Luckily, both Proton and Atom jackets come in different fits and designs, allowing people with different tastes to select the best one for their needs.įor instance, Proton jackets have a narrow and snug fit. Fitting & DesignĪ jacket could offer all the features in the world, but it would still not be a good buy if it doesn’t fit snuggly. These two features blend perfectly to offer the right level of comfort without exposing you to harsh winds. Although it might successfully keep you comfortable during the most strenuous physical activities, it’ll almost always allow winter winds to pierce through the material.Ītom LT is breathable but not permeable to air. As discussed in the previous point, Proton LT is extremely permeable to air, bringing down its efficiency in resisting wind. Atom jackets are sturdy but not as resilient to abrasion and damage as Proton.Ītom has the upper hand in wind protection. Proton is abrasion resistant, so even if you fall or scratch your jacket against a rough surface, the material will remain intact. If you’re planning to wear it every day for intense physical activity, your jacket should be durable and wind-resistant to last the entire season.Īs far as resilience and durability are concerned, Proton LT takes the lead on Atom jackets. Durability and Wind ResistanceĬhoosing a compatible and insulating jacket is not enough. Simply put, if you’re going to engage in a high-intensity physical activity that can spike your body temperature or make you sweat profusely, stick to a Proton LT jacket. Atom LT, on the other hand, is comfortable and breathable, but it lags in air permeability and circulation. Its independent, mid-layer piece is permeable to air, making Proton LT winter wear even more comfortable. When it comes to comfort and breathability, Proton LT has a slight edge over Atom. It’ll keep your body temperature from getting out of hand and allow enough air circulation to prevent sweat build-up. This is important for winter wear, especially those used in winter sports. Looking for more winter outfits? Click here. The difference in concentration of Coreloft compact is what determines insulation efficiency.

This material consists of a thick layer of polyester which traps body heat and prevents heat loss. Proton LT uses 80 grams of Coreloft compact per square meter, whereas Atom LT only contains 60 gm per square meter.Ĭoreloft is a special type of synthetic insulation material designed by Arcteryx, especially for their Proton and Atom winter range. The difference in insulation efficiency has its roots in the constitution of the Coreloft Compact. If you just want to hit your nearest park for a quick ride, an Atom LT will suffice. Proton jackets are comparatively warmer than Atom jackets, so when it comes to insulation, your requirements will determine which of these is a better match for you.įor example, if you’re hitting chilly terrains on your next snowboarding trip, go for a Proton LT jacket. To make it easier for you to understand the difference between these two popular types of winter wear, we’ve created a feature-based comparison: Insulation Efficiency

Arcteryx Proton vs Atom: What’s the Difference?

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