Arro Jacket – Performance
Don’t mistake the bargain £25 price-tag for cheap and cheerful. Alpkit keeps its overheads down by selling direct rather than through retailers, so as a rule, you get more for your money than you might expect.
We found the Arro an effective and reasonably light windproof shell for running and cycling with a more robust feel than ultra-lightweight alternatives. The cut is slim-ish, though not as fitted as some, and it may get flappy if you’re race whippet built, but for ‘normal’ outdoors folk, it’s a happy sort of medium.
We did find it slightly sweatier than some, notably the (far more expensive) Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody with its under-arm mesh panels, but you can let off steam via the main-zip and by rolling the sleeves part-way up your forearms if you do get too hot.
And if things get really warm, just stash it in its pocket to give an orange-sized package with clip-loop. That packet’s a bit rattly for keys or phone, we found, but fine for a bar and an emergency fiver.
As with most windproofs, the Arro also gives a degree of water resistance helped by the DWR – water repellent – treatment. It won’t keep you dry in anything other than light rain, but the increased breathability over a waterproof means it generally feels more comfortable regardless.
Verdict
Don’t get too hung up on the affordable price-tag, the Arro’s good enough to merit consideration full stop. It’s reasonably light and packable, the Nylon fabric feels durable and it has a good balance of comfort and protection from wind and rain.
Just a good, no-nonsense, fast-moving windproof and, yes, at a great price. It’s also available in a women’s-specific version, same colours and features, female-friendly cut.
More Information
See www.alpkit.com/products/arro-mens
