Arc'teryx Sabre LT Jacket
The Arc'teryx Sabre LT Jacket weighs 620 grams in Men's M and uses N80p-X 3L GORE-TEX with C-Knit backer for quiet, comfortable waterproof protection. Designed for freeriders with a long cut, articulated patterning, gusseted underarms, and helmet-compatible StormHood. Priced at $650-700 in colorways including Golden Mind, Adrenaline, Serpentine, Bionic, Immersion, Phantom King, Blue Northern, and Firecracker. The powder skirt features Slide 'n Loc attachments for Arc'teryx pants, while massive pit zips provide ventilation control. I use this exclusively for snowboarding when I need lightweight protection that layers easily over midlayers like the Covert Zip Neck without bunching.
N80p-X GORE-TEX with C-Knit Backer
The N80p-X face fabric uses 80-denier construction for durability against lift chairs, tree branches, and falls. This withstands resort and sidecountry abuse better than lighter shells while maintaining the 620g weight. The generous C-Knit backer creates a softer interior feel and quieter movement compared to traditional GORE-TEX liners.
C-Knit improves breathability compared to older GORE-TEX backers, allowing moisture vapor to escape more quickly during high-output snowboarding. The soft interior lets me wear this shell directly over a baselayer on warm spring days without needing thick midlayers for comfort.
Freeride-Specific Cut and Construction
The long cut extends below the waist for complete snow protection when sitting on lifts or taking powder falls. Articulated elbows and gusseted underarms allow natural arm movement without binding when reaching for edges or adjusting bindings. The helmet-compatible StormHood adjusts over any snowboard helmet and stays in place during windy chairlift rides.
The powder skirt with Slide 'n Loc attachments connects to Arc'teryx pants like the Macai Pants to prevent snow from entering at the waist. This connection system stays attached during falls or deep-powder riding, better than generic snap-together powder skirts.
How Does the Arc'teryx Sabre LT Jacket Ventilate?
Massive pit zips run full length of the underarms for heat dumping during high-output runs or warm spring days. The zippers operate smoothly with one hand while wearing gloves, such as the Fission SV Glove. The C-Knit backer's breathability works with pit zips to allow moisture escape even when zips are closed.
The lightweight 620g build reduces unnecessary insulation and heat trapping compared to heavier jackets. I control warmth through layering rather than jacket weight. When temperatures fluctuate, I open zips during warm runs and close them for cold sessions.
Pocket Layout and Storage
Laminated hand pockets sit high enough to clear harness waist belts while keeping essentials secure. The lift pass zipper sleeve pocket provides quick access without removing gloves, and RFID scanners read through the pocket material. Two internal pockets include a small zippered pocket for keys and cash, plus a large drop pocket that swallows gloves and goggles between runs, similar to what I'd carry in the Micon 16 backpack but integrated into the jacket.
Arc'teryx Sabre LT Jacket vs. Heavier Freeride Shells
At 620g, this weighs significantly less than traditional freeride shells, which can exceed 800g. The weight savings become noticeable during full days on the mountain. The C-Knit backer creates a softer feel than shells with standard GORE-TEX liners, which feel stiff and crinkly.
Breathability surpasses that of heavier shells with older GORE-TEX technology, thanks to faster moisture vapor transmission. The articulated patterning delivers better mobility than boxy shells. I easily layer the Strato Jacket underneath without bunching.
The Sabre Line Started in 2000
Arc'teryx started developing their Descent ski line in February 2000. The Sidewinder SV debuted at their first ski show in April 2001, and it introduced three features that carried directly into today's Sabre: a curved main zipper, a laminated powder skirt, and a one-pull hood system. The Javelin SV followed in 2002 with 1/16" seam allowances, four times tighter than industry standard. Those same tight seam tolerances show up in the Sabre LT today. Arc'teryx built 25 years of ski-specific design into this jacket, and the construction details reflect that lineage.
Is the Arc'teryx Sabre LT Jacket Worth $650-$700?
For dedicated snowboarders needing lightweight, breathable protection, yes. The N80p-X GORE-TEX with C-Knit backer provides durability and comfort that cheaper shells can't match. The combination of lightweight build, massive pit zips, and breathable fabric handles temperature swings better than heavier shells.
For casual riders or those on a tight budget, maybe not. The premium materials create a price premium that cheaper shells avoid while still providing adequate waterproofing. For extreme cold, add insulated midlayers like the Delta, as its lightweight construction prioritizes versatility.
Arc'teryx prices this at $650-$700. Material is N80p-X 3L GORE-TEX with GORE C-Knit backer. Weight 620g in Men's M. Sizes XS-XXL. Long freeride fit with articulated elbows, gusseted underarms, helmet-compatible StormHood, powder skirt with Slide 'n Loc attachments. WaterTight zippers, pit zips, RECCO reflector, laminated pockets, and lift pass sleeve pocket. Eight colorways. Best for resort snowboarding, sidecountry, variable conditions.
Current availability at Arc'teryx.