Light and breathable hybrid shell jacket ideal for alpine climbing and backcountry skiing.
Rab’s Kinetic Alpine 2.0 breaks tradition by blurring the boundaries between hardshell and soft shell (Rab calls it “soft hardshell”). Constructed using Proflex fabric that offers quiet performance while remaining waterproof, windproof, and breathable, Proflex materials combine water resistance with flexible flexibility while being water resistant, windproof, and breathable for ultimate performance.
Features
The Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 defies categorization, blurring the distinctions between hardshell and softshell (Rab refers to it as a “soft hardshell”). Equipped with Rab Proflex fabric that is waterproof, windproof, and breathable.
Baffles feature skip-stitch quilting to form an interconnected network that maintains insulation loft while minimizing cold spots caused by fabric-to-fabric contact. Furthermore, this jacket boasts a helmet-compatible hood, which can easily be pushed back up off of your head when not needed.
Rab is an eco-conscious company that operates carbon neutrally by offsetting emissions, as well as offering repair centers across the U.S. Unfortunately; they do not yet provide transparent information regarding their supply chain or support an ethical down certification program, though this should not be seen as a significant hindrance given their exceptional price/performance offerings such as this jacket.
Design
Rab has long been known for producing well-crafted gear against harsh environments and conditions – the Kinetic Alpine 2.0 jacket is a prime example. Featuring an uncluttered design and lightweight yet durable shell fabric that has stood up well over time.
It may not be suitable for alpine climbing or backcountry skiing due to a lack of pit zips for venting heat. It isn’t as durable as competing hardshell jackets like the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid or Outdoor Research Microgravity.
But it is perfect for hiking around town or on an established thru-hike trail and is a cost-effective alternative to light-down jackets with similar features.
Fit
This jacket was created explicitly for alpine climbing. Featuring a snug fit in both body and waist areas, layering other jackets over it becomes easy. Furthermore, its helmet-compatible hood features front and back adjustment capabilities and features front-back adjustment options for increased versatility.
Though not as insulating as some models we tested, this softshell provides solid protection from light snow and rain. The fabric is durable, while its DWR finish repels water nearly as effectively as hardshell. Unfortunately, its face fabric rips easily on rough terrains such as mountain trails or hanging branches, but with care, this jacket should last you years while being highly lightweight to a softshell jacket. Making this an exceptional value proposition.
Materials
Schoeller shell windbreakers stand out from the pack by their stretch-woven construction that feels both soft and plastic-y against your skin, offering optimal wind resistance while remaining breathable and featuring underarm gussets for better reach and an oversized hood that easily accommodates climbing helmets.
Montbell employs an innovative skip-stitched quilting technique, producing an array of baffles that minimize cold spots and fabric-to-fabric contact. Their high-quality insulation products have proven themselves time after time as reliable solutions.
Rab is widely recognized for producing reliable gear and uses recycled materials in their jackets. They also strive to source their own ethically while offering more transparency into the supply chain and adhering to a certification program.
Value
The Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 jacket is an ideal layer for mountain weather, providing solid warmth without increasing weight too much. Furthermore, its synthetic construction is relatively breathable for an outerwear piece like this; pit zips would offer complete temperature regulation (for other comparable shells, please check our reviews of Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid and Outdoor Research Microgravity).
The Proflex fabric feels more like softshell than hardshell, providing comfort and mobility. Other refinements include well-built Velcro Cuff Adjusters for custom fitting as well as reinforcements in high-use areas of fabric reinforcements. Plus, it has an included helmet-compatible hood and YKK AquaGuard zippers!
Rab has prioritized environmental awareness and responsibility, offset their carbon emissions with carbon credits, and run an in-country repair center. While they may not match Patagonia or Fjallraven regarding sustainability initiatives, Rab is making strides.
