Is the Macai warm enough without a midlayer?

Yes for most resort skiing. The goose down lining is designed to be worn as a single jacket on cold days; add a base layer and open the pit zips if you run hot.

Does the hood fit over a ski helmet?

Yes. The DropHood is helmet-compatible and removable, and the integrated collar covers the gap at the neck.

How does the latest Macai fit compared with older versions?

The latest version is roomier through the chest and has a regular cut, so skiers who sized up before can take their usual size.

Is it waterproof enough for wet snow?

Yes. It uses a 3L GORE-TEX ePE membrane with a DWR-treated face fabric, and the powder skirt and sealed seams keep snow out.

What is the RECCO reflector for?

It helps organized rescue teams locate you with a detector in an avalanche, though it is not a substitute for a transceiver.

Can I use it for backcountry touring?

It works for cold, low-output days, but the down insulation makes it heavy and warm for sustained climbs; an uninsulated shell suits touring better.

Where is the Arc'teryx Macai Shell Jacket Men's cheapest?

At evo.com, for $450.00, 40% off, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Arc'teryx Macai Shell Jacket Men's?

3 stores we checked sell it, including evo.com, Powder7 Ski Shop, eBay.

Arc'teryx Macai Shell Jacket Men's Price History: 40% Off at evo.com

What reviewers say

Skiers rate the Macai highly for warmth, weather protection and build quality, and many wear it as their only jacket on cold resort days. The main complaints are that it can get too warm on hard laps and that the price is steep.

What people mention

WarmthPraisedOwners say the down lining keeps them comfortable on cold resort days without an extra midlayer.
Weather protectionPraisedSkiers report staying dry in wet snow thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane and DWR finish.
Hood and collarPraisedThe removable DropHood fits over a helmet and the integrated collar seals out wind and snow.
Heat buildupCriticisedSome skiers find it too warm on hard laps or when touring, even with the pit zips open.
ValueMixedBuyers call it well made but pricey compared with other insulated ski jackets.
FitMixedThe roomier latest cut suits layering but feels loose on slimmer frames.

From evo.com

N80p-X 3L GORE-TEX face fabric with DWR finish repels moisture
GORE-TEX ePE waterproof and breathable membrane, PFC free
Removable helmet-compatible DropHood™ with integrated collar
RECCO® reflector aids search and rescue
Pit zippers for venting
Integrated powder skirt

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Materials: N80p-X 3L GORE-TEX: 100% Nylon; GORE-TEX ePE membrane; flannel backer lining
Fit: Regular Fit: cut comfortably throughout the chest, waist, hip, and thigh; allows freedom of movement and layers comfortably
Guarantee: Limited Lifetime warranty
Returns: 366 Day Return Policy
Shipping: Free shipping on orders over a minimum; shipping options available

About the Arc'teryx Macai Shell Jacket Men's

The Macai Shell Jacket is a men's ski jacket for winter sports. It has a 3-layer N80p-X GORE-TEX face fabric with a DWR finish that repels moisture. The GORE-TEX ePE membrane is waterproof, breathable and PFC free.

The removable DropHood is helmet-compatible and has an integrated collar. The front of the collar has a fleece lining. An integrated powder skirt helps keep snow out. Pit zippers vent heat, and gussets under the arms allow movement. A RECCO reflector aids search and rescue.

The jacket has a regular fit. It is cut comfortably through the chest, waist, hip and thigh, so it allows freedom of movement and layers comfortably.

Material: N80p-X 3L GORE-TEX face fabric (100% nylon), GORE-TEX ePE membrane, flannel backer lining
Water protection: Waterproof, breathable membrane; DWR finish; PFC free
Hood: Removable, helmet-compatible DropHood with integrated collar
Closure: Zipper, buttons, Velcro
Ventilation: Pit zippers
Snow protection: Integrated powder skirt
Safety: RECCO reflector
Sleeves: Long, with underarm gussets
Fit: Regular fit
Back length: 30 inches
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Season: Winter
Use: Skiing and winter sports