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Backpacker Magazine – Fall Gear Guide 2009
Gear Review: Rab Ascent Jacket
The super warm Rab jacket has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.
Rab Ascent (Courtesy Photo)
Stay Warm
Fall Gear Guide: Insulating Jackets
Fall Gear Guide: Insulating Jackets
Warmest
Your sleeping bag might be warmer than this overstuffed, 650-fill down parka–but not by much. In the Tetons, testers stayed comfortable in the Ascent when sitting around in single-digit temps. At under two pounds, it offers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. The generously insulated (and removable) hood cinches down over the forehead; a wire brim provides extra snow protection and increases field of view.
The tall, fleece-lined collar and face guard snap over the mouth to batten down the hatches–"like an insulated balaclava," notes a tester. Baffles across the chest and shoulders are still keeping the fill in place after numerous stuffings. The Pertex Endurance shell fabric repelled drizzle and snow, and showed no wear after a season of use. The cut is trim for a parka, but still has room for layering underneath. $200; 1 lb. 12 oz.; men's S-XXL, women's 8-16; us.rab.uk.com
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READERS COMMENTS
BP, you are correct describing as a Parka...butt area is covered. My apologies. Also your description of 'Trim' for fit is correct. I measure a LG per RAB's chart. I'd say the fit is like a tailored suit jacket. While not tight or restrictive, some compression of down and sleeves riding up when reaching forward. I opted for the XL. Sizing up allows for a perfect fit over thickness of a TNF Denali jacket with minimal if any compression.
Overall appears very well made. No feathers coming out after stuffing in provided sack a number of times. Stuffs to football dia and length. Shell looks & feels quite durable. Nice hood includes long velco tab on outer rear crown for volume adjustment. 2 way YKK jacket zipper pulls with left hand. Not like USA but no big deal. IMO great buy even at MSRP.
BP...note this is a Jacket, not a Parka.
With that said, been looking for a down jacket wth removable hood. No seeing negative comments so ordered the L & XL (try both/return one) from Campsaver.com @ $159.96 today. Will report on impression & fit once received.
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