View Full Version : Arcteryx Atom LT or SV?
Gray222
11-14-2015, 04:03 PM
I am going to buy a heavier winter jacket than my Arcteryx Bravo. I had to supplement the bravo in years past with a heavy sweater and/or a hoody (since it doesn't have a hood). At training I saw several people with LT's and SV's who were very comfortable with only a tshirt underneath.
http://leaf.arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=mens&model=Atom-SV-Hoody
http://leaf.arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=mens&model=Atom-LT-Hoody-LEAF
I don't like the hook/loop so I am automatically leaning towards the LT.
Who has what and what would you buy given the choice?
runcible
11-14-2015, 04:24 PM
I'm running neither but use similar systems and have handled/tried the LTs made from different years.
The LT will give you a broader range of wear, most especially with the current generation with different material sidepanels. It pairs very well with different shell and cover jackets, in part because it is so low-bulk. It's a very versatile bit of gear both as a standalone element and within a larger layering system. The LEAF LTs have definitely been getting optimized of late - i may grab one myself as they fall.more towards my needs. I believe the LEAF ones have a shorter hem length now.
The SV is warmer overall, still breathes extremely well as a synth fill layer, and has more overall coverage. If you work where it really gets cold, that increased depth and coverage may come into play.
I took a class with a guy who I think was wearing a jacket of this brand, his had a small zipper/door thingy to where you could be bundled and zipped up and have access to your gun (that's where the zipper/door is) are these those jackets?
Is this for an on duty jacket or an off duty jacket?
orionz06
11-14-2015, 04:54 PM
The LT I know may pill/frizz/show wear a little more easily than you prefer though both appear to be the same. I couldn't really tell the difference between the two.
Gray222
11-14-2015, 06:00 PM
Is this for an on duty jacket or an off duty jacket?
Off duty, my duty jacket is awesome.
The LT I know may pill/frizz/show wear a little more easily than you prefer though both appear to be the same. I couldn't really tell the difference between the two.
Thats a concern of course but stuff happens... the main difference i saw was the sv has hook loop and is heavier.
runcible
11-14-2015, 06:13 PM
Reader's Digest:
For 3-4 season wear, go LT.
If local weather pushes you towards heavier insulation or a desire for a warm stand-alone, go SV.
http://soldiersystems.net/2014/09/18/atom-lt-from-arcteryx-leaf/
Gray222
11-14-2015, 06:31 PM
The additional insulation is something I want, I prefer standalone systems.
Now I have to go REI and see how it sizes before I order one.
I'm running neither but use similar systems and have handled/tried the LTs made from different years.
The LT will give you a broader range of wear, most especially with the current generation with different material sidepanels. It pairs very well with different shell and cover jackets, in part because it is so low-bulk. It's a very versatile bit of gear both as a standalone element and within a larger layering system. The LEAF LTs have definitely been getting optimized of late - i may grab one myself as they fall.more towards my needs. I believe the LEAF ones have a shorter hem length now.
The SV is warmer overall, still breathes extremely well as a synth fill layer, and has more overall coverage. If you work where it really gets cold, that increased depth and coverage may come into play.
No experience with the SV but a lot with LTs in North GA. It's pretty amazing the temp range it handles comfortably. Best jacket I've ever owned. An LT is all my son in AK/Anchorage area gets by with adding a layer here and a rain she'll over it there.
Gray222
11-14-2015, 07:07 PM
No experience with the SV but a lot with LTs in North GA. It's pretty amazing the temp range it handles comfortably. Best jacket I've ever owned. An LT is all my son in AK/Anchorage area gets by with adding a layer here and a rain she'll over it there.
Dang, that's good experience...how long has he had it and the range of temps?
Dang, that's good experience...how long has he had it and the range of temps?
Since Spring of 2013 up there. I just called him to check on temps. He said a flannel shirt, a fleece, the LT and his Mountain Hardware rain shell and he is good in the 15-20 ° range. He did remind me I'd given him a down coat from my WI days that he uses when the temps get down much further as was today at 0°. I'd forgotten about that.
When his older brother and I took a class from Hackathorn in TN a couple years ago temps dropped into the 20's, and he was comfortable with a base layer, light fleece and the LT. It's so compressible he tucked it in to wear the OWB holster to make it easier to manage drills. I didn't own one at that time but got one right after that after seeing that.
