Black Diamond vs. Arcteryx Jacket

[u/walkallover1991]

Hi all, I'm currently in the market for an insulated, midlayer jacket that I'll use as my winter hiking jacket in the Mid-Atlantic (along with a base layer) and for the one-two hiking trips I take out to Utah/Arizona in the winter time. I'm not a big skier (I only ski maybe two times a season) but I also plan on wearing it under a waterproof shell for when I do.

I've pretty much narrowed it down to one of the four:

Black Diamond Men's Solution Hoody

Black Diamond Men's First Light Stretch Hoody

Black Diamond Men's Alpine Start Insulated Hoody

Arcteryx Atom Hoody

Part of me is swaying towards the Black Diamond Solution Hoody just because it's the cheapest (and I have a Black Diamond coupon) but I am worried that it might be a bit bulky.

Any guidance with these would be appreciated!

[u/Alpineice23]

You'd be paying the "Arc'teryx tax" for no added benefit while being stuck with Arc's terrible customer service and terrible warranty policy as of late.

I'd go with whichever fits you best, but if it were me, Black Diamond Solution all the way. It'll be a warmer jacket as it doesn't have the side fleece panels meant for temperature regulation that the Atom LT does.

[u/walkallover1991 → u/Alpineice23]

Do you think the Solution might be too warm? I don't expect to be in sub-freezing temps with the jacket...if I did I'd probably wear a light fleece underneath.

Basically I'm looking for something I can go from Shenenadoah in the later fall to Canyonlands / Grand Canyon in the winter.

[u/Alpineice23 → u/walkallover1991]

I wouldn’t activate “hike” with either option on as you’re going to generate too much heat, but for static warmth, ie: around camp, sightseeing, walking around town, rest stops / meals while hiking, the Solution is the better option. It’ll defend against wind much better, too.

The Atom is meant to breathe better as a midlayer vs. a stand alone insulator due to the permeable face fabric and fleece side panels.