Customer Reviews Arc'teryx Nuclei FL Jacket

Bought this as an alternative to a down jacket for use in wet weather or on multi-day trips where synthetic insulation is less risky. I typically wear a Small, but this jacket feels at least one full size bigger than my older Arcteryx kit, and the fit/shaping is not as nice. It's somehow both long and boxy. I didn't size down as I want to be able to easily throw it on as an outer shell to keep warm when making quick stops, and it still works as a midlayer as it compresses quite well. The fit (except for the very long sleeves) definitely feels like a casual lifestyle jacket rather than cut for a sports/performance use case. The fabric is surprisingly breathable, so I can wear it for low-intensity bike rides without overheating, and the warmth to weight makes it a great option for sleeping on ultralight camping trips. I really miss having an easy access chest pocket, but apart from that, it's fit for purpose and holding up really well so far. I'm also getting a lot of compliments on the very bright orange-red colour which I begrudgingly bought as it was the only colourway in stock at the time...

You describe this piece as trim fitting. In your trim fit, I am usually an XS. I just received this jacket and the XS runs VERY large. I am able to fit it over a long sleeve base layer, a Kyanite jacket and a Beta goretex jacket and I still have room. I also see that the model above is 5'10" and wearing a size SMALL. I am wondering if you are re-sizing your clothing? Hope not, since as a small person, your lines have been reliable in sizing and one of the only real options out there for me.

I would be interested to know how this new Nuclei FL compares to the Nuclei of 3-4 years ago. Is it a lighter weight? Newer technology? My older model was comparable in warmth to the Atom LT but more packable. Less breathable than the Atom LT.