It’s quit interesting, the Rock + Run Arc’teryx ha...

2008-04-24T14:43:00.000Z

It’s quit interesting, the Rock + Run Arc’teryx harness review has done the rounds within Arc’teryx Europe, much of it we really love as it’s obviously really positive.

The review was really thorough, well researched and informative, so overall we really liked it. I guess there were a couple of things that stood out to me, I hope you don’t mind my comments below.

Review Point: I expect the budget for R & D is extraordinary.
Arc’Teryx Response: I think Arc’teryx have always been focused on R&D the Salomon development is relatively recent and whilst I’m sure the investment does filter in here I think it’s something that Arc’teryx have always been super keen on.

Review Point:Save the R-320 for when I go for the redpoint.
Arc’Teryx Response: I kind of completely disagree. For me dogging routes you tend to have harsher falls and more frequently and (having also just got back from Buoux last week) I really felt the harness was comfortable in this situation. I also ended up on a bunch of hanging belays (belaying above & left of La Plage) and again it was really good. I think the 3 models have slightly different leg loops, so there is some variation in what you can choose. I’d also wear it for on-sighting and red pointing because its so slim line it means you can move really well. One of the Swiss guys just did Eternal Flame and other big wall stuff in the area, he hauled, hung and aided in it and the Scholler on the outside didn’t show any sign of wear. I guess I think (like the majority of Arc’teryx kit) it’s good stylish looks, often make people think its not as burly or as rugged as something that’s made from (cheaper) bulkier material - that’s the nub of our stuff. We use really expensive components and material to give the burliest product in the lightest slim line cut.

Review Point: Interestingly, in some ways the lack of padding seems to actually increase comfort.
Arc’Teryx Response: Totally right, for me that’s the big thing on the harnesses.

Review Point: Needless to say, Arc’teryx have got in on the act and installed their own version of threaded buckle on the WST range. These are about as good as they can be – smooth and easy to use without the ‘clunky’ operation found with some examples.
Arc’Teryx Response: Totally right again. We did a lot of work on the buckles back bar. It means it runs more smoothly and causes less wear on the webbing.

Review Point: In certain quarters, Arc’teryx have acquired a reputation for being a rather expensive, ‘poser’ brand and the reasons for this are fairly obvious.
Arc’Teryx Response: This is kind of the case in the UK, and far less so in US/Canada and other larger markets. I think we don’t help ourselves with our lack of informative adverts. I also guess a big part of this falls on my shoulders – I suppose a big portion of my staff trainings try to explain that R&D/Materials and generally a really complex manufacturing process add to the price, its just a slow process for me to get the message out there, but we are working on this. What you do get for the money should appeal to even the skin flintiest of climbers. Our products will generally out last and out perform most other brands over a longer period of time… I guess I’m saying its good value. Someone recently said to me buy cheap buy twice, I guess that’s kind of true.

Like I said overall we really, really like the detail, approach and content of the review, and also the generally positive message.

Thanks, Mark

Comments on The Rock + Run Blog: Review: Arc'Teryx Harnesses 2008

It’s quit interesting, the Rock + Run Arc’teryx ha...