The Proton AR Hoody is an all-rounder, as happy on the fell as it is in a ski resort. It can be worn as a softshell outer layer or as a mid-layer under a waterproof shell and is built with an Arc'teryx Coreloft synthetic fill and a water resistant and breathable outer.
This is a fairly warm mid-layer with the fill running all over the jacket rather than being interspersed with fabric stretch panels.
The feeling of breathability suffers a little as a result but you'll be glad of the warmth when you're at the top lift station in a gale.
The 90g/m2 and 65g/m2 of synthetic fill (depending on area of jacket) insulates the core well, with insulation also running around the helmet compatible hood and in the hand pockets for complete, all-over protection from the cold.
The Fortius outer material blocks wind out and acts as a barrier to light rainfall thanks to a water repellent treatment.
The inner material doesn't feel great next to the skin but aside from that the Proton AR is a comfortable thing to wear, with good articulation around the elbows and underarms.
The cut is athletic, which is ideal for retaining as much warmth as possible, and when combined with a decent baselayer and waterproof shell you feel cosseted and warm.
Looks are subjective of course but in our opinion this is one of the better looking mid-layers out there in the subtle Nautic Grey colour on test. We'd certainly feel happy wearing it around resort of an evening after a hard day on the slopes.
Insulated jackets are creeping up in price so the £210 price tag of the Proton AR hoody is not unusual among its peers and the price is warranted by good build quality and attention to detail as well as decent performance in use.
Overall, the Proton AR is a versatile jacket that would suit anyone looking for a durable multi-activity cold weather mid-layer.
