Paul is always willing to go the extra mile. We did ask him to turn his trousers inside out too to complete the look, but this was apparently a step too far...
Thanks for watching! The Gamma is another superb bit of kit, but how many jackets is too many? Is it like bikes where the equation is N+1 (where N = new)?
Yep, I have one of these. Really great piece, when I outgrew it, I got the Arc'teryx Proton FL. It serves a similar function, except the fabric is much tougher than the Atom SL.
Probably the most comfortable garment I have worn. Gives you a great big hug when you put it on for the first time. Thanks Paul, I purchased this on your recommendations. Thank you
I’ve owned an atom SL for about three years. Have not intention or need to buy another. Still watched the whole video though! Totally agree with review and would definitely buy another in the future.
I have my atom sl now since 1.5 years and i absolutely love it. I wear it all the time when hiking and mounteneering. Its so breathable and windstopping. If you layer correctly its perfect for every season
Thanks for your great reviews.👍🏻 I‘ve got one SL jacket and I can completely agree with you. I use this jacket for hiking, daily use and mountaineering. It’s really amazing how versatile it is, you can wear it on summer evenings when it gets a bit colder and I already worn it while climbing over 4000m at freezing conditions with a fleece and a long arm baselayer underneath. Great piece of garment!!
It's actually my favourite 'Atom' piece, which is really saying something, as the LT is a masterpiece. But I'm like you Paul, I consider the SL to be just so versatile. It's crazy. The best way to think if it is like a very lightly insulated Soft Shell. Which is perfect for the UK, as our wind levels are so high that tiny bit of extra warmth is very welcome almost always. It's incredible. Super lightweight. Super comfortable. Super breathable. Amazing quality. Every UK hiker should have one, in my view.
Any chance you´re gonna do a video on the new revised model of atom sl that was released a few weeks ago :)? Thanks for making such amazing and well informed videos/reviews :D!!!
@@trekitt thanks for the quick reply. That’s what I thought. In those temps I wear a Patagonia mid weight Cap. with a T shirt or LS top and I’m fine. It’s all urban running so I can easily maintain 8min mile pace/5min km and I’m warm enough. Reluctant to spend big bucks on a jacket that sits in a wardrobe 300+ days a year and end up just wearing it around town.
The atom sl jacket first came out in 1996. I bought one then and love it. Any changes to its design since then? I saw a discounted one and I consider buying one more if there are improvements to the original design. Thanks.
What an excellent review! How does the Atom SL compare to the Proton FL in terms of warmth? The Proton seems to be more abrasion resistant and breathable but I couldn't find a g/m2 info about the weight of insulation.
It depends on windspeed as to which will be warmer. The Proton is air-permeable (will allow wind through), making it far more breathable when moving quickly. The Atom's main fabric is wind-resistant, so it's more suitable when moving a little slower. In still conditions, the Proton will probably be marginally warmer, but when the wind picks up I assume they'd be pretty similar.
Great review as usual. I was about to buy the Atom LT for my bicycle touring (starting March 2021) after watching your recent Review on the LT. You seemed to be very very positive about it. But now you are similarly positive about the Atom SL, but I still think that the LT might be better for me, because it is probably more 'robust' and with more insulation compared to the SL. Would you agree? (note: the 100 gram difference in weight is not a problem when I cycle for several months: I'm not in a hurry)
It's completely dependant on how much warmth you need. Personally, I've owned both the LT and SL at the same time and use both depending on the time of year. Will you be riding in the jacket or is it something to pop on when stationary? For riding (at least in the UK) the SL makes more sense. Kind regards, Harry.
Would be great to have your measured in international units. Weight stones? Which stones? Jk, but yeah. Love your videos, got an atom lt thanks to your reviews.
Hi Manuel, I'm afraid that I'm a bit old school when it comes to units. However, Harry does put up an image on the video showing imperial and metric. Thanks for watching. Paul.
Would you recommend the Atom SL or the Gamma SL for use for hiking on warm spring and summer days (in the morning when it's still a bit chilly) ? :) Edit: or the Rab Borealis?
Hi Patrick. Any of the jackets that you’ve listed will work for hiking on those chilly mornings. The Atom is probably the warmest, whilst the Borealis is the lightest. I have both the Atom and the Borealis, and usually use the Atom when it’s chilly and the Borealis of I’m working a bit harder. I hope that helps. Paul.
