Arc'teryx Vs Mountain Hardwear (The Definitive Guide)
By Unlock Wilderness
22nd March 2023
Are you debating between Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear for your next down jacket purchase? Both brands offer high-quality jackets for outdoor enthusiasts, but which one is better?
In this article, we will compare and contrast the two brands to help you make an informed decision. From design to performance and everything in between, we'll dive into the key differences and similarities between Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear. So, grab your cup of coffee and let's explore the world of down jackets together!
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Arc'teryx Vs Mountain Hardwear
Materials and Insulation
When it comes to choosing the right down jacket for your outdoor adventures, the materials and insulation used can make a huge difference in the warmth, durability, and overall comfort of the jacket. In this section, we'll take a closer look at how Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear stack up in terms of their materials and insulation choices.
One of the most important factors to consider is the type of down used in the jacket. Both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear use high-quality down insulation, but the source of the down can vary. We know that goose down is generally considered to be of higher quality than duck down, but both brands use both types in their jackets. Arc'teryx does use more goose down than Mountain Hardwear, which may give them a slight edge in terms of warmth and durability.
Another crucial aspect of down jackets is the quality of the outer shell material. Down insulation will lose its ability to insulate when wet, so having a shell material that repels moisture and wind is essential for a reliable, long-lasting jacket. Both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear use materials like Gore-Tex and Pertex for their shells, which are known to be some of the best in the industry for water and wind resistance.
So, which brand comes out on top in terms of materials and insulation? It's hard to say definitively, as both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear use high-quality materials and insulation in their down jackets. However, if we had to give an edge to one brand, it would likely be Arc'teryx for their focus on goose down and their use of innovative materials like Gore-Tex Pro.
Ultimately, the choice between Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of each individual. Both brands offer excellent options for down jackets, and whichever you choose, you can rest assured that you'll be getting a high-quality product that will keep you warm and comfortable on all of your outdoor adventures.
Design and Fit
When it comes to down jackets, Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear are two brands that often come to mind. Both brands offer high-quality products that are designed for different outdoor activities and body types. In this section, we'll compare the design and fit of their down jackets to help you figure out which one is best for you.
First, let's talk about the hood. Both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear offer jackets with insulated hoods that are adjustable to fit your head snugly. However, Arc'teryx's hoods typically offer more coverage and warmth, making them a better choice for particularly cold and windy weather conditions.
Next up are the pockets. Arc'teryx jackets usually have fewer but larger pockets, while Mountain Hardwear jackets have more but smaller pockets. The choice here really depends on your personal preferences and what you need to carry. Generally speaking, Arc'teryx jackets are better for those who need to carry larger items, while Mountain Hardwear jackets are better for those who need to carry more small items.
Moving on to zippers, both brands use high-quality zippers that are designed to keep the cold out. However, Arc'teryx jackets often have better zipper placement, making them easier to use with gloves on. In addition, Arc'teryx jackets usually have a two-way zipper, allowing you to adjust the fit of the jacket at the bottom.
Finally, let's talk about cuffs and overall style. Both brands offer jackets with elasticated cuffs to keep the cold out, but Arc'teryx jackets often have a more streamlined and fashionable design. Mountain Hardwear jackets, on the other hand, offer a more relaxed fit that can accommodate wider body types.
Overall, when it comes to design and fit, both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear offer high-quality products designed for various body types and outdoor activities. The choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you need a jacket that provides maximum warmth, coverage, and comfort, Arc'teryx may be the better option. On the other hand, if you need a more relaxed fit and more pockets for your gear, Mountain Hardwear may be the right choice for you.
Price and Value
When it comes to outdoor gear, it's important to find a balance between quality and affordability. While both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear are well-known brands in the outdoor industry, they differ in price and value.
Let's take a closer look at their down jackets. Arc'teryx's top model, the Cerium SV, retails for around $525. On the other hand, Mountain Hardwear's Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded Down Jacket is priced at around $325.
At first glance, it may seem like Mountain Hardwear offers better value for money. However, the cost difference is not the only factor to consider when investing in a down jacket. The quality of materials used and the design of the jacket can also impact its performance and longevity.
