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Arc'teryx Caliber Hoody - Women's Review

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arc'teryx caliber hoody for women fleece jacket review
Arc'teryx Caliber Hoody - Women's
Credit: Arc'teryx
Price:  $149 List
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Manufacturer:   Arc'teryx
By McKenzie Long ⋅ Senior Review Editor  ⋅  Feb 14, 2013
71
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Warmth - 25% 5.0
  • Comfort and Coziness - 20% 5.0
  • Breathability - 15% 10.0
  • Layering Ability - 15% 10.0
  • Ease of Movement - 10% 10.0
  • Style - 5% 7.0
  • Wind Protection - 5% 3.0
  • Water Resistance - 5% 6.0

Our Verdict

The Arc'teryx Caliber Hoody - Women's is an excellent technical, lightweight layer that packs down well and is moderately priced. It is not a thick and cozy fleece, but is perfect for high intensity activities. Similar in function to our Top Pick winner, the Patagonia R1 Hood -Women's, it is extremely versatile and the easiest to pack along on an adventure as an extra layer. It is lighter and smaller than the Patagonia R2, plus it has a tight-fititng hood and is less expensive. If you prefer a thick, warm and cozy fleece, go with something like the Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T Pullover or the Marmot Flair Hoody.
REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight
Breathable
Scuba hood
REASONS TO AVOID
Not the warmest mid-layer

Our Analysis and Test Results

Performance Comparison


arc'teryx caliber hoody for women fleece jacket review - this is the most lightweight fleece in this review. it is also a...
This is the most lightweight fleece in this review. It is also a really breathable fleece, which makes it great for running or hiking. The Scuba hood is one of its best features.
Credit: McKenzie

Warmth


It also has the snug scuba hood which stays on your head well, even when bouncing around on a jog, and keeps warmth in.

Comfort & Coziness


This would not be the warmest or coziest fleece option. The thinness and lightness of this fleece add to its functionality, but do not make this the go-to fleece when you want to snuggle up in something warm.

Breathability


This fleece functions well when running or participating in other aerobic activities. It is breathable, moisture-wicking and tight-fitting, so it works well in activities that involve lots of movement and sweating. The pockets are mesh-lined, so you can leave them unzipped for even more airflow.

Layering Ability & Ease of Movement


The Arc'teryx Caliber is one of the lightest fleeces reviewed. It is thin and excellent for stuffing in a pack and carrying as an extra layer.

Best Application


This fleece is made for high heart rate activities such as running, or as an extra layer to throw in your climbing pack. Since it is thin and form-fitting, it fits well under a climbing harness and was comfortable to wear under other layers.

Value


The Caliber Hoody is middle-of-the-road in terms of price, and if you are looking for a technical fleece, this is well worth the cost.

Other Versions


TheCaliber Cardigan, $150, is perfect for high intensity activities and is a great option for a lightweight fleece for running or to bring with you in the mountains.

McKenzie Long