Staff Picks – Arc’teryx Nuclei FL

Arc’teryx have redesigned their classic Nuclei jacket for this spring. The old version was a firm favorite belay jacket among american big wall climbers thanks to its durability and windproofing.

Available in Mens and Womens, the updated version is designed as a lightweight belay jacket for Alpine and big rock routes in warmer conditions when chilly winds come in and strip all your hard earned body heat. Made from a windproof 10 denier Arato outer fabric that has a very smooth feel, the Nuclei is filled with a thin layer of Coreloft insulation. Coreloft is Arc’teryx’s own version of primaloft sheet style synthetic insulation. On top of standard hand warmer pockets there’s also two large internal dump pockets. You don’t usually see these on such a lightweight jacket but they are a nice addition for storing gloves. They are the perfect size for a climbing shoe each too so you can keep your super tight shoes warm while belaying.

Weighing just 325g in medium its incredibly light for its warmth, and most importantly packs down small enough to clip to the back of your harness. In classic North American / Canadian style Arc’teryx have produced loads of sunny big wall marketing for the Nuclei but its actually the perfect jacket for climbing and mountaineering in the UK.

As a synthetic insulated jacket the Nuclei will keep you warm in the wind and when those unexpected light showers roll in mid-route on a mountain crag. During spring and early summer it may be warm down in the valley but you can guarantee you’ll be shivering higher up on the crag. The Nuclei is light enough to always go in the pack, and you’ll be glad of it on windy summits or long belay sessions when your partner wants ‘just one more go’ at the crux.

The wind proofing does come to the slight detriment of breath-ability, but this jacket isn’t designed to be worn all day long, just when you are static. If you want a wear all day jacket look at the Proton LT instead.

Earn £12.00 Rewards credit when you purchase your Nuclei FL from facewest.co.uk

Arc’teryx Nuclei FL Jacket Features

  • Arato 10r Ripstop Nylon
  • Coreloft Continuous 65, 65g per meter square insulation
  • 2 zipped hand warmer pockets
  • 2 internal dump pockets
  • Adjustable hem

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