Montec Arch vs. Fawk jackets: Choosing the right style for the mountain
The Arch and Fawk are two fully-featured, insulation-optional, all-mountain, tech-packed beasts. In short, both styles are ready for everything from high-speed groomer charging to epic backcountry expeditions. So let’s get into the Montec Arch vs. Fawk jacket debate and show you the key differences.
The bar is set pretty high for the ‘all-mountain’ jacket. And that’s especially the case when it comes to our Montec Arch and Fawk jackets. These two designs are top-of-the-range, high-performance, feature-packed, and built for the longest days.
At first glance, they seem pretty similar. In fact, you’re well within your rights to question what sets them apart. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a slick, quick-fire guide and comparison. Drop in and check it out below.
Quick reference comparison
 |  |
Montec Arch | Montec Fawk |
Designed for | |
Resort riding, off-piste, backcountry exploration | Resort riding, off-piste, backcountry exploration |
Fit | |
Oversized cut | Regular cut |
Insulation | |
Lined shell or optional Comfortemp insulation (60gsm body, 40gsm sleeves and hood) | Lined shell or optional Comfortemp insulation (60gsm body, 40gsm sleeves and hood) |
Features | |
Helmet-compatible, adjustable storm guard hood, media pocket, lift pass pocket, power-mesh inner pockets, underarm vents, snow skirt, wrist gaiters, contrast front zipper with inner placket, drawstring waist, drawstring hem | Helmet-compatible, adjustable storm guard hood, media pocket, lift pass pocket, power-mesh inner pockets, underarm vents, snow skirt, wrist gaiters, front zipper with double plackets, drawstring waist (women only), drawstring hem |
Technical specs | |
20k/20k SHIELD-TEC membrane, recycled polyester shell, PFAS-free DWR coating, fully taped seams, 60g/40gsm Comfortemp insulation, bluesign® Approved | 20k/20k SHIELD-TEC membrane, recycled polyester shell, PFAS-free DWR coating, fully taped seams, 60g/40gsm Comfortemp insulation, bluesign® Approved |
Designed for
Anyone and everyone can ride in the Montec Arch or Fawk. Both are epic quiver-killers, designed to perform in all situations. However, they do have slight differences in cut and fit, pocket placement, and the front-zip setup. Oh, and the Arch is only available for men, while the Fawk is up for grabs in men's and women’s sizes. Looking for the women’s version of the Arch? Check out the Moss jacket instead.
The Arch has a slightly roomier cut and oversized chest pockets for storing larger items. You’ll also notice the Arch has an exposed waterproof front zipper. With these little tweaks, the Arch is easier to zip, unzip, and access your go-to items with gloves on, making it perfect for backcountry exploration. The Fawk has a slightly slimmer cut. Plus, a front placket protects the zipper, providing a little extra weather protection and a clean look. Both designs, though, are more than capable for life on the mountain.
Technical performance
Each jacket dominates in terms of tech. The Arch and Fawk both have a 20,000 mm/20,000 g waterproof and breathable shell. This is part of Montec’s laminated, super-tough SHIELD-TEC shell-membrane combo, featuring a dense weave recycled polyester shell with an amazing abrasion rating. A PFAS-free DWR treatment also keeps water from soaking in. And the shell-membrane combo is finished off with a smooth, breathable polyester liner.
Choose between a lined shell and an insulated version for both jackets. The insulated versions feature 60/40gsm Comfortemp, a compact poly insulation that keeps weight low but locks in heat. Like to layer up? Go for the lined design. However, if you prefer to ride in just a base layer or tend to run cold (or ride in cold places), hit up the insulated version instead. Either way, these jackets offer outstanding weather protection.
Important features
Both jackets are built on the same fully featured platform, which means you get MONTEC’s adjustable helmet-compatible Storm Guard hood, complete with a comfortable microfleece chinguard. All external zippers are waterproof. Plus, you’ll find an elasticated snow skirt and wrist gaiters to help seal out powder. We also threw in adjustable oversized sleeve cuffs for better glove and mitten compatibility. And, if you get too hot, use the underarm vents to cool off.
In terms of storage, both jackets have four big external storage pockets, a dedicated media pouch, a lift pass pocket, and internal mesh dump pockets for larger items, such as gloves or beanies. But the important stuff doesn’t stop there. Each jacket has fully taped seams for extra water tightness. Plus, the jackets are bluesign® Approved. That means you can ride in style and comfort, knowing these jackets are as green – or blue – as possible.
Which is right for you?
Both jackets check every box. You can ride anything, any time, in either one – your decision simply comes down to style preference. Sure, the Arch is a little roomier. However, you can size up the Fawk and embrace the baggy look. Plus, because all our jackets and pants are solution dyed, the colors on the Fawk and Arch match. This means you can mix and match different pants and jackets without worry.
Now, pick your favorite style and ride! Love this article or need to know more? Hit us up at crew@montecwear.com and let us know how we can help.
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