www.arcteryx.com, 15.3 ounces
Yes, we love gear. Most of our testers have a jacket to accommodate  any condition, broken down in five-degree increments. But we also adore products that prove invaluable in all conditions—like the newly redesigned Beta AR hard shell from Arc’Teryx. It just gets everything right, from the hip-length hem for added protection to the helmet-compatible hood to generous pit zips to waterproof zip pockets high enough to accommodate a waist belt or harness. Waterproofness and breathability comes from Gore-Tex’s  three-layer Pro Shell fabric treatment (the toughest they make), but the shell is near-cotton soft, with reinforced shoulders and elbows to endure countless alpine abrasions.  One-hand adjustment for all draw cords make customizing a breeze, but with articulated joints and Arc’Teryx’s hard-earned rep for perfectly-fitting apparel, you’re covered the moment you first put on the jacket.  The cut is generous enough to work as an outer layer in colder climes, but you won’t feel like you’re swimming in fabric if you go with just a base layer—and its packability serves day and multi-day outings with stash-it-and-forget-in ease. At $450, the price is dear, but the Beta AR jacket works in damn near any condition that requires weather protection.