold protection along with waterproofness, the Zeta has got you covered for the long haul.

The Arc'teryx Zeta SL is a phenomenal hardshell jacket for an impressively low price, and it replaces its predecessor, the Beta SL. The main difference seems to be a simple rebranding of the jacket into their hiking and trekking category. It provides an excellent fit and is simple, streamlined, lightweight, and durable, but not as fully featured for mountaineering purposes. 
The update makes it slightly less optimized for climbing movements; the jacket does not have raglan sleeves, which provide excellent mobility, but this is inconsequential for a jacket designed for hiking and trekking. With the stellar breathability, durability, light weight, and comfort, we even like this jacket for backcountry ski tours.
Read more: Arc'teryx Zeta SL review 

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