With the advent of soft shell jackets, hikers, backpackers, climbers, and mountaineers have more options than ever to stay dry and warm. While soft shells don't provide 100% waterproof protection, they are much more breathable than hard shells, providing overall better comfort (unless it is pouring).

Many new soft shells have become available in the past year, and one of the best is the Gamma MX from Arc'Teryx. The Gamma MX blends the best of weather protection and high-mountain fashion (whatever that means) in a single garment. Here's what makes the Gamma MX world class:

• The jacket is made out of mostly of Polartec's Power Shield fabric, with a little bit of Schoeller's Lightweight Dynamic fabric thrown in for good measure. These fabrics provide wind and moisture protection, while at the same time, providing top-notch breathability. The outside fabric is also very tough and durable, taking abrasion well. The outside feels tough, while the inside is fleece-like in feel.
  
   
• The fit of the jacket is trim, with no excess material. For climbers, it fits well under a climbing harness. In addition, it is easy to add additional layers on top of the jacket, such as a hard shell or insulated jacket, if necessary. Under the jacket, there is plenty of room for any base layer, although you will not find enough room for any fleece insulation. The fabric itself also acts as a lightweight insulation layer, and is comparable in warmth to a 200 weight fleece with wind protection. The arms are gusseted for easy range of movement.
  
   
• The Gamma MX has plenty of pockets (maybe too many). There are two hand-warmer pockets, two  small chest pockets with zipper, one internal zippered pocket, and one small arm pocket with a zipper.
  
   
• For extra ventilation, there is no pit zips, but you can use the sleeves and collar for some ventilation. The addition of pit zips would be ideal. The jacket's main zipper is backed by a rubber-like material to prevent wind and moisture from getting in. There is also a waist cord that can be adjusted for comfort.
  
   
• The collar is Arc'Teryx's signature collar. When up, it creates a circle around your neck, creating a distinctive look. But most importantly it is comfortable, and the inner lining is fleece-like soft. If you don't want to collar up, you can roll it down like a conventional collar.
  
   
• The jacket is lightweight (15-19 ounces) and compressible.
  
   
• The Gamma MX jacket makes a definite fashion statement, somewhat futuristic in its look. I don't know if this is good or bad, but no matter what its looks are, it is a very serviceable jacket.

The jacket is well-suited to hiking, backpacking, climbing, light mountaineering, and trekking.

Using the Arc'Teryx Gamma MX Jacket in the Real World

The Gamma MX is best used when the temps drop below 60 degrees, as it will be much too hot with physical active at higher temps. With an appropriate base layer, the jacket should be comfortable to about 20 degrees when active, or about 30 degrees when not active. I do wish for some more ventilation in some cases, but unzipping it generally helps (as long as it is not raining).

I generally wear the jacket with a silkweight or lightweight base layer in cool temps, or a midweight layer when it gets cold.

The jacket stops wind, snow, and light rain from penetrating, although you will want a hard shell when the rain gets heavier. When it does get wet, the jacket will dry quickly.

I like the trim fit, and its ability to be comfortable while wearing a climbing harness. It does a good job of staying where it belongs on your torso, and not riding up.

The jacket is very durable, taking abrasion well. I imagine the jacket will last a long time.

Recommendation

If you find a size of the Gamma MX jacket that fits you well, you want a soft shell jacket for its versatility, and you don't mind making a fashion statement, this jacket is a top notch choice.

Product Notes

The Arc'Teryx Gamma MX jacket comes in both men's and women's sizes, and in three colors (black, cinder (dark gray) and sangria (red). The MSRP is $280.00. This jacket also is available in hooded version, called the Arc'Teryx Gamma MX Hoody.