Rab

What Sets Rab Apart

Rab is a renowned brand in the world of outdoor gear, known for its high-quality clothing and equipment designed for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The history of Rab is a tale of passion, innovation, and a relentless commitment to providing gear that performs flawlessly in challenging environments. Rab Carrington, the founder of the brand, had a deep-rooted passion for climbing and mountaineering. His journey into the world of outdoor gear began in the 1970s when he started making his own down sleeping bag in his attic in Sheffield, England. This DIY project marked the inception of Rab's commitment to creating gear that met the unique needs of climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Rab Carrington's dedication to innovation set the brand on a path of excellence from the very beginning. He was not content with existing outdoor gear and decided to push the boundaries of technology and design. This drive for improvement led to the development of innovative products, such as the Rab sleeping bag, which quickly gained recognition for its quality and performance. One of the cornerstones of Rab's success has been its unwavering commitment to durability. Every product undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it can endure the challenges of outdoor adventures. From the stitching on jackets to the zippers on sleeping bags, Rab's meticulous attention to detail ensures that their gear is built to last, providing adventurers with reliable equipment that stands up to the test of time. In recent years, Rab has also embraced sustainability as a core value. The brand is committed to reducing its environmental impact and using eco-friendly materials whenever possible. This commitment not only reflects Rab's dedication to preserving the natural world but also ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy outdoor adventures.

Rab's Clothing

Rab's product range spans a wide variety of outdoor gear, each meticulously designed and crafted to meet the unique needs of outdoor enthusiasts. Let's take a closer look at some of their standout offerings. 

Insulated Jackets

Rab's insulated jackets are renowned for their warmth and versatility. One key factor that sets Rab apart in insulated jackets is their unwavering commitment to using cutting-edge insulation materials. Rab's dedication to innovation ensures that their jackets provide unmatched warmth and performance, even in the most challenging conditions. Rab's commitment to innovation is at the core of their insulated jackets' success. The brand consistently pushes the boundaries of insulation technology, striving to provide gear that surpasses expectations. Rab's down jackets, in particular, have earned legendary status among outdoor enthusiasts, and for good reason. Rab's down jackets are filled with premium hydrophobic down—a revolutionary advancement in the world of insulation. Hydrophobic down is treated to repel moisture, making it exceptionally resistant to wet conditions. This means that even when unexpected rain or snow becomes part of your adventure, your Rab down jacket will continue to keep you warm and dry. It sets the gold standard in insulation for cold and damp environments, ensuring that you remain comfortable regardless of the weather's whims. While hydrophobic down is exceptional, Rab also recognises that certain situations demand synthetic alternatives. Their synthetic insulated jackets are purpose-built to provide reliable warmth, even when faced with moisture. These jackets shine in environments where dampness is a constant companion, such as rainy forests or ice climbing expeditions. Their ability to retain insulating properties ensures that you remain comfortable and protected throughout your journey. ab's insulated jackets are designed to be versatile, adapting seamlessly to the ever-changing conditions of the great outdoors. Whether you're conquering alpine peaks, trekking through rain-soaked forests, or navigating frigid winter landscapes, Rab's commitment to insulation excellence ensures that you're equipped with gear that performs when it matters most.

The Rab Microlight Range

The Rab Microlight range consists of insulated jackets that are known for their lightweight warmth and versatility. These jackets are available in various styles for both men and women, including hooded and non-hooded options, as well as different lengths. The insulation used in these jackets is high-quality down, renowned for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. Down is lightweight and can be compressed, making it suitable for outdoor activities where packability is essential. Many jackets in the Microlight range feature hydrophobic down, which retains its insulation properties even in wet conditions, providing warmth when exposed to moisture. While not fully waterproof, some Microlight jackets have a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric, helping to shed light rain and snow, thus offering some weather resistance. These jackets are designed to be lightweight and packable, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and backpacking to climbing and skiing. The Microlight range is versatile and can serve as a standalone jacket in cool conditions or as a mid-layer in colder weather, making it suitable for various outdoor adventures. Depending on the specific model, Microlight jackets come with various pockets, including handwarmer pockets and chest pockets. Some also feature a helmet-compatible hood for added convenience. It's essential to consider the temperature rating and intended use of each specific Microlight model, as they are designed for various temperature ranges and outdoor activities.

Baselayers

The foundation of any outdoor layering system, Rab's baselayers are designed for optimal moisture management and comfort. They come in various weights to suit different weather conditions, ensuring you're ready for anything. Outdoor conditions are as diverse as the landscapes you explore, and Rab understands that one-size-fits-all doesn't apply to baselayers. That's why they offer a range of weights to suit different weather scenarios. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect:

• Lightweight baselayers: Ideal for high-output activities in mild conditions. Whether you're trail running through the woods on a cool autumn morning or taking a brisk hike in spring, lightweight baselayers provide just the right amount of warmth without overheating.

• Midweight baselayers: Perfect for a wide range of conditions, midweight baselayers offer a versatile balance of warmth and breathability. They're your go-to choice for everything from autumn backpacking trips to winter skiing adventures.

