WORDS BY JOSEPH FURNESS
Gorpcore, normcore and dadcore have been at the forefront – or should we say core – of fashion for the last few years, and Arc’teryx has welcomed tastemakers to its world of functional, frill-free outerwear with open arms. In 2019, Frank Ocean famously paired an Arc’teryx beanie with a sunny Mammut puffer. In 2020, Ye rocked a red Arc’teryx layer just a few months after his friend Virgil Abloh deconstructed the brand’s jackets for his Off-White FW20 womenswear show. And just last year, Travis Scott paired a dolphin-blue Arc’teryx jacket with a pair of powder-blue trousers created by the Canadian brand.
As fashion insiders, we’ve come to realise that although every up-to-the-minute individual is desperate to add a little Arc’teryx to their wardrobe – especially after all of the above-mentioned stars have been seen sporting the brand – many are unsure where to start. And, on top of that, very few know anything about the brand’s history. Relatable? We suggest you keep reading.
Arc’teryx: A Brief History
Arc’teryx (pronounced ‘arc’te’ricks’) has its origins in north Vancouver, Canada, where it began life in 1989. Originally named Rock Solid by its founder, passionate climber David Lane, it started life as a company specialising in climbing gear. Fundamentally, Lane intended to create better equipment than the unsatisfactory pieces on the market at the time. Just a year after Lane founded the brand, he recruited finance-savvy friend and fellow climber Jeremy Guard. The duo decided to rebrand to Arc’teryx – a name inspired by the first bird, the Archaeopteryx.
During the 1990s, Arc’teryx made a name for itself by using cutting-edge materials and techniques to produce everything from harnesses to waterproof outerwear. Most notably, the brand began to create climbing-appropriate jackets from GORE-TEX subsequent to obtaining a licence from science company W.L. Gore & Associates. The first line of jackets was released in 1998.
Following the turn of the new millennium, Arc’teryx’s unstoppable rise captured the attention of French sports equipment company Salomon. By December 2001, Arc’teryx signed a deal that led to Salomon acquiring the brand. Following the deal, Arc’teryx stores started to pop up, and functional dressers across the globe began to champion the brand. Now, millions rely on Arc’teryx’s collection of practical pieces.
Arc’teryx: Sizing Digest
Arc’teryx T-Shirt Sizing
A customer accustomed to slim-fit tops will likely suggest Arc’teryx’s selection of tees fit true to size; on the other hand, a customer who usually opts for a relaxed-fit tee will say they run small. In sum, Arc’teryx tees are best purchased in your true size, or the size above, depending on your preference.
Arc’teryx Trousers Sizing
Arc’teryx trousers come in all shapes and sizes, but as a rule of thumb, we’d suggest you choose your true size when purchasing bottoms. After all, baggy performance trousers are never a good look.
Arc’teryx Puffer Jacket Sizing
If you’re planning on wearing lighter layers under your Arc’teryx puffer jacket, you’re best off opting for your true size. However, if you’re someone who enjoys donning heavy hoodies under your puffer, you may want to consider opting for a size up.
Arc’teryx Lightweight Jacket Sizing
Arc’teryx’s esteemed line of lightweight jackets are made to fit true to size; but those who live in oversized layers may find it more comfortable to opt for a size up.
Arc’teryx: 2022 Hero Pieces
Arc’teryx Proton LT Zip-Up Jacket
Is it orange, or is it yellow? According to Arc’teryx, it’s ‘wildchild’. We guess it is a fitting name considering it’s one of the most vibrant shades the Canadian brand works with. Personally, we love how the colour adds an electric touch to the breathable Arc’teryx Proton jacket.
Arc’teryx Zeta Zip-Up Lightweight Jacket
Not a fan of the Proton silhouette, but feeling the wildchild hue? The Arc’teryx Zeta jacket is the one for you. This lightweight layer is a little more streamlined than the Proton; plus, it’s branded with the company name. Oh, how we love a low-key stunt.
Arc’teryx Zip-Up Lightweight Jacket
What's more normcore than a black half-zip sweater? Complete with a practical arm pocket located next to the embroidered logo, this polyester throw-on-and-go piece works with absolutely everything. Yes, everything.
Arc’teryx Long-Sleeved Wool-Blend T-Shirt
The Arc’teryx long-sleeved wool-blend tee is about as avant-garde as the brand gets. Sleek and chic, the base layer is ideal for everyday wear. What more is there to say?
Arc’teryx Atom Embroidered Logo Gilet
The Arc’teryx Atom gilet is here to make sure you can always add a dash of Arc’teryx to your ‘fit. Best in black, the water-resistant, wind-resistant layer is a super-sensible investment.
Arc’teryx Gamma AR Tapered Track Pants
Ever loved a pair of trousers so much that you wear them day in, day out? Well, that pretty much sums up how we feel about the Arc’teryx Gamma AR Tapered Track Pants. We wear ours to the gym, the mall and even the club.
Arc’teryx Cormac Logo T-Shirt
Thought we were finished talking about wildchild? Well, think again. This simple crew-neck tee is enhanced by the vibrant shade and the addition of the brand’s logo embroidered onto the chest.