Archaeopteryx Lithographica, the original animal to develop feathers for flight,inspired the name Arcteryx. This title was chosen because the outdoor apparel company sees itself as a brand that has broken free from the constraints of traditional outdoor gear, much like the Jurassic creature that freed itself from the horizontal norm. So, it was in 1989 that Arcteryx first took flight out of Vancouver, BC.

Founders Dave Lane and Jeremy Guard originally specialized in climbing equipment. It was their Vapor harness that first earned them a following. Now, Arcteryx still designs and produces top-of-the-line harnesses like the lightweight, breathable R-275 LT, but they have also expanded their product line to include an extensive collection of outdoor gear.

Arcteryx achieves their advantage by meshing unparalleled designs with the highest quality, best performing materials and assembling everything using the most innovative and durable manner for specified usage, like the anatomically superior Alpha SV Jacketwith intense waterproofing and GORE-TEX technology.

For Arcteryx, it all begins with the design. Each product is specifically engineered to surpass the needs of demanding athletes. 100% freedom of movement is guaranteed using activity-specific patterning as each product is scrutinized with the utmost detail for intended end-use. For example, their Alpha LT Jacket features the one-handed Speed Hood system, WaterTite pockets, heat transfer labels, and of course, all the waterproofing and breathability an adventurer could ever desire.

Materials have equal importance in the manufacturing of Arcteryx equipment. They work closely with their textile people to select and develop the best performing, most durable materials in the world in order to maximize quality in all products. The Women’s Sentinel Pant is a prime specimen of amazing materials as it sports Gore-Tex waterproofing, a super effective light insulation, and a flexible fabric to enhance mobility.

Finally, Arc'Teryx also takes an immense amount of pride in their construction. They are one of the few USA clothing brands and online at www.arcteryx.com in the outdoor industry to have a domestic manufacturing facility. This enables the company to enhance proprietary developmental processes, which allows for the efficient creation of superior features that competitive outdoor clothing manufacturers can’t touch. The Altra 65 backpack exhibits all the qualities that prove on-site manufacturing is unbeatable. Progressive traits of the Altra 65 outdoor backpack include Advanced Composite suspension configuration, the HydroPort, pivoting hipbelt complete with Load Transfer Disc, and GridLock adjustable pack shoulder straps.

The company has a forward thinking environmental philosophy as well. They strive to improve stewardship and minimize their carbon footprint by constantly evaluating their process and consistently implementing new strategies to become more efficient and less damaging to the world we love to enjoy. It is the dedication and tireless pursuit by the brand to produce the highest quality of products and waterproof Arcteryx jackets, which allows us to take full advantage of every beautiful outdoor experience this world has to offer.

If you're looking for Arcteryx in Portland, Oregon be sure to drop by our retail store. Here at the shop, our staff could be considered Arcteryx fanatics. We love their gear and have dedicated an entire line of Arcteryx videos to the brand. Click here to check out the Alpha SL Jacket Video!