Arcteryx Theta AR Pro Shell (2009)

I'm extremely disappointed that Arcteryx are now making these in China by exploiting the cheap labor and poor environmental manufacturing standards but have not lowered the price tags (in fact the price tag for the Theta increased over the recent years to $499+).
As a company Arcteryx gets low marks for their recent activities, however the Theta AR gets high marks for keeping its quality, style and function that made it's CANADIAN-MADE preceding models popular.
I've been using my Pro Shell Theta since the first weekend in January and I've come to love it more than my other jackets.
Giving the Theta an "AR" grade is utter nonsense. I find this jacket to be perfect for "SV" grade rugged alpine acents and ice climbing. It wears well with a harness and NEVER rides or bunches up during climbs. The paper thin shell is very durable and rugged and the hood and draft collar will keep out any summit storm.
(I almost went for the thicker skinned Alpha SV, but paying $599 and only getting two color choices from a jacket that is now made in China is preposterous.)
ONLINE SHOPPERS NOTE: The much loved sleeve zippered pocket on the Theta AR is now gone for the Pro shell model. Also the hood doesn't tuck away and the main front zipper is now one-way and lacks the two-way belay zip found on the previous Canadian-Made model. Also the fit is very very very roomy; at 5'8" 150lbs I normally wear a Medium, but I found the small in this Theta AR to fit much better with plenty space under to layer with a Patagonia MicroPuff Jacket.
Which brings me to say, the Pro Shell Theta Ar is not worth $499!!! Because of the trimming down of features and the move to China I wouldn't pay more that $349 for this jacket (if that much). So wait for the end-of-season sales to come and you won't be disappointed or get the Canadian-Made XCR Models from last year that are now on sale for very cheap at local retailers.
China-made Pro Shell or not its still a great Alpine jacket!

I have had this jacket for about three years and love it. I have only had a couple of hard shells and this is the best one I have found. It's a bit pricy but worth every penny. Just dont baby it, it is a bomb proof jacket and it can take a pounding.

Very nice jacket. Kinda pricey, but watch for sales or buy used. I love the indigo color.

Got this thing on pro form, the only way I could even come close to afford it, and have used it several times.

The standard quality that is achieved by Gore Pro Shell is again, the standard. That doesn't mean it's worth $150 retail more than other companies equivalents that include their personal blend of Gore. I'm a big fan of the Patagucci items, and have found their H2No to be comparable to Gore.

If the dead bird on the clothing is worth the extra money and peace of mind, go for it, otherwise you're just as well off to save some money and go for another reputable brand's equivalent.

This is my favorite piece of performance outerwear. I wear it cycling in the summer during downpours, and in the winter as my outer shell. Super versatile from summer cycling and hiking rain gear to winter to ice climbing outerwear.

This jacket is always in my gear set.