It’s no secret Arc’teryx designs and develops high-quality products made to withstand the harshest conditions Mother Nature can throw at you in the mountains—sub-zero temperatures, rain, snow and gale-force winds. From its packs and climbing harnesses to its outwear, Arc’teryx has always put a premium on performance. For the first time in the brand’s history, two female Arc’teryx designers are re-thinking the standard performance equation with the all-new women’s Incendia collection.
Sarah Wallace, design manager for ski and snowboard, and Edita Hadravska, everyday design team lead for Arc’teryx, were sitting on the chairlift at Whistler Blackcomb on opening day when it hit them: There was an unfulfilled need for outerwear that women actually want. Every female they saw ski or ride down was seemingly outfitted the same way, in apparel that was originally designed for men and refitted to the other half of the market. For Wallace and Hadravska, performance is not only about the laminated zippers and waterproof membrane, it’s about looking good, which, ultimately, makes you feel good. When you feel good, you’re going to have the confidence to send it. From this new perspective on outerwear performance, the Incendia One Piece was born.
Arc’teryx Incendia One Piece
Built by women, for women, the Incendia One Piece is a lady shredder’s dream outerwear piece. At first touch, the heathered GORE-TEX fabric is heavenly soft but once you slip this puppy on, its features truly shine. Giant pit-to-thigh zippers open up for efficient venting and bathroom breaks but can be battened down to create a cozy defense against frigid conditions. Two thigh pockets, hand pockets and a chest compartment provide enough storage to negate the need of carrying a bulky pack inbounds and a built-in waistband cinches for a flattering fit. I had the opportunity to test this beauty out and there wasn’t a situation I found the one piece to be ineffective. Wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour had no way of permeating the onesie and no spread eagle was too wide thanks to the functional articulation of the suit. For the ladies looking to simplify their kit without sacrificing fit or performance, the Incendia One Piece will be available for purchase come fall 2020.