What are your thoughts on The Arc’teryx Thorium AR? I just purchased that model but now i’m thinking of exchanging it for the Cerium SV. Thorium seems more robust but not as warm.
Hi, thanks for watching. The Cerium SV warmer than the Thorium. The Thorium has a tougher face fabric. It all depends on your intended use, to be honest there's little to choose between them and the Thorium is a great "all-round" jacket. Paul.
Great:) can you please tell me if the FJALRAVEN EXPEDITION PACK DOWN HOODIE M is waterproof? im looking for a nice casual insulated jacket do you have an idea?Greetz Nathan
It's not an item we stock unfortunately, but having had a look on Fjallraven's website I can tell you it's not waterproof. You'd be better off looking at something like the Rab Valiance if you're after a super warm, fully waterproof down jacket. I'll pop a link below. Kind regards, Harry. www.trekitt.co.uk/33918/products/rab-mens-valiance-jacket-black.aspx
The main difference is the Atom is insulated in the body and has fleece side panels, whereas the Borealis is uninsulated and uses the same fabric throughout. Both can be used in roughly the same circumstances, so it's just personal preference. Kind regards, Harry.
Gosh, that’s a tough one, they are very similar and perform well. Choice should therefore be determined by which fits the best. The Arcteryx is a slimmer fit. Thanks for watching. Paul.
Proton range is designed for high-output activities and the outer fabrics are air-permeable, whereas the Atom range is designed for slower moving activities and the outer fabrics are wind-resistant. SL = superlight, LT = Lightweight, AR = all-round, so the Atom SL is less insulated than the Proton LT. Kind regards, Harry.
The fabric on my LT got damaged on my back by using it with a backpack After a month. Arcteryx told me that the LT fabrics are not suited for backpack usage. really disappointing.
That's a shame. I had an Atom SL (in this exact colour) for about 3 years and never had that issue with rucksacks. Is it just cosmetic damage or has it physically ripped?
@@trekitt it didn‘t rip. It‘s more like the fabric crumbled/got pushed together. It looks like plastic that was placed near a fire :) Altough this normally doesnt get covered by their warranty, they will replace the jacket. I searched for something on their Website, which says not to use the jacket with a backpack but couldn‘t find anything.
@@theknowlodge8294 Yeah because I find my SL pretty good fitting. It's way better then the TNF Ventrix I've bought. That new LT tough ahhh ;) *tempting*
@@bikeinmotion - haha. Yes matey. I've tried to resist updating my LT but the new one has corrected very one of the very few reservations I had about it - the main one being the fit. The buggers. 😂🤦♂️
@@theknowlodge8294 Yeah.. And being a slim guy the Arc'teryx XS fit me well. I've chosen the TNF ventrix over the Atom LT some years ago but it's only in S and so boxy and lose
I'm afraid the Atom SL & LT are only available in Arc'teryx's 'trim' fit, but the AR features their 'regular' fit which is a bit roomier. Rab's VR Alpine Light is a good alternative to the Atom SL and is cut a little looser. Kind regards, Harry.
I had one for years and never had issues, but others with 60+ litre packs and abrasive shoulder straps did fray the material. I wouldn't like to give a yes or no answer, I'm afraid.
Hi Scotty, the colour I'm wearing in the video is Ladon - www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/arcteryx-mens-atom-sl-hoody-ladon__42082 Thanks for watching. Paul.
Hi Afet. That's a tough call as the jackets are aimed at totally different purposes. If I could only have one it would be the LT, as it is more versatile across a wider temperature range. The best option is to have both! Paul.
BOTH! Or even the Atom SL Anorak, the choice is wide. I suppose it all depends on whether you want that little bit of insulation offered by the Atom, or just the weather protection offered by the Squamish. Paul.
The Proton range is aimed at ultra-breathable warmth when moving quickly, whereas the Atom is designed for lower-intensity activities, which arguably makes it more versatile. I'd personally wear the Proton FL in autumn/winter when moving quickly and the Atom in spring/summer for more casual activities.
@@trekitt I body runs extremely hot all year long, so if that's the case, would the Proton FL be better in both summer/winter when performing activities? Or are there any advantages the Atom SL has that I'm missing?
If you run hot, you'll find it too warm during spring/summer unless at altitude or in a colder country. Ideally you'd want something like the Proton for active use in cold conditions and a super lightweight softshell (such as the Rab Borealis) for spring/summer use to keep the wind off.
