Arc'teryx Jacket Sizing Guide: How to Get the Right Fit Every Time

Getting the right size Arc'teryx jacket can be tricky — especially if you're buying from the outlet and can't try it on first.

But here's the good news: once you understand how Arc'teryx sizing works, it's actually very consistent. Once you know your size in one Arc'teryx jacket, you can confidently buy other Arc'teryx jackets in the same size.

In this guide, I'll break down everything you need to know about Arc'teryx jacket sizing — fit types, measurements, layering, and how to make sure you get it right.

Step 1: Know Your Measurements

Before you buy anything, measure yourself. This is the most important step.

You need three measurements:

Chest (Most Important)

• •Measure around the fullest part of your chest
• •Keep the tape level and snug (not tight)
• •Don't puff out your chest — just breathe normally

Waist

• •Measure around your natural waistline (above your belly button)
• •Keep the tape snug but not tight

Sleeve Length

• •Measure from the center of your back, across your shoulder, down to your wrist
• •Or: measure from the armpit seam of a jacket that fits you well, down to the cuff

Pro tip: If you don't have a measuring tape, use a piece of string and then measure it with a ruler.

Step 2: Understand Arc'teryx Fit Types

Arc'teryx uses three main fit types. This is the key to understanding how a jacket will fit.

Regular Fit

• •Most common — used on most Arc'teryx jackets
• •True to size for most people
• •Room for a base layer + light midlayer
• •Examples: Beta LT, Atom LT, Solano, Cerium LT

Buy your normal size.

Athletic Fit

• •Trim, close-to-body cut
• •Less room for layering
• •Designed for technical activities
• •Examples: Alpha SV, Alpha FL

Size up if you're between sizes or want to layer thicker midlayers.

Relaxed Fit

• •Roomier, more casual cut
• •Extra room for layering
• •Designed for comfort
• •Examples: Some casual pieces

You might be able to size down, depending on preference.

Step 3: Check the Size Chart

Every Arc'teryx product page has a size chart. Use it.

Here's how to read it:

1. 1Find your chest measurement on the chart
2. 2Find your waist measurement
3. 3Choose the size that matches your largest measurement

Example: If your chest is 40" (Medium) and your waist is 33" (Medium), get a Medium.

If you're between sizes: Size up for layering room, size down for a trimmer fit.

Men's Arc'teryx Size Chart

Women's Arc'teryx Size Chart

Layering: The Key to Getting It Right

The biggest sizing mistake people make is not considering what they'll wear underneath.

Shell Jackets (Beta, Alpha, etc.)

Shell jackets are designed to fit over layers. When sizing a shell, think about:

Light layering (most common):

• •Base layer (t-shirt or long-sleeve)
• •Light midlayer (Atom LT, fleece)
• •→ Your normal size works

Heavy layering (winter):

• •Base layer
• •Heavy midlayer (down jacket, heavy fleece)
• •→ Consider sizing up

Minimal layering (summer):

• •Just a t-shirt
• •→ Your normal size, or size down for a trimmer fit

Midlayers (Atom, Cerium, Gamma, etc.)

Midlayers are designed to fit closer to the body. When sizing a midlayer:

• •Under a shell: Your normal size
• •As a standalone: Your normal size, or size down if you prefer a trim fit
• •Over thick base layers: Your normal size

Common Sizing Questions

"Do Arc'teryx jackets run small?"

No. Arc'teryx is true to size for most people. If anything, their sleeves tend to run slightly long — but that's intentional, for range of motion.

"Should I size up for a shell?"

Only if you plan on wearing thick midlayers. For normal layering (base layer + light midlayer), your normal size is fine.

"Are men's and women's sizes different?"

Yes. Men's and women's jackets have different cuts. Women's jackets are designed for a different body shape — don't buy a men's jacket if you're a woman (and vice versa), unless you've tried it on first.

"What if I'm between sizes?"

Size up. It's always better to have a little extra room than to be too tight. You can always adjust the fit with the hem drawcord and cuff velcro.

"Can I return an outlet item if it doesn't fit?"

Yes. Returns from the official Arc'teryx outlet are free. But it's still faster and easier to get the right size the first time.

Sizing Tips for Outlet Shopping

1. 1Measure yourself before ordering — don't guess
2. 2Check the size chart for the specific product
3. 3Know the fit type (Regular, Athletic, Relaxed) — it affects sizing
4. 4Consider your layering plan — what will you wear underneath?
5. 5Popular sizes sell out fast — if your size is available, grab it
6. 6Returns are free — but getting it right the first time is better

Final Tips

• •Arc'teryx sizing is consistent — once you know your size, you can buy with confidence
• •When in doubt, size up — especially for shells
• •Measurements matter — don't rely on "I usually wear a Medium"
• •Layering matters — think about what you'll wear underneath
• •Sleeves are supposed to be long — that's for range of motion, not a sizing error

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