Pants
Product 2026
Woman, Man
We tested the Arc’teryx Beta outfit, consisting of the protective jacket and pants. We had asked for a product capable of handling rain and wind: an outfit offering excellent waterproofing while remaining lightweight. By “lightweight,” we were not looking for ultra-light products designed merely to protect against a passing shower and little more. We also expected the garments to offer a reasonable level of resistance to abrasion.
The Arc’teryx Beta outfit in size M weighed in at 660 grams. This level of lightness means you don’t think twice about taking it with you when the weather looks likely to turn difficult. The whole outfit packs down easily and takes up very little space. Both the jacket and pants are made with Gore-Tex ePE. The membrane is made without perfluorinated chemicals.
It should be noted that this Arc’teryx Beta outfit makes some noise when moving — more of a rustling sound than anything else. Hunters and wildlife photographers may therefore want to look at other options. In every other respect, however, the performance is almost flawless.
First and foremost, we greatly appreciated the waterproofing. Since the standards regarding PFCs have changed, we expected some reduction in water resistance. That is simply not the case here. Lightweight and comfortable, with a cut that allows unrestricted movement, the Arc’teryx Beta outfit keeps you dry for a long time. We experienced no leaks around the shoulders, neck or anywhere else. For once, the hood is not necessarily designed to accommodate a helmet. Instead, it fits the shape of the head quite well and does not flap around in the wind.
Overall, the Arc’teryx Beta outfit leaves enough room to wear additional layers underneath, thanks to its relatively generous cut. Look more closely and you’ll see a highly technical construction, with multiple panels and exceptionally precise assembly. The workmanship is exemplary: no visible stitching, while the bonding and heat-sealed seams are impeccable. In short, when it comes to construction quality, this is classic Arc’teryx.
ALL the zippers are waterproof! This includes the fly zipper and the zipper on the right thigh pocket. They all run extremely smoothly, almost with one hand. The hand pockets are exceptionally practical and deep. Hood, waist and cuff adjustments are all excellent. They can easily be operated while wearing lightweight gloves.
Arc’teryx has improved the belt: it can no longer disappear inside the belt loops. It is stitched on one side, while the buckle clips securely and stays firmly in place. The buckle is slim and does not interfere when worn underneath a climbing harness. We were initially concerned that the pants might slip, since they are not a Bib — which would inevitably be heavier, but would provide better support. A pleasant surprise: these Arc’teryx Beta pants stay exactly where they should, with the belt sitting securely above the hips.
A large side zipper makes it possible to put the pants on or take them off very quickly without removing your shoes. An internal snap button at the bottom of each leg allows the cuffs to be tightened securely and prevents them from opening unintentionally. The inside of the ankles is reinforced, although not to the extent of withstanding a badly placed crampon strike.
A highly effective outfit for tackling bad weather. Extremely waterproof, offering an excellent balance between durability and lightness, it is also very comfortable to wear. Excellent fit, high-performance materials. Suitable for all kinds of demanding — or less demanding — outdoor adventures. FIRST Test4outside Award, without hesitation.
Available in several colors.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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