New for Spring 2016, Arc’teryx will introduce a brand new Gore-Tex fabric technology into its Endorphin mountain running line. What promises to be one of the best performing rain jackets of 2016, the new Norvan SL Hoody, $299, is the face of these new Endorphin additions, and will be available in limited commercial release.

W’s Norvan SL Hoody. Photos courtesy Arc’teryx

This hoody gets its drying power from the innovative Gore-Tex Permanent Beading Surface.

Weighing only 107 grams (W’s medium), the Hoody gets its drying power from the latest and lightest new fabric from W.L. Gore, Gore-Tex Active with Permanent Beading Surface — an ultralight fabric technology that continuously repels water. Arc’teryx’s Norvan SL Hoody and other 2016 Endorphin pieces made with this beading tech will join the ranks of Gore-Tex Active products including introductions from The North Face and Gore Bike and Run Wear.

Unique to this fabric technology, the outer surface of the jacket is the weather barrier, preventing absorption of water and eliminating the need for an exterior/face fabric that can wet out and cause chilling.

By removing the face fabric, it not only significantly reduces the overall weight and compressibility of the garment, but also increases breathability, creating a greater level of comfort for a runner during high aerobic activities and mountain running. It also eliminates the need for a DWR treatment.

Men’s Norvan SL

This laminate construction delivers moisture vapor transmission from the inside out, while the interior backer textile provides for great next to skin comfort.

With a few quick shakes of the Norvan SL, the user can render the surface of the Hoody completely dry. Yes, Arc’teryx said, “completely.”

In what looks to be a superior balance of protection and comfort, Gore technology should allow the wearer to leave the Norvan SL outer-piece on continuously – rain or shine.