Arctic Outdoor: Full set – test

As an avid outdoor enthusiast who is often out hiking, skiing and in the mountains, I've had the opportunity to test a full layering kit from Arctic Outdoor - a small Danish outdoor brand that focuses on quality, functionality and sustainability.

The kit consists of baselayer(crewneck and longjohns), fleece sweater, down vest, shell jacket, outdoor pants (both Harzen and Dolomites zip-off), socks and a merino wool T-shirt. I'm 176 cm tall and tested everything in size medium, except the baselayer set, which I took in small for a closer fit.

I've used it all in different weather conditions over several weeks - from cold, windy fall days to rainy hikes and light snow. Here I share my honest experiences of how the kit works together as a complete system.

First impressions and build of the kit

Arctic Outdoor has clearly thought in layers and it all fits together perfectly. The color "Forest" is repeated in several of the pieces, giving a consistent look. The materials feel sturdy but lightweight and all zippers are from YKK - something that will last for years. I started by testing the baselayer, fleece and down vest indoors to feel the fit, and everything fit like a glove with no tightness.

• Baselayer (Bornholm crewneck and longjohns): Soft, stretchy and with good freedom of movement - small fit perfectly tight.
• Fleece sweater (Pyrenees): Lightweight and breathable, perfect as a midlayer.
• Down vest (Wadden Sea): Warm but not too warm - good for transitional weather.
• Shell jacket (Matterhorn): Heavy but extremely robust and waterproof.
• Pants (Harz and Dolomites zip-off): Versatile and practical for changing conditions.
• Socks and T-shirt: Small but important details that complete the system.

Comfort and fit across the kit

I tested the kit on a 176 cm tall person and the fit was generally good. The baselayer in small was snug without pinching - just like a baselayer should. The fleece sweater in medium had room for movement and the shell jacket in medium had adjustable cuffs and hood that fit perfectly. The down vest was slightly denser but still comfortable under the jacket.

• Freedom of movement: All layers allowed full movement - no tightening at the knees, elbows or hips.
• Comfort against the skin: The merino blend in the baselayer and T-shirt felt soft and cooling.
• Adjustability: Elastic in hips, hoods and ankles made it easy to customize.

Weather protection and layer-on-layer functionality

I tested the kit in rain, wind, cold and light snow - and it delivered what it promised. The baselayer wicked away sweat, the fleece sweater kept warm, the down vest provided extra insulation and the shell jacket took all the weather. The pants were versatile - Harz for colder days, Dolomites for warmer ones with zip-off.

• Rain: Matterhorn shell jacket stayed 100% dry in heavy rain for over 2 hours.
• Cold: Baselayer + fleece + down vest kept me warm down to -5°C in motion.
• Windy: The shell jacket stopped the wind completely and the hood stayed put without flapping.
• Breathability: No overheating - sweat was wicked away efficiently through all layers.

Practical use in the field

I took the kit on a 3-day trip in Jotunheimen with changing weather. Day 1: cold and windy - full kit. Day 2: milder and sunny - baselayer, T-shirt, fleece and zip-off shorts. Day 3: rain - shell jacket and Harz pants. Everything worked flawlessly.

• Pockets: The shell jacket has 7 pockets - plenty of room for maps, phone, gloves.
• Zip-off: The Dolomites pants were genius - from long pants to shorts in 30 seconds.
• Socks: Merino wool socks kept feet dry and warm even after 8 hours of hiking.

Durability and details

After several washes and heavy use, no parts showed signs of wear. Zippers, seams and materials hold up. Recco in shell jacket and pants gives you peace of mind in the mountains. Everything is PFC-free and sustainably produced.

• Washing: Everything is machine washable at 30-40°C - no shrinkage.
• Abrasion: Reinforcements on pants hold against rocks and branches.
• Sustainability: Recycled down, Tencel, RDS certified - good for your conscience.

Price and value

The kit isn't cheap - the shell jacket alone costs 4,500 kr. - but the quality justifies the price. It is built to last for many years and the functionality is top notch. Arctic Outdoor offers the Arctic Care Guarantee (free repair) and a 30-day return policy.

• Total price: Approx. 9,000-10,000 DKK for full set.
• Value: High - especially for serious outdoor enthusiasts who want one system for everything.

Comparison with other brands

Compared to Norrøna, Arc'teryx or Fjällräven, Arctic Outdoor holds its own. It's less well-known, but the quality is on par - and prices are often lower. Smaller brand, but big performance.

• Advantage: Danish design, sustainability, repair warranty.
• Cons: Fewer colors and stores.

Pros and cons

The benefits

• Perfect layering system: Everything fits together and works in any weather.
• High quality: YKK, eVent, RDS down, Recco - no compromises.
• Versatility: From everyday use to expedition.
• Sustainability: Recycled materials, PFC-free.
• Danish brand: Great service, repair and returns.

Disadvantages

• Price: Expensive overall - not for beginners.
• Shell jacket weight: 790g is heavy for light hiking.
• Limited color selection: Mostly dark, earth tones.

Arctic Outdoor clothing conclusion

The Arctic Outdoor full set is one of the best layering systems I've tested. It's well thought out, durable and works perfectly in all weather conditions. The baselayer keeps you dry, the fleece warm, the down vest insulates and the shell jacket stops everything. The pants are versatile and the little details like socks and T-shirt make the difference. Although the price is high, you get equipment that will last for years - and with the Arctic Care Guarantee, you're covered if the worst comes to the worst.

For serious outdoorsmen who want one kit for everything, this is an excellent choice. I'll be taking it on all my trips from now on.

FAQ - Arctic Outdoor products