Arc'teryx Macai Pant

How Warm Are the Arc'teryx Macai Pants?

Coreloft maintains warmth when wet and compresses less underfoot compared to down. The 80-gram weight balances warmth and mobility, keeping legs comfortable during freezing lift rides without restricting movement. This makes the Macai Arc'teryx's warmest offering in their ski lineup.

The mesh PowderGuard vents help dissipate excess heat, though the design targets cold-weather performance. For mild spring days or high-output backcountry touring, the insulation level may cause overheating.

Trim Fit That Runs True to Size

Articulated knees and seat combined with a gusseted crotch provide freedom of movement despite the fitted profile. The patterning allows a full range of motion for skiing and snowboarding without restriction. The trim fit works well for resort use where additional layers below the waist remain minimal.

The internal waist adjuster fine-tunes fit without belts. Standard inseams with straight legs create a classic ski pant appearance. For those who prefer roomier fits or need space for a heavy base layer, consider sizing up.

3-Layer GORE-TEX with Fully Taped Seams

However, the WaterTight zippers on the hand pockets are highly water-resistant but not waterproof. Arc'teryx explicitly states that moisture-sensitive items should not be kept in pockets. This represents a minor limitation in otherwise complete weather protection.

The 100D Cordura PowderCuffs fit over boots to seal out snow on deep-powder days. Combined with the waterproof fabric, the Macai handles storm cycles and wet snow effectively.

Mesh PowderGuard Vents for Temperature Control

The air-permeable Coreloft insulation aids temperature regulation beyond mechanical venting. This insulation breathes better than sealed synthetic fills, reducing sweat buildup during active skiing. However, the 80-gram insulation level means these pants run warm overall.

For riders who run hot or ski aggressively, the ventilation helps, but it may not fully compensate for the insulation's warmth. The vents work best for managing temperature swings between cold lift rides and sunny runs.

Keprotec Insteps Prevent Ski Edge Damage

The 100D Cordura PowderCuffs provide additional durability where pants contact boots and edges most frequently. This heavy-duty fabric resists abrasion better than standard nylon. Combined with Keprotec insteps, the wear zones gain serious protection.

This attention to durability justifies part of the premium pricing. Ski pants typically fail at the cuffs and insteps first, so reinforcing these areas significantly extends lifespan. For riders logging many resort days annually, the durability features provide value.

Arc'teryx Macai Pant vs. Patagonia and Sabre

The Macai distinguishes itself with a trim fit rather than traditional baggy ski pants. Compared to Arc'teryx's lineup, the Macai represents the warmest insulated option. The Arc'teryx Sabre Pant provides a waterproof shell without insulation for variable conditions.

$575 for Cold-Day Specialists, Not All-Conditions

For riders logging 30+ cold resort days annually who value fitted styling, the Macai delivers. Casual skiers should consider less specialized options. Check Arc'teryx's website for current availability.