Outbound Reviewed: ​Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody

Getting cold is the worst but bringing too much bulk can also be a hassle making it tempting to leave some of your layers at home. As an avid outdoor adventurer I am on a never-ending quest to find the best value when it comes to warmth, weight, and space, and the Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody proved itself to be not only optimal--but essential--in the Yukon interior. I used this hoody every minute it wasn’t raining, from campfire chats to windy glacial hikes.

First, the Cerium SL stays true to its word and packs down incredibly small. I have had down jackets in the past and have been impressed with their size, but the Cerium SL puts all others I have owned to shame. It was never a question as to whether I would be packing my hoody with me for the trail, no matter how full my daypack already was!

Additionally, this hoody is incredibly well-balanced. It is spacious where it needs to be, and packed with feather down where it’s most important. The sizing seems to run a little larger in the midsection, making it perfect for multiple layers underneath, which I appreciate. It has front pockets but it otherwise takes a minimalist approach when it comes to zipper details. All of the bulk from this hoody comes from the 850 goose down filling, with generous amounts packed into the hood, core, and wrist areas for exceptional warmth.

In a relatively harsh weather environment I was impressed with the durability of the Cerium SL under any relatively dry condition. The zippers held up well to silt sand beaches and the Arc’teryx ultra lightweight nylon shell material was a worthy adversary against wind. The elastic pull in the back also made it easy to adjust the hood to just the right tightness if a breeze came through.

After the Cerium SL, I’m (happily) ruined on all other down jackets. It’s an investment piece worth making!