Arc'teryx Bucket Liner
The Arc'teryx Bucket Liner (Model #4306) weighs 33g and first appeared in the Fall 2004 catalog as Arc'teryx's first purpose-built helmet liner. Made from 100% microfleece with an acrylic mesh top, this low-profile toque was designed for skiers and snowboarders who needed warmth under a helmet without adding bulk.
The Fall 2006 catalog describes it as "for those who want to protect their noodles from high-speed impact and want protection from Jack Frost." That tongue-in-cheek description captures what the Bucket Liner does: it's not padding, it's insulation. The contoured shape wraps your forehead and ears in fleece while the mesh top allows heat to escape through your helmet's vents.
33g with Mesh Top Ventilation
The Fall 2006 catalog confirms the full specifications: 33g in 100% Micro-fleece with an acrylic mesh top, one size. Features include a contoured shape, a fleece ear and forehead wrap, and a mesh top for a slim fit and breathability. Available in Black only across all production years.
The construction prioritizes low profile over warmth. At 33g, this is one of the lightest pieces Arc'teryx ever produced for headwear. The microfleece wicks moisture away from your skin during high-output skiing, and the mesh top prevents overheating caused by solid-top helmet liners. The rubber patch logo keeps branding minimal.
Contoured Fit for Helmet Use
The contoured shape hugs your head closer than a traditional beanie. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I find it sits flush against my skull without bunching under a helmet. The one-size design works for most head sizes since the fleece has enough stretch to accommodate variation.
The ear coverage extends lower than you'd expect from such a minimal piece. Arc'teryx shaped the fleece wrap to fully cover your ears, while the mesh top sits higher on your crown. This means warmth where you need it and venting where you don't.
When Should You Use the Arc'teryx Bucket Liner?
This is a helmet liner, not a standalone beanie. The mesh top looks strange without a helmet covering it, and the 33g weight doesn't provide enough insulation for stationary use. I wear mine under my snowboard helmet on days between 15-35°F when I need some warmth but don't want a full beanie adding pressure points.
The Rho Toque at 30-35g offers a similar weight with a solid top if you want something that works both under a helmet and on its own. The Fortrez Beanie, at 27g, uses Polartec Power Stretch with Hardface technology for improved wind resistance. Both are better choices if you need versatility.
Production History: 2004 Through LEAF 2015
The Bucket Liner appeared in Arc'teryx catalogs from Fall 2004 through at least Fall 2006 in the mainline. A LEAF version (Model 4306) continued through the 2015 LEAF catalog using 100% polyester construction at the same 33g weight. The LEAF version came in Black only and maintained the same contoured shape and mesh top design.
Arc'teryx hasn't produced a direct replacement since discontinuing the Bucket Liner. The current Rho Toque fills a similar role but uses a solid Torrent microfleece construction without the mesh top. The mesh ventilation concept hasn't reappeared in Arc'teryx's headwear lineup.
Resale Value and Better Alternatives
If you specifically need a vented helmet liner, yes. The mesh top design remains unique among Arc'teryx headwear, and the 33g weight is hard to beat. The Smartwool Merino Sport 150 Beanie offers a similar lightweight profile with merino construction if you can't find a Bucket Liner. Expect to pay $25-45 on resale, depending on condition.
For most people, the Rho Toque is a better choice. It offers similar weight and helmet compatibility with a solid top that works for standalone use. The Bucket Liner only makes sense if you run hot under helmets and need maximum ventilation.
For the complete history of Arc'teryx headwear, see the beanie timeline. The full beanie list covers every model from 2003 to the present.