Apologies for asking a question that has already been asked plenty of times - I'm still a bit stuck.
My previous cheap jacket (from Decathlon) destroyed itself and I therefore need a replacement. To be honest, it was great in most conditions:- it provided a bit of warmth but was still breathable, I could wear it day-to-day in the city, and with appropriate underlayers it was alright in cold conditions. It failed miserably though when hit by a heavy blizzard, completely losing it's waterproofing within a couple of hours - a very unpleasant experience. I'm therefore keen to get something more durable.
I have a Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer and various fleeces etc., which I'd layer with this jacket in colder weather.
The scenarios I'd like it to be suitable for:
* Climbing Mera Peak
* General hiking / trekking - typically up to 4,500m - through a variety of weather conditions (Nepal treks, Scottish/Welsh hills in Winter, English Downs, European Alps etc.)
* City wear in cold/wet weather - typically between 5-15 celsius, but sometimes colder (London mainly). I really want practical pockets
I'm thinking about the Arcteryx Beta AR - it looks sufficiently multi-purpose and rugged without being too heavy/bulky. I think it would still be usable in warmer weather, without layers, as a general jacket? With layers, would it be suitable for Mera? It does, though, feel a bit pricy.
Thoughts very much appreciated - happy to clarify if above doesn't make sense.