Arc'teryx is known for their meticulous attention to detail when it comes to design and materials. The Cerium SV is constructed with a high-quality GORE-TEX shell and features Down Composite Mapping™, which strategically places synthetic insulation in areas prone to moisture. This results in a highly durable and warm jacket that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Mountain Hardwear's Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded Down Jacket, while more affordable, may not offer the same level of quality and durability as the Cerium SV. Its thinner shell material and lack of synthetic insulation may make it more susceptible to wear and tear over time.
Ultimately, it comes down to the individual's needs and priorities. If you're willing to invest in a high-quality down jacket that will last for years and perform well in extreme conditions, then Arc'teryx may be the better investment. However, if you're on a tighter budget and don't require the same level of durability, then Mountain Hardwear's Ghost Whisperer 2 may be a great option.
In summary, while Arc'teryx's down jackets may come with a higher price tag, they often offer superior design, materials, and long-term durability. Mountain Hardwear's down jackets may be more affordable, but may not offer the same level of performance as Arc'teryx's. It's all about finding the right balance of price and value for your individual needs.
Customer Support and Warranty
When investing in a high-quality down jacket, it's important to consider not just the initial cost, but also the long-term support offered by the brand. That's why in this section, we'll take a closer look at the customer support and warranty options offered by Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear.
Firstly, let's talk about warranty coverage. Both brands offer warranties on their products, but the exact coverage may differ. Arc'teryx offers a comprehensive lifetime warranty on their products, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. Mountain Hardwear also offers a limited lifetime warranty, but it only covers defects that occur due to production errors.
In terms of how to make a claim, the process is relatively similar for both brands. If you notice a defect in your Arc'teryx product, simply contact their customer service team or return it to an authorized dealer for evaluation. Mountain Hardwear's warranty process is similar, but they suggest that you first try to remedy the issue with a local outdoor gear repair shop before resorting to making a warranty claim.
Now, let's talk about customer support. Both brands have dedicated customer service teams that can help answer any questions or concerns you may have. Arc'teryx is known for their exceptional customer service and knowledgeable staff, who are able to provide detailed information on their products and offer personalized advice.
Mountain Hardwear's customer support may not be as renowned as Arc'teryx's, but they do have a comprehensive FAQ section on their website and offer phone and email support.
Ultimately, the level of customer support and warranty coverage offered by each brand may be an important factor to consider when investing in a down jacket. While Arc'teryx may have a more comprehensive warranty and exceptional customer service, Mountain Hardwear's warranty and customer support are still strong options for those looking for a long-term investment in a high-quality down jacket.
Arc'teryx Vs Mountain Hardwear Men's Down Jackets
Looking for a high-quality men's down jacket? Choosing between Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear can be tough, but here's what you need to know.
Both brands offer top-performing down jackets in a variety of styles and colors. If you're looking for a sustainable option, Mountain Hardwear's Men's Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody is an excellent choice, while Arc'teryx's Cerium Hoody Men's jacket delivers exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and is perfect for winter climbing.
When it comes to design, both brands pay close attention to details that matter. For example, the Cerium Hoody Men's jacket features an insulated StormHood to protect your head and face from the elements, while the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody has a hoody style that provides extra coverage.
Overall, whether you go with Arc'teryx or Mountain Hardwear, you can feel confident that you're getting a top-quality men's down jacket that will keep you warm and comfortable on your outdoor adventures. So consider your priorities–sustainability, warmth-to-weight ratio,or design features–when making your choice between Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear.
Cerium Hoody Men's by Arc'teryx
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
The ultimate sustainably made down winter jacket for men.
What makes it special? This alpine-proven jacket is designed to keep you warm even in the harshest of conditions. One of the standout features of this jacket is its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, which is due in part to the responsibly-sourced 850 fill down and Coreloft synthetic insulation used inside. This combination ensures that you stay warm without feeling weighed down, making it ideal for active outdoor pursuits. The Cerium Hoody Men's jacket is also made with sustainable materials, including a bio-derived liner that reduces petroleum use and a recycled 15D Arato nylon outer, so you can feel good about your purchase from an ethical and environmental standpoint. In addition to its technical features, the Cerium Hoody Men's jacket also includes an insulated StormHood, which extends protection and keeps your head and face warm in windy or snowy conditions.
Men's Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody by Mountain Hardwear
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Sustainable warmth for any adventure.
