The Perimeter is a fairly light, simple, understated garment. The cost is low too, unusually for Arc’teryx. The stretch nylon fabric is comfortable and allows free movement. The cut is a little peculiar. The waist and upper area is close-fitting but from the knees down the legs are very loose, which seems unnecessary given the stretch fabric. The sizing is on the small side too. The 36” waist is barely larger than other companies’ 34” waists.
To aid movement the trousers have shaped knees and a crotch gusset. Scrambling in the Perimeters should be no problem. The hip pockets are quite roomy, though the openings could be more angled for ease of access. The zipped pocket will hold a map, though the top sticks out.
Given the cost and weight these are excellent trousers for backpacking outside of winter. The fabric isn’t totally windproof but will cope with all but the strongest, coldest winds.
First published: Sept 2013
