The Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody is a softshell jacket designed for mountain activities like hiking, climbing, and alpine travel. Constructed from durable Fortius DW 2.0 stretch-woven nylon, it offers excellent mobility and rugged abrasion resistance against rough rock scrambles. The jacket excels in breathability, using mesh-lined pockets to vent excess heat during high-output pursuits. With an adjustable hood and dual Napoleon chest pockets, it’s a versatile four-season layer for backcountry conditions.

• Type: Softshell hoody
• Gender: Men’s (Women’s available)
• Pockets: 4 (2 chest, 2 side pockets – all zippered)
• Hood: Helmet-compatible, rear volume adjustment and front brim
• Materials: Stretch-woven nylon, center zip
• Weight: Men’s Large – 17.2 oz
• Fit: Relaxed (roomy)

The Gamma Hoody’s greatest strength is comfort during activity. The fabric has enough elasticity for hiking, scrambling, backpacking, and everyday movement without feeling restrictive. Reaching overhead, carrying a pack, or using trekking poles feels natural, thanks to the jacket’s articulated patterning and athletic cut. The material is also relatively quiet compared with many hardshell fabrics.

Breathability is another strong point. During moderate activity, the Gamma Hoody is less clammy than a waterproof jacket, and the stretch fabric helps regulate comfort as conditions change. It can still feel warm during hard uphill efforts, particularly in mild weather, but that is expected from a wind-resistant softshell. Wearing a lightweight base layer underneath or a Polartec Alpha Direct hoody broadens its comfort range in colder conditions. It may be all you need down to 20-30 degrees in winter weather.

The Gamma Hoody has two Napoleon chest pockets large enough for a phone, bars, or maps

Storage is particularly useful with four zippered pockets: two side hand pockets and two Napoleon-style chest pockets. The latter stay accessible when wearing a backpack and keep a phone, map, or food bars within easy reach. I rely on front pockets like these for winter hiking myself.  The side hand pockets are mesh-lined, but the chest pockets aren’t, though the mesh lining continues up the sides of the jacket under the shoulders.

The outer fabric is tough without being excessively heavy. It handles contact with rock, branches, and rough backpack straps better than lightweight windbreakers. The fabric also offers solid wind resistance, keeping the jacket comfortable on exposed ridgelines or in the forest when autumn leaves are down. The weather protection is good, but it doesn’t replace a waterproof shell or rain jacket.

The side hand pockets are mesh-lined, but the chest pockets aren’t, though the mesh lining continues up the sides of the jacket under the shoulders

The hood has a rear volume adjustment and a front brim that accommodates a helmet but also works well over a billed cap. The cuffs are gathered but not adjustable, while dual hem controls help seal out drafts

Recommendation

The Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody is an excellent all-purpose softshell. It offers dependable wind protection, strong mobility, and long-term durability in a clean, comfortable design. It is best suited to active outdoor use in cool, variable weather. If you need a waterproof jacket or substantial insulation, look elsewhere; if you want one durable layer for hiking, climbing, travel, and daily wear, the Gamma Hoody is a compelling choice. I’m not a fan of this salmon color, though!

Disclosure: Arc’teryx donated a jacket for review.

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