The Arc'teryx Beta SL men's lightweight hiking jacket is very versatile for mountain environments with its waterproof, breathable and windproof Gore-Tex membrane. Designed with a purposeful simplicity, this non-insulated shell features a trim fit that eliminates bulk, moves with your body and fits comfortably over your insulation and mid layers. Its helmet compatible StormHood gives full coverage without impeding sight. This outer layer is famous for its remarkable performances across a wide range of activities. Layering is the key of keeping you dry, warm and using your energy efficiently. Put into the right systems, a good sequence of layers moves moisture away from your skin, conserves or dissipates heat and provides you with weather protection. Here they are. The first layer, worn next-to-skin will provide warmth and quickly move moisture away from your skin. Then, the second layer, is the insulation and fleece, that provides warmth while also dissipating heat during periods of high output. And finally, the third layer, the shell, which is the most weather-protective layer, worn on the outside of all other layers.
The Arc'teryx Beta SL men's lightweight hiking jacket is very versatile for mountain environments with its waterproof, breathable and windproof Gore-Tex membrane. Designed with a purposeful simplicity, this non-insulated shell features a trim fit that eliminates bulk, moves with your body and fits comfortably over your insulation and mid layers. Its helmet compatible StormHood gives full coverage without impeding sight. This outer layer is famous for its remarkable performances across a wide range of activities. Layering is the key of keeping you dry, warm and using your energy efficiently. Put into the right systems, a good sequence of layers moves moisture away from your skin, conserves or dissipates heat and provides you with weather protection. Here they are. The first layer, worn next-to-skin will provide warmth and quickly move moisture away from your skin. Then, the second layer, is the insulation and fleece, that provides warmth while also dissipating heat during periods of high output. And finally, the third layer, the shell, which is the most weather-protective layer, worn on the outside of all other layers.
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The lowest price for Arc'teryx Men's Beta SL Jacket Black / XL right now is $449.95.
Prices last updated 30 Nov 2025.
Arc'teryx Men's Beta SL Jacket Black / XL
The Arc'teryx Beta SL men's lightweight hiking jacket is very versatile for mountain environments with its waterproof, breathable and windproof Gore-Tex membrane. Designed with a purposeful simplicity, this non-insulated shell features a trim fit that eliminates bulk, moves with your body and fits comfortably over your insulation and mid layers. Its helmet compatible StormHood gives full coverage without impeding sight. This outer layer is famous for its remarkable performances across a wide range of activities. Layering is the key of keeping you dry, warm and using your energy efficiently. Put into the right systems, a good sequence of layers moves moisture away from your skin, conserves or dissipates heat and provides you with weather protection. Here they are. The first layer, worn next-to-skin will provide warmth and quickly move moisture away from your skin. Then, the second layer, is the insulation and fleece, that provides warmth while also dissipating heat during periods of high output. And finally, the third layer, the shell, which is the most weather-protective layer, worn on the outside of all other layers.
The Arc'teryx Beta SL men's lightweight hiking jacket is very versatile for mountain environments with its waterproof, breathable and windproof Gore-Tex membrane. Designed with a purposeful simplicity, this non-insulated shell features a trim fit that eliminates bulk, moves with your body and fits comfortably over your insulation and mid layers. Its helmet compatible StormHood gives full coverage without impeding sight. This outer layer is famous for its remarkable performances across a wide range of activities. Layering is the key of keeping you dry, warm and using your energy efficiently. Put into the right systems, a good sequence of layers moves moisture away from your skin, conserves or dissipates heat and provides you with weather protection. Here they are. The first layer, worn next-to-skin will provide warmth and quickly move moisture away from your skin. Then, the second layer, is the insulation and fleece, that provides warmth while also dissipating heat during periods of high output. And finally, the third layer, the shell, which is the most weather-protective layer, worn on the outside of all other layers.
