In previous writeups, I’ve focused mainly on the garments offered in the Arc’teryx LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) line. Featured here are some items from the LEAF line of gloves, which are models that are also available from their commercial line.
The Sphinx Halfshell is another new offering from the LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) division of Arc’teryx, and is part of LEAF’s new Armour Compatible Layering system. Also named after a legendary hybrid creature, the Sphinx is a 1/4-zip, non-insulated pullover hybrid combat shirt/jacket designed for use under armour in inclement weather. It uses two different weights of soft shell material in its construction to provide both freedom of movement and protection against the elements. The Sphinx also incorporates Arc’teryx’s ‘Roll-and-Stow’ sleeve system that enables the user to convert the sleeve configuration on the go from long to short during periods of intense physical activity.
Another new jacket from the LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) division of Arc’Teryx is the Atom AF (Armed Forces) Jacket. At first glance, the Atom AF looks like just a puffier, oversized version of the Atom LT, but there’s more to it than that. It’s intended for use as a breathable, super-warm mid layer under a shell on frigid days, or as a stand-alone jacket. Also, instead of the trim fit of the Atom LT, the AF is cut roomy enough in the torso to wear over light body armour or a compact rig. This allows it to provide warmth and some protection from the elements when wearing gear, yet enables it to be removed without taking your gear off.
Two of the latest offerings from the Arc’teryx LEAF line are the Sphinx Pant and the Gryphon Pant . Both use a combination of different fabrics, anatomical patterning, and a host of integrated features to offer outstanding versatility across a broad range of weather conditions. I would normally do completely separate writeups for each pair of pants, but it made more sense to compare them to each other at the same time so the differences (some of them subtle) and shared features could be better pointed out. In a nutshell, both are combat pants designed for inclement weather use, with the Gryphon having an edge in water-resistance, and the Sphinx in breathability.
The Chimera Shirt LS from Arc’teryx LEAF (Law Enforcement & Armed Forces) line is a highly articulated, very light weight long-sleeved combat shirt. It’s one of LEAF’s newest armour-compatible garments and its light weight makes it suitable for the hottest weather.
The Alpha Bib from Arc’Teryx LEAF is the bib version of the Alpha Pant reviewed previously. Built for harsh winter conditions or wet weather, the Alpha Bib provides maximum moisture protection with enhanced mobility and breathability. Extending to just below the chest, the low-cut Alpha Bib shields against blowing snow or rain, and keeps the kidneys warm. It features articulated shaping for unrestricted movement, watertight cargo pockets, and full length side zippers for venting and ease of donning.
Another new item from the LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) division of Arc’Teryx is the Alpha LT Jacket. The Gore-Tex Pro Shell Alpha LT isn’t simply a lighter version of the Alpha, but more of a very advanced, light weight, Alpine wind shirt that’s designed to provide full weather protection in a very packable garment. It was adapted from the civilian line Alpha LT with a change of colour (Crocodile) for the LEAF line, and abounds with high-tech construction features.
The Blade 21 pack from the Arc’teryx LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) line is designed as a ‘staff bag for meat eaters’. Adapted from the civvie side for the LEAF line, it’s essentially a backpack style messenger bag. Named for its volume (21L), it’s a sleeker and more comfortable alternative to a laptop briefcase for people on the go. It also makes a great little daypack with good organization. It’s available in Crye MultiCam, UCP and Ranger Green.
