Arc'teryx Psiphon SL Pullover
This stretchy, minimalist softshell is ultracomfortable for all-day wear and allows for unrestricted motion.
Brand: Arc'Teryx Gear Reviews
Model: Psiphon SL Pullover
Mobility
The Psiphon’s generous stretch (85 percent nylon for durability and 15 percent elastane) let us reach and twist with no binding in the arms and shoulders. Bonus: Small foam inserts on the hem physically block the shell from pulling out of a harness.
Breathability
Superb. We never overheated, even while climbing 5.10 on Arizona’s Mt. Lemmon in 60°F temps or while hiking a loop in Colorado’s Golden Gate State Park that was so hilly and steep we passed mountain bikers pushing their rides.
Features
Testers loved the single-pull-adjustable, ultralight nylon hood, which fit nicely both under and over a climbing helmet. Kudos also went to the gusseted elastic cuffs, which cling closely to the wrist.
Protection
It adds breathable cover in gusty weather from the low 30s to low 70s, but it’s definitely not a hardshell. If it rains, you need more.
Fit
The very slim cut made this shell somewhat difficult to pull on and off despite a long chest zip (testers said it felt comfortable once on). Consider going up a size if you prefer a looser fit.
Packability
The Psiphon smushes to softball size.