Last updated at 30/11/2025 09:29:56
originally posted on arcteryx.com
The Beta SL jacket is my most worn shell jacket. I’ve used it frequently during the spring and summer season, commuting around the city and also for short hikes. The jacket is light and breathable, so much so that I’ve used it for running a few times when the weather had some rainy conditions. I didn’t feel any sense of overheating, especially with the pit zips offering that extra ventilation.I’ve compared the Beta SL with the Beta jacket and the fit of the Beta SL is more slim. I like the slimmer look as it doesn’t make such loose noise as the Beta jacket does. As a bonus of it being lighter and thinner than the Beta jacket, the Beta SL packs a lot smaller and can fit in some of my smaller bags while still leaving space for other things!
originally posted on arcteryx.com
I have this in my pack almost daily when I'm in working tropical countries as the rainfall and weather change can be quite unpredictable. It is highly packable into a roll and weights almost nothing. When rolled, fits into my helmets, and survived quite a feel torrential downpours, keeping me dry.Can get quite warm depending on the humidity of the country, but it's a relevant trade off for high durability waterproof shell, might be good to have some simple vent system like the rest of the Beta series.The fit is great for general commuting, cycling and hiking, shoulder region can be a bit tight for overhead arm movements.
originally posted on arcteryx.com
This is my second Beta SL Jacket. When I last bought one, it had a different name. I live in the high desert of NM. This is a desert, but a high desert; elevation 5,300 ft to 5,800 ft. Winters are 28 F low to 47 F high. The Beta SL is my outer layer, the mid layer is an Atom Vest and next to skin is a dress shirt or a base layer. Be sure to think of what you want to fit underneath the Beta SL. I got a medium, but I am 5' 9" and weigh 140 pounds. I need room for a mid-layer, base layer (next to skin) and maybe a concealed carry weapon when hiking on mountain trails. I love the Beta AR, but it is more suited for Chicago or Denver; much colder environments. Excellent fit even with one size too large and the jacket is very suitable/attractive even for around the office ... MoreThis is my second Beta SL Jacket. When I last bought one, it had a different name. I live in the high desert of NM. This is a desert, but a high desert; elevation 5,300 ft to 5,800 ft. Winters are 28 F low to 47 F high. The Beta SL is my outer layer, the mid layer is an Atom Vest and next to skin is a dress shirt or a base layer. Be sure to think of what you want to fit underneath the Beta SL. I got a medium, but I am 5' 9" and weigh 140 pounds. I need room for a mid-layer, base layer (next to skin) and maybe a concealed carry weapon when hiking on mountain trails. I love the Beta AR, but it is more suited for Chicago or Denver; much colder environments. Excellent fit even with one size too large and the jacket is very suitable/attractive even for around the office wear. Gore Tex is ready for New Mexico snow, sleet or rain. Very satisfied with the fit 👍🏾
| Variant | |
| size | X-Large |
| color | Black |
The Beta SL jacket is my most worn shell jacket. I’ve used it frequently during the spring and summer season, commuting around the city and also for short hikes. The jacket is light and breathable, so much so that I’ve used it for running a few times when the weather had some rainy conditions. I didn’t feel any sense of overheating, especially with the pit zips offering that extra ventilation.I’ve compared the Beta SL with the Beta jacket and the fit of the Beta SL is more slim. I like the slimmer look as it doesn’t make such loose noise as the Beta jacket does. As a bonus of it being lighter and thinner than the Beta jacket, the Beta SL packs a lot smaller and can fit in some of my smaller bags while still leaving space for other things!
I have this in my pack almost daily when I'm in working tropical countries as the rainfall and weather change can be quite unpredictable. It is highly packable into a roll and weights almost nothing. When rolled, fits into my helmets, and survived quite a feel torrential downpours, keeping me dry.Can get quite warm depending on the humidity of the country, but it's a relevant trade off for high durability waterproof shell, might be good to have some simple vent system like the rest of the Beta series.The fit is great for general commuting, cycling and hiking, shoulder region can be a bit tight for overhead arm movements.
