OK I'd will admit I wish the collar was higher". Still not a big fan of the SV's fashion styling ( still undecided if I like the collar/hood design or not). For a climbing parka and really cold dry occasions (think of missing the Tram mid winter on the Midi) my impression is you can do better for warmth and weight (short of snow cave living) by going to one of the better down jackets intended for the same use. But I find it hard to justify the price when compared to the other two. The Fission SL (fully water proof Goretex as well) is a great climbing jacket for warmth and weight. And would now just for the extra protection. Goretex was not something I bought the SV for however. Never needed Goretex frankly other than rain gear but have found the water proof layer really nice when it has been needed here. And if you don't need fully taped and water proof Goretex. Although feature to feature IMO the Kappa is a better buy if it is warm enough for you. Kappa is a taped Goretex product but not warrantied to be water "proof". If you really need a cold weather jacket the SV is worth the extra price compared to the Kappa for warmth IMO. Not seen a warmer jacket that can take a real beating (day in and day out on the ski hill or in the barn) and still do the job just as well at the end of the Season as the beginning. I now know why you see this jacket on a lot of full time ski instructors in the Rocky Mtn States. The double chest pockets are handier if required. The SV is slightly longer, sheds wind much better than the other two and because of both the length and wind resistance, it is noticeably warmer. Mind you both of those Arcteryx jackets are really good cold weather pieces! But this is an honest comparison made by wearing all three day after day of multiple sub zero weeks this winter. The Fission SL, the "go to" hard core winter climbing coat, wasn't up to the task when the wind started blowing -25F any time of day. The Kappa, a trusted friend for winter climbing in the Alps and Canada wasn't warm enough most days early and late. Going on 60 days at or below freezing now. One of the coldest winters on record here. Comprised of a high tenacity 30 denier nylon fabric laminated to a 2.7 ounce continuous fibre fill insulation which is then completely immersed in DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment.A life style new to me, but for the last 6 months I've been getting up just prior to dawn, rain, shine or snow to feed livestock for the last 6 months. Two hand pockets with laminated zippers.Two hand pockets with WaterTight™ zippers.Floating hem drawcord provides a snug closure.Die-cut Velcro® cuff adjusters reduce bulk, and won't catch or tear off.Laminated die-cut Velcro® cuff adjusters reduce bulk, and won't catch or tear off.WaterTight™ full separating Vislon two-way front zip.Corded zipper-pulls reduce noise and are easy to grab.Laminated pit zippers allow for faster venting.Integrated fitted collar panel for added warmth and comfort.Chin guard with brushed microsuede facing for added comfort.Insulated, helmet compatible StormHood™.Athletic fit for a slimmer more flattering profile.Laminated ThermaTek™ non-quilted construction eliminates cold spots.Smooth inner face-fabric allows for easy layering.Micro-seam allowance (1.6 mm) reduces bulk and weight.DWR finish (Durable Water Repellent) helps repel water from fabric surface.Often this is the at base camp or sitting out a storm piece, so we've included two zippered hand pockets, two internal mesh dump pockets, WaterTight™ Vislon centre front zipper, and an invaluable hem drawcord that allows you to really bunker down and have what you need at the ready. The insulated StormHood™ takes care of wind and storms with a fully secure, helmet compatible shelter. Pit zips let you vent heat rapidly, extending usability on cold days. There are times when you're working hard but you can't or don't want to remove your insulation. The result is evenly distributed warmth that can stand up to anything. GORE-TEX® full storm weather protection is teamed up with our exclusive laminated ThermaTek™ non-quilted insulation. The Fission SL is our lightest, fully waterproof, insulated jacket that is outstanding in cold wet weather. Serious mountain travel requires an insulated piece with exceptional warmth-to-weight value.
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