What a legend this man is he even wore the jacket inside out to show the intricacies!
Paul is always willing to go the extra mile. We did ask him to turn his trousers inside out too to complete the look, but this was apparently a step too far...
Perfect jacket for the British weather, also worth a mention is the Gamma LT Hoody.
Excellent review as always.
Thanks for watching! The Gamma is another superb bit of kit, but how many jackets is too many? Is it like bikes where the equation is N+1 (where N = new)?
Outstanding review. I agree that turning the jacket inside out was masterful. Thanks for the detailed review!
No problem!
Yep, I have one of these. Really great piece, when I outgrew it, I got the Arc'teryx Proton FL. It serves a similar function, except the fabric is much tougher than the Atom SL.
The Proton FL is another firm Trekitt favourite!
Probably the most comfortable garment I have worn. Gives you a great big hug when you put it on for the first time. Thanks Paul, I purchased this on your recommendations. Thank you
Great to hear. I wear mine all the time as well. Harry
I’ve owned an atom SL for about three years. Have not intention or need to buy another. Still watched the whole video though! Totally agree with review and would definitely buy another in the future.
Nothing wrong with geeking out on a great bit of kit, thanks for watching. Paul.
I have my atom sl now since 1.5 years and i absolutely love it. I wear it all the time when hiking and mounteneering. Its so breathable and windstopping.
If you layer correctly its perfect for every season
Thanks for your great reviews.👍🏻
I‘ve got one SL jacket and I can completely agree with you. I use this jacket for hiking, daily use and mountaineering. It’s really amazing how versatile it is, you can wear it on summer evenings when it gets a bit colder and I already worn it while climbing over 4000m at freezing conditions with a fleece and a long arm baselayer underneath. Great piece of garment!!
Thanks for watching and for your comments. The Atom SL is indeed a hugely versatile bit of kit. Paul.
It's actually my favourite 'Atom' piece, which is really saying something, as the LT is a masterpiece.
But I'm like you Paul, I consider the SL to be just so versatile. It's crazy. The best way to think if it is like a very lightly insulated Soft Shell. Which is perfect for the UK, as our wind levels are so high that tiny bit of extra warmth is very welcome almost always.
It's incredible. Super lightweight. Super comfortable. Super breathable. Amazing quality. Every UK hiker should have one, in my view.
Great summary and I fully agree, everyone can benefit from owning one of these. Kind regards, Harry.
Thanks for the review.... adore your enthusiasm 😅
Very helpful video. You answered all my questions! 😄 Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Greetings from Los Angeles Amazing amazing review!!!
Hey, thanks!
Well, after watching this I think I’m going to have to purchase an Atom SL. I like the look of the new revised version with the stowaway hood! 👍🏻
Good choice! Thanks for watching. Paul
Thanks for this detailed information filled review!
No worries!
Any chance you´re gonna do a video on the new revised model of atom sl that was released a few weeks ago :)? Thanks for making such amazing and well informed videos/reviews :D!!!
We'll add it to the list!
Super informative video, thanks for
making it.
You're welcome, thanks for watching.
I also have atom sl,it’s a really wander jacket
Thanks for the video! Would you say it’s more your favorite over the Atom LT?
I'd say the LT is Trekitt's overall favourite insulated jacket, but the SL is a close second!
@@trekitt awesome! Thanks for the reply!
Hugely informative. Keep up the great work! Could you use this over a T shirt for running in 5-10C or would you overheat?
Ooh, that's a tricky one. It'd be borderline. Personally, I think I'd be too warm in still conditions, but we're all different warmth-wise. Harry
@@trekitt thanks for the quick reply. That’s what I thought. In those temps I wear a Patagonia mid weight Cap. with a T shirt or LS top and I’m fine. It’s all urban running so I can easily maintain 8min mile pace/5min km and I’m warm enough. Reluctant to spend big bucks on a jacket that sits in a wardrobe 300+ days a year and end up just wearing it around town.
What an outstanding jacket 🧥👍😊Thanks so much for the excellent 👌🏼 review 😊
The atom sl jacket first came out in 1996. I bought one then and love it. Any changes to its design since then? I saw a discounted one and I consider buying one more if there are improvements to the original design. Thanks.
What an excellent review! How does the Atom SL compare to the Proton FL in terms of warmth? The Proton seems to be more abrasion resistant and breathable but I couldn't find a g/m2 info about the weight of insulation.