This is my second Beta SL Jacket. When I last bought one, it had a different name. I live in the high desert of NM. This is a desert, but a high desert; elevation 5,300 ft to 5,800 ft. Winters are 28 F low to 47 F high. The Beta SL is my outer layer, the mid layer is an Atom Vest and next to skin is a dress shirt or a base layer. Be sure to think of what you want to fit underneath the Beta SL. I got a medium, but I am 5' 9" and weigh 140 pounds. I need room for a mid-layer, base layer (next to skin) and maybe a concealed carry weapon when hiking on mountain trails. I love the Beta AR, but it is more suited for Chicago or Denver; much colder environments. Excellent fit even with one size too large and the jacket is very suitable/attractive even for around the office ... MoreThis is my second Beta SL Jacket. When I last bought one, it had a different name. I live in the high desert of NM. This is a desert, but a high desert; elevation 5,300 ft to 5,800 ft. Winters are 28 F low to 47 F high. The Beta SL is my outer layer, the mid layer is an Atom Vest and next to skin is a dress shirt or a base layer. Be sure to think of what you want to fit underneath the Beta SL. I got a medium, but I am 5' 9" and weigh 140 pounds. I need room for a mid-layer, base layer (next to skin) and maybe a concealed carry weapon when hiking on mountain trails. I love the Beta AR, but it is more suited for Chicago or Denver; much colder environments. Excellent fit even with one size too large and the jacket is very suitable/attractive even for around the office wear. Gore Tex is ready for New Mexico snow, sleet or rain. Very satisfied with the fit 👍🏾
Got this as it's the latest version of my beloved Beta LT jacket that I've had a few year. This version opts out of the PFCs noted from the older version and wanted to see how it performs. Read that I'll need to be more mindful with laundering this one than the LT version and that's easy enough to do to maintain the performance I experienced with the LT. All-in-all, really happy with the gentler hand-feel and the fit somehow seems improved for me. Using this for travel and hiking as of late and have yet to use it layered in the winter time.
THIS IS AN INITIAL REVIEW. I PLAN TO UPDATE AFTER SOME UPCOMING OUTINGS ON THE AT HERE IN CENTRAL PA!Arc'Teryx is synonymous with high quality gear. They outfit some of the best in the business so a certain level of performance is expected.This is a top notch piece of gear and performs well. I took it out on an initial foray of poking around my house exterior during the rain from the leading edge of Tropical Storm Debbie with rain coming down at a rate of 2 inches per hour. The jacket performed admirably (I had no worries that it wouldn't) and was comfortable. It breathed well and I even gave myself a bit of extra air with the pit zips and still didn't get soaked. The hood was really roomy so I had to play with the adjustments to get it to a tight enough fit, ... MoreTHIS IS AN INITIAL REVIEW. I PLAN TO UPDATE AFTER SOME UPCOMING OUTINGS ON THE AT HERE IN CENTRAL PA!Arc'Teryx is synonymous with high quality gear. They outfit some of the best in the business so a certain level of performance is expected.This is a top notch piece of gear and performs well. I took it out on an initial foray of poking around my house exterior during the rain from the leading edge of Tropical Storm Debbie with rain coming down at a rate of 2 inches per hour. The jacket performed admirably (I had no worries that it wouldn't) and was comfortable. It breathed well and I even gave myself a bit of extra air with the pit zips and still didn't get soaked. The hood was really roomy so I had to play with the adjustments to get it to a tight enough fit, but it wasn't difficult. Plenty of room for a hat or helmet, if you want or need one. I REALLY like the location of the front drawstrings for the hood as they are mounted a few inches below the openING making them easy to find and adjust and also far enough from my face that the wind didn't whip them into my cheeks.The only real issue is that I feel that my normal plan of going a size up with Arc'Teryx gear due to a normally "athletic" fit was unnecessary here as it is plenty roomy with the more relaxed fit in the arms and hood. Another minor nitpick is that the front zipper is only a single zipper. Having the capability to open the bottom for venting or waist pack access would be welcome. This may not be a concern to you, but it was an observation.I plan to spend more time with this jacket on the trail in the next few weeks and will report back, but I have no hesitation in counting on it to keep me dry and comfortable.PROs- High Quality Materials and Construction- Definitive Capability in the Worst Rain- Comfortable Fit and Breathability- Well Thought Out DesignCONs- Price Is High (but you do get what you pay for here)- Seems a Bit TOO Roomy (compared to my Zeta LT, but I think its mostly in the arms as there are zippers where the Zeta has none)- No Two-Way ZipperYou may want to order this true to size as the standard more athletic fit of Arc'Teryx seems more relaxed here. Not a complaint, just an observation.
