Kit Focus — Rab Kinetic Alpine Waterproof Shell Jacket

The Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket is an industry-leading fully waterproof shell jacket; providing the comfort and stretchy feel of a softshell jacket, but with the protective performance of a 100 percent waterproof hiking / trail running jacket.

The exceptional characteristic of the Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket, which sets it apart from other waterproof jackets on the market, is the fabric — the patented Proflex™ material. This unique technical fabric is breathable, waterproof, durable, and crucially stretchy; enabling an adaptable and close-fitting protective outer layer.

The Kinetic Alpine Jacket is designed for the mountains; where lightweight packable properties are essential and second only to the necessity for the jacket to be fully weatherproof.

In the pursuit of featherweight lightness (390 grams for the Medium size jacket), Rab have introduced some clever innovations. Ceramic print overlays are used on high wear areas to remove the need for bulky reinforcement patches and to retain maximum stretch. Fully-taped seams and a high-quality lightweight YKK AquaGuard Vislon zipper seal out the elements, without adding bulk.

To facilitate the mountain-capable weatherproof performance of the Rab Kinetic Alpine, the British company have added adjustable cuffs, drawcord fasteners on the hem, and a superb hood with integrated stiffened peak. These features allow you to cinch down the jacket and create a protective cocoon.

The high-stretch properties of the fabric also benefit the protective nature of the jacket; by improving the fit and reducing loose material. A closer fitting slim cut means there are less folds and furrows in the fabric — these tend to create weak points in the waterproofing and protection; so eliminating them helps to boost the jacket's performance.

This jacket fits and feels like the best streamlined cycling jackets on the market that I have tested; but with added features like the hood and pockets, which are demanded for hiking and mountaineering expeditions. Initially, the Small sized jacket I had on test felt almost too tight; but then you realise how stretchy and flexible the material is and you get used to the closer cut and profile.

On numerous hiking and trail running trips over the last few months the Kinetic Alpine Jacket has performed faultlessly; providing a breathable and protective outer shell, which you barely notice you are wearing. When not in use, the jacket packs down incredibly small and can be stuffed into the storage sack and clipped to the outside of your rucksack—ready to be deployed at any moment.

To sum up, the Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket has become my turn-to waterproof expedition jacket. It provides exceptional comfort and protection, with equally impressive packability and versatility.

>> View the Rab Kinetic Alpine Waterproof Jacket here <<

Rab provided The Expedition Journals with a sample Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket for testing and review