Might be more than you are looking for, but this is the single best jacket I own, the Fission SL. My wife and I have used them for five years in Alaska and the western US.
http://arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=Mens&category=Insulated_Jackets&model=Fission-SL-Jacket
Sent from my iPhone
One other note on sizes. The 1st Gen LT is what all of us have. I'm not very large framed but still have size large. It fits fine and I can layer under it. Had I got a med, it would have been limited to either over a shirt or as a mid layer. Most coats I'd probably wear a Med. Try before you buy size wize.
Might be more than you are looking for, but this is the single best jacket I own, the Fission SL. My wife and I have used them for five years in Alaska and the western US.
http://arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=Mens&category=Insulated_Jackets&model=Fission-SL-Jacket
Sent from my iPhone
WANT!!!!!
Waterproof to boot.
Gray222
11-15-2015, 01:47 AM
Might be more than you are looking for, but this is the single best jacket I own, the Fission SL. My wife and I have used them for five years in Alaska and the western US.
http://arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=Mens&category=Insulated_Jackets&model=Fission-SL-Jacket
Sent from my iPhone
Thats a seriously awesome jacket. Unfortunately the coldest it gets here is around 10f and thats once in a while. This is more of a jacket when i cant wear my bravo.
@jhc thanks for the input. My bravo is a large and its too tight to put anything under, i might have to get an xl.
Edwin
11-15-2015, 02:33 AM
It's threads like this that make me curse my corporate overlords for not letting use my employee discount on the LEAF line.
HopetonBrown
11-15-2015, 03:04 AM
My outdoorsy range jackets are an Atom LT, Bravo and a Triple Aught Design Ranger hoodie.
The Atom LT gets worn the most, and the Bravo the least. I want to get another Atom LT. I saw TAD had a similar looking jacket (http://store.tripleaughtdesign.com/Equilibrium-Jacket) last time I was at their shop, might try that instead. Made in USA vs Asia, too.
taadski
11-15-2015, 12:07 PM
I don't have much experience with the SV but the Atom LT is one of the most versatile garments I've come across. It's my goto mid-weight garment for a wide range of activities and I use them extensively all four seasons (I live at 9000', so our summer nights can get cool). They've proven themselves in my eyes to the extent that 3 years ago I purchased 40+ of them as issue garments for our Search and Rescue Team (to go along with a hard shell layer).
When comparing them directly to some of the other synthetic insulated mid-weight garments of this type; Patagonia's puffball (and I suspect the SV) as an example, the LT offers slightly less pure insulation value. However I've found them MUCH more appropriate for active use as they breathe better, dry more quickly, are thinner/lighter, etc... For those familiar, they perform similarly in that regard to the newer Patagonia Nano Air technology, but with notably better wind breaking performance (and incidentally, notably better durability).
As an aside, our Patrol Commander, after getting to play with one of the team jackets, directed me to order another batch to patch up and demo as an additional patrol garment option. That was a couple years ago and they've worked out very well in that role also and have become an addition to our other issued outerwear.
I quite literally live in mine. :p
t
DamonL
11-15-2015, 12:30 PM
I have an Atom LT no hood and Atom AR. Civvy version of what you are looking at. An Atom LT and hard shell will give you the most versatility. Both Atoms are intended as a mid layer with different insulation values, light and heavy. The side panels of the LT breath and make the jacket comfortable over a wide temp range. It also lets wind in. The SV does not have stretch fleece side panels like the LT. I would recommend trying the LT first and layering with a hardshell. If that doesn't do it then get the SV. The LT can still be layered under the SV for really cold days. The jackets are athletic fit because they are a mid layer. I got a size up to accommodate wearing stuff on my belt like my cell phone.
Maple Syrup Actual
11-15-2015, 12:31 PM
I wear a gen2 Alpha for everything and I don't find it bothersome at all. My previous jacket was a Stinger AR, which I think would be roughly analogous to the LT, and while it was lighter, it still covered me for pretty much any conditions.
I don't think there's a wrong choice here. I guess the SV might have the edge in durability, that would be the main difference.
DamonL
11-15-2015, 06:26 PM
I think the Alpha and Stinger are hardshells.
