Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s Review

What Makes Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s Stand Out?

The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s isn’t just another softshell; it’s a meticulously designed piece of kit from Rab, built for the mountains and adaptable to almost any outdoor pursuit. Priced at $120, it promises unbeatable breathability, wind resistance, and freedom of movement. This hoody distinguishes itself through its use of recycled Matrix stretch fabric, its lightweight packability, and thoughtful features like the low-profile hood and hand pockets.

I was searching for a versatile outer layer that could handle everything from breezy ridgelines to chilly climbing sessions. My old windbreaker felt like a plastic bag when I worked up a sweat, and my heavier softshell was overkill for mild days. The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s seemed like the perfect balance.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight, or rather, the lack thereof. The fabric felt surprisingly supple and the construction appeared robust, with clean stitching and a well-designed hood. It was clear that Rab had prioritized both performance and packability.

I considered the Patagonia Houdini Air and the Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody, both excellent options. Ultimately, I chose the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s for its slightly more robust fabric and its promise of better wind resistance, crucial for exposed mountain environments.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to test it out in the field, hoping it would live up to its claims of breathability and wind protection.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s on a multi-pitch rock climb in the Shawangunks. The day started cool and breezy, perfect conditions for testing its wind resistance and breathability. I wore it over a thin base layer.

The hoody performed admirably. Even while working hard on challenging pitches, I never felt clammy or overheated. The wind resistance was noticeable; it cut through the breeze without making me feel stifled. I didn’t encounter rain, but the fabric shed light moisture effectively when splashed from a nearby stream.

The fit was trim but allowed for unrestricted movement, thanks to the stretchy Matrix fabric. I didn’t need any time to get used to it; it felt comfortable and natural from the start.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use – hiking, trail running, and even a bit of spring skiing – the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being stuffed into backpacks and subjected to abrasive rock surfaces. The color hasn’t faded.

Maintaining the hoody is simple. A quick wash in the machine followed by air drying keeps it fresh and performing well. It dries incredibly quickly.

Compared to my previous windbreakers and softshells, the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s offers a superior combination of breathability, wind resistance, and freedom of movement. It has quickly become my go-to outer layer for a wide range of activities.

Breaking Down the Features of Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s

Specifications

• The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s utilizes Recycled Matrix stretch fabric, a lightweight and breathable material offering excellent wind resistance. This fabric is the key to its versatility.
• It features a YKK VISLON front zip with chin guard for smooth operation and added comfort. This ensures durability and prevents chafing.
• The low-volume hood fits seamlessly under a helmet. This is a crucial feature for climbers, skiers, and cyclists.
• Two hand pockets provide quick-access storage. This is perfect for small essentials.
• A low-profile hem adjustment ensures a comfortable fit under a harness. This prevents the hoody from riding up during activities like climbing.
• Elasticated cuffs seal out the wind without adding bulk. This keeps the sleeves in place and prevents cold air from entering.
• The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s has an Apparel Fit of Slim. This allows for a full range of motion while avoiding excess material.
• The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s is designed specifically for the Male gender and intended for Adults.
• The hoody is intended for Outdoor applications. These can include hiking, climbing, camping, and other activities.
• It weighs in at a mere 9.6 oz. This contributes to its packability.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and versatility of the hoody. The lightweight fabric and thoughtful features make it ideal for a wide range of activities.

Performance & Functionality

The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s excels at its intended purpose: providing breathable wind resistance and freedom of movement in a lightweight package. It regulates temperature effectively during strenuous activities.

Its strengths lie in its breathability, wind resistance, and comfortable fit. The hand pockets could be slightly larger, but that is a minor quibble.

The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s has far exceeded my expectations. It’s a versatile and reliable piece of gear that I reach for time and again.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, using durable materials and precise stitching. The hoody feels light and comfortable against the skin.

The design is user-friendly, with no unnecessary frills. The slim fit allows for layering without feeling bulky. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, I expect the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s to last for several seasons of regular use. The Matrix fabric is surprisingly durable.

The hoody is easy to maintain. Machine washing and air drying are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s does not come with any specific accessories. Its strength lies in its simplicity and minimalist design.

There are no specific customization options beyond choosing the desired color and size. However, the slim fit makes it easy to layer with other Rab products or base layers from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s

Who Should Buy Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s?

The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s is perfect for hikers, climbers, trail runners, and anyone who needs a lightweight, breathable, and wind-resistant outer layer for active pursuits. It is well-suited for activities in mild to cool conditions where freedom of movement is essential.

Someone seeking a waterproof jacket for heavy rain should skip this product. This is designed for wind protection and breathability, not complete water blockage.

A lightweight base layer is a must-have accessory to maximize the hoody’s performance in cooler conditions.

Conclusion on Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s

The Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s is an exceptional piece of gear that delivers on its promises. For $120, you get a highly breathable, wind-resistant, and durable softshell that’s perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities.

The price is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and outstanding performance. It offers incredible value.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s to anyone looking for a versatile and reliable softshell. It’s a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s kit.

Get out there and experience the freedom and comfort of the Rab Borealis Hoody – Men’s for yourself! You won’t be disappointed.