Arc’teryx’s Delta Jacket is an ultralight fleece fabricated from Octa Fleece, one of many newer, high-tech fleeces to hit the market prior to now couple of years. The identify comes from the octopus-like weaving which creates air gaps, which assist lure heat whereas additionally permitting moisture to flee. It is highly regarded with cottage business ultralight manufacturers, however Arc’teryx adopted it for the 2025 revamp of the corporate’s common Delta fleece jacket.
I hesitated to place this jacket on this information as a result of, whereas I prefer it as an ultralight mid layer for summer time journeys, there may be an older, heavier model of the Delta jacket. Judging by the indignant opinions on Arc’teryx’s web site, it was highly regarded. This jacket is one thing else solely, however disgruntled followers of the older model apart, this can be a nice mid layer for summer time journeys, particularly when paired with a solar shirt hoodie. At 8.5 oz for this, and 6 oz for a solar hoodie just like the one from Kuiu under, you’ve got a combo that permits a number of layering choices and nonetheless weighs lower than many extra common grid fleece choices. My solely gripe is that style was, um, not considered within the design of this jacket. One person assessment on the Arc’teryx website likens it to Mr. Roger’s sweater, which is about proper. However hey, it is mild, it is purposeful—who cares about style within the backcountry?