If the fit of the Atom does not work, you can also look at the Patagonia Nanopuff or Down Sweater. They have a more relaxed fit and are light and mid weight jackets. They make you look like a Whole Foods shopping, Starbucks swilling yuppie, too. It's like Tactical camouflage.
Gray222
11-15-2015, 07:36 PM
I think the Alpha and Stinger are hardshells.
If the fit of the Atom does not work, you can also look at the Patagonia Nanopuff or Down Sweater. They have a more relaxed fit and are light and mid weight jackets. They make you look like a Whole Foods shopping, Starbucks swilling yuppie, too. It's like Tactical camouflage.
I wont buy anything patagonia, ethically bankrupt companies do not get my money.
taadski
11-15-2015, 08:28 PM
Patagonia...ethically bankrupt companies do not get my money.
I'd be interested in hearing what gives you this perspective.
Gray222
11-15-2015, 09:19 PM
I'd be interested in hearing what gives you this perspective.
Quick google shows me this:
http://www.canyoncountryzephyr.com/blog/2013/08/02/in-the-who-knew-department-patagonia-its-military-contracts/
Patagonia has made clothing for SOCOM for a long time, may not anymore but did for more than 8 years.
http://www.patagonia.com/us/patagonia.go?assetid=2927
Per their own website they directly contribute to anti-hunting and anti-firearms companies (without posting exactly which ones). So they are using MIL contract money to further their anti-american agenda.
There is a little bit more to it, but I cannot substantiate with a google search and posting such information would be an issue.
So take it with a grain of salt, but like Dick's sporting goods, they can all burn in their anti-2a / anti-american hell together.
Per their own website they directly contribute to anti-hunting and anti-firearms companies (without posting exactly which ones). So they are using MIL contract money to further their anti-american agenda.
Can you provide a direct link to where they directly contribute to anti-hunting and anti-firearms companies?
taadski
11-15-2015, 10:07 PM
I'm very interested in that also. I just spent the last 45 minutes reading through all the info I could find on their site (including your links) and haven't come up with anything indicating either. Perhaps I'm a dolt and somehow missed it?
I've had both. I only own the SV now. I live in southeast GA, and even here the winter gets a little too cold for the LT. The LT is not very windproof, and does not hold it's own without good layering. The SV is very windproof, and can be worn with only a tshirt underneath and be totally fine.
The LT, IMO, is better for fall, whereas the SV is totally fine for fall in most places, may be a but warm in some, and is definitely great for winter. Unless you are wanting to get a LEAF discount, you can buy a regular SV without velcro.
Let me know if you have any specific questions.
Maple Syrup Actual
11-15-2015, 11:34 PM
I think the Alpha and Stinger are hardshells.
If the fit of the Atom does not work, you can also look at the Patagonia Nanopuff or Down Sweater. They have a more relaxed fit and are light and mid weight jackets. They make you look like a Whole Foods shopping, Starbucks swilling yuppie, too. It's like Tactical camouflage.
Oh, sorry - I totally relied on my faulty memory regarding the Atom and didn't even click the supplied link.
Up1911Fan
11-16-2015, 12:24 AM
I have an LT and really like it, paired with a good hardshell ( mine is a Marmot), it makes a pretty versatile combo.
Cookie Monster
11-16-2015, 02:08 AM
Can you provide a direct link to where they directly contribute to anti-hunting and anti-firearms companies?
Patagonia is definitely a company that supports environmental causes that maybe be considered on the radical side of things, there are a ton of non profits that they help out. Maybe some of the big wilderness ones and ocean advocacy couple be viewed as anti hunting, etc. They list on their website all the non-profits they donate to.
I got a fair amount of Patagucci and it works well. Despite all their good works most of their stuff is made in China so I have moved away from their gear. I met Yvon once, crazy neat dude.
/thread jacketing
Gray222
11-16-2015, 05:59 AM
Again, this was info i got from those in the know, and i doubt there will be an easily connectable article found online.
Moving on, this will be a leaf purchase.
orionz06
11-16-2015, 06:59 AM
TAD Gear?
Gray222
11-16-2015, 08:08 AM
TAD Gear?
