Zach is back with a head-to-head comparison of three top-tier rain jackets we carry in-store and online: the Arc'teryx Beta, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L, and the Cotopaxi Cielo. Whether you’re gearing up for a high-alpine climb or just need a reliable shell for walking around downtown Toledo, Ohio, this guide will help you choose the right jacket for your needs and budget.
Price & Purpose: What Are You Paying For?
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Arc'teryx Beta Jacket
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Price: $400
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Purpose: Built for serious adventures in alpine conditions. Think ice climbing, backcountry skiing, or heavy-duty rain protection for your bike commute.
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Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
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Price: $179
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Purpose: A well-balanced all-rounder. Great for hiking, commuting, and daily wear with solid eco-friendly materials.
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Cotopaxi Cielo
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Price: $145
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Purpose: Stylish and sustainable, best for light showers and urban wear—not designed for harsh conditions.
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Waterproofing & Performance
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Arc'teryx Beta
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Gore-Tex Pro membrane
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Rugged 80D fabric
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Built to shrug off extreme weather—ideal for snow, rain, and alpine terrain
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The most waterproof of the three
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Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
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H2No Performance Standard 3-layer membrane
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Solid water resistance with eco-conscious build
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Great for moderate conditions at a lower price
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Cotopaxi Cielo
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10K waterproof rating
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Best for casual use, like walks around the park or running errands
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Will get overwhelmed in heavy rain
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Breathability & Comfort
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Arc'teryx Beta
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Surprisingly breathable for how waterproof it is
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No pit zips in the standard version, so it can get warm on high-output days
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Durable and abrasion-resistant
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Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
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Includes pit zips for added airflow
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More breathable than the Beta under activity
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Balanced performance for active and casual use
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Cotopaxi Cielo
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No pit zips
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Soft and comfortable but not suited for aerobic activities
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Great for casual wear, not built for high exertion
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Sustainability & Style
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Cotopaxi Cielo
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100% recycled polyester face fabric
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PFC-free membrane
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Bold color blocking and signature Cotopaxi style
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Most sustainable of the three
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Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
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100% recycled nylon face
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Fair Trade Certified sewn
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Clean, minimal aesthetic with a few color pops
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Second in sustainability
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Arc'teryx Beta
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PFC-free Gore-Tex Pro
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Tough nylon shell
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Premium performance focus over sustainability messaging
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More understated in color and branding
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Zach’s Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Get?
“For me, the Beta is the best jacket overall. It’s bombproof and versatile enough for everything from alpine climbs to rainy days in a metro park. But for most folks, the Torrentshell is going to be the best bang for your buck. It’s got legit features and great performance without the $400 price tag.” – Zach
If you need elite-level waterproofing and durability, go with the Arc'teryx Beta.
If you want a do-it-all jacket that blends performance, price, and sustainability, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is your pick.
And if you're looking for something sustainable and stylish for light use, the Cotopaxi Cielo fits the bill.
Shop These Jackets In-Store or Online
Want to see how these jackets feel in person? Try them on at our Ridge and River retail store in Toledo, Ohio. We’ll help you get the perfect fit and choose the right one for your next adventure.
📍 Visit us in-store: Ridge and River Toledo Location
Prefer to order online? Shop directly:
Watch the full breakdown on our YouTube channel:
Watch the Rain Jacket Comparison Video
Follow us on Instagram for gear drops, trail tips, and in-store events: @ridgeandrivergear
Subscribe on YouTube for more reviews: Ridge and River YouTube
