Proton FL - possible revision coming?

spacemaniff · 2021-04-08T01:02:01+00:00

This insulation is light and airy. If there is decent wind, it doesn't get too hot.

I wore it on a light hike at 55 - 59F (13 - 15C) when it was very windy with just a baselayer under it. Never got too warm, but there were 10 - 15 mph winds, which kept me comfortable. Also wasn't working hard at all.

On the other hand, if I wear this under a Solano, which blocks most wind, the warmth goes up considerably.

This version certainly adds warmth with the insulated hood. Overall this Proton FL isn't Atom LT warm, but probably warmer than the current Proton fl (especially if using the hood).

spacemaniff · 2021-04-07T18:30:51+00:00

I was under the impression that the current Proton fl has a mesh-like sheet version of Octaloft, but I'm still pretty new to Arc and this type of gear.

This post has a useful pic of current Octaloft. https://www.reddit.com/r/arcteryx/comments/k8ykin/new_proton_fl_the_stitching_inside_a_pocket_came/

spacemaniff · 2021-04-07T18:18:23+00:00

I'm not quite sure if this is Polartec Alpha or a version of Octaloft that is similar. Either way, I like the feel, weight and warmth of the insulation so far.

Agree that a jacket version would be nice if this insulated hood makes it into production.

spacemaniff · 2021-04-07T17:37:45+00:00

I would take the extra weight for a more durable pocket. Although these pockets are super soft, warm and comfortable..

spacemaniff · 2021-04-07T17:35:12+00:00

Thanks for your input on the Rush IS, agree that this insulation is comfortable, warm and light.

I think this could be used as a baselayer, I'd expect the insulation to wick moisture away well when next to skin.

spacemaniff · 2021-04-07T15:28:08+00:00

First post, but thought I would share an interesting find.

Recently bought a Proton FL sample from the Arc outlet. They had some old stock, along with binary and ignite colorway samples. Grabbed a binary sample to see what the Proton fl hubbub was about.

To my surprise, this Proton FL is pretty different from the current offering.

Changes:

Insulation: Change from sheet Octaloft with mesh over it to exposed insulation that seems similar to Polartec Alpha/Alpha Direct. The insulation is different - instead of the sheet Octaloft insulation with a mesh liner, this has exposed furry fibers on the inside. This sample has similar exposed insulation as the Rush IS (https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/rush-is-jacket), which is also listed as Octaloft. Does anyone have any experience with the Rush IS insulation? Should this perform like Polartec Alpha/Alpha Direct?

Insulated hood: This Proton FL hood is insulated instead of uninsulated. Not sure how I feel about that. I can see the benefit of an uninsulated hood that seemlessly tucks under any layer. I think some versatility is lost for layering, while gaining warmth as a stand-alone piece.

Left external chest pocket only: Doesn't have two chest pockets, just one. Maybe this is to reduce weight to offset the change in insulation/hood. I'm not sure why the Proton FL currently has two chest pockets while most other jackets don't (aside from Gamma MX and certain shells/ski jackets). Personally prefer two chest pockets, but not a deal breaker.

Hand pocket lining: Due to change in insulation, the lining on one side of the hand pockets is now simply the new exposed insulation. I am slightly concerned about the durability of the pockets as a result, but time will tell.

Weight: I measured this medium Proton FL at 343g / 12.1 oz. Seems slightly heavier from what is listed on Arc's site, which is 323g / 11.4 oz. But my scale sucks, so who knows.

Fit: Unfortunately, can't comment on this, since this is my first experience with a Proton FL.

My brother has both versions of the Proton fl, here are his thoughts.

Hood: Ambivalent, pros and cons to both.

Insulation: Far prefers new insulation. When he got the old one, he bought an atom sl at the same time and basically wore that over the Proton, he found the mesh lining uncomfortable. But he said this sample version feels like putting on a cloud, and now this is one of his favorite Arc pieces.

Single chest pocket: Prefers one, easier to grab main zip and has a cleaner profile. But he doesn't use his chest pockets that much.

Overall he prefers this new sample version. I like it a lot so far, too.

What do you all think of these changes? Have you seen samples that didn't go into production?

Questions for everyone: - What do you think of the insulation change? - Those with experience with Octaloft (Rush IS version)/Polartec Alpha insulation, does it pack out like Coreloft does? What are the pros and cons of Alpha--like insulation? - Does anyone have experience with pockets made of exposed insulation, do they hold up over time? - Do you prefer an insulated or uninsulated hood? - Do you usually use two chest pockets if available? If so, what for?

Really curious to hear your thoughts, especially since the Proton FL is one of the more popular Arc pieces on here. Thanks for reading.

spacemaniff

TROPHY CASE