Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody vs Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody
Weight and specs compared for 2026 — and which one to choose.
Ultralight softshell mid-layer at 9.2 ounces. Windproof and breathable without insulation, designed for active outdoor pursuits requiring minimal weight.
Full details →Polartec Alpha Direct fleece for high-output activities.
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Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody vs Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody: which should you buy?
If saving weight is your priority, the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody wins — at 261 g it is 79 g (23%) lighter than the Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody (340 g). That said, the heavier option may justify the extra grams with more capacity, durability or comfort, so weigh the trade-off against how you'll use it.
See where both rank against everything else in this category on the lightest clothing - mid layer page, or browse the full gear weight database.