One of the best constructed rain & wind jackets I’ve ever owned! Just like every other Arc’teryx jacket I’ve owned, the design and build quality are fantastic.There are a few things I would like to highlight.1) The fit in the torso is slightly trimmer than other Arc’teryx jackets I’ve had, but I still take the same size as usual.2) The sleeves on the other hand are a little larger in diameter, but the velcro cuff ends make it fit comfortably to your liking.3) The pockets are not lacking! Every rain coat I’ve ever owned has been lacking in pockets in useful places. This jacket has great storage and in the right places.All in all, this is a fantastic lightweight option for rain & wind for your outdoor adventures or just around town! One thing I would have loved ... MoreOne of the best constructed rain & wind jackets I’ve ever owned! Just like every other Arc’teryx jacket I’ve owned, the design and build quality are fantastic.There are a few things I would like to highlight.1) The fit in the torso is slightly trimmer than other Arc’teryx jackets I’ve had, but I still take the same size as usual.2) The sleeves on the other hand are a little larger in diameter, but the velcro cuff ends make it fit comfortably to your liking.3) The pockets are not lacking! Every rain coat I’ve ever owned has been lacking in pockets in useful places. This jacket has great storage and in the right places.All in all, this is a fantastic lightweight option for rain & wind for your outdoor adventures or just around town! One thing I would have loved is a two way main body zipper. It’s not a deal breaker, just my personal preference.
This review is based on my initial impressions, as I've only had this jacket for about 3 weeks, with only a few outdoor trips in mild weather, but so far, I've been impressed with the quality, design, features, how lightweight the jacket is, and its relatively compact size in a pack. This is the type of jacket you want to keep in a pack for just-in-case adventures. It's aesthetically simple and lightweight but functional where it matters.I'm 6'2", 185 lbs, 40" chest, 31" waist with a longer-than average torso and arms (sleeve size 33/34”). Sizing-wise, I went with the large, which is baggier in the torso than I'd prefer, so if you share similar dimensions, the medium will likely fit much better. I decided to go with a large for more room to layer in cold weather, ... MoreThis review is based on my initial impressions, as I've only had this jacket for about 3 weeks, with only a few outdoor trips in mild weather, but so far, I've been impressed with the quality, design, features, how lightweight the jacket is, and its relatively compact size in a pack. This is the type of jacket you want to keep in a pack for just-in-case adventures. It's aesthetically simple and lightweight but functional where it matters.I'm 6'2", 185 lbs, 40" chest, 31" waist with a longer-than average torso and arms (sleeve size 33/34”). Sizing-wise, I went with the large, which is baggier in the torso than I'd prefer, so if you share similar dimensions, the medium will likely fit much better. I decided to go with a large for more room to layer in cold weather, but if I were using this jacket exclusively for warmer and wet, windy conditions, I'd go with a medium.Since I'm in SLC and its summer, it's been hot and dry for weeks, so the only wet or windy weather I've had the opportunity to wear the jacket in lately has been a mountain thunderstorm that lasted about 15 minutes, with a lot of wind but relatively light rain. When waiting out the storm, I stayed 100% dry as expected with a Gore-Tex jacket. I confirmed with an Arc'Teryx product rep that the jacket has a 28000mm water column rating, so I have no doubt this jacket would keep me dry in heavy rain or even snow (which I’ll be testing this fall/winter).Fit/Design: The jacket is on the trimmer or more fitted side (close to the body), especially in the torso, but allows for a great range of motion thanks to the sleeve width/length and slightly wider shoulder areas. I can lift and rotate my arms and turn my head easily without the jacket feeling restrictive, with or without the hood on.Materials: High quality. I was frankly expecting this jacket to be heavier and bulkier as a 3L waterproof jacket, but that is not the case at all. On my gear scale, the jacket (size large) weights 12.4 ounces (.77 lbs), just slightly over the claimed weight. The interior backer is also comfortable against the skin if just wearing a t-shirt. It's not clammy or annoyingly plastic feeling.Features: The hood is helmet compatible and has good adjustability without restricting vision, a plus for rock climbing, mountaineering, or, so far in my case, wearing the jacket in some windy weather hiking and MTB. You can easily wear a brimmed hat under the hood with room to spare. The two front zippered pockets are high enough to be accessible while wearing a pack and are quite large/deep, so sufficient storage for gloves and a few snacks if needed. The interior zippered chest pocket is made of a