It depends on windspeed as to which will be warmer. The Proton is air-permeable (will allow wind through), making it far more breathable when moving quickly. The Atom's main fabric is wind-resistant, so it's more suitable when moving a little slower. In still conditions, the Proton will probably be marginally warmer, but when the wind picks up I assume they'd be pretty similar.
@@trekitt Thank you very much! 👌
Great review as usual.
I was about to buy the Atom LT for my bicycle touring (starting March 2021) after watching your recent Review on the LT. You seemed to be very very positive about it. But now you are similarly positive about the Atom SL, but I still think that the LT might be better for me, because it is probably more 'robust' and with more insulation compared to the SL. Would you agree?
(note: the 100 gram difference in weight is not a problem when I cycle for several months: I'm not in a hurry)
It's completely dependant on how much warmth you need. Personally, I've owned both the LT and SL at the same time and use both depending on the time of year. Will you be riding in the jacket or is it something to pop on when stationary? For riding (at least in the UK) the SL makes more sense. Kind regards, Harry.
Would be great to have your measured in international units. Weight stones? Which stones? Jk, but yeah. Love your videos, got an atom lt thanks to your reviews.
Hi Manuel, I'm afraid that I'm a bit old school when it comes to units. However, Harry does put up an image on the video showing imperial and metric. Thanks for watching. Paul.
@@trekitt I actually realized that afterwards! My bad, thanks for the great reviews!
thank you for the review. Are you sure the jacket is windproof? I'm interested learning of it is highly wind resistant or actually windproof? Thanks
I'd say the actual fabric is highly wind resistant, but obviously the side panels aren't. Plus the stitching will allow wind through.
Would you recommend the Atom SL or the Gamma SL for use for hiking on warm spring and summer days (in the morning when it's still a bit chilly) ? :)
Edit: or the Rab Borealis?
Hi Patrick. Any of the jackets that you’ve listed will work for hiking on those chilly mornings. The Atom is probably the warmest, whilst the Borealis is the lightest. I have both the Atom and the Borealis, and usually use the Atom when it’s chilly and the Borealis of I’m working a bit harder. I hope that helps. Paul.
@@trekitt thank you!
What are your thoughts on The Arc’teryx Thorium AR? I just purchased that model but now i’m thinking of exchanging it for the Cerium SV. Thorium seems more robust but not as warm.
Hi, thanks for watching. The Cerium SV warmer than the Thorium. The Thorium has a tougher face fabric. It all depends on your intended use, to be honest there's little to choose between them and the Thorium is a great "all-round" jacket. Paul.
Thanks for another a great well informed video 👌Think I'll need to raid my piggy bank.
Hi Terry, keep saving, it's worth it! Paul
Nice video Paul. Has the jacket changed since your previous video posted 3 years ago?
Nope, still the same jacket, we just thought we'd do a better, more comprehensive video since we were doing the LT and AR anyway! Kind regards, Harry.
Great:) can you please tell me if the FJALRAVEN EXPEDITION PACK DOWN HOODIE M is waterproof? im looking for a nice casual insulated jacket do you have an idea?Greetz Nathan
It's not an item we stock unfortunately, but having had a look on Fjallraven's website I can tell you it's not waterproof. You'd be better off looking at something like the Rab Valiance if you're after a super warm, fully waterproof down jacket. I'll pop a link below. Kind regards, Harry.
www.trekitt.co.uk/33918/products/rab-mens-valiance-jacket-black.aspx
Casual, waterproof, insulated you say? I own the Arcteryx Camosun which ticks all the boxes - I can highly recommend it.
@@chrisp3330 Another good recommendation!
How does it compare against the Rab Borealis?
The main difference is the Atom is insulated in the body and has fleece side panels, whereas the Borealis is uninsulated and uses the same fabric throughout. Both can be used in roughly the same circumstances, so it's just personal preference. Kind regards, Harry.
@@trekitt Thank you for your reply Harry, I have 2 Rab Borealis jackets from you, I'll go for the Atom LT instead of an SL.
@@glennjudge1 interesting to see how your new jacket compares to the Borealis as I love that jacket.
I am torn between the rab vr alpine and the Atom sl hoody. Which one wins????
Gosh, that’s a tough one, they are very similar and perform well. Choice should therefore be determined by which fits the best. The Arcteryx is a slimmer fit. Thanks for watching. Paul.
@@trekitt tks for advice.