What makes it special? As the company's best-selling ultralight down hoody, this jacket is also a sustainable reimagining of the original model. One of the key factors that sets the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody apart is its eco-friendly design. This jacket is made with completely recycled face and trim fabrics, meaning it uses trash instead of creating more waste. Additionally, the down insulation is responsibly sourced and RDS-certified, so you can feel good about your purchase from an ethical standpoint. But of course, you don't just want a jacket that's good for the planet – you want one that performs well too. Thankfully, the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody delivers on that front as well. It's designed to keep you warm even in frigid temperatures, and the hoody style provides extra coverage to protect your head and neck from the cold.
Arc'teryx Vs Mountain Hardwear Women's Down Jackets
When it comes to women's down jackets, both Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear offer excellent choices. However, there are key differences in their offerings that can help you decide which brand is the right fit for you.
Starting with Arc'teryx, the Cerium Hoody Women's is an exceptional jacket that delivers exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and packability. It is made from responsibly-sourced 850 fill down, with Coreloft™ synthetic utilized in areas prone to moisture, making it suitable for all weather conditions. The jacket's durability is also noteworthy, with the outer made from recycled 15D Arato™ nylon.
Mountain Hardwear's Women's Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for those who are environmentally conscious. The jacket uses completely recycled face and trim fabric, as well as responsibly sourced, RDS-certified down insulation. It is lightweight and offers excellent warmth, making it a versatile jacket for outdoor adventures.
Overall, both brands offer quality women's down jackets, but Arc'teryx focuses more on performance and durability, while Mountain Hardwear focuses on sustainability. So if you prioritize eco-friendliness, then the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody by Mountain Hardwear may be the way to go. But if you're looking for a jacket that can withstand even the toughest outdoor conditions, then the Cerium Hoody Women's by Arc'teryx may be the better option.
Cerium Hoody Women's by Arc'teryx
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Eco-friendly warmth and durability for your alpine adventures.
What makes it special? This jacket has been extensively refined to offer you exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and packability, making it your go-to for any alpine undertaking. One of the significant aspects of this jacket is its responsible sourcing of 850 fill down, making it incredibly warm and toasty without weighing you down. The Coreloft™ synthetic utilized in areas prone to moisture makes the Cerium suitable for all weather conditions. And when it comes to durability, you won't be disappointed. The outer made from recycled 15D Arato™ nylon ensures maximum sturdiness, even in the face of tough terrain. Additionally, the Cerium uses bio-derived liners, which minimize petroleum usage, making it an eco-friendly choice. The insulated StormHood™ is an excellent addition that extends its warmth, boosting its credibility as one of the best women's down jackets for alpine adventures.
Women's Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody by Mountain Hardwear
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
The eco-friendly down jacket that keeps you warm.
What makes it special? In the ongoing debate of Arc’teryx Vs Mountain Hardwear, this jacket stands out with its completely recycled face and trim fabric, as well as responsibly sourced, RDS-certified down insulation, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious shoppers. But just because it's made with recycled materials doesn't mean it skimps on performance. This hoody is the reimagining of Mountain Hardwear's best-selling ultralight down jacket, meaning it's still incredibly lightweight and warm. The hood provides extra coverage, and the durable water repellent finish helps keep you dry when unexpected rain or snow hits.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, choosing between Arc'teryx and Mountain Hardwear down jackets can be a tough decision. Both brands offer exceptional quality and cater to different preferences.
Arc'teryx is known for its innovative design and premium materials. Their jackets are perfect for extreme weather conditions and outdoor activities. On the other hand, Mountain Hardwear focuses on creating lightweight and versatile jackets that are suitable for everyday use.
Both brands have their unique selling points, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you're an adventurer who frequently faces harsh weather, then Arc'teryx is an ideal choice. However, if you're looking for a more comfortable and lightweight option, Mountain Hardwear has you covered.
It's also worthy to note that both brands prioritize sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. They are committed to reducing their environmental impact and ensuring that workers are treated fairly.
The bottom line is that whether you choose Arc'teryx or Mountain Hardwear, you can be confident that you're investing in a high-quality down jacket that will last for years to come. It's all about choosing the one that suits your needs and style. So, whatever your preference may be, there's no denying that both brands are top contenders in the down jacket market.
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