Why We Chose the Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket: windproof, breathable, performance

The Kinetic Ultra is part of Rab’s Skyline Collection, kit crafted for the no-compromise-on-protection yet lightweight requirements of mountain running. This is a running jacket that has been designed to excel in foul weather, intended for wear when the conditions look bleak from the outset which, let’s face it, is a common occurrence high in the hills. If you’re serious about getting out and putting in the miles no matter what the Mountain Weather Information Service have to say on the matter, then the Kinetic Ultra is for you.

Who is the Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket For?

As part of the Skyline Collection, the Kinetic Ultra is aimed primarily at trail runners, though its innovative design features and specifications make it an attractive proposition to fast hikers too. It’s heavier and pricier than the Skyline’s Phantom Pull-On jacket, though the Kinetic Ultra is much more fully featured, as well as being stronger in the breathability stakes. In essence, you’d pack the Phantom for a run just in case it rained, you’d take the Kinetic Ultra because you expect it to rain.

Enhanced breathability also equates to greater comfort which, coupled with features like the zippered sleeve pocket, makes the Kinetic Ultra desirable to fast and light hikers and trekkers. However, the close-fitting, cap-style hood is too small for a helmet, meaning the jacket is unsuitable for climbers, mountaineers, and cyclists.

Fabrics

The jacket features Rab’s proprietary, highly breathable yet waterproof 3-layer fabric, which is also one of the brand’s most windproof materials too. Windproof qualities are often overlooked when it comes to considering what is desirable in a hard shell, yet there are few more essential attributes in the world of mountain running.