Montec Arch vs Fawk jacket – which one is right for you?
Montec Arch vs Fawk jacket – torn between the two? You’re not alone. Both jackets are tech-packed, performance-driven, and ready for everything from park laps to deep powder. But the right choice depends on your riding style and what you’re looking for in terms of fit and design.
When it comes to picking a ski jacket that can do it all, the Arch and Fawk from Montec are two of the best options in the men’s lineup. Both jackets are all-mountain performers, built with premium materials and packed with features. Whether you’re carving groomers or hiking for turns, these jackets are designed to handle it. But there are some key differences in fit and styling that might make one a better choice for your setup.
Quick jacket comparison
| Arch | Fawk | |
| Made for | Resort, touring, park | Resort, touring, park |
| Fit | Oversized | Regular |
| Warmth | Lined shell or insulated | Lined shell or insulated |
| Features | Adjustable hood, waterproof zips, underarm vents, pass pocket, wrist gaiters, powder skirt | Adjustable hood, waterproof zips, underarm vents, pass pocket, wrist gaiters, powder skirt |
| Tech specs | 20k/20k SHIELD-TEC shell, eco-DWR, fully taped seams | 20k/20k SHIELD-TEC shell, eco-DWR fully taped seams |
| Choice of colours | Yes, multiple | Yes, multiple |
What are they best for?
Both the Arch and the Fawk are built for all-mountain riding. Whether you’re exploring the slack country, cruising the resort, or building a booter in the trees, these jackets have the specs and features to handle it.
The Arch’s slightly baggier fit and cleaner design make it great for park riders and those who prefer a freestyle vibe, or those who want some extra space on those earn-your-turns days. The Fawk, with its more classic snow jacket styling and regular fit, suits riders who want a dependable all-rounder with a more traditional cut. But at the end of the day, you really can’t go wrong with either.
Technical specs
Both the Arch and the Fawk are made using Montec’s SHIELD-TEC membrane, offering top-tier 20k waterproofing and 20k breathability. They’re also treated with an eco-friendly DWR coating that’s PFAS-free, making them both high-performance jackets and also eco-conscious.
Construction-wise, both jackets have fully taped seams and are made from recycled materials. They’re also bluesign® approved, meaning they meet strict environmental and safety standards throughout the production process. And because all colourwaus solution dyed, the Arch and Fawk have vibrant colours that also save water and reduce chemical use during manufacturing.
How warm are they?
Both the Arch and the Fawk come in shell and insulated versions. The insulated versions feature lightweight Comfortemp® insulation with 60gsm in the body and 40gsm in the arms and hood, which adds a solid level of warmth without bulk.
On the other hand, if you prefer to layer up, ride more actively, or even ski tour, the shell version is the way to go. You get the same waterproof, breathable outer layer, but without the added insulation bulk, ideal for spring laps or backcountry missions.
Other things to consider
The Arch and Fawk share the same practical, rider-designed features across the board. Both come with a 3-way adjustable, helmet-compatible StormGuard hood for snow and wind protection, underarm ventilation zips to help regulate temperature, and a snow skirt to keep the powder out.
They also include wrist gaiters, oversized sleeve cuffs that fit over gloves, a lift pass pocket on the sleeve, and a microfleece chin guard for added comfort. On the inside, you’ll find a big mesh dump pocket, and the outer pockets are waterproof for stashing essentials safely.
What are the differences?
The biggest difference between the Arch and the Fawk comes down to fit and front zip design. The Arch has an exposed waterproof front zipper that gives it a clean, modern look and simplifies access. Its cut is more oversized and relaxed, too, offering a looser fit with more room to move.
The Fawk, meanwhile, features a double-placket storm flap that covers the front zip. This classic design gives the jacket a more traditional snow look and adds an extra barrier against the wind and snow. It also hides the media pocket neatly inside the placket. The Fawk has a regular fit which still roomy, but quite not as oversized as the Arch.
Final verdict
The Arch and the Fawk are two of the strongest options in Montec’s men’s jacket lineup. They share the same core construction, weather protection, and feature set but offer different styles and fits to suit different riders. If you like a cleaner look and roomier cut, go for the Arch. If you prefer a slightly more fitted jacket with a classic placket zip, the Fawk’s got your back.
And because Montec uses solution-dyed colours across the board, you can mix and match Arch jackets with Fawk pants in the same colourway and they’ll match perfectly. So whether you’re new to the mountain or a seasoned rider, Montec’s got a jacket for you.
Related reading