Not tad fan
runcible
11-16-2015, 08:10 AM
Patagucci may have donated kit to the Occupy crowd, and regularly advocates for working through the process to lawfully take down dams and whatnot; but while one individual in particular has since left TAD Gear, the company proudly supported a designated terrorist organization, and then defended same in a long and rambling essay that can easily be Googled.
Not tad fan
I have been wearing this jacket in Alaska the last two or three years, and for 30-60F recreating in difficult weather, it is my single favorite technical jacket:
http://store.tripleaughtdesign.com/Stealth-Hoodie-LT
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg251/GJMandes/image_zpsu2oztkck.jpeg (http://s250.photobucket.com/user/GJMandes/media/image_zpsu2oztkck.jpeg.html)
Patagucci may have donated kit to the Occupy crowd, and regularly advocates for working through the process to lawfully take down dams and whatnot; but while one individual in particular has since left TAD Gear, the company proudly supported a designated terrorist organization, and then defended same in a long and rambling essay that can easily be Googled.
Patagonia makes a lot of equipment for the military, it is not often advertised. They make excellent gear.
runcible
11-16-2015, 09:43 AM
Patagonia makes a lot of equipment for the military, it is not often advertised. They make excellent gear.
Yes, they do, as was mentioned earlier; it's good stuff. Why did you direct that remark towards me?
Yes, they do, as was mentioned earlier; it's good stuff. Why did you direct that remark towards me?
Sorry, was not directed at you, clicked the wrong reply button from my phone.
runcible
11-16-2015, 01:43 PM
I gotcha dude! I wasn't sure if I missed some nuance.
Gray222
11-16-2015, 04:05 PM
Went to REI today to try on the Atom LT Hoody to see what size I needed. Good thing I did because if I ordered a large, like my Bravo, it would have sucked something serious. I ended up trying on an XXL, which fit awesome and apparently they were having some sort of sale, ticket price was $150 for the Atom LT Hoody and after I used my dividend and a gift card I only paid $24 out of pocket.
Score!
Congrats on the purchase. I use the LEAF Atom LT hoody as my winter jacket in Virginia. I was going to warn you that the LEAF Atoms are much looser than the civilian versions, which are closer to shrink-wrap. Thinking about trying an Atom AR this year for additional warmth when inactive.
Gray222
11-17-2015, 08:52 AM
Congrats on the purchase. I use the LEAF Atom LT hoody as my winter jacket in Virginia. I was going to warn you that the LEAF Atoms are much looser than the civilian versions, which are closer to shrink-wrap. Thinking about trying an Atom AR this year for additional warmth when inactive.
I knew this to be an issue with previous purchases, hence why I made sure to check the size before I committed.
JodyH
11-17-2015, 05:49 PM
The additional insulation is something I want, I prefer standalone systems.
Now I have to go REI and see how it sizes before I order one.
I just ordered me one from REI, $150... nice!
I love me some "shrink wrap" Arc'Teryx, only clothes that actually fit my long, skinny ass.
I just ordered me one from REI, $150... nice!
I love me some "shrink wrap" Arc'Teryx, only clothes that actually fit my long, skinny ass.
Great price -- I bought my wife one for retail there a month ago. What color did you get? I have a brownish one I have been wearing for a few years.
Selfie:
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg251/GJMandes/image_zpsc98iy6vd.jpeg (http://s250.photobucket.com/user/GJMandes/media/image_zpsc98iy6vd.jpeg.html)
Black LT for town, crocodile LEAF LT for range and field.
JodyH
11-17-2015, 07:44 PM
Great price -- I bought my wife one for retail there a month ago. What color did you get? I have a brownish one I have been wearing for a few years.
If you're a REI member call them up and they'll usually refund you the difference.
I bought a black, I wanted the carbon but they were out of my size.
Gray222
11-17-2015, 08:23 PM
Happy to help people get a deal on good kit.
I think i'll wear this one out and see how it works this winter. If it does what I want I'll keep it, if not, I'll review it and pass along the savings, I'll get a LEAF of the SV or something.
Gray222
09-16-2017, 06:57 PM
Bringing this thread back.
Seeing people talk about their dead bird jackets in the "expensive don't regret buying thread" and I want to drop some cash on an alpha. I think. I love my LT hoody and it does the job really well.
