Gear reviews | Arc'teryx Nuclei AR

First impression

Except for the name, the jacket doesn't have too much in common with the Nuclei FL already reviewed on PowderGuide.com. Of course, both are synthetic fiber insulation jackets with hoods. However, while the FL (Fast & Light) is designed to be lightweight, the AR (Allround) is more robust and significantly warmer, but also heavier. The jacket makes a warm and durable impression, but is still quite light and compressible thanks to the well-known high-quality Coreloft insulation. The jacket has hand warmer pockets on the outside and a large mesh pocket on the inside. The cuffs are elasticated and the waistband and hood are of course adjustable.

I've been wearing the jacket since mid-January, it fits well and is comfortable to wear, both as an outer layer and under a hard shell. I am 183cm, weigh about 75kg and wear size L.

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Test report

The Nuclei AR is quite a warm model, in my opinion it is slightly warmer than the typical "always-in-your-backpack" jackets, which are then used for resting at the summit, in the cool chairlift or on cold freeride days. This also makes the Nuclei a little thicker. I can just about wear it under a hardshell, but under a more body-hugging jacket it's a bit tight. However, as the Nuclei-AR is not only windproof but also highly water-repellent thanks to its Gore-Windstopper membrane, it can also be used wonderfully as an outer layer (except in the rain). As the jacket has a high-quality filling, it compresses well despite its high volume when worn and takes up surprisingly little space in the backpack.

The thermal performance is really very good, especially for the weight and pack size. This is not only due to the filling, but also the tight-fitting cuffs, the well-fitting waistband and, of course, the windstopper membrane. The hood is adjustable and fits well over a helmet, although it sits a little loosely on me without a helmet underneath. As already mentioned, the jacket fits comfortably and doesn't interfere with skiing or the odd climbing movement. However, I don't normally wear it for climbing, as it is a bit warm even on very cold days. However, I wear them more often when I'm standing (or sitting) around and on the descent, and on cold but beautiful days on a ski tour I sometimes leave the hardshell at home and ski with the Nuclei AR. Thanks to the thicker outer material with windstopper membrane, the jacket is definitely a bit more robust than other models, although the material doesn't feel stiff.

Conclusion

Lots of warmth and weather protection with a relatively low weight and pack size. Ideal for activities in very cold regions or in adverse weather conditions. More suitable for winter than spring due to its high thermal performance.

Advantages & disadvantages

+Very warm
+Compact & lightweight
+Rugged
+Windproof & water-repellent
+Suitable for all-round use
-Very expensive

Details

RRP €480.-

Windproof
Small pack size for easy stowage when traveling
Breathable
Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
Extremely water-repellent
Fully taped seams with microneedle technology save weight and ensure smooth seams
Anatomical fit WITH pre-shaped elbows and underarm gussets for optimal freedom of movement
Anatomical fit WITH pre-shaped elbows and underarm gussets for optimal freedom of movementgussets for optimum freedom of movement
Helmet-compatible Storm Hood™ lined hood
Adjustable hood drawcord accessible from the outside
Full-length front zipper with chin guard and storm flap
Adjustable hem with drawcord
Two hand pockets with WaterTight™ zippers
Inside zippered pockets with WaterTight™ zipperszippers
Internal mesh storage pocket
Packsack can be attached to a climbing harness

Here is the Arc'teryx website with more information.

This product was provided to PG free of charge by the manufacturer for testing.