• Heavyweight baselayers: When the mercury drops and the cold bites, heavyweight baselayers step in as your trusted companions. Designed to provide maximum warmth, they're perfect for frigid winter expeditions, ice climbing, or any scenario where staying toasty is non-negotiable.

Softshells and Midlayers

Rab's softshells and midlayers strike a perfect balance between insulation and breathability. These versatile pieces are great for a wide range of activities, from hiking to climbing. When the temperature drops or the wind picks up, your body craves insulation to maintain warmth.  Rab's softshells and midlayers incorporate advanced insulation materials, each selected to deliver optimal warmth. Whether it's synthetic or down insulation, these garments are engineered to provide the right level of warmth without compromising on mobility. The fabrics used in Rab's softshells and midlayers are chosen for their exceptional breathability. It is achieved through a combination of fabric technologies, including moisture-wicking properties and air-permeable membranes. ab understands that different activities demand different performance attributes. Whether you're on a high-intensity alpine climb or a leisurely autumn hike, these softshells and midlayers are tailored to meet the specific requirements of the task at hand. Some of Rab's softshells may feature a durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment on their outer fabric, enhancing their ability to shed light rain or snow. This additional feature offers protection without compromising breathability.

Technical Shells

For those pushing the limits in alpine environments, Rab's technical shells offer unparalleled protection. Designed through exhaustive collaboration with professional climbers, and individuals intimately acquainted with the formidable challenges posed by these elevated terrains, these jackets and pants are meticulously crafted to withstand the harshest conditions imaginable. As one ventures into the alpine domain, they confront an array of formidable adversaries—howling winds, subzero temperatures, relentless snowfall, and unrelenting rain. Rab's technical shells represent the pinnacle of resilience, fortified with cutting-edge waterproof and windproof technologies, such as GORE-TEX, to ensure that one remains impervious to moisture incursion and shielded from the piercing bite of the most savage storms. Rab's technical shells prominently feature state-of-the-art waterproof and windproof technologies, including but not limited to the esteemed GORE-TEX fabric. These technologies elevate these garments to a level of impermeability that not only safeguards against the intrusion of rain, snow, and sleet but also provides an impervious barrier against the relentless onslaught of nature's tempestuous tantrums. Windproof properties ensure that one remains ensconced in warmth and comfort, even when besieged by gale-force winds.

Alpine environments are unforgiving, where each movement exacts a toll on gear integrity. Thus, durability is not merely a desirable quality—it is an absolute imperative. Rab's technical shells are thoughtfully engineered to withstand abrasion, impacts, and the rigours that typify climbing and mountaineering endeavours. Their design philosophy is not rooted in the transient; rather, it revolves around the enduring, guaranteeing gear resilience across multiple expeditions, engendering unwavering dependability amidst the most challenging of circumstances. The technical shells, as befits their nomenclature, bear a suite of specialised features, meticulously incorporated to cater to the idiosyncratic demands of alpine pursuits. Helmet-compatible hoods offer critical cranial protection while ensuring unimpeded visibility. Harness-compatible pockets enable access to essential items even when securely tethered to climbing gear, rendering functionality an ally in high-altitude challenges. Reinforced areas thoughtfully designated for ice axes and crampons bolster structural integrity where it matters most, fortifying performance and reliability in the crucible of extreme terrain.

Rab's Camping Accessories

Beyond crafting exceptional clothing for outdoor enthusiasts, Rab goes the extra mile by offering a carefully curated range of camping accessories. These accessories are more than mere add-ons; they are designed to seamlessly complement Rab's clothing, enhancing your overall outdoor experience. 

Tents

Rab's tents are a testament to their commitment to quality and functionality. They offer a variety of tents suitable for different environments, whether you're embarking on a solo backpacking adventure or a group expedition. Rab understands that not all outdoor environments are created equal. From serene meadows to rugged mountaintops, every landscape demands a different kind of shelter. That's why Rab offers a diverse range of tents, each tailored to suit specific conditions and preferences. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect from Rab's tent lineup:

• Solo tents: For those seeking solitude and self-discovery in the wilderness, Rab's solo tents provide the ideal haven. These tents are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them perfect for solo backpacking adventures where every ounce counts.

• Two-person tents: Adventure is best shared, and Rab's two-person tents strike a balance between comfort and portability. They're perfect for couples or pairs of adventurers seeking a cosy shelter under the stars.

• Group tents: When the camaraderie of a group expedition calls, Rab's larger tents step in to accommodate your team. These tents are spacious, robust, and designed to withstand the rigours of extended expeditions, making them the perfect companions for group adventures.

