Now, with Gore-Tex beginning to totally move away from using fluorocarbon compounds of any kind, we’re seeing garments that are more sustainably made, but that may require a bit more attention when it comes to maintenance. The new fluorine-free DWR treatments just don’t last quite as long without regular reapplication.

Fortunately, this is really easy to do at home using aftercare solutions from the likes of Nikwax, Granger’s, Storm and more. It’s generally recommended to do this after three or so months of regular use, or sooner if you notice water soaking into the outer fabric instead of beading.

Weight

At 496g, it’s not the lightest waterproof jacket out there by any means, but it’s still light for a Gore-Tex Pro jacket – especially one with such a comprehensive feature set (pit zips, storm-proof hood, two-way zips etc). The same can be said for its packability – I’ve found I can fold, scrunch or roll it down to about the size of a small honeydew melon.

Performance

I’ve found this to be a very protective layer. From the off, it beaded moisture away well and kept water fully out, even in the worst of conditions. After repeated use, some moisture did start to saturate the outer fabric, particularly around the shoulders, but this can be kept on top of with a good reproofing routine.

On particularly wet days, the storm-proof hood has performed well for me, and it pairs really nicely with a cap underneath it (it’s also helmet-friendly). The long protective cuffs add a touch of extra protection too, and so does the hem, which is slightly longer than you see on other alpine climbing-style jackets.

Breathability

The Latok uses the ‘most breathable’ version of Gore-tex Pro. I’ve certainly found the breathability levels to be good. I’ve been happy and comfortable keeping the jacket on during ascents in cold or cooler weather, helped in particular by the long zipped vents at the armpits. In milder or more humid conditions, those vents have proved essential for quickly dumping heat without letting in rain. The new Gore-Tex Pro membrane seems to manage moisture build-up just as effectively as the previous PFAS-based version, which is reassuring given the big change in chemistry. While no hardshell will ever match the airflow of a softshell, this strikes an impressive balance between protection and comfort, meaning you can keep it on through changeable conditions without feeling clammy.

Fit

I’m 5 foot 10 and have a reasonably average build. I usually wear jackets in a size Medium, which is the size I have this in, and it fits perfectly. I like that it feels very loose and well articulated, but it’s not overly baggy either. I’ve been able to wear it comfortably over my midweight fleece or over my synthetic insulated puffer.

There’s plenty of articulation, as you’d expect from a Rab jacket. Wearing it during a scramble in Eryri National Park, I noticed that I could comfortably reach up for holds without the hem lifting or any feeling of restriction.

Other Details

True to Rab’s mountain heritage, the Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro is kitted out with all the features you’d expect in a serious alpine shell. You get a fully adjustable, helmet-compatible hood with a wired peak for shaping in high winds, water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zips throughout – which have glove-friendly zipper tabs. There’s one large chest pocket which is big enough for an OS map. There are large zipped hand pockets which are accessible when wearing a harness or a backpack with a hipbelt, and there’s a small zipped pocket on the inside which is ideal for a phone or satellite device. At the hem, there’s a dual-sided drawcord that can be cinched one-handed to seal out draughts quickly and I found the cuffs are wide enough to fit over chunky gloves, with Velcro tabs for fast adjustment.

A final detail I’ve appreciated is the little popper at the base of the main zip. This means you can fully open the jacket up for airflow without it turning into a superhero-like cape in strong winds. Oh, and a touch I almost missed because it’s so subtle: there’s a RECCO reflector located on the right arm.

Who Is the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro Best Suited To?

While it’s made with alpine mountaineers in mind, I’ve found it to be an all-round performer that really doesn’t look out of place as a three-season hillwalking shell or even as a casual day-to-day rain jacket. OK, it’s got a top-tier price, but you’re getting a cutting-edge fabric with impressive environmental credentials, excellent protection, and the sort of build quality that should last for years with the right care.

Verdict

I’ve found this to be a very well-made jacket with all of the right details that I’d expect from a mountain shell. It’s hardy and very protective, and it doesn’t skimp on features while still remaining reasonably light. With its recycled outer fabric, PFAS-free Gore-Tex Pro, and Rab’s overall credentials as a sustainability-focused brand (go check out their Material Facts initiative and also their product repair services), it’s well worthy of inclusion in this year’s Greener Gear Guide.

Price: £480
Weight: 496g (size medium)

Buy the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-tex Pro:  £480 at Ellis-brigham.com