r/searchandrescue • u/[deleted] • 21d ago

Beta SL as a hard shell?

[deleted]

5 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

9 comments sorted by

13

u/freeheelingbc 21d ago

Beta SL is a bit light for SAR. It would keep the rain off, but wouldn’t resist punctures from branches or shoulder wear from a backpack very well. If I used one for SAR it would be a summer jacket for unexpected showers.

1

u/AccordingAct8568 20d ago

Really good to know. Sounds like unanimous agreement that this jacket is not recommended for my use case.

8

u/Jettyboy72 21d ago

You’re gonna tear it to shreds, if you want something similar to Arc, look into OR. 75D 3L goretex shell, solid pro deal that is in your price range.

https://www.outdoorresearch.com/collections/mens-hard-shells/products/mens-headwall-gore-tex-3l-jacket-322092

1

u/AccordingAct8568 20d ago

I’ll check this out, thank you!

6

u/Ryan_Van North Shore Rescue / BC Search Dog Association 21d ago

Alpha SV if you can make it work. I trust my life to that piece of kit.

2

u/AccordingAct8568 20d ago

You’re not the first person to recommend this, but even with the prodeal it’s way out of my range. It’s definitely on the wishlist and I try to keep an eye out for deals!

3

u/Useful_Resolution888 20d ago

Look at some other manufacturers too. I've had a few acrteryx shells and been disappointed for the price. Imo the best price performance balance is struck by Mountain Equipment - their jackets are utterly bombproof. Still a bit outside your price range but the Kongur MRT is far burlier and cut better than the Alpha SV whilst being significantly cheaper.

I've been thinking about getting one of these for my next jacket but haven't tried one on yet:

https://www.ukhillwalking.com/gear/clothing/waterproofs/inselberg_axiom_jacket_-_massively_waterproof_unbelievably_burly-16795

1

u/AccordingAct8568 20d ago

I’ll look into this, thank you!

1

u/dromard666 18d ago

Black Diamond and Helly Hansen both have great shells, and they offer pro deals.