Sleeping Bags and Mats

At the core of Rab's sleeping bags is the use of high-quality down. This premium down is responsibly sourced, ensuring ethical practices and sustainability. Down's unique structure creates a network of air pockets, which trap warm air, rendering it an unparalleled insulator. This down is meticulously selected for its loft, which is the measure of its fluffiness. Higher loft translates to greater warmth, and Rab ensures that each bag is optimised for this critical attribute. Sleeping in cold environments demands more than just quality insulation; it requires thoughtful design. Rab's sleeping bags are ingeniously engineered to minimise heat loss and optimise thermal efficiency. Features like draft collars, draft tubes, and snug-fitting hoods work in concert to prevent warm air from escaping, ensuring that you remain toasty throughout the night. To complete your sleep system, Rab offers a range of sleeping mats. These mats, designed with precision, serve as the critical interface between you and the cold ground. But they are far more than mere insulation—they enhance your overall sleep quality by providing cushioning and support, ensuring your slumber is as restorative as it is rejuvenating. Rab's assortment of sleeping mats encompasses various technical specifications tailored to individual preferences and expedition requirements. The options range from ultralight inflatable air mats, ideal for weight-conscious backpackers, to self-inflating foam mats that deliver enhanced comfort for extended periods of rest. 

Backpacks and Rucksacks

Carrying your gear in the wilderness requires a reliable backpack. Rab's range of backpacks and rucksacks are designed with durability and ergonomics in mind, making them the perfect companions for your adventures. From nimble, compact daypacks designed for swift forays into nature's realm to capacious rucksacks tailored for prolonged journeys into the wilderness, Rab's comprehensive range of options ensures that you possess the perfect pack, precisely calibrated to meet the demands of your expedition. Every Rab backpack is conceived with durability as a foundational principle. These packs are engineered to withstand the rigours of the untamed outdoors, constructed from rugged materials that defy abrasion, impact, and the vagaries of the wilderness. This durability ensures that your pack remains a faithful companion on numerous expeditions, season after season. Ergonomics, too, is a paramount concern. Rab's designers have meticulously crafted these packs to provide optimal weight distribution, minimising fatigue during extended treks. Padded shoulder straps, ergonomic hip belts, and adjustable harnesses ensure that your backpack feels like an extension of your body, not a burden on your shoulders. Multiple compartments, pockets, and attachment points are strategically positioned to facilitate orderly storage of your gear. This meticulous approach empowers you to access your essentials with ease, precisely when they are needed. Additionally, these backpacks often feature technical attachments and features that enhance their utility in the wild. Attachment points for trekking poles, ice axes, and other gear essentials are thoughtfully integrated. Rain covers, hydration reservoir compatibility, and specialised pockets for maps and navigation tools further accentuate their technical proficiency.

Rab’s Accessories

From headlamps and water bottles to gaiters and gloves, Rab offers a wide range of accessories that cater to the specific needs of outdoor enthusiasts. These small but essential items can make a big difference in your overall outdoor experience. 

Illuminating the Path with Headlamps

As the sun sets and darkness falls, a reliable source of light becomes your guiding star in the wilderness.  Rab's headlamps are designed to deliver precise illumination. They harness advanced LED technology that provides a potent beam of light capable of piercing the darkest shrouds of night. Adjustable brightness settings allow you to tailor the intensity of illumination to your specific needs, conserving battery life when required. With extended battery life, you can venture confidently into the night, secure in the knowledge that your illumination source will not falter when you need it most. Comfort during extended use is vital, and Rab's headlamps are ergonomically designed to ensure that wearing them is a seamless experience. Adjustable headbands and strategically placed padding guarantee a snug and comfortable fit, allowing you to traverse the night without distraction. In the unpredictable outdoor environment, a degree of rugged resilience is essential. Rab's headlamps are crafted with weather-resistant features, designed to withstand rain, snow, and the unexpected drizzle of nature's temperament.

Staying Hydrated with Water Bottles

In the outdoors, proper hydration is non-negotiable. Rab's water bottles are conceived with durability at their core. Constructed from rugged materials and engineered for resilience, these bottles are prepared to withstand the tumultuous journey through the wild. They defy the bumps, drops, and unforeseen impacts that define outdoor life, ensuring that your hydration vessel remains steadfast and dependable. The Rab range encompasses a spectrum of capacities, enabling you to select the bottle that perfectly aligns with your expedition's requirements. From compact options for shorter treks to capacious vessels for extended journeys, you have the autonomy to choose a bottle that suits your adventure. Rab's water bottles often come with compatibility features for accessories such as water filters or purification tablets. This functionality ensures that you have access to safe and potable water even in the remotest of locations, further enhancing your outdoor experience.

Gaiters: Keeping Debris at Bay

When you venture into rugged terrain, whether it's a rocky trail or a bushwhacking expedition, debris has a way of finding its way into your boots. Rab's gaiters are constructed from robust materials that defy abrasion and punctures. They are prepared to confront the harshest conditions and endure the wear and tear of challenging terrains. The secure closure mechanisms employed in Rab's gaiters ensure that they remain steadfastly in place. Whether it's the convenience of zippers or the reliability of hook-and-loop fasteners, these gaiters guarantee that your lower limbs remain impervious to debris, even during the most vigorous activities. Streamlined and ergonomic, Rab's gaiters are designed for a comfortable and secure fit. They conform to the contours of your lower legs, ensuring that they stay in place without restricting your movement or causing discomfort. These gaiters are engineered for versatility. Whether you're hiking, trekking, trail running, or embarking on alpine expeditions, Rab's gaiters are adaptable companions, safeguarding your lower limbs in a multitude of outdoor pursuits.