Suggestions?
jc000
09-16-2017, 07:14 PM
Bringing this thread back.
Seeing people talk about their dead bird jackets in the "expensive don't regret buying thread" and I want to drop some cash on an alpha. I think. I love my LT hoody and it does the job really well.
Suggestions?
If you're considering the SV, I'd suggest not doing so. I run hot as it is, but IMO our east coast winters get too humid for that level of Gore Tex. I have an alpha LT which is great, but I don't think they make it any more. If I was to get an alpha shell today I'd consider the SL but that's because I'd primary be using it for aerobic activities.
If you're considering the SV, I'd suggest not doing so. I run hot as it is, but IMO our east coast winters get too humid for that level of Gore Tex. I have an alpha LT which is great, but I don't think they make it any more. If I was to get an alpha shell today I'd consider the SL but that's because I'd primary be using it for aerobic activities.
Don't make the LT??? That's hideous. I loaned my LEAF LT out to someone for their trip to AFG and thought I'd get another this Fall. Dammit!
jc000
09-16-2017, 07:41 PM
I just looked at the site. I think they only do the LT for LEAF now?
Gray222
09-16-2017, 07:52 PM
Oh yeah, I'm gana go with a leaf option if possible.
DamonL
09-16-2017, 10:47 PM
I think you have to decide between Goretex paclite or Goretex pro. The Alpha SV is Pro and the SL is paclite. I don't care for paclite. I prefer the sturdier SV. The pockets are meant to be accessed across the body, which is a little different.
Jeff S.
10-29-2017, 04:44 PM
I have a Naga hoody that I love, so I've been debating between getting an Atom LT or a Cold WX Hoody LT. (It seems the Atom SV has been discontinued on the LEAF side).
I decided on the WX Cold LT, but while researching I found a great review of the Atom LT, and somebody asked about the difference between the Atom LT and Atom SV. FWIW, the gentleman doing the review and answering the question is using the gear to ice climb at elevation, so his answer doesn't reflect how most of us use these light jackets.
http://coldthistle.blogspot.com/2011/02/arcteryx-atom-lt-hoodyjust-how-good-is.html
Question:
"Hi Dane,
It may be a little late to ask for your input from an older post; however, I'm in the market for a new jacket and I like your comments on the Arcteryx Atom LT Hoody. I also looked at the Atom SV Hoody (I only looked at both jackets on the internet). Do you know the difference between the two jackets? Is there any advantage of using the Atom SV in cold, damp conditions over the Atom LT?
The reason I ask these questions, I will be climbing in Vermont (Lake Willoughby) and New Hampshire for five weeks this winter, between January and February and I want a jacket that will perform in cold, and sometimes windy, and damp northeast conditions.
Thanks in advance for any help or advice you can give me.
Larry"
Answer:
"Larry, the Atom Lt is truly just a sweater. The Atom SV is an excellent mid weight belay jacket made to layer over the Atom Lt. Sounds like you want the SV...reviews here on both just use the search function."
Gray222
10-29-2017, 07:22 PM
Still been considering an alpha, decided to get a kuiu super down jacket instead.
DamonL
11-04-2017, 07:43 AM
Still been considering an alpha, decided to get a kuiu super down jacket instead.
The Alpha SV uses a heavier face fabric than the LT so it should be sturdier. The LT uses a lighter face fabric to cut weight. I think both use Goretex Pro. Alpha's are expedition fit so are cut looser for layering. Arcteryx uses trim fit, athletic/standard fit, and expedition fit. I bought an Alpha to go over a puffy down coat.
I use the Beta AR as an everday jacket. If you don't know already, Arcteryx uses SV to stand for Severe, AR for All Around, and LT for Light, SL for Super light.
Moontrail and Sierra Trading Post sometimes have good deals if you can find your size and a color you like.
DamonL
11-04-2017, 08:05 AM
I have a Naga hoody that I love, so I've been debating between getting an Atom LT or a Cold WX Hoody LT. (It seems the Atom SV has been discontinued on the LEAF side).
As much as I am an Arcteryx fan boy, I like down jackets versus synthetic in general. Over years of use, down will maintain its loft better. I like the Atom LT because it is so versatile. Sweater weight jackets are really versatile.
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