Gear GuidesTravelTips
Language
Montec Arch vs Fawk jacket - which one is right for you | Ridestore Mag

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

Montec Arch jacket
Montec Fawk jacket

Montec Arch jacket

Montec Fawk jacket

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

Colours

Multiple

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. The lining fabrics in all colourways are solution-dyed, a process that significantly reduces water and chemical use during manufacturing. And thanks to Montec’s consistent colour system, the Arch and Fawk come in matching colourways—so you can mix and match jackets and pants across different models with ease.

Technical specs

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.

Other things to consider

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.

Montec’s consistent colour system means 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