Columbia Watertight II Jacket vs Arc'teryx Atom SL Hoody

The Watertight II is a true rain shell: fully seam-sealed Omni-Tech nylon with a storm hood, and it packs into its own pocket. The Atom SL is a featherweight insulated layer, not a rain jacket — its 40gsm Coreloft and airy Fortius face fabric cut wind and add light warmth but won't keep you dry in steady rain. Buy the Columbia for wet-weather hiking on a budget; buy the Arc'teryx if you want a packable, breathable midlayer for cool, dry days. Owners rate the Columbia highly (4.7 from over 1,400 ratings) for value; Arc'teryx buyers pay for lighter weight, better tailoring and a more refined fit.

• Choose the Columbia Watertight II if you need a packable, fully waterproof shell for rain and hiking and want the most protection for the money.
• Choose the Arc'teryx Atom SL Hoody if you want a very light, breathable insulated layer for cool dry conditions and care more about fit and weight than rain protection.