Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Comfortable and Versatile

Abbey Gottinger

Lately I have been reaching for the Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody $350 more frequently as I head out the door. It is a no brainer that I bring it to the mountains for my snowshoeing adventures (more to come on that), but I have recently been wearing it to walk our dog in high 30- low 40-degree weather.

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody Review

The lightness of the jacket paired with its four-way stretch material allows me to move easily and its GORE-TEX Infinium material makes it a perfect blend for chilly walks without feeling too cumbersome and bundle up. 

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

I’ve also had the opportunity to wear the Acteryx Proton Hybrid Hoody on some snowshoeing adventures. The first hike was a straight trail without much incline. The type of hike you do not overheat much since is not too strenuous. It was about 30 degrees and lightly snowing. 

I was considering bringing a slightly heavier jacket, but in the end just wore the Proton Hybrid Hoody with a long sleeve shirt underneath. It ended up being the perfect combination of layers. It was breezy, but the Proton Hybrid Hoody delivered with its water resistant, wind repelling material.

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

The hood fit well over my hat keeping my neck warm and protected from the wind and snow. The ties to tighten the hood are in the back instead of the front, which at first, I found odd but realized that it didn’t block my view or make the hood feel too tight around my face. The ends of the sleeves are fitted yet have some elastic stretch and fit well over my mittens, sealing off my wrists to keep them warm. 

I also wore the Proton Hybrid Hoody on a much different hike in the backcountry. My husband and I went off trail and ended up hiking up some steep terrain with a lot of snow. We were in the trees for most of the hike and at times sunk knee deep into the snow even with snowshoes.

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

I was almost sure I would overheat and need to stop and delayer, but the Proton Hybrid Hoody had enough airflow that I did not overheat as we climbed, nor did I get cold when I stopped in the shade of the trees. I also appreciate the front pockets with zippers. I can fit my phone comfortably as well some snacks without worrying about them falling out.  The chest zipper pocket is nice as well as I like to keep my ID and insurance card on me (just in case). 

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

We did a hike a few weeks ago and the weather got up to the high 40s. I did end up delayering on this hike but was able to fit the Proton Hybrid Hoody very easily in my small day pack due to its lightweight, non-bulky material. 

On the way up to this hike, my water bottle exploded due to the change in altitude and soaked part of the Proton Hybrid Hoody – within 20 minutes it had dried and by the time we reached the trailhead there was no sign of moisture.

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

The Proton Hybrid Hoody has been an amazing addition to my winter wardrobe. The thing I have enjoyed most about it is the freedom I have to move freely without feeling bundled up or restricted and minimizing the need to stop and adjust my layers constantly (my husband and dog appreciate this as well).

I highly recommend the Proton Hybrid Hoody if you are serious about moving well and comfortably in the backcountry (or like to walk your dog). It is windproof, breathable, light weight, wind resistant, and versatile. I am 5’5” and usually wear between a small and a medium. My Proton Hybrid Hoody is a medium and I find that is the perfect size to be able to fit some layers below. Go get yours! 

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoody – Abbey Gottinger of Engearment.com

Abbey Gottinger

Abbey Gottinger

Abbey Gottinger

Health and strength motivate Abbey in all areas of her life. When not exploring, Abbey is probably in her backyard swinging kettlebells or teaching others how to.

Abbey Gottinger

She wears many hats, working in the field of instructional design as a certified StrongFirst Level II Kettlebell Instructor and as the editor of StrongFirst’s online journal.

The more Abbey adventures, the more she recognizes the importance of quality gear. Gear can make the difference between blisters and a sore back and the memory of an epic adventure.

Abbey Gottinger