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Arc’teryx’s New Hyper-Minimal Hiking Jacket Is So Light, It’s Nearly See-Through

The Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoody combines an ultra-light form factor with deceivingly robust protection optimized for when things get hot.

Hand placing light blue fabric into a light blue zippered pouch with an Arc'teryx logo tab.Arc’teryx
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By Hayley Helms

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When it comes to sun protection, you might expect a material so lightweight it’s transparent wouldn’t offer much in the way of UPF defense.

That’s where the Arc’teryx Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoody, designed specifically for high-output efforts in hot and sunny conditions, defies conventional expectations.

Light blue pullover windbreaker jacket with a front chest zipper pocket and hood worn by a person.
The Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoody’s barely there construction masks its excellent UPF protection capabilities.
Arc’teryx

The sun shell minimizes bulk while maintaining comprehensive protection.

Take a hike

The translucence of the Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoody belies its substantial protection capability.

Light beige hooded pullover jacket with a vertical chest zipper pocket on a beige background.
The half-zip design allows for heat management on the go, and the single chest pocket offers strategic storage.
Arc’teryx

At just 4.8 ounces, the packable shell weighs little more than the average EDC knife.

Stuff it into its own pocket and the hard-working layer can ride along in your pack without taking up noticeable space or room.

Man wearing a light blue hooded jacket with elastic cuffs and black pants against a plain background.
The Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoody minimizes bulk while maximizing coverage.
Arc’teryx

When it’s time for adventuring under the sun, the UPF 50+ nylon stretch ripstop offers excellent protection against harmful rays.

Light blue hooded jacket with a zipper worn by a person in profile against a beige background.
The stretchy and protective StormHood stays in place and protects the head and neck without overheating.
Arc’teryx

The material isn’t just stretchy and lightweight; it’s also breathable, and combined with the integrated StormHood, shields your head, neck and upper body without overheating.

When it’s time to dump heat, the 1/2 zip design means you don’t have to waste time shedding layers; you can maintain sun protection and venting while on the move.

Person placing a black Arc'teryx pouch into an open olive green grid-patterned backpack.
The jacket can pack into its own pocket for easy carrying, and at 4.8 ounces, you may even forget you have it on you.
Arc’teryx

The semi-transparent Alpine Blue and Sea Salt colorways really show off the jacket’s minimalist design, while the Black option offers a bit more coverage.

Availability and pricing

The Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoody is now available on Arc’teryx’s website, retailing for $200.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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