slightly stretchy material that fits an iPhone 15, so plenty of space there. Including pit zips was an excellent decision for this jacket. In terms of breathability, without using the pit zips, the jacket is noticeably not as breathable as Gore-Tex's Paclite Plus material. It runs warmer, especially when you work up a sweat. The zipper pull-tabs are an interesting lightweight plastic. Ergonomically they work just fine, and I suspect are to help with keeping the overall weight of the jacket down. Initially I wondered if the plastic pull-tabs would blow around against the fabric and be noisy in wind, but no issues so far.Functionality: This is a very versatile jacket. I think this is the type of jacket you keep on hand and can take along for a variety of outdoor activities, especially for mountaineering, climbing, hiking, backpacking, spring skiing, and even MTB or bikepacking for stormy weather protection in rain, wind, and/or snow. The jacket is so lightweight and relatively compact that it’s barely noticeable in a backpack.What could be improved? The ability to pack the jacket into one of its own pockets would be a welcomed feature and adding a two-way main zipper would be useful for helping vent moisture and heat during higher exertion activities.Unknowns? Durability. I haven't had the jacket long enough to make any conclusions about long-term use, but so far the jacket appears solidly built with no obvious issues. I’ve owned other Arc’Teryx and Gore-Tex jackets and haven’t had any durability issues after years of use and regular maintenance, so hopefully that’ll be the case with this jacket.
Absolutely love this jacket keeps you dry inside and out. Recently took this jacket on a deep sea fishing trip in Oregon and it kept me dry and protected from the rain for 6+ hours. I have used rain jackets in the past that either could not sustain long periods of rain before soaking through or they breath so poorly that you are wet from your own sweat. I had neither problem with this jacket. The fit is great and can be adjusted to fit your needs. Great build quality that I expect to last for years and years.
I first thought this jacket’s uses would be limited. Like it would do really specific things really well, but I didn’t think it would be very versatile and fit other needs too. It’s like an ultralight shell, but sometimes shells can feel like overkill for everyday use; while tough, they can lack in comfort.After a couple weeks of use in a range of scenarios, I can say this jacket is great. The materials are well chosen and it feels both rugged and well-made. It has an almost tailored fit, which has its pros and cons. It’s summer and there isn’t much need for insulation, but I could see this getting tight with more layers underneath. As a summer rain jacket, its breathes ok, but really regulates well with the pit zips opened. The hem also synchs tight to collect ... MoreI first thought this jacket’s uses would be limited. Like it would do really specific things really well, but I didn’t think it would be very versatile and fit other needs too. It’s like an ultralight shell, but sometimes shells can feel like overkill for everyday use; while tough, they can lack in comfort.After a couple weeks of use in a range of scenarios, I can say this jacket is great. The materials are well chosen and it feels both rugged and well-made. It has an almost tailored fit, which has its pros and cons. It’s summer and there isn’t much need for insulation, but I could see this getting tight with more layers underneath. As a summer rain jacket, its breathes ok, but really regulates well with the pit zips opened. The hem also synchs tight to collect the extra material when it’s unzipped so it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a cape (my other rain jackets all feel too baggy when open, but this one is just right).The lining is high-quality and needs to be felt to appreciate it.The interior pocket is fused so it looks seamless and big enough for most smartphones, but not much else.The hood is great over a helmet, but kinda big when not up. The RECCO reflector is on the back of the hood, out of the way and not noticeable. The sleeves are cut long, which is always helpful in a downpour.Highly recommend this jacket if it fits in your price range - you will appreciate the materials, craftsmanship, and fit. It does a lot of things really well and you’ll look great too.
I have owned a lot of hardshell waterproof jackets over the years but this one gets a lot more use than the others. You can really tell we are in a golden age of gear, as the fabric is lighter, softer, and more comfortable than anything I've owned. It's so light weight and feels much more natural and comfortable to wear than the rigid stuff I am used to. While still maintaining some of that rigidity for durability. It's fit is great and accounts for some layering underneath. It's hard to write a detailed review for this one as it's just a fantastic hardshell that I'll be bringing everywhere.
| Variant | |
| size | X-Large |
| color | Black |
