The Rab Quantra Pro is one of those nifty mid-layers that brings a lot of versatility to the table. Made using Rab’s Thermic Pro Fleece – which is very similar to Polartec Power Grid – it’s a layer primarily designed for low-bulk insulation while hiking, climbing and ski touring.
Rab Quantra Pro: The Top Line
The Rab Quantra Pro balances insulation and breathability and combines durability and excellent stretch for unimpeded movement over varied terrain. Its streamlined profile makes layering easy, making it ideal for fast, high-energy activities.
Pros: Comfortable, versatile, recycled materials, breathable and quick-drying
Cons: Not very odour-resistant
Buy the Rab Quantra Pro Hoody: £120 at Rab.equipment
How I’ve Been Testing It
I’ve been wearing this most days since I received it a few months ago. It’s come with me on long hikes in North Wales while checking routes for the guidebook I’ve been working on, I’ve worn it casually, and I’ve also used it for runs on colder days. I’ve mainly been wearing it over a merino t-shirt and underneath a Patagonia Synchilla fleece – a layering system I’ve found really effective on recent cold winter days.
Fit
I’m 5 foot 10 with an average build. I usually go for size medium kit, but these days I’m straddling two sizes. With this, I figured I’d prefer something slightly loose rather than tight and close fitting, and I’m glad I made that choice. If you like a form-fitting midlayer, it’s probably worth going for your usual size, or sizing down if you’re often between two.
For me, the Quantra Pro fits very comfortably over a baselayer – even my chunkier wool ones. It also sits well under a shell or insulated layer. The articulation, as can be expected from Rab, is excellent – it doesn’t hinder movement at all.
Details
At 339g it’s pretty light, and it packs down to about the size of a pint glass. It has zipped handwarmer pockets, an elasticated hood rim and cuffs, and cord adjustment at the hem. The hood doesn’t have any adjustment, but it holds pretty well even when there’s a bit of wind blowing into it, and it’s designed to be neat and comfortable under a helmet. All of the zipper tabs are glove-friendly. It doesn’t have thumb loops. There’s a high amount of recycled content used.
Performance
This is one of those layers I’ve found great for keeping me comfortable when my output is constantly changing – warm enough on uphill climbs, breathable enough when pushing hard, and never so bulky that it gets in the way. In the warmer months it’s ideal as a light insulating layer when there’s a chilly wind about, while in colder weather it integrates nicely into my layering system and has served me well on cold trail runs.
