Arc'teryx Rho LT Zip Neck
The Arc'teryx Rho LT Zip Neck weighs 185g and uses Torrent 190 fleece with Polygiene odor control for cool-weather base layering. This is one of Arc'teryx's most popular baselayers, and for good reason. The brushed fleece interior feels soft against skin, while the smooth exterior slides easily under midlayers. The quarter-zip allows quick ventilation adjustments without removing outer layers.
I wear this as a standalone piece on mild days and as a baselayer when temperatures drop. The Torrent fleece wicks sweat effectively during high-output activities like skinning or hiking, and the Polygiene treatment helps keep odor manageable on multi-day trips. The trim athletic fit layers well without bunching under shells.
Torrent 190 Fleece with Polygiene Odor Control
The Torrent 190 fabric uses a brushed fleece construction that traps warm air while remaining breathable during activity. The 190 weight designation indicates a midweight fleece suitable for temperatures from 25-50°F, depending on activity level and outer layers. Heavier options like the Rho AR are available for colder conditions.
Polygiene odor control uses silver salt technology to prevent bacterial growth that causes odor. This works well for multi-day backcountry trips where washing isn't possible. I've worn mine for three consecutive days of ski touring without noticeable odor, something untreated synthetics can't match. The flatlock seams sit smoothly against the skin and prevent chafing during repetitive movements.
How Does the Arc'teryx Rho LT Zip Neck Fit?
The trim athletic fit hugs your torso without compression. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I wear a size L with room for a thin baselayer underneath if needed. The sleeves extend far enough to stay tucked into gloves, and the hem drops low enough to remain tucked into pants during movement.
Arc'teryx designed the collar to sit comfortably against your neck without the bulk of a full turtleneck. The quarter-zip opens far enough to dump heat quickly on steep climbs. The zipper pull is large enough to operate with light gloves, a small detail that matters on cold days.
Best from 25 to 50 Degrees, Standalone or Layered
This works best as a cool-weather baselayer under shells and midlayers. For resort skiing, I wear it under a fleece and hardshell when temperatures sit between 10-30°F. For backcountry touring, it often becomes my only upper layer during high-output climbs before adding insulation at the summit.
As a standalone piece, the Rho LT handles mild conditions from 40 to 55°F during moderate activity. The Torrent fleece blocks light wind but won't handle sustained exposure. For windy conditions without a shell, something with wind-resistant face fabric works better.
Arc'teryx Rho LT vs. Rho AR and Patagonia Capilene
The Rho AR Zip Neck uses heavier Torrent 230 fabric for colder conditions. The AR adds warmth at the cost of breathability and packability. For most three-season use, the LT provides a better balance.
The Patagonia Capilene Midweight offers similar performance at a lower price point. The Arc'teryx Torrent fleece feels slightly softer and layers more smoothly under technical shells. Both use recycled materials and odor control treatments.
Versatile Performance Across Skiing, Hiking, and Daily Wear
For a versatile cool-weather baselayer that works across skiing, hiking, and everyday use, the Rho LT Zip Neck delivers. The Polygiene odor-control extends wear between washes, and the Torrent fleece maintains its softness through repeated washes. The quarter-zip design provides ventilation options that crew necks lack.
The price sits at the premium end of synthetic baselayers. The quality justifies the cost if you need a piece that performs across multiple activities and conditions. For single-use applications, cheaper options work fine.
For cold-weather pairing, see the Rho LT Bottom and Kyanite AR Tech Wool Crew. The Rho Toque uses similar Torrent fleece for matching headwear.