In reply to Chris Huntington:
I really like Arcteryx kit well, older Arcteryx kit. I've got an SV that is good old goretex rather
than pro shell and it is battered but still waterproof and durable as day 1.
On the other hand, I've had to return an Alpha AR twice. First time, the stitching over the hem cinch cord simply ripped when pulling the cord, and second time, I noticed abrasion holes on the bottom of the hem. Sent it off to Arceryx, first time repaired no problems second time, they insisted I had been using an overly heavy rucksack and it was my fault even though the damage was on the hem which was tucked under. I persisted with them to the point of it going back to Gore (after 10 months!) who then told me that some Arcteryx batches had had reports of un-normal (is that a word?) abrasion holes appearing. They couldn't decide if it was the material supplied from them to Arcteryx or the manufacturing process.
Gore replaced it with a new jacket as Arcteryx had the material supplied from them and absolutely refused point blank to take responsibility. I immediately sold it and bought an ME one. I have also had to send back a Beta AR jacket 2 years ago which they immediately refunded me the money for with a simple line saying the jacket was not fit for purpose.
Arcteryx told me the jacket should be durable but durability depends on what you are doing. They didnt expect me to be climbing etc with my Alpha AR as they suggested it was a lightweight waterproof for hiking. I like Arcteryx kit but I don't really like modern lightweight materials. An outdoor jacket doesn't need to weigh the same as a gnats bollocks and I never feel "bombproof" in pro shell so I'm glad I've looked after my old shell.
None of this helps you of course but going through the Arcteryx warranty process is a complete mare and if they decide it is user error then you won't get anywhere. My personal opinion is that I certainly wouldn't climb in an Alpha AR jacket as to be honest, I'd expect it to rip or become damaged at some point.
Ask Toby, he has probably tested more proshell in winter than most.
Den
Post edited at 19:38