Rab Xenon vs Arcteryx Atom LT Hoody

I'm trying to decide between these two jackets. I have read a lot of reviews on each, but am wondering if someone who has experience with both can give me their thoughts.

The most important features for me are:
1. Durability
2. Mobility (I am primarily looking for something that fits trim in the torso and arms)

I'll mostly use it as an action suit top when doing some winter hiking, snowshoeing/trail skiing or late-fall/early-spring cragging.

Thanks in advance.

I love my Atom LT Hoody! It's super light/comfortable and seems to be much warmer then other jackets of the same weight. The jacket is a trim fit but somewhat shorter at the waist making it tough to keep under a harness. I have never worn the Rab Xenon but do love my Rab gear; mostly for the simple fact that it's not common amongst the "yuppies" like Arcteryx is becoming. In my opinion I'd get the Atom but I don't see how going for a Rab product would disappoint either.

The atom lt is an insulated piece designed for movement in cold temperatures, while the xenon is a designed as an insulation piece, but not necessarily an active insulation piece. Theyre both incredible pieces, just for slightly different uses. Dane at coldthistle has written much about this stuff:

coldthistle.blogspot.com/20…

coldthistle.blogspot.com/20…

This is a very good review on layering that includes the Atom LT for reference.

cascadeclimbers.com/synthet…

Jonathan123 wrote: The most important features for me are: 1. Durability 2. Mobility

Thanks guys for the links.

Nate was spot on, "The atom lt is an insulated piece designed for movement in cold temperatures, while the xenon is a designed as an insulation piece".

I have used both.
Totally different garments as Nate said previous. One is windproof of sorts the other made to breath freely.

But by your requirements the Atom LT (the breathable one) has a more durable shell material and it offers some stretch. Xenon does not.

Everyone, thank you for your responses! This is exactly what I was looking for. All of the reviews I had read placed both in the same category . . . good to know that isn't necessarily the case.

Looks like the Atom is the one for me!