What is the difference between Arc'teryx Proton LT Hoody and this Atom SL Hoody ? they have toooo many jackets dont know what to buy lol
Proton range is designed for high-output activities and the outer fabrics are air-permeable, whereas the Atom range is designed for slower moving activities and the outer fabrics are wind-resistant. SL = superlight, LT = Lightweight, AR = all-round, so the Atom SL is less insulated than the Proton LT. Kind regards, Harry.
Thank you Lord, RIP Dad 3/18/2014
The fabric on my LT got damaged on my back by using it with a backpack After a month. Arcteryx told me that the LT fabrics are not suited for backpack usage. really disappointing.
That's a shame. I had an Atom SL (in this exact colour) for about 3 years and never had that issue with rucksacks. Is it just cosmetic damage or has it physically ripped?
@@trekitt it didn‘t rip. It‘s more like the fabric crumbled/got pushed together. It looks like plastic that was placed near a fire :)
Altough this normally doesnt get covered by their warranty, they will replace the jacket.
I searched for something on their Website, which says not to use the jacket with a backpack but couldn‘t find anything.
Have an LT, want an SL 😩
Have both!
They didn't change the Atom SL for 2020 or did they? The fit seems similar?
No. It's the same. They changed the LT / AR
@@theknowlodge8294 Yeah because I find my SL pretty good fitting. It's way better then the TNF Ventrix I've bought. That new LT tough ahhh ;) *tempting*
@@bikeinmotion - haha. Yes matey. I've tried to resist updating my LT but the new one has corrected very one of the very few reservations I had about it - the main one being the fit. The buggers. 😂🤦♂️
@@theknowlodge8294 Yeah.. And being a slim guy the Arc'teryx XS fit me well. I've chosen the TNF ventrix over the Atom LT some years ago but it's only in S and so boxy and lose
Same jacket, we just thought we'd do a better, more comprehensive video since we were filming the LT & AR anyway! Harry.
Do arcteryx do and ‘normal’ fit versions?
I'm afraid the Atom SL & LT are only available in Arc'teryx's 'trim' fit, but the AR features their 'regular' fit which is a bit roomier. Rab's VR Alpine Light is a good alternative to the Atom SL and is cut a little looser. Kind regards, Harry.
@@trekitt thank you, what are the main differences between the SL and AR?
@@RohanTheBT The AR is far warmer and doesn't have stretchy side panels. Much more of a warm winter jacket!
Would a multi day hike with a rucksack ruin this peice?
I had one for years and never had issues, but others with 60+ litre packs and abrasive shoulder straps did fray the material. I wouldn't like to give a yes or no answer, I'm afraid.
What colour is this? Thank you.
Hi Scotty, the colour I'm wearing in the video is Ladon - www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/jackets/arcteryx-mens-atom-sl-hoody-ladon__42082
Thanks for watching. Paul.
@@trekitt Thank you. Purchased!
wich one would you choose between atom LT and aton sl if u have an alpha sv in the closet already
Hi Afet. That's a tough call as the jackets are aimed at totally different purposes. If I could only have one it would be the LT, as it is more versatile across a wider temperature range. The best option is to have both! Paul.
Is it waterproof?
Nope, just water resistant. Far more breathable than a waterproof jacket though. Harry
Can I wear it as a waterproof jacket?
Nope, it's not waterproof!
This or the squamish hoody?
BOTH! Or even the Atom SL Anorak, the choice is wide. I suppose it all depends on whether you want that little bit of insulation offered by the Atom, or just the weather protection offered by the Squamish. Paul.
can it pack down into a pocket?
It's not a native feature of the jacket, but it will pack down into either one of the hand pockets, its own sleeve or the hood. Regards, Harry.
How does this compare to the Proton FL?
The Proton range is aimed at ultra-breathable warmth when moving quickly, whereas the Atom is designed for lower-intensity activities, which arguably makes it more versatile. I'd personally wear the Proton FL in autumn/winter when moving quickly and the Atom in spring/summer for more casual activities.
@@trekitt I body runs extremely hot all year long, so if that's the case, would the Proton FL be better in both summer/winter when performing activities? Or are there any advantages the Atom SL has that I'm missing?
If you run hot, you'll find it too warm during spring/summer unless at altitude or in a colder country. Ideally you'd want something like the Proton for active use in cold conditions and a super lightweight softshell (such as the Rab Borealis) for spring/summer use to keep the wind off.